Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026: The Quiet Alternative to Annapurna

What is the Manaslu Circuit trek? The Manaslu Circuit is a teahouse trek around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) — the world’s eighth-highest peak — ending at the Larkya La pass (5,160 m). It’s a restricted area, so it sees a fraction of the Annapurna Circuit’s crowds while delivering comparable Himalayan drama. Here’s the 2026 practical guide.

Route and duration

Trekkers drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (~7-8 hrs), then walk through Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Samagaon (3,530 m) below Manaslu, over Larkya La to Bhimtang, and out to Dharapani. Standard plans run 12-15 days.

Plan	Days	High point
Standard circuit	13-15	Larkya La 5,160 m
+ Tsum Valley side trip	+6	Mu Gomba 3,700 m

Restricted-area rules (2026)

• Restricted-area permit: USD 100/week (Sept-Nov), USD 75/week (Dec-Aug), per person.
• Guide + minimum 2 trekkers: solo trekking is NOT permitted on the Manaslu restricted route — you must travel with a licensed guide and in a group of at least two.
• ACAP + MCAP permits also required.

Why choose Manaslu over Annapurna?

• Far fewer trekkers — a genuine wilderness feel.
• Tibetan-influenced villages and the optional Tsum Valley (a sacred, monastic side valley).
• No road on the main trail (unlike parts of the Annapurna Circuit).

FAQ

Is Manaslu harder than Annapurna Circuit?

Similar altitude (Larkya La 5,160 m vs Thorong La 5,416 m), but longer remote stretches and mandatory guides make logistics tighter. Fitness-wise, comparable.

Can I do it independently?

No — the restricted area requires a licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers. Book through a registered agency.

Best season?

October-November and March-April. The pass can close in winter snow.

Featured image: Mount Manaslu, via Wikimedia Commons (CC).

Permits and regulations

The Manaslu Circuit requires three permits: MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, ~$30), ACAP (if exiting via Annapurna, ~$30), and a Restricted Area Permit ($70 per week September–November, $50 per week December–August). You must trek with a licensed guide and at least one companion — solo trekking is not permitted.

Trek highlights

• Larkya La Pass (5,106 m): The highest point of the trek, with panoramic views of Manaslu, Himlung, and the Annapurna range.
• Sama Gaon: A Tibetan-influenced village at 3,520 m with views of Manaslu’s north face. Good acclimatisation stop.
• Birendra Lake: A glacial lake near Samagaon, turquoise in autumn, sacred to locals.
• Buddhist monasteries: The route passes through ancient gompas in Lho, Shyala, and Samagaon.

Best time

March–May and October–November. The pass is usually snow-free during these windows. Monsoon (June–September) brings landslides; winter (December–February) closes the pass.

Frequently asked questions

How does Manaslu compare to Annapurna Circuit? Manaslu is quieter, more remote, and culturally more Tibetan. Annapurna has better infrastructure and tea houses. Manaslu is 12–14 days vs Annapurna’s 14–18 days.

Is there WiFi on the trail? Limited. Some tea houses in larger villages offer paid WiFi or mobile data (Ncell/NTC). Above 4,000 m, expect no connectivity.