Short Manaslu Circuit Trek 7-10 Days
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek 7-10 Days Overview
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek (7-10 Days) is a condensed version of the classic Manaslu Circuit, designed for experienced trekkers who want to experience the world's eighth‑highest mountain without spending weeks on the trail. This fast‑paced journey takes you through remote villages, lush forests, and high‑altitude landscapes, culminating in the crossing of Larkya La Pass at 5,106 metres.
The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Jagat, then follows the Budhi Gandaki River through the Manaslu Conservation Area. You will trek through Tibetan‑influenced villages like Lho and Samdo, visit ancient monasteries, and enjoy spectacular views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and other peaks. The highlight is crossing Larkya La Pass, offering panoramic Himalayan vistas.
This itinerary requires excellent physical fitness and prior high‑altitude trekking experience. Global Nepal Treks provides experienced guides, all necessary permits, and comfortable tea house accommodation, ensuring a safe and unforgettable adventure.
Things That You Need to Know
Duration & Difficulty:
This is a 7‑10 day trek with moderate to challenging difficulty. Daily walking averages 7‑9 hours, crossing a high pass at 5,106m. Prior trekking experience and excellent fitness are mandatory.
Best Season:
The best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for stable weather and clear mountain views.
Accommodation & Meals:
Accommodation is in basic tea houses (twin sharing). The package includes full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
Permits Required:
Special permits are needed: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and TIMS card. These are arranged by Global Nepal Treks.
Altitude Considerations:
The trek reaches 5,106m at Larkya La Pass. Proper acclimatization is built into the itinerary. Symptoms of altitude sickness must be taken seriously.
Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat
Scenic 6‑7 hour drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,360m) along the Prithvi Highway. Views of Trishuli River, terraced fields, and Ganesh Himal. Overnight in Jagat.
Trek from Jagat to Bihi Phedi
Trek through forests and villages along the Budhi Gandaki River. 7‑8 hours, 25 km. Overnight in Bihi Phedi (1,900m).
Trek from Bihi Phedi to Lho
Continue ascending to Lho village (3,350m). 7‑8 hours, 19 km. Excellent views of Manaslu. Overnight in Lho.
Trek from Lho to Samdo
Trek through Tibetan‑influenced villages to Samdo (3,860m). 7‑8 hours, 21 km. Overnight in Samdo.
Trek from Samdo to Bhimthang via Larkya La Pass
Early start to cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m). Descend to Bhimthang (3,720m). 8‑9 hours, 27 km. Overnight in Bhimthang.
Trek from Bhimthang to Dharapani
Descend through forests to Dharapani (1,960m). 7‑8 hours, 23 km. Overnight in Dharapani.
Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu
Scenic 8‑9 hour drive back to Kathmandu via Besisahar. End of trek.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Airport pick‑up and drop‑off in Kathmandu
- All ground transportation as per itinerary (Kathmandu – Jagat, Dharapani – Kathmandu)
- All necessary permits (MRAP, MCAP, ACAP, TIMS)
- Tea house accommodation (twin sharing) during the trek
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- Experienced, English‑speaking, government‑licensed trekking guide
- Porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers, max 20 kg total)
- Guide and porter insurance, wages, food, and accommodation
- First aid medical kit and oximeter
- Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trek)
Excluded
- International airfare and Nepal visa fees
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu
- Personal trekking gear (boots, clothing, etc.)
- Travel insurance (mandatory, covering high‑altitude trekking up to 5,500m and emergency evacuation)
- Hot showers, battery charging, Wi‑Fi, and extra tea house services
- Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and snacks
- Tips for guide and porters (recommended but not compulsory)
Essential Information
Trip Code
GNT-SMC
Trip Type
Trekking
Accommodation
Hotels in Kathmandu; teahouses on trek
Meals
Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) on the trek
Transportation
Car,Jeep
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) offers stable weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear Himalayan views — the most popular season for this trek. Autumn (September to November) delivers crisp skies, excellent visibility of Manaslu and Himlung Himal, and dry trail conditions. Monsoon (June–August) and winter (December–February) are not recommended due to heavy rainfall, snow risk, and trail closures at Larkya La Pass (5,106m).
Difficulty Level
Daily trekking averages 7–9 hours, covering 19–27 km per day over rugged, high-altitude terrain. The ultimate challenge is crossing Larkya La Pass at 5,106m — one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal — with 8–9 hours of walking on Day 5. Not suitable for beginners — prior high-altitude trekking experience is mandatory, as stated on the page.
Fitness Requirements
Preparation Tips
Equipment List
Health Considerations
Safety Measures
Permits Required
Cultural Etiquette
Local Customs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difficulty level of this short trek?
The trek is moderate to challenging. It requires excellent physical fitness, prior high‑altitude trekking experience, and the ability to walk 7‑9 hours daily on steep terrain.
What is the highest point?
Larkya La Pass at 5,106 metres (16,752 feet).
Do I need special permits?
Yes, the Manaslu region is a restricted area. Required permits include MRAP, MCAP, ACAP, and TIMS. Global Nepal Treks arranges all permits for you.
Is solo trekking allowed?
No, due to restricted area regulations, you must trek with a licensed guide and at least two trekkers. We can help you join a group.
What is the best time for this trek?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the best weather and clear mountain views.