Manaslu Conservation Area

The Manaslu Conservation Area (MCA) is a protected area in Gorkha and Manang districts, centred on Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world's eighth-highest peak. Covering 1,663 km², it offers one of Nepal's most spectacular and less-crowded trekking circuits. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and the high Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). The area is home to the Nubri and Tsum Valley regions, with traditional Tibetan villages and ancient monasteries.

The best trekking seasons are March–May and September–November. Winters are very cold with heavy snow. A restricted-area permit (US$100 per person per week) and an MCAP entry permit (Rs 3,000) are required, and trekkers must be accompanied by a registered guide.

By Plane

The nearest airport is at Kathmandu (KTM). From Kathmandu, a bus or taxi reaches Soti Khola or Arughat (the trailheads) via Gorkha (6–8 hours).

By Train

No train service.

By Car / Road

Buses from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (or Dhading) run daily. The journey takes 6–8 hours from Kathmandu.

On foot. The main trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River valley north through beautiful forests and traditional villages.

• Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) – The eighth-highest peak in the world.

• Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) – The high point of the circuit with spectacular glacier views.

• Tsum Valley – A remote side valley with ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and the Mu Gompa.

• Nubri Valley – Traditional Tibetan villages with mani walls and chortens.

• Samagaon – The main village on the circuit, with a glacier and views of Manaslu.

• Birendra Tal, Kechridunda, and Dudh Pokhari – Alpine lakes on the circuit.

• Manaslu Circuit Trek – 14–18 day circuit, considered one of Nepal's best treks.

• Tsum Valley Trek – 10–14 day side trek to the restricted Tsum region.

• Wildlife viewing – Snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, and over 200 bird species.

• Monastery visits – Ancient Buddhist monasteries in the Tsum and Nubri valleys.

Lodges along the Manaslu Circuit serve dal bhat, noodles, momos, and Tibetan bread. The variety decreases at higher altitudes.

Tea, butter tea, and boiled water. Purification tablets recommended.

• Budget: Basic lodges along the circuit (Rs 300–800).
• Mid-range: Standard lodges (Rs 800–2000).
• Permit requirement: A registered guide is mandatory for this trek.

Trekking supplies in Kathmandu or Gorkha. Handicrafts are available in village shops.

• Gorkha (southern trailhead) – Historic Shah dynasty birthplace.
• Kathmandu (140 km south-east of Gorkha).
• Pokhara (80 km south-west of Gorkha).
• Annapurna Conservation Area (adjacent west, connected via Larkya La and Thorong La).