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Manaslu Circuit Trek Map

This is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Map, which is a visual guide to one of Nepal’s most remote and challenging trekking routes in Nepal.

What this map shows

The Official Manaslu Circuit Trek Map displays,

  • Main trail (orange line) – The primary trekking route
  • Secondary trails (dashed lines) – Alternative routes and side hikes
  • Roads (gray lines) – Vehicle access points
  • Daily stops (numbered circles 1-17) – Where you camp/stay each night
  • Peaks (triangle symbols) – Mountains along the route
  • Monasteries (temple symbols) – Sacred sites
  • Base camps (tent symbols) – Climbing base camps
  • Altitude markers – Height of each location
  • Altitude profile chart – Elevation changes throughout the trek

The complete route:

  • Starts: Kathmandu (1,310m)
  • Ends: Kathmandu (1,310m)
  • Duration: 17 days
  • Maximum altitude: Larke La Pass (5,160m)
  • Total distance: Approximately 180-200 km of walking

Why Understanding the Map Matters

Many trekkers don’t study the map beforehand and sometimes get into trouble due to mistakes.

What the map tells you:

  • Daily difficulty – Some days are harder (elevation gain shown in profile)
  • Acclimatization timing – When to rest and when to push higher
  • Where you’ll sleep – Tea houses, lodges, or basic shelters
  • What you’ll see – Peaks, valleys, villages, monasteries
  • Weather patterns – Higher elevations = colder, windier
  • Navigation – Where trails split and how they rejoin
  • Backup routes – Secondary trails if main trail is blocked
  • Major landmarks – Identifying mountains, rivers, villages
  • Distance reality – How far each day actually is
  • Trek difficulty overall – Is it harder or easier than you thought?

17-Day Route Overview

The complete Manaslu Circuit Trek Map route in one overview:

Days 1-2: Kathmandu

  • Preparation days
  • City sightseeing
  • Altitude: 1,310m

Days 3-5: Kathmandu to Machha Khola

  • Entry into Manaslu region
  • Vehicle drive + walking
  • Elevation gain: 1,310m → 930m
  • Altitude: Low, warm days

Days 6-9: Machha Khola to Samdo

  • Climbing begins seriously
  • Daily elevation gains
  • Entering restricted area
  • Altitude: 930m → 3,875m
  • Days of acclimatization included

Days 10-11: Samdo Rest & Larke La Pass

  • Highest point of trek
  • Cold, exposed, challenging
  • Altitude: 5,160m (Larke La Pass)
  • Dangerous if the weather deteriorates

Days 12-14: Larke La to Bimthang

  • Descending from high altitude
  • Recovery days
  • Entering easier terrain
  • Altitude: 5,160m → 2,590m

Days 15-17: Bimthang to Kathmandu

  • Return journey
  • Vehicle drives
  • Preparation for departure
  • Altitude: 2,590m → 1,310m

Total elevation gain: Approximately 3,850m total (up and down)

Total elevation loss: Approximately 3,850m total

Hardest climbing: Days 6-10 (daily gains of 600-800m)

Easiest days: Days 1-2, 15-17 (city, vehicle travel)

 

Altitude Profile Explained

The altitude chart on the Manaslu Circuit Trek map shows elevation changes throughout 17 days.

What the Profile Shows

Vertical axis: Height in meters (0m to 6,000m) Horizontal axis: Days (1 through 17)

Color-coded locations:

  • Orange = Main towns/stops
  • Each day marked with dot
  • Connected by line showing elevation changes

Reading the Profile

Days 1-5: Mostly flat, slight ups and downs

  • Kathmandu (1,310m) → Dhodding (1,440m) → Arughat (603m) → Machha Khola (930m)
  • Mostly vehicle travel
  • Moderate elevation changes

Days 6-9: Steep uphill climb

  • Machha Khola (930m) → Samdo (3,875m)
  • Almost continuous climbing
  • 3,000m elevation gain in 4 days
  • Steepest section of the trek
  • Most challenging climbing

Day 10: Slight up, return down

  • Acclimatization hike from Samdo
  • Go higher (4,000m+), return to sleep at 3,875m
  • Show as a slight bump in the chart

Day 11: Steep climb to peak

  • Samdo (3,875m) → Larke La Pass (5,160m)
  • Single highest climb
  • Shortest time for biggest gain (7-8 hours, 1,285m)
  • Shows a sharp peak in the chart

Day 12: Sharp descent

  • Larke La Pass (5,160m) → Bimthang (2,590m)
  • Longest descent
  • Steep straight line downward
  • Very hard on knees

Days 13-14: Gradual descent

  • Bimthang (2,590m) → Dharamshala (1,920m)
  • Easy walking days
  • Gentle downhill
  • Recovery period

Days 15-17: Return journey

  • Dharamshala (1,920m) → Kathmandu (1,310m)
  • Mostly vehicle
  • Return to starting altitude

What Altitude Means

Altitude Effects Days
0–2,000m Warm temperatures and comfortable breathing. Days 1–5, 15–17
2,000–3,000m Cooler weather with mild breathlessness during exertion. Days 6–8
3,000–4,000m Cold nights and noticeably thinner air. Days 8–10
4,000–5,000m Very cold conditions with an increased risk of altitude sickness. Days 11–12
Above 5,000m Extreme altitude with very thin air; immediate descent is necessary if serious altitude sickness develops. Day 11 (Larke La Pass)

Major Landmarks & Towns

Understanding the map means knowing the towns where you’ll sleep.

Day Location Altitude Accommodation Highlights
3 Dhodding 1,440m Tea House Gateway to the Manaslu mountain region.
4 Arughat 603m Tea House Scenic river crossings and village landscapes.
5 Machha Khola 930m Lodge Official entry into the Manaslu trekking region.
6 Deng 1,988m Tea House Steeper ascents begin as the trail gains elevation.
7 Namrung 2,630m Tea House Traditional Tibetan-influenced villages and culture.
8 Lho 3,180m Lodge Magnificent views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks.
9 Samdo 3,875m Basic Lodge High-altitude settlement with colder temperatures.
10 Samdo 3,875m Basic Lodge Acclimatization day to prepare for higher elevation.
11 Larke La Pass 5,160m Emergency Shelter (if needed) Highest point of the trek with challenging alpine conditions.
12 Bimthang 2,590m Tea House Long descent brings warmer temperatures and recovery.
13 Bimthang 2,590m Tea House Rest day surrounded by beautiful Himalayan scenery.
14 Dharamshala 1,920m Tea House Gentler trekking through forests and valleys.
15 Besisahar 760m Hotel Return to lower altitude and conclude the trek.

Mountain Peaks You’ll See

From the map, these are the major peaks visible:

Peak Altitude Best Viewing Period Visible From
Mt. Manaslu 8,163m Throughout the trek North / West
Manaslu North 7,157m Days 6–11 North
Ganesh Himal 7,693m Days 13–14 South
Unnamed Peaks 6,000m+ Various days Along the trekking route
Himalayan Range 6,000–8,000m Days 6–11 Surrounding mountain panorama

Best Map Resources

If you want to study the Manaslu map before trek:

Physical Maps

Alliance Treks Map (provided with trek package)

  • Specifically for this trek
  • Accurate, up-to-date
  • Marked with daily stops
  • Altitude profile included

Digital Maps

Google Maps (offline)

  • Download before trek
  • GPS capable
  • Free
  • Reasonable accuracy

Maps.me

  • Offline capability
  • Specifically for hiking
  • Free app
  • Good for backup navigation

Garmin BaseCamp

  • GPS navigation
  • Detailed topographic
  • Professional tool
  • Learning curve

Apps

AllTrails

  • User-submitted routes
  • Real trekker feedback
  • Ratings and reviews
  • Download maps offline

Komoot

  • Route planning
  • Offline maps
  • Community feedback
  • Free version available

How to Use This Map

Before the Trek

  • Study the route: Trace your finger along the entire path
  • Identify mountains: Learn which peaks you’ll see
  • Mark difficult days: Note which days have biggest elevation gains
  • Plan acclimatization: Identify where rest days are
  • Download offline: Get digital map on your phone

During the Trek

  • Check progress: Know which day you’re on, where you are
  • Prepare for coming days: Look ahead to see what’s coming
  • Verify altitude: Compare actual terrain to map
  • Show guides: Ask guides to show you on map where you are
  • Mark your path: Some trekkers mark their daily progress

After the Trek

  • Remember the route: Trace where you walked
  • Show others: Share the map with friends showing your accomplishment
  • Plan next trek: Compare this map to other trekking maps
  • Measure distance: Calculate how far you actually walked

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I trek Manaslu without understanding the map?

Yes. Your licensed guide will handle navigation throughout the trek. However, understanding the route map helps you prepare mentally, anticipate daily elevation changes, and better appreciate the journey.

Which days are the hardest according to the route map?

Days 6–9 involve continuous elevation gain and increasing altitude, while Day 11, when crossing Larke La Pass (5,160m), is the most demanding day of the entire Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Can I download the Manaslu Circuit Trek map on my phone?

Yes. Download offline maps before your trek using Google Maps, Maps.me, Gaia GPS, or AllTrails, as mobile coverage is limited in remote sections of the trail.

What happens if the main trail is blocked?

Your guide will assess the situation and use approved alternative trails whenever they are safe and open. Route changes are occasionally necessary due to landslides, snow, or trail maintenance.

How accurate is the Manaslu Circuit Trek map?

The official Alliance Treks route map is regularly updated and provides reliable navigation information. Older printed trekking maps may contain outdated trail or accommodation details.

Can I trek off the main trail?

No. Trekkers should remain on the designated Manaslu Circuit route. Leaving the main trail can be dangerous and may violate restricted-area trekking regulations.

Which pass is the hardest on the Manaslu Circuit?

Larke La Pass (5,160m) is the highest and most challenging point of the trek. It is crossed on Day 11 and requires an early start, favorable weather, and proper acclimatization.

Can I view the Manaslu Circuit Trek map on the official website?

Yes. You can view the digital route map on the Alliance Treks website or request a printed map when confirming your trek booking.

Are there alternative routes around Larke La Pass?

No. Larke La Pass is the only crossing that completes the Manaslu Circuit. If conditions become unsafe, trekkers normally return via the same route.

How much total elevation gain does the Manaslu Circuit Trek involve?

The complete 17-day trek involves approximately 3,850 meters of cumulative elevation gain and a similar amount of descent.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Map

This is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Map, which is a visual guide to one of Nepal’s most remote and challenging trekking routes in Nepal.

What this map shows

The Official Manaslu Circuit Trek Map displays,

  • Main trail (orange line) – The primary trekking route
  • Secondary trails (dashed lines) – Alternative routes and side hikes
  • Roads (gray lines) – Vehicle access points
  • Daily stops (numbered circles 1-17) – Where you camp/stay each night
  • Peaks (triangle symbols) – Mountains along the route
  • Monasteries (temple symbols) – Sacred sites
  • Base camps (tent symbols) – Climbing base camps
  • Altitude markers – Height of each location
  • Altitude profile chart – Elevation changes throughout the trek

The complete route:

  • Starts: Kathmandu (1,310m)
  • Ends: Kathmandu (1,310m)
  • Duration: 17 days
  • Maximum altitude: Larke La Pass (5,160m)
  • Total distance: Approximately 180-200 km of walking

Why Understanding the Map Matters

Many trekkers don’t study the map beforehand and sometimes get into trouble due to mistakes.

What the map tells you:

  • Daily difficulty – Some days are harder (elevation gain shown in profile)
  • Acclimatization timing – When to rest and when to push higher
  • Where you’ll sleep – Tea houses, lodges, or basic shelters
  • What you’ll see – Peaks, valleys, villages, monasteries
  • Weather patterns – Higher elevations = colder, windier
  • Navigation – Where trails split and how they rejoin
  • Backup routes – Secondary trails if main trail is blocked
  • Major landmarks – Identifying mountains, rivers, villages
  • Distance reality – How far each day actually is
  • Trek difficulty overall – Is it harder or easier than you thought?

17-Day Route Overview

The complete Manaslu Circuit Trek Map route in one overview:

Days 1-2: Kathmandu

  • Preparation days
  • City sightseeing
  • Altitude: 1,310m

Days 3-5: Kathmandu to Machha Khola

  • Entry into Manaslu region
  • Vehicle drive + walking
  • Elevation gain: 1,310m → 930m
  • Altitude: Low, warm days

Days 6-9: Machha Khola to Samdo

  • Climbing begins seriously
  • Daily elevation gains
  • Entering restricted area
  • Altitude: 930m → 3,875m
  • Days of acclimatization included

Days 10-11: Samdo Rest & Larke La Pass

  • Highest point of trek
  • Cold, exposed, challenging
  • Altitude: 5,160m (Larke La Pass)
  • Dangerous if the weather deteriorates

Days 12-14: Larke La to Bimthang

  • Descending from high altitude
  • Recovery days
  • Entering easier terrain
  • Altitude: 5,160m → 2,590m

Days 15-17: Bimthang to Kathmandu

  • Return journey
  • Vehicle drives
  • Preparation for departure
  • Altitude: 2,590m → 1,310m

Total elevation gain: Approximately 3,850m total (up and down)

Total elevation loss: Approximately 3,850m total

Hardest climbing: Days 6-10 (daily gains of 600-800m)

Easiest days: Days 1-2, 15-17 (city, vehicle travel)

 

Altitude Profile Explained

The altitude chart on the Manaslu Circuit Trek map shows elevation changes throughout 17 days.

What the Profile Shows

Vertical axis: Height in meters (0m to 6,000m) Horizontal axis: Days (1 through 17)

Color-coded locations:

  • Orange = Main towns/stops
  • Each day marked with dot
  • Connected by line showing elevation changes

Reading the Profile

Days 1-5: Mostly flat, slight ups and downs

  • Kathmandu (1,310m) → Dhodding (1,440m) → Arughat (603m) → Machha Khola (930m)
  • Mostly vehicle travel
  • Moderate elevation changes

Days 6-9: Steep uphill climb

  • Machha Khola (930m) → Samdo (3,875m)
  • Almost continuous climbing
  • 3,000m elevation gain in 4 days
  • Steepest section of the trek
  • Most challenging climbing

Day 10: Slight up, return down

  • Acclimatization hike from Samdo
  • Go higher (4,000m+), return to sleep at 3,875m
  • Show as a slight bump in the chart

Day 11: Steep climb to peak

  • Samdo (3,875m) → Larke La Pass (5,160m)
  • Single highest climb
  • Shortest time for biggest gain (7-8 hours, 1,285m)
  • Shows a sharp peak in the chart

Day 12: Sharp descent

  • Larke La Pass (5,160m) → Bimthang (2,590m)
  • Longest descent
  • Steep straight line downward
  • Very hard on knees

Days 13-14: Gradual descent

  • Bimthang (2,590m) → Dharamshala (1,920m)
  • Easy walking days
  • Gentle downhill
  • Recovery period

Days 15-17: Return journey

  • Dharamshala (1,920m) → Kathmandu (1,310m)
  • Mostly vehicle
  • Return to starting altitude

What Altitude Means

Altitude Effects Days
0–2,000m Warm temperatures and comfortable breathing. Days 1–5, 15–17
2,000–3,000m Cooler weather with mild breathlessness during exertion. Days 6–8
3,000–4,000m Cold nights and noticeably thinner air. Days 8–10
4,000–5,000m Very cold conditions with an increased risk of altitude sickness. Days 11–12
Above 5,000m Extreme altitude with very thin air; immediate descent is necessary if serious altitude sickness develops. Day 11 (Larke La Pass)

Major Landmarks & Towns

Understanding the map means knowing the towns where you’ll sleep.

Day Location Altitude Accommodation Highlights
3 Dhodding 1,440m Tea House Gateway to the Manaslu mountain region.
4 Arughat 603m Tea House Scenic river crossings and village landscapes.
5 Machha Khola 930m Lodge Official entry into the Manaslu trekking region.
6 Deng 1,988m Tea House Steeper ascents begin as the trail gains elevation.
7 Namrung 2,630m Tea House Traditional Tibetan-influenced villages and culture.
8 Lho 3,180m Lodge Magnificent views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks.
9 Samdo 3,875m Basic Lodge High-altitude settlement with colder temperatures.
10 Samdo 3,875m Basic Lodge Acclimatization day to prepare for higher elevation.
11 Larke La Pass 5,160m Emergency Shelter (if needed) Highest point of the trek with challenging alpine conditions.
12 Bimthang 2,590m Tea House Long descent brings warmer temperatures and recovery.
13 Bimthang 2,590m Tea House Rest day surrounded by beautiful Himalayan scenery.
14 Dharamshala 1,920m Tea House Gentler trekking through forests and valleys.
15 Besisahar 760m Hotel Return to lower altitude and conclude the trek.

Mountain Peaks You’ll See

From the map, these are the major peaks visible:

Peak Altitude Best Viewing Period Visible From
Mt. Manaslu 8,163m Throughout the trek North / West
Manaslu North 7,157m Days 6–11 North
Ganesh Himal 7,693m Days 13–14 South
Unnamed Peaks 6,000m+ Various days Along the trekking route
Himalayan Range 6,000–8,000m Days 6–11 Surrounding mountain panorama

Best Map Resources

If you want to study the Manaslu map before trek:

Physical Maps

Alliance Treks Map (provided with trek package)

  • Specifically for this trek
  • Accurate, up-to-date
  • Marked with daily stops
  • Altitude profile included

Digital Maps

Google Maps (offline)

  • Download before trek
  • GPS capable
  • Free
  • Reasonable accuracy

Maps.me

  • Offline capability
  • Specifically for hiking
  • Free app
  • Good for backup navigation

Garmin BaseCamp

  • GPS navigation
  • Detailed topographic
  • Professional tool
  • Learning curve

Apps

AllTrails

  • User-submitted routes
  • Real trekker feedback
  • Ratings and reviews
  • Download maps offline

Komoot

  • Route planning
  • Offline maps
  • Community feedback
  • Free version available

How to Use This Map

Before the Trek

  • Study the route: Trace your finger along the entire path
  • Identify mountains: Learn which peaks you’ll see
  • Mark difficult days: Note which days have biggest elevation gains
  • Plan acclimatization: Identify where rest days are
  • Download offline: Get digital map on your phone

During the Trek

  • Check progress: Know which day you’re on, where you are
  • Prepare for coming days: Look ahead to see what’s coming
  • Verify altitude: Compare actual terrain to map
  • Show guides: Ask guides to show you on map where you are
  • Mark your path: Some trekkers mark their daily progress

After the Trek

  • Remember the route: Trace where you walked
  • Show others: Share the map with friends showing your accomplishment
  • Plan next trek: Compare this map to other trekking maps
  • Measure distance: Calculate how far you actually walked

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I trek Manaslu without understanding the map?

Yes. Your licensed guide will handle navigation throughout the trek. However, understanding the route map helps you prepare mentally, anticipate daily elevation changes, and better appreciate the journey.

Which days are the hardest according to the route map?

Days 6–9 involve continuous elevation gain and increasing altitude, while Day 11, when crossing Larke La Pass (5,160m), is the most demanding day of the entire Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Can I download the Manaslu Circuit Trek map on my phone?

Yes. Download offline maps before your trek using Google Maps, Maps.me, Gaia GPS, or AllTrails, as mobile coverage is limited in remote sections of the trail.

What happens if the main trail is blocked?

Your guide will assess the situation and use approved alternative trails whenever they are safe and open. Route changes are occasionally necessary due to landslides, snow, or trail maintenance.

How accurate is the Manaslu Circuit Trek map?

The official Alliance Treks route map is regularly updated and provides reliable navigation information. Older printed trekking maps may contain outdated trail or accommodation details.

Can I trek off the main trail?

No. Trekkers should remain on the designated Manaslu Circuit route. Leaving the main trail can be dangerous and may violate restricted-area trekking regulations.

Which pass is the hardest on the Manaslu Circuit?

Larke La Pass (5,160m) is the highest and most challenging point of the trek. It is crossed on Day 11 and requires an early start, favorable weather, and proper acclimatization.

Can I view the Manaslu Circuit Trek map on the official website?

Yes. You can view the digital route map on the Alliance Treks website or request a printed map when confirming your trek booking.

Are there alternative routes around Larke La Pass?

No. Larke La Pass is the only crossing that completes the Manaslu Circuit. If conditions become unsafe, trekkers normally return via the same route.

How much total elevation gain does the Manaslu Circuit Trek involve?

The complete 17-day trek involves approximately 3,850 meters of cumulative elevation gain and a similar amount of descent.

Related Links

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