The Manaslu Base Camp trek offers an exhilarating journey to explore the three peaks of Manaslu, commonly referred to as the "Japanese Peak." This challenging trek takes place in the Manaslu Region, home to the eighth-highest peak globally, standing tall at 8,163 meters above sea level.
Situated in the western central part of Nepal in Mansiri Himal, Manaslu derives its name from Sanskrit, meaning "Mountain of the Spirit." The mountain holds special significance for the Japanese, as Toshio Imanishi of Japan, assisted by Gyalzen Norbu (Nepali), achieved the first ascent in 1956. This historical connection leads the Japanese to consider Manaslu as their mountain, much like the British regard Everest as theirs.
The Manaslu Base Camp trek is a popular route in the Manaslu region, offering an untouched natural paradise along a rural valley trail on the Nepal-Tibet border. Officially opened for adventurous tourists in 1992, this trek remained relatively less frequented due to its restricted status, requiring special trekking permits.
This trek is a journey through rich culture, tradition, adventure, scenic beauty, and rural civilization, showcasing the ancient Tibetan lifestyle. With the newly opened route, the trek around the entire Manaslu ridge allows for an extensive exploration of Nepal's natural and cultural diversity. Mount Manaslu stands as a prominent geographical landmark in the historical kingdom of Gorkha.
Throughout the trek to Manaslu Base Camp, encounter the innocence of local residents, many of Tibetan origin, speaking their own vernacular. A licensed trekking guide accompanies you, providing detailed insights into the area, allowing you to experience authentic Nepalese life and visit Buddhist monasteries. The trek unfolds as a truly mystical journey, with breathtaking views of the Tibetan highland against the stark white Himalayas.
The route includes a visit to the ancient "Sama Gompa" monastery at Sane Gaou, providing a close view of Mt. Manaslu, culminating in the breathtaking prospect of reaching Manaslu Base Camp. Located in the Gorkha district, 64 kilometers east of Annapurna, the trekking permit for the Manaslu region was granted by the Nepalese government in 1991. Following the ancient Budi Gandaki River route, previously used for salt trading, the trail passes through numerous villages inhabited by diverse ethnic groups living in social harmony.
En route, witness over 10 peaks exceeding 6,500 meters and some surpassing 7,000 meters. The trek presents challenging terrains with difficult and strangely shaped landscapes, covering a daily distance of 15 to 20 kilometers. Negotiate harrowing steep terrains, uphill and downhill sections, and face the challenge of crossing Larkya La Pass (5,213 meters), testing both physical strength and mental resilience. The trek promises a memorable experience, marked by encounters with yaks, landslides, and picturesque landscapes.
Accommodation During Manaslu Base Camp Trek
We will spend the night in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and other nights in the trek halting spots. While on the trek, we will spend nights at local tea houses. All accommodations for this trek will be on twin sharing basis.
However, on request, single rooms can also be made available but it costs an additional USD 290. But some places in this region do not allow single accommodations. You will get nice and comfortable rooms for each night. Most teahouses now also have electricity for charging small appliances - mobile phones and cameras.
Meals During Manaslu Base Camp Trek
During our Manaslu Base Camp Trekking, we will enjoy typically Nepali food. You can also enjoy international cuisine like Tibetan, Continental, Italian, and Indian. You can even enjoy hot chocolates, bread, and drinks of different variety and snacks.
The cost remains higher though. The breakfast of a day will be served at the same tea house or lodge where we spent the night. Lunch will be served on the way to destination and dinner will be served at the tea house where you spend the night.
Manaslu Base Camp Trek Group Size
We organize a trip with a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 12 people. Join our estimated group departure dates available in departure dates or have customized trekking via Custom Booking Section.
Best Season for Manaslu Base Camp Trekking
Trekking in Nepal is possible at any time of the year, depending on the route you are going. Apart from all-season trekking, autumn and spring seasons are the most favorable. Nepal encircles four seasons altogether. They are autumn, winter, spring, and monsoon (summer).
Autumn: September, October, and November. The sky is clear, rainfall is negligible (very few), and the climate remains moderate. Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Chhath also fall at this time period.
Winter: December, January, and February. The sky remains foggy, rainfall is low, snowfall is countable, and the climate remains colder. In some time frame, the most feasible panorama can be observed, but to reach there at that time, cold bearing capacity should be added. Also, you can celebrate Christmas in the Himalayas though.
Spring: March, April, and May. The sky remains clear, clouds remain wandering, snowfall is lesser, pre-monsoon rainfall can occur, and the climate occurs moderate (eligible for trekking). Nepali New Year falls at this time, so you can cherish this advantage in Nepal.
Monsoon (summer): June, July, and August. The sky seems cloudy, high monsoon rainfalls, the trail remains slippery, a high encounter with bugs (leech, snails, slugs, and more), the climate remains hotter but rainy, infrequent thunderstorms in afternoon and evening occurs, and the outlook remains adorable at the time of no rainfall. It offers less crowded trail in the upper Himalayas. Likewise, it is the best time for investigation for botanists, researchers, and biologists in Nepal.
Permits needed for Manaslu Base Camp Trekking
In total, you need three different permits for Manaslu Trek. The Permit costs for the trek depends on the different season. Following are the list of permits with the cost that you need:
Manaslu Restricted Permit
During September to November: USD 70 for the first seven days and USD 10 for each additional day
From December to August: USD 50 for the first seven days and USD 7 for each additional day
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
MCAP Entry Fee for SAARC: NPR 1000 per person (Including Government Tax)
MCAP Entry Fee for other nationals: NPR 3000 per person (Including Government Tax)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
ACAP Entry Fee for SAARC: NPR 1000 per person (Including Government Tax)
ACAP Entry Fee for other nationals: NPR 3000 per person (Including Government Tax)
Tsum Valley Permit (Optional)
USD 35 for per person (1 week)
