The Manaslu Trek map provides a visual representation of the trekking route through the Manaslu region. This map enhances your trekking experience by accurately pinpointing the trails and geographical features of the Manaslu region, such as rivers, lakes, glaciers, mountain peaks, cultural and religious sites, etc. So, the map can be used during the journey to access the required details of the trekking routes and destination. The Manaslu Trek map outlines the trekking route starting from the Soti Khola in the lower foothills and ascending through diverse Himalayan landscapes and traditional villages to the high and challenging mountain pass, Larkya La.
The major villages along the trekking trails of the Manaslu Trek are Maccha Khola, Jagat, Deng, etc, which are the rest and accommodation stops for the trekkers. Along the way, you have to cross the suspension bridge spanning over the Budi Gandaki River over and over again. Likewise, the highest point of the trek, Larkya La Pass, is prominently marked on the Manaslu trek map. The map also illustrates the diverse Himalayan terrains encountered along the trekking routes, such as hills, valleys, meadows, forests, rugged landscapes, etc.
In a map, a distinctive set of symbols are used. These icons are found on Legend in different shapes and colors, which depict the graphical information of the route. The icons denote features like the airports, National Park, main and alternative trekking routes, temples, monasteries, checkpoints, etc. The contour lines/shading on the Manaslu Trek map denotes the elevation changes along the route. The map also indicates the side trips or highlights along the trekking trails, like the ancient monasteries, scenic viewpoints, natural and cultural landmarks, etc.
Click to Enlarge (Full-Size Map)
Why is the Map Essential?
It is useful to carry the Manaslu Trek map during your Manasalu Circuit trekking journey. Looking at the map thoroughly before embarking on a trek enables you to plan your journey beforehand. You can learn and understand about the Himalayan terrains and find your way from one place to another.
By reading the Manaslu Trek map, you can easily find out the directions, identify surrounding landmarks and obstacles and understand the geographical formation of the region. Locations are marked with both elevation and distance information on the map. The trekking trails, upcoming stops, villages, teahouses, etc, along the way are also presented in greater detail.
Also, maps help you to get out of stranded situations. Trekking on off-the-beaten paths in a cold Himalayan climate is challenging, and there can be times when you lose your way. If you lose sight of your journey, maps are helpful to find your way back to the trail and safety. You can also direct the emergency responders to your location.
Manaslu Trek Map in Navigating the Trails
The Manaslu Trek map helps with the efficient navigation of remote and restricted Manaslu trekking trails. If you have a good ability to read maps, you can decide where to go next. You can thoroughly understand whether the trail ascends a cliff, crosses the River, or traverses a sweeping forest. Moreover, by analyzing the map appropriately, you can calculate the elevation gain for a challenging ascent.
Through the altitude map, you can determine the altitude of each stop and popular landmarks along the way. Also, with the help of a compass, you can easily know the distance from your current trekking location to your particular day’s destination. The Manaslu Trek map serves as information ground, providing easy directions, which helps for the smooth and straightforward exploration of its less trodden trails.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Speciality
The Manaslu Trek has been open since 1991 and has become a popular trekking destination thereafter. The Manaslu region is well known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. It has raw and untouched landscapes where you can experience its pristine wilderness to the fullest. The trekking activities usually take place around the border regions of Nepal and Tibet. This allows you to experience the lifestyle, culture, and traditions of both Hindus and Buddhists with deep insights into their ancient architectures.
Opting to follow the Manaslu Trek Map for an exhilarating off-the-beaten-path experience is the wisest decision you can make. The Manaslu Trek encircles the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Manaslu, standing giantly at 8,163 meters/26,781 feet. The adventurous trekking trails of the unspoiled Manaslu region disclose its hidden gems along each step and stop. Trekking through the less-crowded, less-trodden trails of the remote Manaslu region, you will pass the enchanting forests of rhododendrons, pine, birch, oak, and juniper. Moreover, this captivating trek will introduce you to delightful wildlife, diverse Himalayan wildflowers, rushing streams, majestic Himalayas, and several other captivating mountainous landscapes.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance
The Manaslu Trek is a challenging and rewarding adventure, which takes around 12-18 days to complete by covering a distance of approximately 180 kilometers. On average, you have to cover around 10 – 15 kilometers per day for a trekking journey. This extensive distance needs a walking duration of around 6 – 8 hours each day. So, to indulge in the soaking exploration of the pristine wilderness of the Manaslu, be prepared for the long and intense trekking journey.
The remote exploration of the secluded Manaslu region can be tiring and stressful for novice trekkers as the trails are not easy and smooth. Walking several hours over uneven and rocky mountainous surfaces and navigating steep Himalayan terrains is often challenging. A strong bodily buildup and mental determination are essential to sustain the lengthy and challenging trek. You need to be in sound health conditions with proper endurance capacity to conquer the trek smoothly and successfully.
Manaslu Trek Map- Trekking Difficulty
Following the Manaslu Trek map, this adventurous journey exploring the remote and pristine wilderness of the Himalayas has been classified as moderately difficult. To complete the trek successfully, you need to be in good shape with robust health conditions. A moderate level of fitness with reasonable strength and endurance prepares you for long and strenuous walks over diverse and rugged high-altitude terrains. Stepping uphill and downhill treks and crossing the challenging mountain pass demand excessive physical exertion and endurance.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek meets its highest elevation, 5,160 meters/16,929 feet, at Larkya La Pass crossing. This high-altitude journey involves several days of walking at elevations over 3,000 meters. So, you need to follow the proper acclimatization to adjust your body to the rising elevations and to avoid altitude sickness. Focus on a slow pace of ascent and stay hydrated throughout the trek. If you feel symptoms like dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, or insomnia, get back to lower elevations until your body is adapted to the current altitude before pushing for further elevation points.
Manaslu Trek Map – Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola
Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400 meters/4,600 feet
Soti Khola Elevation: 710 meters/2,329 feet
Drive Duration: 6-8 hours
Distance Covered: 150-160 kilometers
Start the journey of the Manaslu Trek with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, marveling at the mesmerizing scenario of rolling hills, lush forests, farmlands, rushing rivers, and picturesque villages. You will head towards the lower elevation regions than Kathmandu so that you may experience a warm temperature closing by. En route, you will also cross the Trisuli and Budi Gandaki Rivers. Despite the road turning dusty and bumpy, you will catch an outstanding view of winding roads and landscapes from your window seat. Upon reaching Soti Khola (the starting point of a trek), we will have a cozy overnight stay at one of the teahouses.
Day 2: Trek from Soti Khola to Maccha Khola
Maccha Khola Elevation: 900 meters / 2,952 feet
Trek Duration: 6-8 hours
Distance Covered: 10-12 kilometers
After spending a night at Soti Khola, we will start our trekking journey by heading towards Maccha Khola. This first day on trekking trails is exciting, and the pleasure adds up when you cross the way through enchanting waterfalls. Following the paths of steep ascents and descents, we traverse through the forests of Sal trees. Along the way, you will encounter several cultural villages where you can catch a glimpse of the local life and traditions of the native residents. Finally, we will arrive at the Maccha Khola and make a quick escape to one of the best teahouse accommodations in the village.
Day 3: Trek from Maccha Khola to Jagat
Jagat Elevation: 1,370meters/4,495 feet
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Distance Covered: 18-20 kilometers
After waking up in Maccha Khola, we prepare to trek towards Jagat. Our second day of trek continues, following a narrow winding trail along the Budi Gandaki Riverbed to reach Tatopani for a refreshing break. Time permitting, dip into the natural hot spring of Tatopani and resume the trek. The next is followed by a suspension bridge crossing spanned over the Budi Gandaki River and traversing the densely forested area of vibrant flowers and lush foliage. Along the way, in the traditional villages of Gurung and Magar, you can communicate and interact with the local people for a deeper learning of the culture and tradition of the region.
The further journey is followed by a staircase climb, suspension bridges crossing, passing Doban and Thado Bharyang villages and again walking along the bank of Budhi Gandaki River to finally reach the Jagat. Once you reach Jagat, our guides will verify your trekking permits at the check post, which denotes the start of a trekking journey into the restricted zones. For the night, you will be enjoying a cozy teahouse sleep.
Day 4: Trek from Jagat to Deng
Deng Elevation: 1,804 meters/5,917 feet
Trek Duration: 6-8 hours
Distance Covered: 18-20 kilometers
Our Manaslu Trekking journey leaves Jagat and heads towards Deng Village on this day. Along the way, several small settlements of local communities (Salleri, Sirdibas, Philim, etc.) are passed by. These villages house several Buddhist monasteries with vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the cool mountain breeze. Also, you can get enriched insights into the daily lifestyle of people while traversing through these traditional settlements.
The journey further involves several uphill and downhill sections with suspension bridge crossings. You need to traverse the Ghatta Khola (river), navigate steep gorges, descend through verdant slopes, and cross the Budhi Gandaki River to proceed on the journey. The trail widens and passes through the terraced farmland of the in-between villages and enters the bamboo forest to make a way towards Deng. After you come out of the forest, you will see an open space widening to you, which is a Deng village for your overnight stay. However, to reach the village, you have to first cross the Deng Khola.
Day 5: Trek from Deng to Namrung
Namrung Elevation: 2,600 meters/ 8,727 feet
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Distance Covered: 19-20 kilometers
From Deng, our trekking continues towards Namrung, crossing the Budi Gandaki River and passing enchanting forests of pine, fir, oak, and rhododendrons. Likewise, you will also trek across several painted Tibetan mani walls and monasteries. The trail ascends a winding path with steep and rugged terrains from the final river crossing to reach the charming settlement of Namrung. Namrung serves as an incredible viewpoint from where you can marvel at the amazing snow-capped peaks like Siring, Ganesh Himal, Himal Chuli, etc. Namrung has the finest teahouses and hotels where you can rest, relax, and stay for a night.
Day 6: Trek from Namrung to Samagaon
Samagaon Elevation: 3,530 meters / 11,581feet
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Distance Covered: 7-9 kilometers
On day 6 of our Manaslu Trek journey, we will head for Samagaon from Namrung. The trail ascends, where tree lines are left behind to reach the alpine Himalayan surroundings. You will walk over icy trails surrounded by the incredible views of the majestic mountains. Some villages with ancient gompas and glaciers are crossed to reach Samagaon. Samagaon is a mountain village from where you can gaze upon the magnificent vista of the giant Manaslu Peak and other Himalayas.
Day 7: Rest and acclimatization at Samagaon
We will take a leisurely day at Sama Gaon for rest and acclimatization purposes. At this height, it is crucial to acclimatize properly to make your body adapt to the rising elevations. Adjusting to thinner oxygen levels helps to prevent the risk of altitude sickness. So, spend your day getting proper rest and sleep. You can also take short walks to the nearby places of significance and explore the mountainous surroundings of the village. Enjoy the day by soaking in the peaceful setting of the high-altitude wilderness.
Day 8: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo
Samdo Elevation: 3,875 meters / 12,713 feet
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
Distance Covered: 7-9 kilometers
After an acclimatization day at Samagaon, we will make our way towards Samdo, following an uphill trek. Make a slow and cautious ascend on this day of a short-duration trek. Crossing the wooden bridges, pasture lands, mani walls, birch and juniper forests, ascend to the valley. During the course of the journey, you can soak in the Himalayan beauty, enchanting mountainous landscapes, and unique culture of the region.
Near the Tibetan border lies a picturesque village, Samdo, which is mainly populated by Tibetan refugees. Samdo serves as a vantage point for witnessing the breathtaking vista of Manaslu, Manaslu glacier and icefall, Ngadi Chuli, and many more Himalayan beauties.
Day 9: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala
Dharmasala Elevation: 4,480 meters / 14,698 feet
Trek Duration: 3-5 hours
Distance Covered: 9-10 kilometers
To trek to Dharmasala, we begin by crossing a wooden bridge spanning over the Budhi Gandaki River. Again, the trail follows a few more river crossings and ascends, where you can see the Larkya Glacier approaching close to you. Mani walls and prayer flags on the route also denote the nearness of the High mountain Larkya La Pass.
Take in the scenic Himalayan views and ascend steadily across the remote and rugged terrains
while making an ascent to reach the stone guest house, Dharmasala/Larkya La Phedi. The short duration of this day trek provides you enough time to rest and acclimatize for the remaining journey of the adventurous trek.
Day 10: Trek from Dharmasala to Bhimthang Via Larkya La Pass
Bhimthang Elevation: 3,700 meters / 12,139 feet
Larkya La Pass Elevation: 5,160 meters/16,929feet
Trek Duration: 8-9 hours
Distance Covered: 14-16 kilometers
Today, the journey can be challenging and exciting as you will meet the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek while crossing the Larkya La Pass. We will have an early morning breakfast and leave Dharmasala to head out on this day of long hours trek. We will initially make a short climb over the steep glacier moraines and descend to enchanting lakes. Following the rugged trails with steep slopes leads you to the Larkya La Pass.
The pass crossing offers you a stunning panorama of Himlung, Kanguru, Cheo, Manaslu, Himalchuli, Bouddha Himal, Annapurna, and other adjacent mountains. We make a cautious descent, crossing the glacier and grassy moraines, and reach the meadow. Trekking forward, we will reach Bhimthang for an overnight stay after a long, tough trek.
Day 11: Trek from Bhimthang to Dharapani
Dharapani Elevation: 1,860 meters/6,120 feet
Trek Duration: 7-9 hours
Distance Covered: 19-21 kilometers
Today is the final day of our Manaslu Circuit Trek journey in the pristine Manalsu region. We begin our Bhimthang to Dharapani trek by crossing a pasture land and descending down the valley. You have to make a few river crossings, including Dudh Khola, and trek through the lush rhododendron forest.
The rough descent trails lead you across the grassy hills and terraced farmlands of the in-between villages. Following the trails of fields and trees of oak and rhododendrons lining the route, we reach Tilje, a village with an apple orchard. From Tilje, we trek towards Dharapani, and once we reach there, our captivating trek of the Manaslu region comes to an end.
Day 12: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu
Drive Duration: 7-9 hours
Distance Covered: 190-200 kilometers
Today, you will embark on a scenic drive back to Kathmandu from Dharapani. Along the way, you will traverse the picturesque Besisahar village and drive along the Marsyangdi Riverbed. During this exciting ride, you will witness the diverse landscapes and change of terrains from your window seat. Enjoy the scenic views along the way and step back to Kathmandu to prepare for your homeward journey. But before, unwind and relax in your hotel to rejuvenate after your adventurous Manaslu Trek.
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Permits Essential to Proceed Through Manaslu Trek Map
TIMS card
The TIMS Card is an important trekking permit required for doing the Himalayan treks. Without this permit, you cannot begin tracing the Manaslu Trek map. Related authorities keep track of you during your remote Himalayan trekking. Information details like your name, nationality, emergency contact, trekking route, and destination are accessed through a TIMS card, which is helpful in case of emergency needs. If you have better knowledge of a trek map, you can lead the rescue teams to your location by directing them with the direction.
A TIMS Card costs you NPR 2,000 per person.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
ACAP is required to traverse the trails of the Manaslu Trek map that leads through the protected area of the Annapurna Conservation. Your map leads you to the Manaslu Conservation Area, following the trails through the Annapurna Conservation Area. The ACAP permit costs NPR 3,000 per person, and there are no extra fees for extension of the trekking days.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
The Manaslu region has a restricted status. To access and trek within the restricted zones of Manaslu, a special permit is required, which is the MRAP. These restricted areas start from Jagat and continue til Bhimthang during the Manaslu Circuit trek. The cost of MRAP is generally higher at peak trekking seasons like autumn and spring and lower during off-seasons like summer and winter.
September – November: USD 100/per person/per week, and after a week, the cost is only USD 15
December – August: USD 75/per person/per week, and after a week, the cost is only USD 10
Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP)
Manaslu Conservation Area covers a wide area of the Manaslu region. As the Manaslu trekking journey in the Manaslu region passes through this conserved area, you need to acquire the MCAP permit to enter and trek within the Conservation Area. You can get the MCAP permit with unlimited validity at NPR 3,000 per person.
