The 16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek in December is one of Nepal’s most rewarding off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventures. Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth highest mountain in the world, is known as the “Mountain of Spirit.” The region is famous for its untouched natural landscapes, deep Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, traditional costumes, and peaceful villages.

Located inside the Manaslu Conservation Area, this trek requires special permits and a licensed guide. Popular trekking routes in this region include the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Tsum Valley Trek.

Although winter trekking in December and January is challenging due to cold temperatures, snow, and frozen trails, it is also extremely rewarding with crystal-clear mountain views, snow-covered landscapes, and very few trekkers.

With proper planning, the Manaslu Circuit Trek in December offers a truly peaceful, spiritual, and unforgettable Himalayan experience.

Best Time to Trek Manaslu Circuit

• Spring: March – May
  
  

• Autumn: September – November
  
  

Manaslu Circuit Trek in December

Challenges:

• Very cold temperatures
  
  

• Heavy snowfall at higher elevations
  
  

• Frozen trails near Larkya La Pass
  
  

Rewards:

• Stunning snow-capped mountains
  
  

• Clear skies and sharp views
  
  

• Fewer trekkers and peaceful trails
  
  

• Spiritual winter atmosphere
  
  

Permits and Documents for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu region is a restricted trekking area to protect its fragile ecosystem and unique culture.

Important Rules

• Solo trekking is not allowed
  
  

• Minimum 2 trekkers required
  
  

• A licensed guide is mandatory
  
  

• Permits must be issued through a registered trekking agency
  
  

• Permit checks begin at Jagat
  
  

Required Permits

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

September – November

• Foreigners: USD 100 (first 10 days) + USD 15/day
  
  

• SAARC: USD 70 + USD 10/day
  
  

December – August

• Foreigners: USD 75 (first 10 days) + USD 10/day
  
  

• SAARC: USD 50 + USD 7/day
  
  

(Not required for Nepali citizens)

2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

• Foreigners: NPR 3,000
  
  

• SAARC: NPR 1,000
  
  

• Nepali: NPR 100
  
  

3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

• Foreigners: NPR 3,000
  
  

• SAARC: NPR 1,000
  
  

• Nepali: NPR 100
  
  

4. Tsum Valley Permit (Optional)

• Sep–Nov: USD 40 + USD 7/day
  
  

• Dec–Aug: USD 30 + USD 7/day
  
  

5. Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit

• Sep–Nov: USD 100 + USD 15/day
  
  

• Dec–Aug: USD 75 + USD 10/day
  
  

Preparation for Manaslu Circuit Trek in December

Physical Preparation

• Cardio training (running, cycling)
  
  

• Strength training
  
  

• Stair climbing with backpack
  
  

• Hiking with elevation gain
  
  

Mental Preparation

• Awareness of altitude sickness
  
  

• Cold-weather endurance
  
  

• Flexible mindset for winter conditions
  
  

Essential Packing List (Winter)

Clothing

• Thermal base layers
  
  

• Down jacket (rated –20°C)
  
  

• Fleece layers
  
  

• Trekking pants
  
  

• Thermal T-shirts
  
  

• Wool socks
  
  

• Gloves & headwear
  
  

• Sleeping bag (rated –30°C)
  
  

Footwear

• High-quality trekking boots
  
  

• Microspikes or crampons (essential in December)
  
  

16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek – Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu to Soti Khola (750m)

Drive: 7–8 hours by jeep

The journey begins from Kathmandu (1,400m), Nepal’s capital city surrounded by green hills and valleys. The drive passes through scenic villages, terraced farmlands, rivers, and rural settlements before reaching Soti Khola, the official trailhead of the Manaslu Circuit.

Distance: 140–160 km
Overnight: Teahouse in Soti Khola

Day 2: Soti Khola to Gongong (1,050m)

Trek: 2 hours

A short and scenic walk through terraced fields, lush forests, and small settlements. Gongong is a peaceful village offering authentic homestay experiences with organic local food.

Overnight: Homestay in Gongong

Day 3: Gongong to Yaruphant (1,350m)

The trail descends to Soti Khola and continues through Machha Khola, Khorlabesi, Tatopani (hot spring), and Dovan. You cross suspension bridges and pass banana trees, waterfalls, and fish farms before reaching Yaruphant, located on a dramatic cliff.

Overnight: Lodge in Yaruphant

Day 4: Yaruphant to Pewa / Jagat (1,410m)

Trek: 6–7 hours

You officially enter the Manaslu Conservation Area. At Jagat, permits are checked. The trail features rocky paths, suspension bridges, and beautiful river views.

Overnight: Teahouse in Jagat/Pewa

Day 5: Pewa to Prok (2,390m)

The trail climbs through forests and villages rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture. Prayer flags, mani walls, and chortens become common sights.

Overnight: Lodge in Prok

Day 6: Prok – Kaal Taal (3,685m) – Prok

A day hike to Kaal Taal, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. After enjoying the views, return to Prok village.

Overnight: Lodge in Prok

Day 7: Prok to Namrung (3,180m)

A gradual ascent through forests, crossing suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River. Stunning views of Siringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Himal Chuli appear.

Overnight: Teahouse in Namrung

Day 8: Namrung to Shyala (3,450m)

The trail opens into alpine landscapes with breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu. Shyala offers one of the best panoramic mountain views of the trek.

Overnight: Lodge in Shyala

Day 9: Shyala to Sama Gaon (3,530m)

A gentle walk across wide valleys and glacial streams leads to Sama Gaon, the largest village in the Manaslu region.

Overnight: Teahouse in Sama Gaon

Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Sama Gaon

Optional hikes:

• Pungyen Gompa (4,050m)
  
  

• Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m)
  
  

These hikes help your body adjust to altitude while offering spectacular views.

Day 11: Sama Gaon to Samdo (3,900m)

Passing Birendra Lake, the trail continues through glacial landscapes to the Tibetan-style village of Samdo.

Overnight: Teahouse in Samdo

Day 12: Samdo to Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460m)

A short but important trek to the base of Larkya La Pass. Basic accommodation. Early rest is essential.

Overnight: Lodge in Dharamsala

Day 13: Dharamsala – Larkya La Pass (5,160m) – Bimthang (3,600m)

The most challenging and rewarding day. Cross the snow-covered Larkya La Pass, offering panoramic views of Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Annapurna II, and Cheo Himal.

Overnight: Lodge in Bimthang

Day 14: Bimthang to Gowa (2,515m)

A long descent through rhododendron forests and alpine meadows, joining the Annapurna Circuit trail.

Overnight: Teahouse in Gowa

Day 15: Gowa to Besisahar

Trek and drive through the lower Annapurna region to Besisahar, the gateway to Annapurna.

Overnight: Hotel in Besisahar

Day 16: Besisahar to Kathmandu

A scenic 6–7 hour drive back to Kathmandu. End of the unforgettable Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Why Choose Manaslu Circuit Trek in December?

• Less crowded trails
  
  

• Budget-friendly
  
  

• No domestic flights required
  
  

• Safer acclimatization
  
  

• Peaceful winter landscapes