When travelers think of trekking in Nepal, most think of Mount Everest.
But, there is another trail that feels much quieter and much more authentic – Manaslu.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek includes everything that people love about the Everest Base Camp trek: snowy peaks, high mountain passes and a thrill of adventure.
Yet it remains empty, uncrowded and full of local stories.
As you walk through the remote Gorkha District, you wind your way up the Budhi Gandaki River, through remote villages and see prayer flags blowing in the wind above Private stone houses.
You will meet warm and generous locals and drink a cup of warm tea in their small tea house and listen to their stories that few travelers will ever hear.
Choosing Manaslu over Everest means getting the experience of hiking through the Himalayas in their natural state.
You will follow the trail to the breath-taking Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters), where the air is thin, the views are endless, and the feeling is unforgettable.
This is why at Nepal Base Camp Treks, our local guides have years of experience leading both trips.
Some mention that the Manaslu trek, compared to the EBC trek, is not a trek; it is a discovery.
Here, you will not only see the mountains; you will feel a part of them.
If you are looking for beauty, adventure and calm, all in the same journey, then Manaslu is your mountain.
The Tale of Two Giants: Manaslu vs Everest
Every person hiking in Nepal has one big decision to make: Everest or Manaslu?
Both of these mountains dwindle in the clouds above, but both methods of reaching them could not be more different.
While Mount Everest is the tallest mountain on Earth, a bucket-list destination for many, the route to get there is world-famous, well-marked and often filled with climbers, guides and helicopters.
It is crowded, dynamic and replete with modern comforts.
On the other hand, Manaslu, the eighth-tallest mountain, sits peacefully in the Gorkha District.
The Manaslu Trek winds literally on trails along the narrow, intense Budhi Gandaki River, through ancient stone villages and Buddhist monasteries.
Time moves more slowly here.
The only sounds are rushing river water, spinning prayer wheels and your boots crushing the dirt beneath.
Where Everest was massive and filled with many human distractions, Manaslu feels more distant and pure.
Stunning mountains surround you like guardians and the expanse of these views may not capture a soul, except you.
Choosing Manaslu over Everest is not just choosing another trail, but another kind of adventure.
A journey consumed with still beauty, true culture and the unspoiled heart of the Himalayas.
Getting to Know the Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most stunning and least populous treks in Nepal.
The trek circles around the eighth-tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 meters), while experiencing a vast array of changing terrain.
The trek begins in the Gorkha District, following the Budhi Gandaki River, and gradually ascends through forests, villages and rural mountain villages.
You will see prayer flags flapping and both old monasteries on cliffs and people carrying baskets up steep trails.
The Manaslu trek altitude reaches the highest point at Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters).
Reaching Larkya La Pass is both an effort and a reward, as every step becomes a source of joy.
From Larkya La Pass, you can see panoramic views of the Himalayas, such as Himlung, Cheo and Annapurna II.
The Manaslu trail is peaceful and natural, unlike the more populous trekking routes.
You will find real and Tibetan cultures intertwined — farming, praying and smiling like they have for many centuries.
Whether you enjoy event photography, peaceful trails or high altitude adventure, the Manaslu Trek will provide something special.
If you want a less crowded but adventure-packed journey, then Manaslu over Everest should be your choice.
This is not just a trek through mountains; it is a walk through living history.
Where is the Manaslu Circuit Trek located?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is located in the Gorkha District in central Nepal, which is about 120 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu.
You will circle Mount Manaslu, located inside the Manaslu Conservation Area.
The trek typically begins in the small towns of Soti Khola or Machha Khola, which is located near the Budhi Gandaki River.
From this point, the trail follows the river upstream through steep valleys, waterfalls and dense forests, before rising into the higher alpine terrain close to Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters).
To the west, the Manaslu region borders the Annapurna Conservation Area and Tibet to the north.
Its location makes it one of Nepal’s most diverse trekking regions, blending lower hill Hindu culture with higher village Tibetan Buddhist cultures.
While remote, the Manaslu region is accessible.
The 7-8 hour drive from Kathmandu (or Soti Khola) to Arughat is a scenic route and is the main access to reach this hidden gem in the Himalayas.
Highlights Along the Manaslu Route: Village to High passes to Landscapes
With every step on the Manaslu Circuit, there is something new to see.
The trail takes you through low green valleys and into icy mountain passes – it is almost like the view is a story told by nature.
Here is what you get when you opt for Manaslu over Everest.
Highlight 1: Beautiful Villages along the trek
You will walk through beautiful and quiet villages on Manaslu trek, such as Jagat, Namrung, Lho, Samagaon and Samdo.
Each village is lovely in its own way.
The children see you from the rooftops and wave, prayer wheels spin in the wind and monks chant in the small monasteries.
These villages provide a glimpse into the life of the mountain people and a warm cup of tea to enjoy after a long trek.
Highlight 2: Presence of Spirituality
Every step higher up, you begin to feel the spirituality of the mountains press on you.
While on this trek, you can see prayer walls, colorful prayer flags and ancient monasteries.
Lho is home to a large Ribung Monastery; it stands out with a beautiful and full view of Mount Manaslu behind it.
Highlight 3: Different landscapes of Nature
The trek starts in green rice fields and jungles near the Budhi Gandaki River.
As you ascend, it becomes cooler, with fewer trees and you wander through rocky valleys and snowy peaks.
The variation of the terrain makes the Manaslu feel like you are experiencing every climate found in Nepal all on one trek.
Highlight 4: Crossing the legendary Larkya La Pass
For most trekkers, the high point of the trek is the summit of the Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), or the “High Pass.”
The ascent is challenging, but the view from the pass is awe-inspiring.
You can see Ganesh Himal, Himlung Himal and even the back of the Annapurna range forever into the distance.
Highlight 5: Hidden Gems Along the Route
Be sure not to miss the nearby Manaslu Base Camp side trip, where you can get an up-close view of a glacier.
You can also take a short detour to visit Birendra Lake, a turquoise lake of glacial melt that sits next to Samagaon.
These spots are ideal for photographs, reflection and rest.
How High Does the Manaslu Trek Go?
The Manaslu Trek has a crazy altitude range, which makes it one of the most adventurous and thrilling mountain treks in Nepal.
Starting low in the warm valleys, it climbs to freezing high passes surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
The trek officially starts at Machha Khola or Soti Khola, which is located approximately 700 meters above sea level.
The trek follows the Budhi Gandaki River, while passing through terraced fields, dense forests, and small farming villages.
Then trekking higher, you get to the villages of Namrung, Lho and Samagaon, which are located at an altitude between 2,500 and 3,500 meters.
Temperatures drop significantly and with every step, the mountains seem closer and closer.
The highest point of the trek is the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters.
This high mountain pass is truly stunning with views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal and Annapurna II.
At this elevation, your body needs time to adjust; that’s why acclimatization becomes essential in staying healthy.
Trekkers usually spend an additional night resting in either Samagaon or Samdo before the final ascent.
With good rest and a possible slow pace, Larkya La could be a safe and unforgettable experience.
Reasons for Picking Manaslu Over Everest
If you’re stuck deciding between the Everest Base Camp trek and the Manaslu Circuit trek, here are some reasons why many trekkers choose Manaslu over Everest.
Quiet Trails, Less Crowded
Everest is world-famous and fame comes with crowds.
The Manaslu region still feels wild and untouched.
You will be able to walk for hours and only hear rivers, wind and your own footsteps.
It’s how trekking used to be, pure and quiet.
Real Village Life and Warm Teahouses
Along the villages on the Manaslu trek, life moves slowly and naturally.
Locals are out farming, spinning prayer wheels and smiling at passing trekkers.
Staying in small family-run teahouses means homemade meals, cozy nights and stories by the fire.
It really doesn’t get more real than that.
Each Day Brings Different Scenery
No two days on the Manaslu trail will look the same.
You start with rice fields and forests and finish with glaciers, cliffs and snow peaks.
Every day’s panoramas will include Ganesh Himal, Mount Manaslu and bright prayer flags waving against blue skies.
A Venture Worth Taking
The Manaslu Trek is not a walk in the park, but it is achievable if you take a steady pace and are well-prepared.
Crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) is an endurance test, but there is pure joy at the top.
It is that moment when you know that you just did something really powerful; you can feel the adrenaline and it becomes an achievement for life.
Deep Culture and Spiritual Stillness
The upper route enters the Manaslu Conservation Area, where Buddhist prayer walls and monasteries mark the journey.
The Gorkha District is the perfect blend of Nepalese and Tibetan traditions.
This is more than a trek – it is a walk-through living culture and quiet faith.
Weather, Acclimatization and Safety: Weather and Conditions to Expect
When planning a trek in the Himalayas, three factors are most important, which are weather, acclimatization and safety.
First, let’s take a quick side-by-side comparison between Manaslu Trek and Everest Trek for weather and seasonal conditions.
Weather Conditions on Manaslu vs Everest
| Season | Manaslu Circuit Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek |
| Autumn (Oct–Nov) | The best time to trek. Clear skies with calm air and spectacular views of many mountains. A very stable weather pattern that is typical during the post-monsoon season. | Peak season, but busy. The weather is still clear, but windy above Gorakshep, before getting close to Everest base camp. |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Colder and quieter. Trails are open, but Larkya La Pass has the possibility of heavy snow. Best time to trek for secluded experiences. | Extra cold, especially above 4,500 meters. Probability of snowfall blocking the trail (to ebc). |
| Spring (Mar–May) | Warm days, blooming rhododendrons and long days of light for exposure. A great time for photography in Manaslu trek weather. | Good weather in EBC also. The trails are busier. Clouds begin to build in the afternoons. |
| Monsoon (Jun–Sep) | The area is lush and green, but the paths are slippery. The lower sections of the trek will have leeches. Definitely not for beginners! | The majority of days are cloudy and there will be a high chance of flight cancellations. Visibility in and around Lukla will be low. |
You will find that the Manaslu trek affords more stable weather, fewer delays and less wind at altitude.
How Acclimatization Differs Between Everest and Manaslu
The elevation during the Manaslu trek gradually increases from 700 m at Soti Khola to over 5,100 m at Larkya La Pass.
This gradual ascent offers a smooth adjustment via acclimatization.
The villages of Samagaon and Samdo provide the perfect locations to rest and adjust before crossing to the high pass.
On the rest days, you can take a couple of short walks to the Manaslu Base Camp to aid in your endurance.
With the Everest Base Camp trek, the elevation is substantially higher and the days are shorter, which increases the risk of altitude sickness for some.
Many trekkers commonly describe the Manaslu route as ” a gentler ascent,” which enhances the safety of the adventure and is quite enjoyable without rushing the body.
Safety and Preparation: Staying Healthy on the Trail
While trekking at high altitude can be exciting, you need to be aware and careful.
Here are a few suggestions for your Manaslu Trek to ensure you are in good health and make it enjoyable and safe:
Start a program of physical training at least 4-6 weeks in advance of your trip. Walking, jogging and climbing stairs will all help your level of fitness and endurance when trekking to altitude and long ascents.
Give your body adequate acclimatization at high elevations. Spending extra nights in Samagaon or Samdo will likely prevent headaches or fatigue later on.
Keep yourself well hydrated, eat well and go to bed early – the rest will facilitate recovery and keep your energy levels up.
Bring a small first aid kit with personal supplies and medications you may need. Basic medical support is available in most local teahouses and with local guides, but having your own supplies helps during emergency situations.
Always have travel insurance with trekking accommodations over 5,000 meters. Insurance should also cover a helicopter rescue if necessary.
Make a smart packing list for the Manaslu trek. A warm jacket, gloves, rain gear and good shoes will accommodate fast-changing mountain weather.
The trek is of moderate to challenging technical skill level; however, keeping a steady pace and employing appropriate care, reaching the Larkya La Pass will be a real achievement milestone.
Manaslu Trek vs Everest Base Camp Trek – Which One’s for You?
Both treks represent the essence of Nepal, but appeal to entirely different types of trekkers.
This choice ultimately depends on which is more important to you: solitude or fame, unadulterated nature or notoriety, quiet or size.
If you desire an authentic journey into the Himalayas, where every step feels personal, peaceful and profoundly cultural, then the Manaslu over Everest trek would be perfect for you.
If your dream is to arrive at the world-famous base camp of Mount Everest, where adventure collides with history, then you may want to take the EBC route.
The Level of Difficulty Compared
Trekking Manaslu Circuit is moderate in difficulty, making it a fun adventure that will challenge your body but allow for a gradual ascent.
The route gradually ascends from river valleys to the frozen Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), which is perfectly suited for trekkers who prefer a slow, gradual ascent rather than a rushed climb.
If you are wondering how difficult the Manaslu Circuit Trek is, you can think tit being the middle of other well-known trekking routes; more difficult than the Annapurna Circuit, but offers fewer crowds and a more peaceful trek than Everest.
It is a test of endurance, not exhausting yourself.
When you physically train and feel good about your fitness level, it makes a difference.
If you dedicate one month to walking, climbing stairs and carrying light loads, you will train yourself and be ready for this endurance trial.
The best part is when you walk over the pass, you will feel a sense of real victory.
Scenery, Culture and Experience
The scenery of the Manaslu region changes considerably with each day, from green rice terraces and rushing rivers, to glaciers, pine forests and snow-capped ridgetops.
The views of Mount Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and the Annapurna range are on par with some of the best scenery in Nepal.
Unlike Everest, where sprawling paths are lined with teahouses, the villages of the Manaslu trek appear traditional.
Residents spin prayer wheels, herd yaks and offer tea with sincere smiles.
You feel the trek alive with cultural experience.
Each corner you enter uncovers another layer of the Himalayas: glowing peaks, fluttering prayer flags and deep silence reminding you about all the reasons adventure matters.
So, if you want a path filled with silence, prayer flags and a sense of discovery, Manaslu over Everest is the one for you.
Manaslu Trek After an Earthquake
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is more than just a route through the Himalayas; it is a story of resilience.
After the 2015 earthquake, lots of the Manaslu region was damaged, but the people of the Gorkha District renewed it all with humble strength and optimism.
When you walk here now, it feels different – safe, strong and purposeful.
The path through the Manaslu Conservation Area now has the feeling of rebirth, where both nature and communities have healed together.
The Manaslu trek after the Earthquake serves as an example of unity and durability.
Rebuilding Trails and Teahouses
The earthquake destroyed the trails, bridges and homes, but within a few years, all of it had been rebuilt in fantastic ways by the locals.
The family-owned, small teahouses reopened in the villages along the Manaslu trek, welcoming trekkers with warmth, food and stories of restoring their home region.
On the walks throughout the Manaslu region, you will see new lodges built next to ancient monasteries, prayer flags whipping in the wind over rebuilt trails and smiling faces that inherently remind you of how amazing this community is.
Their doing this was not purely about tourism; it was about identity.
Trekking in the Manaslu region supports families who turn hardship into hospitality.
By choosing Manaslu over Everest, you walk through a land that has rebuilt itself with strength, love, and pride
Sustainable Tourism and Recovery in the Local Area
Currently, Manaslu aspires to be a model of sustainable tourism in Nepal.
It’s a collaborative effort by the local government and the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) to protect wildlife, culture and heritage.
As you walk across the Gorkha District, you’ll witness trekking routes that are eco-friendly, teahouses powered by solar energy and a tremendous respect for nature.
Every permit, meal and overnight stay directly supports responsible growth in the local economy, which shows that ethical travel helps rebuild lives.
The cultural experience here feels even more enriched.
With each step you take, you are amplifying recovery, respecting resilience and keeping the pulse of the Himalayas alive!
Preparing for Your Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Trek is heavily reliant on proper planning.
Knowing the right time to go, understanding your fitness level and bringing the right gear can help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
When Is the Best Time To Go
The best time to go trekking is the post-monsoon months of October and November, where you will likely experience the best weather conditions for trekking.
You can expect clear skies, stable trails and bright mountain views.
You can also visit in the spring months of March to April, where you will find blooming rhododendrons with warm temperatures.
Winter conditions can be snowy and a great adventure for experienced trekkers, while it is generally best to avoid visiting during monsoon months for safer conditions, as these will generally bring rain and landslides.
Fitness and Gear
Getting in some lighter preparation for your trip will help improve your fitness level.
Simply walking, hiking or climbing stairs can be beneficial exercise to prepare for the trek.
Your packing list should include packable trekking boots, warm layers, gloves to manage the cold, rain gear to manage precipitation and a first-aid kit.
Be sure to purchase travel insurance for high-altitude trekking.
No matter you choose, Manaslu over Everest or any other, these are important to have while trekking in remote areas.
Booking Tips
One of the key reasons why trekkers pick the Manaslu trek over EBC trek is due to the low cost, as there is no need to pay for costly flights..
Permits and a local registered guide for the Manaslu circuit trek itinerary is required for safety.
If you book early, you can find better deals for the trek and small group options.
With local support and proper planning, trekking around Mount Manaslu is an amazing adventure that is both scenic and immensely rewarding.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek, while not as celebrated as Mount Everest, is one of Nepal’s true gems.
The choice of heading to Manaslu over Everest gives you all the beauty, peace and adventure to experience in the Himalayas without the crowds.
The trek ventures through quiet mountain villages, ancient monasteries and open yak pastures. Every step is a step deeper into culture and nature.
Crossing the Larkya La Pass is a physical and emotional accomplishment, where you get an adrenaline rush while taking in panoramic views of Mount Manaslu sparkling above the clouds.
The Manaslu trek over EBC trek is more than an adventure; it is an experience that connects your heart with the Himalayas.
If you are dreaming of something pure, meaningful and unforgettable, the Manaslu is where your mountain story begins.
