Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance

Do you know how long is the Manaslu Circuit Trek distance? It is usually approximately 170 to 177 km (105 to 110 miles). The distance varies because of the route trekkers take for the journey. Make sure you read until the end to know all about the distance of Manaslu Circuit Trek. 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an underrated but rewarding journey. Its trekking route falls within the restricted region of Nepal. Similarly, it also lies within the Manaslu Conservation Area. The government of Nepal opened the Manaslu Circuit in 1991. Its challenging route, paired with off-beat trails on varied terrains, offers an adventure unlike anywhere. This spectacular trek in the Manaslu region is an excellent alternative for commercialized treks like the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek, etc. 

The long trek duration and challenges of the Manaslu Circuit will be worth the effort. Its trekking trails pass by rural and remote areas. You will trek past several traditional settlements and ancient monasteries and explore the Manaslu Base Camp. The trek offers breathtaking views of Manaslu mountain, the world’s eighth-highest mountain. Similarly, you can also witness gorgeous vistas of Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, Cheo Himal, and more. The trek also offers an opportunity to immerse in the rich culture and customs of the Manaslu region. Now, without much delay, let us dive more into the distance of Manaslu Circuit Trek!

Distance of Manaslu circuit trek

As mentioned above, the entire Manaslu Circuit trek covers 170 to 177 km (105 to 110 miles). The distance depen ds on the routes trekkers take. Trekkers can choose the trek’s start point as either Soti Khola or trek from Machha Khola. Similarly, the trek can take 14 to 18 days to complete. The daily distance and hiking hours also vary depending on the destination on that day. 

Here is a breakdown of our Himalayan Leaders’ 17 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek, along with the trek distance and duration:

DayItineraryTrek distanceTrek duration
1Arrival in Kathmandu
2Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
3Drive to Maccha Khola
4Trek to Jagat14.6 km/ 9 miles7 hours
5Trek to Deng17 km/ 10.5 miles6-7 hours
6Trek to Ghap7.7 km/ 4.8 miles3-4 hours
7Trek to Lho14 km/ 8.6 miles7-8 hours
8Trek to Samagaon7 km/ 4.3 miles4 hours
9Acclimatization Day in Samagaon
10Trek to Samdo7 km/ 4.3 miles3-4 hours
11Trek to Dharamsala6 km/ 3.7 miles4 hours
12Trek to Bhimthang via Larkya Pass14.6 km/ 9 miles7 hours
13Trek to Gho12 km/ 7.5 miles5 hours
14Trek to Dharapani7 km/ 4.3 miles3-4 hours
15Drive to Kathmandu
16Rest and free day in Kathmandu
17Departure

Average Duration of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Usually, the trekkers have to cover an average distance of 15 to 20 kilometers per day. The trek distance gets shorter as you get higher due to the demanding trails. However, they can plan the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary best suits their fitness level. Trekkers must trek along the Budhi Gandaki River, ascend and descend on varied terrains, and cross the Larke La Pass.

Mount Manaslu during Spring
Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance 1

The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola. Depending on the road conditions, the drive takes 8 to 9 hours and covers a distance of 160 km or 99.4 miles. Maccha Khola is the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. You will trek to Jagat, which takes around 7 hours and covers a distance of 14.6 km. Then, the following day, you will cover a distance of 17 km to reach Deng. It is a relatively short trek from Deng to Ghap that takes 3 to 4 hours and covers a distance of 7.7 km. 

The trail continues to ascend from Ghap and goes upstream. You will cover the distance of 14 km and trek for 7 to 8 hours to reach Lho. Then, you will trek to Samagaon, which covers 7 km and takes around 4 hours. You will also take an acclimatization stop here. From Samagaon, you will ascend to Samdo by covering a 7 km distance by trekking for 3 to 4 hours. Trek to Dharmasala takes around 4 hours, and the trek distance is 6 km. You will ascend to Bimthang through the high mountain pass of Larke La Pass. On this day, you will trek for around 7 hours, and the trek distance is 14.6 km. 

Larke La Pass is the highest point of the trek. Then, you will descend to Gho, trekking for 5 hours and covering a distance of 12 km. Then, you will head to Dharapani. You will trek for 4 hours and cover a distance of 7 km. From Dharapani, you will drive back to Kathmandu. The drive to the capital city takes 8 to 9 hours, and the driving distance is 220 km. Trekkers can combine the venture with the Tsum Valley Trek for a more thrilling experience. 

Tips for managing Trek Distance

As you can see from above, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging journey, and you must cover long distances each day. But do not let it scare you off from one of the most rewarding experiences. Follow the following tips that will help you to manage the trek distance more efficiently: 

Plan your itinerary carefully

The best way to manage the trek distance is to plan your itinerary carefully. It might be daunting to think how you will cover the distance of 177 km. But if you break and divide the trek smartly, it will be a comfortable journey. You will still have to ascend and descend on steep, narrow trails on varied terrains. 

Suppose you are a beginner, plan to cover 9 to 10 km per day. Always set realistic expectations and know the trek distance for the day. This will help you avoid overexertion. It minimizes the risk of altitude-related sickness. Planning and breaking your trek in a way that suits your fitness best will allow you to cover the distance more effectively.

Take adequate rest days.

You need to take adequate rest days during your journey. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a high-altitude trek with a risk of altitude sickness. It takes you close to the base camp of Mount Manaslu. Moreover, the physically demanding trails will push your physical and mental endurance. Taking rest days in between your journeys helps to restore your energy. Similarly, it gives your body time to adapt to its changing altitude and surroundings. 

If your body cannot adjust to the growing elevation, you will start experiencing various symptoms of altitude sickness. Even if you are physically fit, do not rush to high-altitude regions. Pace yourself and increase your speed gradually. During the trek, keep yourself hydrated and eat nutritious diets. Listen to your body and take short breaks if you feel tired. 

Hire a guide and a porter

A guide is not only your navigator but also your crucial support. They help to ensure your safety during the trek and provide vital assistance during emergencies and injuries. An experienced guide is well-versed in the trails and terrains. Hence, they will help you to pace yourself and take a break when necessary. They will monitor your health and ensure that you take adequate acclimatization.

Manaslu Circuit trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance 2

Covering long distances while carrying a heavy load on the back further adds physical strain. You get tired quickly and risk overexerting yourself. There is also the risk of slipping and getting injured during the trek. Hence, hiring a porter helps relieve the physical strain. They will carry your heavy load and let you enjoy the trek freely. It makes your trek more comfortable and safe.

Prepare physically and mentally 

Physical and mental preparation are crucial for managing the trek distance. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is long, and you must hike for at least 6 to 7 hours on average each day. It requires significant stamina and fitness levels. So, to better prepare yourself for the trek, start training a few months before the journey. You can undertake exercises like hiking, cycling, running, jogging, and swimming. It helps you strengthen your core, legs, and endurance. It makes it relatively easier to cover long distances. 

Mental preparation and resilience are also necessary for long treks. The remote locations and demanding trails can stress trekkers. However, you need to stay positive and motivated for the trek. The best way to mentally prepare yourself is to research the trek. Research the trek routes, distance, and duration so you are mentally prepared for the journey. 

Itinerary for Manaslu Circuit Trek

For a clearer understanding of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, take a look at our Himalayan Leaders’ 17 Days itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 meters)
  • Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley (1,350 meters)
  • Day 3: Drive to Maccha Khola (900 meters)
  • Day 4: Trek to Jagat (1,340 meters)
  • Day 5: Trek to Deng (1,860 meters)
  • Day 6: Trek to Ghap (2,250 meters)
  • Day 7: Trek to Lho (3,180 meters)
  • Day 8: Trek to Samagaon (3,530 meters)
  • Day 9: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon (3,530 meters)
  • Day 10: Trek to Samdo (3,860 meters) 
  • Day 11: Trek to Dharamsala (4,460 meters)
  • Day 12: Trek to Bhimthang (3,590 meters) via Larkya Pass (5,106 meters)
  • Day 13: Trek to Gho (2,515 meters)
  • Day 14: Trek to Dharapani (1,963 meters)
  • Day 15: Drive to Kathmandu (1,350 meters)
  • Day 16: Rest and free day in Kathmandu (1,350 meters)
  • Day 17: Departure 

Best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Nepal experiences four seasons annually, but spring and autumn are the best times for Manaslu Circuit Trek. The monsoon season coincides with summer, and it rains heavily in the lower regions of the country. As a result, trekking is not recommended during this season. On the other hand, winter’s harsh weather makes it unsuitable for trekking. 

Take a look at various reasons spring and autumn are the best times for the trek. 

Spring (March to May)

The spring season offers one of the best weather and climatic conditions for trekkers. The days are bright, sunny, and clear. With the beginning of the spring season, the snow in the higher regions begins to melt. It is because the temperature also gradually starts to get warmer. In early spring, you can still see the remnant of snow on the trails. The temperature is also relatively cold but gets warmer as the season progresses. 

The flora and fauna are also the most active at this time of the year. Trekkers can witness the entire forests of rhododendrons bloom along with various Himalayan floras and wildflowers along the Manaslu Circuit Trek route. If you are lucky, you may get a chance to spot the rare wildlives during the trek. The visibility is also brilliant during spring. Therefore, you can enjoy the best views of the mountain panoramas. 

The temperatures during spring are as follows:

MonthsAverage daytime temperature
March2 to 8℃
April6 to 12℃
May12 to 31℃

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the peak season for Manaslu Circuit Trekking. It has the most favorable and stable weather conditions. The temperature is mild—neither too hot nor too cold. Autumn comes after summer when monsoons enter the country. So, there can be slight rain during the early months of the season. As the season progresses, the rain ceases, and the trails dry. The precipitation level is low at this time of the year. 

The rain washes away pollution and impurities in the atmosphere, leaving the vegetation and landscapes lush and vibrant. The colorful autumn foliage further adds beauty to the landscapes. There are also very few obstructions at this time, so trekkers can enjoy the best views of the landscapes and mountain panoramas. By the end of the season, the temperature begins to get slightly chilly as pre-winter enters Nepal. 

The temperatures during autumn are as follows:

MonthsAverage daytime temperature
September5 to 7℃
October12 to 15℃
November12 to 13℃

Conclusion

Manaslu Circuit Trek is undoubtedly challenging. However, it is a perfect trek destination for adventurers and challenge seekers. Its off-beat and exotic trails are full of scenic beauty, and grand mountain panoramas accompany you throughout the journey. In the span of 14 to 18 days, you will cover a distance of 170 to 177 km. Similarly, you will explore the remote and restricted areas of Nepal.

The long-distance and demanding trails of the Manaslu Trek may unnerve you. But with proper planning and preparation, you can complete it successfully. Now, you have all the information on the Manaslu Circuit Trek distance. You can plan the itinerary that best suits your preferences and fitness. For a memorable and extraordinary trek in Nepal, Himalayan Leaders can help you. Check out our website for more on trekking and touring in Nepal.

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Jagat Dahal

Jagat B. Dahal, founder and CEO of Himalayan Leaders, has over thirty years of experience in the tourism industry. Born in the Dolakha district, Jagat started as an assistant guide and now leads his own trekking company. Passionate about nature and adventure, he has guided treks in Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, and India. Jagat is dedicated to providing exceptional trekking experiences and fostering strong relationships with travelers. He also enjoys exploring foreign cultures, attending travel fairs, and has traveled to numerous countries worldwide.

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