Manaslu Trek without Guide – Can you Trek Solo?

Manaslu Circuit Trek, one of the popular off-the-beaten-treks in Nepal, is a restricted area of Nepal and has been protected under the Manaslu Conservation Area for a very long time. Manaslu region was opened to foreign trekkers only in 1991 so it is still pristine, holds its originality and is full of wilderness and remoteness. Many trekkers plan for solo trek to Manaslu; however, one needs to know that Manaslu Trek without guide is completely banned unlike other trekking destinations in Nepal like Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek and so on.

Manaslu trail follows the area from Jagat to Bimthang, which is declared as a restricted region. So, it is mandatory for the trekkers to hire a guide for Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is now considered as the best alternative to Annapurna Circuit Trek because the trail goes through the untouched region, which provides the stunning views of the mountains in Nepal including Mt. Manaslu (8,512m). Likewise, the original culture and traditions of the Manaslu region can still be visualized as it is hardly affected by modernization. Trekkers need to know that if you intend for Manaslu Circuit Trek without a guide then you will miss the unique experiences along with jaw-dropping views and the success rate of Manaslu trek will also decrease. 

Why Manaslu Trek?

A few years ago, Manaslu trail was familiar only between avid trekkers; however, nowadays popularity of the Manaslu Trek is growing day-by-day because of the pristine cultural beauty and natural views. The magnificent views of the Himalayas, opportunities to learn about customs and beliefs of rural Nepal, varied landscapes, and harmony between Hinduism and Buddhism have made the journey on the Manaslu Trek once in a lifetime opportunity. Among hundreds of reasons behind pursuing Manaslu Trek, here we have listed the major top 5 reasons to choose Manaslu Circuit trek:

1. Unparalleled natural escape
2. Wilderness and remoteness of Manaslu Region
3. Unique and pristine cultural experience
4. Moderately arduous yet safe
5. Comparatively affordable pricing

Is it possible to go Manaslu Trek Solo?

Walking independently in the rugged trails might provide fun and enjoyment, but you also need to know that it is associated with so many risks. Hence, if you are wondering about possibilities for Manaslu Circuit Trek solo, then it is zero. The Government of Nepal has completely banned traveling solo in Manaslu region to protect the trekkers from the possible danger by providing enough security through Manaslu trek guides and porters.

The beautiful areas of Manaslu region like Tsum valley, Larkya La Pass, Manaslu Base Camp along with 6 other VDCs share the border with Tibet. All these destinations are declared as restricted areas. So, to explore all these areas, one must have the permits. To obtain the permits, one must hire an experienced guide for Manaslu Trek. Likewise, the natural beauty of the Manaslu region is still left to be explored by so many trekkers. Thus, to protect and promote the living and natural beauty preserved by Manaslu Conservation Area, there is no chance for independent trek to Manaslu.

Moreover, Manaslu region is home to unique culture and traditions, which is highly influenced by Tibetan lifestyle. There are many villages, which are untouched by modernization where you can observe the simple yet inspiring lifestyle. So, the Government of Nepal, with the purpose of preserving the villages and their customs, has made the Manaslu Trek without a guide impossible. It means if you have a desire to explore all these villages, then you must have a licensed government guide. 

Therefore, trekking alone in the Manaslu region is not possible. Only alternative that you have is to hire an experienced guide as it will not only make your trip safe but also flourish the trekking experience. Along with the requirement of guide for Manaslu trek, Government of Nepal has also made other rules, and they are:

• It is mandatory to have a group consisting of at least 2 people (excluding guides and porters).
• All the permits required for Manaslu Trek must be obtained only with the help of an authorized local trekking agency in Nepal.
• Since Manaslu trek without a guide is not possible, one must hire a government-licenced guide from a trekking company.

Why should I hire a guide for Manaslu Trek?

If you are planning for Manaslu Circuit Trek, then you must understand that Manaslu trek without a guide is impossible. Now, you might be thinking about the benefits of hiring a guide for Manaslu Trek. Well, having a guide behind you in the whole long journey is itself one of the greatest benefits as you will have the company of someone experienced throughout the trail. Behind the compulsion placed by the Government of Nepal, you have to realize that traveling with a guide makes trekking stress-free and adds richness to your trip.

Let’s have a look at some of the reasons behind hiring a guide for Manaslu Trek.

1.  Rural and Restricted Area

One of the main reasons for trekking Manaslu with a guide is because it falls under the restricted area in Nepal. It is full of danger to travel alone in those areas because of the undeveloped trails and unequipped accommodation facilities. Because of this reason, the government has made it compulsory to hire guides while trekking in restricted areas. So, if you have someone with you, then you can easily pass through all the difficulties that the rural Manaslu region has to throw at you.

2.  Proper Navigation of Route

Difficulties while trekking in Nepal gets to the peak when the trails are confusing and unsigned. Because of the long isolation, the Manaslu trail that you pass through is uneven, grassy, and narrow so there is a high possibility for you to either catch the wrong way or get lost in the middle of the journey. To deal with this problem, you need to hire an experienced guide as they know about each corner of the Manaslu region. The several years of experience achieved by the guide will keep you on the right track and take you to the Manaslu Base Camp safely. 

3.  Well-Crafted and Customized Itinerary

Success rate of Manaslu Circuit trek directly depends upon the itinerary. Itinerary is not just about adding the things and destinations you want to experience. It is more than this as you need to have proper information about the weather, trail and so on to perfectly design the itinerary. So, Manaslu trek with a guide is always the best idea as they help in managing the itinerary by including most of the views of the Manaslu region at the best time. They also make sure about including enough acclimatization days on the itinerary so that you can enjoy the trip safely. 

4.  Reduce Language Barrier

Language is always an issue when you are traveling to another nation, mainly in rural areas. Manaslu region is still far apart from development and most of the people here are illiterate. You might get language shock as most of the people only know basic English like Thank You, Welcome, and Hello.  So, the only option is to hire a guide because with the help of them you can interact with the locals, and learn about the regional history, culture, and traditions. They will translate and make you clear about everything that you want to know.

Remember, it is always fun to learn a few Nepalese words like Namaste (Hello) from your guide so that you can see the smiling face of the locals whenever you greet them. 

5.  Enrich the Cultural Experience

Most of the people love to trek Manaslu region to explore the cultural beauty. The locals of the lower Manaslu region follow Hinduism whereas the upper Manaslu region is highly influenced by Tibetan-Buddhism. Manaslu Circuit Trek without a guide will not give you an opportunity to dig about the cultural history of this region. If you want to know the story behind every monastery that you find on your way or about the framing practices, or about the arts and architectures, you must hire an expert guide as their experience will help you a lot in knowing the details about the Manaslu region.

6.  Health and Safety

A guide is your protector in the strange land as they provide safety and security in case of any unexpected circumstances. Since you all know that the Manaslu trail is rocky, uneven and steepy so it will be hard for you to maintain the same pace of walking every time. In cases like these, the guide will provide the guidelines and teach you to keep the slow pace. Likewise, they also inform you about all the possible risks like altitude sickness, weather changes, lost in the route etc. and always stand by your side as your strong pillar.

7.  Hassle-Free Trekking

Every trekker wants to enjoy the hassle-free trekking to enjoy the natural beauty more and stress less. Trekking in the Himalayas region demand a huge preparation beforehand the journey. Preparing the packing list for Manaslu trek, booking the accommodation, flights, obtaining the required permits and more are impossible without the guidelines and support from a Manaslu Trek guide. So, if you want to get everything prepared by your side by putting less effort, then a guide is a must. 

8.  Helps to Promote Local Economy

Most of the trekkers think that Travelling with a guide will increase the overall cost; however, it is not true. However, if you hire a local guide, then you not only will be getting a discount while staying in the teahouse, but you will also be helping in promoting the local economy. The locals will get employment and the living standard of the people will rise. Likewise, the small businesses will start to earn a living income. Moreover, people will stop flying to gulf countries in search of a job and stay with their family, which will develop the economy of the nation. 

Manaslu Trek Cost

There is no standard Manaslu Circuit Trek cost as it varies depending upon the trekking agency, food, and accommodation during the trail, permits, traveling season, itinerary, guide and porter cost, modes of traveling etc. Most of the people think that trekking in Manaslu region costs high, but it is not true as the Manaslu trek cost is like other trekking destinations like Everest Trek etc. If you prepare the itinerary by including more destinations and days, then obviously you need to pay higher cost. On average, the Manaslu trek cost between $2100 to $3000 depending upon the facilities provided to you. 

If you don’t want to compromise on service and are willing to boost the local economy, then don’t ever book your trip with the cheapest travel agency. We, Himalayan Glacier, always aim on providing hassle-free journey to ensure the 100% success rate by enhancing the clients’ safety and comfort

1. Manaslu Guide Cost

Manaslu trek guides are the most reliable and closest friend of yours during the trip. They will help you in making the journey less challenging by helping you overcome the Manaslu trek difficulties. Also, Manaslu trek without a guide is not allowed because of its ruralness. Likewise, remember, a freelance guide can’t help you in obtaining the permits required for this trek. So, you must hire a government licensed guide before embarking to the trailhead. 

The cost for hiring a Manaslu guide varies as per their experience and skill. On average, it costs around USD 30 per day to hire a licensed guide for Manaslu trek, which covers all the expenses and insurance charges. 

2. Manaslu Porter Cost

Some trekkers find it normal to trek the Manaslu region by carrying a backpack throughout the trail. However, no matter what, hiring a porter will always make the trekking experience unique. Also, trekking with a porter is not a bad idea as you can enjoy the freedom by carrying only a less load. Moreover, you will not get tired frequently and have the energy to chill more on the journey. Furthermore, hiring a porter will always help in boosting the local economy.

The average cost of hiring a porter for Manaslu trek is somewhere between USD 25 to USD 30 per day, which covers all the expenses and insurance charges. 

Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek

As per the rules of Government of Nepal, Manaslu has been declared as the special region and one needs to know properly about the required permits for Manaslu circuit trek before embarking into the journey. Because of the open border of Manaslu region with Tibet, no one can trek here without obtaining the special permit through the local trekking agency in Nepal. The cost for permits depends upon the number of days you are planning to stay in the specific area. You need to obtain the three different trekking permits just for Manaslu circuit trek, which are listed below:

Note: The information below is provided just to make you familiar with the permits. You don’t have to apply for these because all the preparation for the Manaslu trek including the permits work will be done by your chosen authorized trekking agency in Nepal. All you have to do is submit the required documents in time.

1.  Manaslu Restricted Area Permit

Manaslu Restricted Permit is the special permit issued by the Government of Nepal to preserve and promote the identity of this region. The cost of this permit highly depends upon the month and the number of the days you will be staying between Jagat to Sama Goau. 

Month	Cost
September to November	US$ 70 per person for the first week and US$ 10 extra per person per day thereafter
December to August	US$ 50 per person for the first week and US$ 7 extra per person per day thereafter

Note: After obtaining the restricted area permit, you don’t need to have the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card for Manaslu Trek; however, if you are planning to extend your trek further towards Annapurna Circuit Trek from Dharapani, then a TIMS card is also required.

2.  Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

This Manaslu Permit is required from Philim to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area. The cost for this permit remains constant throughout the year and a printed photograph is required to apply for this permit. It can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board located at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu.

Category	Cost
MCAP cost for foreigners	US$ 27 or NPR 3000
MCAP cost for SAARC nations	NPR 1,000
MCAP cost for local tourists	NPR 100

3.  Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

This Manaslu Permit is required from Dharapani to Besisahar. Like MCAP, the cost of this permit also remains the same despite the changes in month and number of days. A printed photograph is a must to obtain this permit. It can be obtained from Nepal Tourism Board located at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu or Pardi Damside, Pokhara.

Category	Cost
ACAP cost for foreigners	US$ 27 or NPR 3000
AAP cost for SAARC nations	NPR 1,000
ACAP cost for local tourists	NPR 100

If you are planning to do the Tsum valley trek as a side-trip, then you need one more permit i.e., Tsum Valley Permit, which costs USD 35 per person for the first 7 days.

Are you looking for a group to join?
We, Himalayan Glacier, are here for you to ease the whole process of group joining trek.  We have a fixed group that is ready to join the departure date for 2021 and 2022 for Manaslu Circuit Trek. You can simply contact us and make us clear about your timetable and the routes you prefer, and we will help you manage the other trekkers at the same date/week.

Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek begins from Budi Gandaki River and takes you to the edge of the Tibetan Plateau through the changing landscape. Here, you will be trekking from 600m and reaching up to 5,160m as a result you will be facing different climate and weather in Manaslu trek. In short, it can be said that every season has a different speciality, and the choice is really yours when you want to plan your trip.

1.  Autumn (September-November)

Autumn (September, October, and November) is regarded as the best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek because of the average temperature, pleasant environment, blue sky, and the clear visibility of the snow-capped Himalayas. The Manaslu trail is dry, and the atmosphere is fresh. Lowlands are filled with rice and paddy, which adds the greenery to the environment. Likewise, the trails are covered with the blooming flowers.

2.  Spring (March-May)

Besides autumn, spring (March, April, and May) is also another best season for Manaslu Trek. One of the best features of this season is blooming flowers like Rhododendron and green trees. It is fun to chill around the environment decorated with new buds and flowers. Also, the environment is pleasant, and the mountains can be seen clearly over the green hills. 

3.  Winter (December-February)

Winter (December, January, and February) is considered the off-season for Manaslu Circuit Trek. This season is mostly preferred by those trekkers who love to play with the snowfall. Because of fewer trekkers and serene environment, some choose this time for their trip as the views are crystal-clear at daytime. However, extreme freezing, heavy snowfalls and bad weather may result in closing of high passes and teahouses.

4.  Summer/Monsoon (June-August)

Monsoon (June, July, and August) is not the ideal choice for Manaslu trek. Even though the trek can be accomplished, it has a lot of difficulties. The trails are covered with leeches and snakes. Likewise, the road gets blocked because of the floods and landslides. Moreover, the accidents are higher during this time, so we don’t suggest you plan your trip during the monsoon season.

Difficulty in Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the best off-the-beaten-treks in Nepal, which is full of surprises and excitement. Throughout the trail, you will be making many ups and downs by passing through the various twists and turns. Since it is remote, some trails can be harsh for the experienced trekkers, too, as the routes are still rough, rocky, and sloppy. For the first few days, you will suffer a lot because of the steep and narrow route. Likewise, the steep climb will be totally exhausting, and will add more difficulty in Manaslu Trek.

1.  Distance and Duration

Distance and duration of this trek also play major roles in the Manaslu Trek difficulty. You will be covering a total of 177km distance by staying in the Manaslu region for around 2 weeks. You must cover 10-20km every day by walking 6 – 7 hours. This will be tiring and exhausting. However, if you prepare for the journey beforehand by practicing hiking, going to the gym to take the cardio training and so on, it will surely lessen your difficulty.

2.  Accommodation and Meals

Accommodation and meals are also parts of the Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty because in the high seasons like autumn and spring, it is nearly impossible for you to get access to the well-equipped tea houses. Likewise, you need to stay in a long queue in front of the toilet, which will frustrate you. Moreover, one might not find the dishes of their choice in Manaslu region because it is still undeveloped. 

3.  Acute Mountain Sickness

Altitude sickness is very common if you are trekking above 3,000m. Manaslu trek takes you to the elevation of 5,160m, which means there is a high chance of getting the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) like breathing problems, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite and so on. If you see any of the symptoms like these, it is best to inform your guide. Manaslu Circuit trek guides are provided with the training about how to cure altitude sickness so they will provide further instructions. Also, try to drink plenty of water, healthy food and keep your pace slow through the trail.

4.  Weather and Temperature

Manaslu Circuit Trek weather is a part of the difficulty mainly during monsoon and winter season. You will be trekking in different climatic zones, so it is obvious that you have to go through different climatic conditions. Even though the weather can’t be predicted beforehand on the journey, you can still be careful and make the required preparation. Extreme coldness, heavy rainfall and snowfall, and hazy sunshine are part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty.

Note: Even though Manaslu Circuit Trek is full of difficulties, it can be accomplished successfully by hiring the experienced guide through the trekking agency in Nepal. Besides this, preparation, and training beforehand the trek like going for hiking, gym classes, and being physically and mentally prepared will also help a lot in succeeding. 

Manaslu Trek Itinerary with Local Expert Guide

The Manaslu Trek itinerary varies as per the trekking agency company. It can be shortened or prolonged as per the availability of your time. However, we suggest you go for the standard itinerary of 16/18 days to get the best experience out of this trek. Below mentioned itinerary is a handpicked itinerary for Manaslu Circuit trek prepared by our expert staff, which includes the enough number of acclimatization days and covers most of the visibility of the Manaslu region.

Note: Trekkers are always welcome to bring the changes in the below-mentioned itinerary as per their interest. We, Himalayan Glacier, also design the customizable itinerary for Manaslu trek to fulfill the dreams of our clients and make them happy. 

Itinerary	Maximum Altitude	Walking/Hiking
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu	1,350m/4,429ft
Day 2 Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation	1,350m/4,429ft
Day 3 Drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola	710m/2,330ft
Day 4 Soti Khola – Maccha Khola	900m/2,953ft	6-7 hrs
Day 5 Maccha Khola -Jagat	1,410m/4,626ft	6-7 hrs
Day 6 Jagat – Deng	1,804m/5,919ft	6-7 hrs
Day 7 Deng – Namrung	2,630m/8,629ft	6-7 hrs
Day 8 Namrung – Samagaon	3,530m/11,582ft	6-7 hrs
Day 9 Samagaon – Pungyen gompa – Samagaon	3,530m/11,582ft	6-7 hrs
Day 10 Samagaon – Samdo	3,860m/12,665ft	4-5 hrs
Day 11 Rest Day in Samdo	3,860m/12,665ft
Day 12 Samdo – Dharamsala/Larkya B. C.	4,460m/14,633ft	4-5 hrs
Day 13 Dharamsala – Larkya la – Bimthang	5,160m/16,930ft	8-9 hrs
Day 14 Bimthang – Tilije	2,300m/7,546ft	5-6 hrs
Day 15 Tilije – Tal	1,700m/5,578ft	5-6 hrs
Day 16 Tal – Syange	1,080m/3,543ft	6-7 hrs
Day 17 Syange – Kathmandu	1,350m/4,429ft	8-9 hrs
Day 18 Final departure

Be part of our cautiously prepared itinerary for Manaslu Trek and enjoy the hassle-free trekking by enjoying the services like government-licensed experienced guide, required permits and all other necessities.

One of the best specialties of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is it can be carried out with many other popular trekking destinations in Nepal. Tsum Valley Trek is the best suitable side-trip, which can be carried out with Manaslu trek if you are looking for a slightly longer itinerary. Tsum Valley and Manaslu Trek normally lasts for 27 days, which takes you to the more remote region and best viewpoints like Mu Gompa. The trailhead gets separated from Ekle Bhatti to visit Tsum Valley. 

Beside this, Manaslu and Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake is another option if you want to extend your trek further to enjoy the lush green forests and play with cold water. This trip usually lasts for 25 days, where you will move to another route from Dharapani rather than returning to Besisahar. 

Packing List for Manaslu Trek

Gears and equipment for Manaslu Trek are like your best friend if you want to stay safe and protected throughout the trail. You need to understand that packing a list can either give you a good time or end up making you miserable. If you prepare the heavy backpack by packing jackets which are not warm enough and the boots, which have the possibility of giving you blisters, then the whole packing plan will be wasted. So, focus on the right packing list for Manaslu Trek and keep yourself warm, protected from sun and move comfortably on the trip. Also, remember, you are trekking, not climbing so avoid the technical gears like carabiners and so on.

Book your Manalsu trip with Himalayan Glacier and give yourself enough time to soak in the pristine beauty of this region as most of your gears and equipment will be carried by porter, while will stress and burden you less.

Here is the comprehensive packing list which is perfect for any kind of trek in Nepal including Manaslu Trek:

Body wear

• Inner Garments (8-10)
• Inner Layer Thermals (1)
• Middle Layer (Fleece) (1-2)
• Wind/waterproof Jacket (1)
• Down Jacket (1)
• Fleece Pants (2)
• Trekking Trousers (2) and shorts (1)
• Hiking Shirts (5-6)

Head wear

• Sun Hat
• Beanie
• Buff (2)
• Sunglass

Hand wear

• Inner Gloves
• Outer Windproof Gloves

Footwear

• Hiking Boots
• Sandals/Sport shoes
• Trekking Socks
• Fingers/Toe warmers
• Gaiters

Bags and Backpacks

• Duffle Bag
• Rucksack.
• Daypack
• Rain Cover

Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping Bag
• Ear Plugs

Toiletries

• Sunscreen
• Face and Body Moisturizer
• Lip Balm
• Toilet Paper (2 rolls
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Hand Sanitizer
• Baby Wipes
• Shampoo
• Shower Gel
• Towel
• Plastic Bags

Medication

• Prescriptions
• Antibiotics (For upper respiratory and abdominal infections)
• Diamox (To prevent Acute Mountain Sickness
• Foot Powder (To keep your feet in better condition)
• Anti-inflammatory Tablets (For inflammation)
• Cotton roll (1)
• Dressing-gauze (5-6 pieces)
• Band-Aids (10-15)
• Paracetamol (For treating mild headaches)
• Syrup (To protect your body from cold)
• Antiemetic (To prevent vomiting)
• Painkiller (To get relief from the moderate pain)
• Loperamide (For treating diarrhoea)
• Omeprazole (Medicine for gastric)
• Insect Repellent
• Water Purification Tablets
• Skin Blister Repair Kit (For treating the blister caused by boots)

Accessories

• Hydration Bladder
• Trekking poles
• Waist Belt
• Map
• Pee Funnel
• Raincoat/Poncho
• Head Torch
• Snacks

Electronics and Gadgets

• Mobile phone and Charger
• Camera with extra batteries
• Power Bank
• Dairy & Pen
• Books and Magazine
• Portable games

Necessary Documents

• Passport (For registration at the entrance)
• Visa (Easily attainable at the Tribhuvan International Airport)
• Travel Insurance (For your safety and security)
• Money (You may not get access to ATM on the high elevation)
• Tickets
• Credit Card

If you are looking for a less crowded trekking region in Nepal, then Manaslu Circuit trek should be in your bucket list. This trek introduces you to the isolated region in Nepal and lets you learn about the pristine natural and cultural beauty. Since, Manaslu Trek without a guide is banned by the Government of Nepal, you should always be cautious while choosing a guide for this trek. Make sure to discuss with your trekking agency and have conversation with your guide so that you can know about their accent and personality. 

Need Help Planning a Trip to Manaslu Region?

We, Himalayan Glacier, have been providing remarkable services to our clients for several years by ensuring hassle-free traveling. The guides for Manaslu trek provided by us are professional, experienced, well-trained about first aid and altitude sickness and can handle the trip smoothly and safely. We assure you to lead the trek with a great smile and provide you lifetime experience. So, if you want to go on Manaslu trek with us, we will prepare everything for you as per your dates and requirements. If you have any further queries, feel free to contact us or WhatsApp us at +1-410-307-0007.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How difficult is Manaslu Trek?

Manaslu Trek was regarded as a difficult trek, but now it is categorized as strenuous trek because of the growing teahouses and the development of the road. Even today, not only novice trekkers but experienced trekkers also struggle a lot to accomplish this trek because of the high chance of getting the symptoms of altitude sickness, long hours of day-to-day walk, unpredictable weather, lack of the proper accommodation facilities and more. Likewise, the dusty and rocky trails add more difficulty to the Manaslu trek. The chances of getting lost in the trail and language barrier is more in this region because of its isolation for a long period of time.

Saying all these, it doesn’t mean that Manaslu trek is impossible to achieve. It can be completed easily without facing many difficulties if you hire a guide for Manaslu trek and focus on building your stamina by practicing hiking and taking cardio and strength training. 

How long is Manaslu Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary varies as per the trekking company and the interest of the trekkers. If you are short on time and want to finish the trek quickly by covering only a few destinations, then it can take 10 to 12 days. However, if you want to fully enjoy the trip without rushing and taking pressure, then it can last up to 17 to 20 days. Besides these, the Manaslu trek itinerary can also be extended by including other side trips like Tsum Valley trek, and Annapurna Circuit Trek which will basically take 20 to 30 days. 

We recommend you to always design the itinerary by including enough days so that you can feel like you are truly enjoying the trip rather than frustrating and tiring frequently. 

What is the best time to do Manaslu Trek?

Manaslu Trek has something new to offer you in each season. Some love to play with snowfall whereas some want to be part of the vibrant environment filled with flowers. So, by distinguishing the kind of activities you want to perform on the trek, you can make the selection of the best time. 

Among all the four seasons, most of the trekkers considered autumn (September, October, and November) and spring (March, April, and May) as the best time for Manaslu trek. These two seasons supply the best temperature, pleasant environment, cloudless skies allowing you to enjoy the clear glimpse of the Himalayas and so on. Besides these, the chances of problematic rainfall/snowfall are also very low during this time and the whole environment can be seen blooming and re-birthing along with flowers and trees. 

I’m solo traveler. Can I do Manaslu Trek with a guide?

Well, the answer is no because, as per the rules of the government of Nepal, hiring a guide is not the only requirement for the Manaslu trek. The group you trek with should also consist of at least two people, excluding the guides and porters. Therefore, solo travelers cannot trek the Manaslu region with only a guide. They also need to make sure they have another trekker partner to obtain the trekking permits.

If you are a solo traveler and willing to go for the Manaslu trek but don’t have anyone to partner up with, then don’t worry. We, at Himalayan Glacier, will help group you with another trekker as per your requirements. Just let us know what kind of trekker you prefer as your partner, and we will manage the rest accurately.