How long does it take to hike the Manaslu Circuit?
How long does it take to hike the Manaslu Circuit? The Manaslu Circuit trek duration typically takes between 10 and 16 days, depending on several factors. However, if you look online, there are quite a few options in the itineraries, varying from 8 days to 18 days. So it can be confusing when trying to determine how many days to complete the Manaslu Circuit.
Let's dive into the Manaslu Circuit itinerary to sort out where these differences come from.
How Long Does the Manaslu Circuit Take with a Different Starting Point?
First, let's look at the start of the trekking route that practically every company is taking. For years, the Manaslu trek started at Arughat Bazaar, and the trekking trail started right from this village.
However, as early as 2014, road construction was on the original trail. Consequently, you can now start the trek at Macha Khola. The road has already passed Philim, but due to monsoon landslides, starting your trek from there has become unreliable. The plan is that the road construction will keep on going into the Tsum Valley to connect Nepal with Tibet (China).
Hiking the Manaslu Circuit
How Long Does It Take to Hike the Manaslu Circuit: Rupina La Pass Variation
Another option for the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit trek is Barpak, near Ghorka. If you start your circuit from this village, you cross the Rupina La pass. The pros of trekking this way are that you are not disturbed by any road construction. Furthermore, you can enjoy trekking safely and in tranquillity. On the other hand, the main con is that there are no teahouses every night. And even though camping is, in my opinion, the best way of trekking, it can get expensive. To sum up, trekking around Manaslu with the Rupina La crossing takes 16 days.
How the Manaslu Ending Point Affects Trek Duration
Second, let's now have a look at where the Manaslu Circuit itinerary ends. In fact, the old trail ended at Besisahar, which was the starting point for the Annapurna Circuit trek. From this village, trekkers can take a tourist bus or a local bus back to Kathmandu or divert with a local bus to Pokhara. Similarly, road construction on the Annapurna trail has affected the length of the trail.
Nowadays, the trek ends at Darapani, and the road is creeping towards Bimthang. So, from this year, you can end the Manaslu Circuit trek at Tilje, which will affect the overall length of the trek. From here, you can take a local jeep to Besisahar and continue your travel to Kathmandu by tourist bus.
How long does it take to hike the Manaslu Circuit with a Visit to Manaslu Base Camp?
Other factors that can influence how long it takes to hike the Manaslu circuit are acclimatisation and rest days. On top, a visit to Manaslu Base Camp often adds an extra trekking day. Needless to say, it's well worth the climb for the expedition vibe and the amazing mountain views. Nevertheless, if a visit to the Manaslu Expedition teams is on your bucket list, make sure you start your Manaslu Circuit in September.
But, how long does it take to hike the Manaslu Circuit?
Well, as you have read, there are quite a few factors that can influence how many days it takes to complete the trek. But the ideal length of the Manaslu Circuit is 12 days. With a few extra days for exploring Kathmandu and your international travel, your total Nepal trip will take 16 days.
Larkya La pass
Manaslu Circuit Trek - Sherpa Trekking
The length of the Manaslu Circuit with Sherpa Trekking is 12 days, and 16 days for your entire trip. However, we can adjust your itinerary to your preferences and fitness level. Let’s talk.
