Short Manaslu Circuit Trek – 09 Days Itinerary and Cost

Overview of Short Manaslu Circuit Trek – 09 Days Itinerary and Cost

The 9-day Manaslu Circuit Trek short hike is a quick form of the standard Manaslu Circuit Trek. This short Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is for our guests with limited time who want to finish the trek safely in less time without using a helicopter.

Our short trek to Manaslu is budget-friendly, and the trip is perfect for those who have a limited holiday to spend. We do not use any kind of expensive heli to finish the trek rapidly.

But, if this is your first time trekking in Nepal or you are a beginner hiker, then we recommend you go with the iconic standard Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Quick Briefing of 09-Day Itinerary for Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek begins with a 7 to 8-hour mountain ride in a Jeep from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. On the first day, we will reach Machha Khola, where you will already start to love nature and greenery.

Our next day starts with the 6 to 7-hour trek to Jagat. We will start our trek along the Budi Gandaki River. On the way, we will pass through dense forest with monkeys and langurs hanging in trees. As we continue, we arrive at a natural hot water spring, and ahead we will cross the suspension bridge to reach Doban. After additional hours of walking, we will finally reach the Jagat after crossing a long cantilever bridge.

From today on, we will pass through a restricted area. You will notice several Buddhist flags and monasteries on the way to Deng. You have to show your restricted area permit in Philim, and then we will continue the trek along the western bank of the river. After crossing the dense forest and thundering river, you will finally reach Deng.

Day four starts with an early morning breakfast and is back on the trail. We will begin our walk by passing through a bamboo forest and a suspension bridge at Biho Phedi. You will then pass through Ghap village and cross several narrow and landslide-prone areas. We will then reach Namrung after several hours of walking on uneven terrain. Upon reaching this village, the mighty Manaslu will heartily welcome you.

You will then leave Namrung village the next day. You will pass through rhododendron forests and terraces. Villages like Lihi, Sho, and Lho will greet you with their apple farms and small monasteries. Enjoy stunning views of Manaslu and Manaslu North as you slowly cross Shyala. As you walk further, Samagaon will welcome you with its breathtaking views.

Day 6 journey involves a slow walk as the altitude will be gained rapidly. You will be able to see wide yak pastures, long mani walls, and farming fields. The dense forest vegetation will slowly start to decrease. You will only see bush-type vegetation or barren land. Take it easy and listen to your body while enjoying the stunning views of the Himalayan chain. After some hours of tough, uneven walking, we will reach Dharamsala.

Today, you will reach the highest point of the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek, Larkya La Pass, at 5160 meters. Wake up early, around 3 or 4 AM, and have breakfast before starting. At the top, find inner peace and enjoy the views of Himlung, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. After some moments, we will walk to reach Bhimthang village. During the return, the trail is very challenging due to steep gravel slopes. Be careful to avoid leg injuries. You will be able to see impressive icefalls in all directions during the return.

Today will be the last day of trekking when you reach Dharapani. You will walk downhill through a dense forest with lots of plants and animals. You will reach Bhimthang after crossing the suspension bridge and passing through the dense forest. This village is the settlement of the Gurung people.

Early in the morning, we will take a Jeep to reach Besisahar via Dharapani. Then, we will switch to the local microbus or bus to reach Kathmandu. After a 6 to 7-hour journey from Besisahar, we will finally reach Kathmandu.

How difficult is the short 9-day Manaslu Circuit Hike?

The short Manaslu Circuit Trek is moderately difficult. You will have to experience the uphill and downhill for days through the rocky path. This might be quite challenging for those who are not well prepared after the trek.

The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you to high-altitude terrain. So, the most challenging aspect of this trek is the high altitude itself. Acute mountain sickness and other altitude-related illnesses are quite common, especially while you are traveling to Dharamshala or crossing the Larkye Pass. So, you have to be physically fit and always listen to our guide to avoid such problems during the trek.

Another challenging aspect of this trek is the length of the trail. We have to walk between 5 and 8 km each time. The trail is mostly offbeat and has many ups and downs. Also, you have to walk in rocky and icy terrain while crossing the Larkya Pass.

Ao, we suggest you upgrade your stamina and be fit for a challenging adventure. Start to train yourself for atleast 6 weeks in advance. Engage in cardio exercise like running, jogging, or swimming. You can also start practicing yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises to make your trek easier.

Despite having some challenges during the trek, the Short Manaslu Circuit trek requires no prior experience. But, you have to be physically fit to avoid altitude sickness.

Typical Day During our short hike to Manaslu Circuit

The hiking hours fluctuate from 5 to 9 hours per day. The hiking hours all depend upon the terrain type and destination you have to cover. The trek days vary from 9 to 14, depending on the place you cover. This package is of 9 days for those who have a minimum holiday in Nepal and still want to experience the adventure

Most of the days during the short Manaslu Circuit trek follow the same pattern. The early morning is greeted by the crisp mountain air outside their cozy tea houses. A hearty breakfast is accompanied by steaming cups of tea or coffee. We will pack our goods and hit the trail by 8 AM to seize the day’s adventure.

We will stop for lunch after a 3- to 4-hour trek. We will then resume the trek after a satisfying lunch. Along the way, we will pass through the traditional village of Gurung and the Tibetan people. We will also be able to see the lives of local people and interact with villagers. You can also visit ancient monasteries and immerse yourself in local life as you interact with villagers. We arrive at our destination by mid-late afternoon and relax in our teahouse.

After the whole day’s walk, we will get enough rest in the teahouse. The teahouse will provide dinner after some hours of rest between 7-8:30 PM. You will get a chance to savor delicious local dishes while exchanging stories with fellow trekkers. Most of the tea houses have one large communal dining area with a wood-burning stove in the center. We will then go to bed early as the night deepens.

Each day, you will be able to explore the majestic beauty of the mountains during the walk. You will cross several suspension bridges and thundering waterfalls to complete the Manaslu Circuit trek. This pattern repeats throughout most of the days during the trek.

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Essential Information - Short Manaslu Circuit Trek – 09 Days Itinerary and Cost

Best Seasons for Short Manaslu Circuit Trekking

In the past, the best months for Short Manaslu Circuit Trek have been March, April, and May in the spring, as well as September, October, and November in the autumn. But, due to climate change, the weather pattern has changed now. In recent years, April and May in the spring and October and November in the autumn have been the perfect seasons for clear skies and moderate temperatures.

The spring season is known for its calm weather and clear skies. The days are bright and the weather is perfect, which will be suitable for high-altitude treks like Manaslu Circuit. Also, the different colors of rhododendron flowers and trees with new leaves on the trail are mesmerizing to watch. The only problem of this season is that the trail will be crowded and busy.

The autumn season is also known for its moderate temperatures and clear skies. There is also less chance of problematic rain or snowfall during the trail. Although you may get occasional rainfall in high altitudes. But the scene after the rainfall is breathtaking.

June, July, and August are the months of challenges in off-road and high-hill areas. The roads are slippery and muddy and there is a high chance of flood or landslide. In the off-season, you will find less disturbance and peaceful teahouses during the walk to Manaslu Circuit.

December to February is also the offseason and you will experience the extreme cold in the mountains. The temperature will be as low as -18 °C in high areas. But some choose to trek in winter months to avoid the crowd and experience a little more adventure.

Accommodation during the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

We stay at various teahouses and guest houses during the trek. These teahouses normally offer comfortable beds and local food for you. The rooms and toilets at tea houses are average and clean. Because of terrain challenges, the accommodation services here are very basic. So, do not expect a luxurious stay, especially on a high-altitude trek. The lodges usually have a wooden style bed with a sheet, cover, and a pillow in the room.

Likewise, there is a communal dining area where they serve local and fresh foods and some international dishes in some teahouses. They provide additional amenities like a blanket, Wi-Fi, and a hot shower if you are ready to add extra cost. You can also buy snacks and drinks at tea houses, which might be a little more expensive than in lower regions.

You will typically encounter squat toilets or more basic toilet facilities as you ascend higher in remote places. So, it is advisable to bring your toilet paper because it may not be available in some lodges.

Foods during the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

There are varied food options during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Below we have listed some of the common items on the menu during the Manaslu Trek.

Breakfast options for the short trek to Manaslu

We normally have breakfast early in the morning at around 7 to 8 A.M. Most of the tea houses offer honey toast, porridge, french toast, bread with eggs, and other egg items. Other popular options are chapati, oats, fried or mashed potatoes.

These breakfasts are excellent for your hike to the Manaslu circuit. There might be other options on the menu, depending on the place or accommodation you choose.

Lunch & Dinner options for the short trek to Manaslu

The popular lunch and dinner during the short Manaslu Circuit Trek is cereals, grains, and rice. Lunch is typically served from noon to 1 PM. Lunch during the trek is rich in carbs and focuses on vegan or veg dishes. You will also find other dishes like noodles, momos, pasta, sandwiches, and spaghetti at various stops.

On the other hand, dinner is served between 7 to 8:30 PM. The menu offers a mix of traditional Nepali and Western dishes to cater to different preferences.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Normal Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek have unique features and differences. Below, we have listed the comparisons for both treks.

• Duration

The Manaslu Circuit Trek typically lasts for 14 to 16 days. The trek presents a comprehensive exploration of the region’s diverse landscapes. It ranges from verdant valleys to lofty mountain passes.

In contrast, the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a condensed experience, lasting 9 days. The trek mostly focuses on crossing the Larkya Pass. But as per normal trek, the short trek also provides a glimpse into the region’s natural splendor and cultural richness within a shorter time frame.

• Route

The Manaslu Circuit Trek presents an immersive journey around the entirety of the majestic Manaslu massif. You will pass through green valleys adorned with terraced fields, gradually ascending towards high-altitude passes. In normal Manaslu Circuit, you will get enough acclimatization days, and side trips like Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, Pungyen Gompa, and many more.

On the other hand, the Manaslu Short Trek still offers a captivating experience within the Manaslu region. This trek provides glimpses of the stunning Himalayan scenery and the unique local culture. While you may not pass the side trip and sufficient acclimatization, the short trek offers a taste of the region’s beauty.

• Physical Demand

The Manaslu Circuit Trek presents a formidable physical challenge while demanding stamina and resilience. The longer duration at higher altitudes will test your endurance as you navigate through varied terrain and weather conditions. You will get enough acclimatization days, so it will be easy for novice trekkers. The highest point of this trek is Larkya La Pass, standing tall at over 5,000 meters.

In contrast, the Manaslu Short Trek requires a respectable level of fitness and a more manageable physical experience. With a shorter duration, you have to walk for longer periods. You will also get less acclimatization days in the short trek to Manaslu. So, we recommend you be physically fit and be prepared before the trek.

Trek preparation for the Manaslu short trek

Physical training is a compulsion for the short trek to Manaslu. This trek demands a level of stamina and endurance capacity in high altitude. Here, we will guide you to train for the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek.

This trek demands continuance capacity, so we recommend you do routine exercises like morning walks and aerobics. This helps you maintain your body’s stamina and helps you cross Larkya La easily. We would also like to recommend hiking in some hilly areas for a few weeks before trekking. Also, you can work on your cardio and strength endurance at a gym.

Walking continuously at high altitude with a backpack will not be a piece of cake. It will surely be hard in such rugged terrain with a tiny amount of oxygen. So we recommend you do aerobic exercise, which will be helpful at high altitudes with low oxygen.

We do not have the habit of carrying a backpack unless it is a long trek or hike. Hike somewhere carrying the rucksack on your back to make the habit of the trek.

Electricity and Water During Short Mount Manaslu Round Hike

There might not be continuous access to electricity through the short Manaslu Circuit trek. They will generate electricity from small hydropower in the lower area and use solar in higher parts. So, during the landslide or gloomy weather, electricity may not be available.

You have to be prepared for that by carrying the power banks for that. So that you do not have to pay an extra charging fee in the teahouse.

In the case of drinking water, we recommend you get in the teahouse or purify the stream water. We normally discourage our guests from buying bottled water. This might increase the budget during the trek and it is not eco-friendly either. So, we recommend you bring a water purification tablet and use it before drinking stream water.

You can also get boiled water from the teahouse where you stay or during your lunch stay. You can refill your bottle with boiled water and it may cost extra. The fuel in high altitudes is limited and they might charge you for boiling the water.

Internet and Phone Connectivity

You can expect to find cellular network coverage at most of the tea houses during the trek. However, in high altitudes like Samagaun, Dharamshala, and Larkey pass, the network signals are not available. The signal might be weak, especially on forest trails.

In terms of internet, some teahouses in lower altitudes offer free Wi-Fi service to connect. But, as you ascend higher regions, they charge you a certain amount of money for the internet. The internet speed may be slow in higher regions due to the challenging terrain and remote locations.

Read More: Comprehensive Guide for Internet Coverage and Charging Facilities in Manaslu Circuit Trek

Required Permits & Checkpoints for Manaslu Trek

Nepal’s government has enforced restrictions on tourism in the Manaslu region, starting from Jagat and ending at Dharapani. Independent trekkers are not permitted in this area and must obtain a special entry permit. The permit can only be issued through a government-registered agency in Nepal. Three different permits are necessary for this trek and an additional one is required if you choose to include the Tsum Valley in your journey.

A Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Manaslu is essential from Jagat until you pass through Sama Gaun. Once you have crossed Sama Gaun, another entry permit is needed. The cost of the Manaslu RAP varies depending on the duration of your stay between Jagat and Dharapani.

The Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit is another permit required from Philim, where the Manaslu Conservation Area begins. The fee remains constant at USD 30 per person throughout the year. There are no restrictions or price adjustments based on the length of your stay within MCAP.

Similarly, an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit is necessary from Dharapani until you exit ACAP in Beshi Sahar. The cost is also USD 30 per person. This permit also has no variations based on the duration of your stay within ACAP.

Once you have obtained the RAP and permits for both conservation areas, there’s no need for a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS). But you will need an extra permit if you are going toward the Annapurna Circuit from Dharapani.

Things not to do during Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Always be with your friends or guide during the trek to high altitudes. It is because we never know what might happen and it will be hard to get help when you are alone.
• Avoid gaining altitude too fast and take your time to walk at your own pace. Walking fast can lead to altitude sickness.
• The Manaslu circuit trek is a restricted area so do not leave the trail and always follow the itinerary.
• Always respect the local people, cultures, dress, and behave pleasantly.
• Do not be overjoyed or hyped and trespass in excitement. Enjoy the adventure but do not trespass in the risky areas.

Before you go

• The last point of getting the ATM during the Manaslu Circuit Trek is available in Dhading Besi or Arughat.
• We recommend you not consume meat at higher altitudes and stick with vegetarian and local Nepali foods during the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek.
• Always be alert about the symptoms of altitude sickness. If you notice any, immediately inform your trekking guide and seek preventive measures.
• Do not worry about the gear in your home country, you will get it for sale or rent here in Kathmandu too.
• Explain to your guide if you are allergic to any kind and also inform him if there is any medicine you use regularly.
• Seek permission to take pictures and videos with drones. Drones are not legal in the mountains and you need permission from the government.

Rules and regulations for drones on the Manaslu Circuit Trek Route

Most of the trekking routes fall inside Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation Area and here the drones are highly restricted for flying. On the other hand, you are also trekking in the restricted region so drones are highly regulated and require special permissions from the concerned authorities.

Although it is harder to get permission in the Manaslu region, you can still fly drones by following these registrations.

Process of registration and authorization

According to the current legislation in Nepal, registration with the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) is mandatory for all drone categories to obtain a flying license. For that, you have to follow the below process to get the registration for drones during the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek.

1.  First, visit the Flight Safety Standard Department, which is located in Sinamangal, Kathmandu
2.  You have to submit the necessary paperwork, including a complete form, as per the guidelines
   • Copy of the drone’s handbook specifications.
   • A copy of a valid passport.
   • Copy of a certificate of company registration (if applicable).
   • A clear image of the drone you are going to use by displaying its brand, color, and serial number.
   • Overview of drone applications.
   • Copy of customs clearance certificate for imported drones.
   • Copy of the retailer’s VAT bill for locally purchased drones.
3. After that, the flight safety standard department will carefully review the submitted documentation about your drone
4. If your registration is approved, a certificate verifying your entry with a unique identification number will be issued within 2 to 3 business days. The permission will be valid for a year.