Manaslu Region Packages

The Manaslu Region, home to Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters / 26,781 feet) – the eighth-highest mountain in the world, is known as the “Mountain of Spirits.” It is one of the most scenic and least visited trekking destinations in Nepal. But now more and more people are visiting this restricted region due to its untouched natural beauty and peaceful trails.

It provides an ideal combination of dramatic mountainous terrain, calm river valleys, and local vivid culture. Situated only a few hours of drive away in Kathmandu, Manaslu opens its doors to the trekkers to explore an adventure in a land of soaring mountains, forested terrain, and medieval villages.

The path starts in the subtropical forests, which are home to the rhododendron, bamboo, and oak trees that shelter the wildlife, including the Himalayan Tahr and colored birds. On your way up the mountain, the landscape consists of sharp river gullies, terraces and classic Tamang and Gurung villages.

The Manaslu Region takes you inside the famous valleys, and thrilling hanging suspension bridges take you further in. You’ll be surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, including Manaslu, which rises to 8,163 meters, and Himalchuli, at 7,893 meters. 

Once you cross high-altitude villages such as Samagaon (3,530m) and Larkya Phedi, you will reach the famous Larkya La Pass (5,160m). From these vantage points, trekkers can witness the panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and valleys below the clouds.

The Manaslu Region is also home to diverse ethnic communities, including the Gurung and Tibetan-influenced people. Trekking here lets you engage with monastic life, walk past mani walls, and stay in teahouses run by local communities.

Here’s a list of major mountains visible from the Manaslu Region trek:

• Manaslu (8,163 m) – The eighth-highest mountain in the world and the main attraction of the Manaslu region.
• Himalchuli (7,893 m) – Offers majestic views from higher parts of the trek.
• Ngadi Chuli / Peak 29 (7,871 m) – Prominent peak visible from upper valleys.
• Cheo Himal (6,820 m) – Seen from remote high-altitude villages.
• Larkya Peak (6,249 m) – Located near the Larkya La Pass; part of the panoramic high passes.
• Boudha Himal (6,800–6,900 m) – Smaller peak visible from some trekking trails.
• Ganesh Himal (7,422 m) – Partially visible from lower approaches in the region.

Trekking Opportunities in Manaslu Region

Why the Manaslu Region Is a Restricted Area

Manaslu region shares its border with Tibet (China), so due to this sensitive border location, the area is kept restricted for security and controlled tourism purposes. To enter Manaslu, all the trekkers must have restricted trekking permits and a licence guide with them.

How To Reach the Manaslu Region

Machha Khola is the starting point for trekking in the Manaslu Region. There are two main options for you to reach Machha Khola.

Local bus: You can find the local bus from the Gongabu bus station, which departs around 6:30 AM to 7:00 AM and at night after 7:00 PM. Local buses will cost you around NPR 800–1,500 per person. 

By Private Jeep: Another option to reach Machha Khola is by hiring a private Jeep. To hire the Jeep, it will cost you around NPR 10,000- NPR 15,000 per person, which includes fuel, driver salary, food and accommodation of the driver.

Read more: Manaslu Region Transport

The Manaslu Conservation Area & Culture

• Conservation Area: Manaslu Conservation Area (MCA) plays a big role in conserving the culture, wildlife, and natural ecosystem and beauty of Manaslu Region.
• Wildlife: During the Manaslu Region trekking, you might see snow leopard, Himalayan Tahr, red panda, musk deer, blue sheep, and various high-altitude birds.
• Cultural Heritage: Manaslu Region treks take you inside the traditional Gurung and Tibetan-style villages. You will get the opportunity to visit ancient Pungen (Pungyen) Gompa, walk past mani walls, and stay in local teahouses which are run by local people.

Permits & Regulations For Manaslu Region

To start trekking in the restricted areas of the Manaslu region, trekkers need to obtain a permit from the local trekking agency and several other permits. Since the Manaslu Region is a restricted trekking zone, the government of Nepal has set some rules and regulations. Let’s see:

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) is required. 
2. A Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) is also needed. 
3. In some cases, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) may also apply (if your route enters that region). 
4. Guide Requirement: A licensed guide is mandatory for this trek.
5. Group size: There must be a minimum of 2 people in a trekking group, excluding guides.

Best Time to Go For Manaslu Region Treks

For visiting the Manaslu Region, Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November) are the best months. The air, freshly washed by the monsoon rain, is crystal clear, with stunning mountain scenery, and the weather is still, comfortably warm. Visiting the higher elevations of the Manaslu Region can’t be done in winter. Trekking trails above Samagaun (3390m/11120ft) Village are usually blocked by heavy snowfall, and all the teahouses above Samagaun are closed. But the Lower part of the Manaslu region can be visited any time of the year.

Banks and ATM Facilities in Manaslu Region

There are no ATMS and Banks in the Manaslu region so we suggest you carry enough cash ( Nepalese Currency) while you leave for the trek. Thamel is the best and convenient place to change your local currency. You can find many money exchange counters in the streets of Thamel. 

Internet & Communication In Manaslu Region

Wifi: In the lower region tea house you can find the WIFI facilities during the trek in the Manaslu region. But at the higher altitude remote villages such as Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) and Samdo there is no WIFI.

 SIM: You can use the Local SIM( NCELL or NTC) for the mobile internet and communication in the lower region village of Manaslu. Once you reach the higher network coverage is limited or unavailable due to the lack of cell towers.

Food & Accommodation In the Manaslu Region

Teahouses & Lodges: There are tea houses in the trekking trails of the Manaslu region where you will spend the night after your everyday trek. This tea house is a simple lodge that provides the basic facilities of lodging and food. Rooms will be twin-sharing basis, and you can expect a sharing toilet. Inside the room, you will get a warm blanket, beds, pillow cover, bedsheets, with no AC or heating system.

Food: The Manaslu region trek is a remote trek, so you cannot expect much in the menu items. Food here is mostly Nepali dishes and some Tibetan dishes. For breakfast, you can choose items of bread, eggs, porridge, muesli, pancake, fries, Chapati, etc. The lunch and dinner menu is the same, which includes items of some vegetables and meats (limited option), spaghetti, pizza, noodles, soup, momo, etc. The fruit is rare, and you don’t find any seafood items on the menu.

What to Pack for Your Manaslu Region Trek

To participate in the Manaslu region treks, trekkers should be fully aware of what to pack because you will not find any shops on the trekking trails to buy the essential items to buy here. So before leaving for the trek, make sure to have these items in your luggage:

Clothing

• Warm down jacket
• Fleece or insulated mid-layer
• Moisture-wicking T-shirts
• Thermal tops and bottoms
• Lightweight trekking pants
• Waterproof jacket and pants (windproof & breathable)
• Wool or synthetic socks (multiple pairs)
• Warm hat, sun hat, and buff or scarf
• Gloves (inner lightweight and outer insulated pair)
• Light casual clothing for tea houses or homestays
• Sleepwear (comfortable for lodges)

Footwear

• High-quality trekking boots (dust, waterproof)
• Lightweight shoes, sandals, or flip-flops for lodges
• Gaiters (optional, for snow or muddy trails)

Trekking Gear

• Backpack (30–40 L for daily use)
• Waterproof rain cover for backpack
• Trekking poles (adjustable)
• Sleeping bag (rated −10°C to −15°C)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Sunglasses (UV protected)
• Sunhat or cap

Personal Items

• Reusable water bottles (2–3 L capacity)
• Water purification tablets or a portable filter
• Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, etc.)
• Quick-dry towel
• Wet wipes and hand sanitiser
• Personal medications and a small first aid kit (including blister care)
• Lip balm and moisturiser
• Toilet paper or tissues (for remote areas)

Electronics

• Power bank (fully charged)
• Camera or smartphone
• Charging cables and plug adapters
• Optional: GoPro, drone, or extra memory cards

Manaslu Region Trek Guide: Safe and Responsible Tips

Preparation and Physical Fitness: The treks inside the Manaslu region are not easy due to remote destinations and long duration. The average number of days required to complete the trek in the Manaslu Region is about 14-18 Days. Trekkers must be able to walk for 6-7 hours, which means the Manaslu Region demands good physical endurance from the trekkers. Only participate in trekking if you are in good health. You should avoid the trek if you are having serious health issues such as heart disease, lung disease and any respiratory issue. It’s better to get a medical fitness report before you leave for the trek.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) Protocol: Manaslu Region treks take you to higher altitudes such as Larkya La Pass (5,106m/16,752ft). While walking at such incredible altitude, some trekkers might face altitude sickness symptoms such as headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea, shortness of breath, and trouble sleeping. There are no hospitals here, so you need to be very careful about your health conditions. If you find difficulty while trekking, make sure to inform your trekking guide and seek immediate help. If you recognise symptoms of altitude sickness, descending is the only option.

Insurance and Emergency Planning: Trekking in the remote areas means there is a high risk, so make sure to have health insurance before you leave for the trek in the Manaslu region. Make sure that your travel insurance policy specifically covers trekking, high altitude (up to 5,500m), and emergency helicopter evacuation. Keep emergency contacts handy and never try to do a solo trek- always hire a licence guide and porter with you.

The Mandatory Guide and Porter Rule: By Nepalese law, all trekkers entering the Manaslu Conservation Area (MCA) must be accompanied by a licensed government guide. Independent trekking is strictly banned. When you hire a porter, make sure to respect them. A porter carries a maximum of 20 kg, and normally one porter is shared between two trekkers (about 10 kg per person).

Responsible Trekking: Minimise use of plastic in these protective areas. Always throw your waste in the designated areas. Avoid taking shortcut parts and follow your trekking guide’s guidelines.

Cultural Sensitivity:

The villages in the upper Manaslu region (especially from Lho onwards) are highly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, complete with ancient monasteries, Mani walls, and chortens.