Standing at the foot of the world’s highest mountain in the world is a “Bucket List” dream for many travelers around the world, but in 2026, the road to Everest Base Camp looks a little different than it did a few years ago. Between new mandatory guide regulations, shifting flights logistics, and the impact of climate change on the Khumbu Glacier, planning the perfect trek requires up to date expert knowledge.

If you are looking for the highest success rate, our 14-Day Everest Base Camp Trek Package remains the gold standard for travelers seeking safety and adventure.

Why 14 Days is the “Magic Number” for Success

In the world of high-altitude trekking, time is your best medicine. While “Rapid Treks” are gaining popularity, they often come out with high failure rate due to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

According to the Himalayan Rescue Association, proper acclimatization is the only way to ensure a safe ascent. Our 14-Day itinerary is strategically designed with two mandatory acclimatization days:

1. Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft): This place is a vital stop to allow your red blood cells to adjust before crossing the 4,000m mark.
2. Dingboche (4,410m/14,468ft): The critical threshold. Skipping the rest day in Dingboche is number 1 reason trekker fail to reach Everest Base Camp.

Navigating the 2026 “Mandatory Guide” Rule

As of 2026, the Nepal Tourism Board has strictly enforced that solo trekking is no longer permitted in Everest region. All trekkers must be accompanied by a licensed guide registered with authorized agency.

Why this helps you?

• Safety: Your guide will monitor your health condition and check your oxygen level daily with an oximeter.
• Logistics: We handle the complex Sagarmatha Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and Sagarmatha National Entry Permit (UNESCO World Heritage site), so you don’t have to wait in line.
• Understand Culture: You gain deeper knowledge of culture of the Sherpa people that you simply won’t find in guidebook.

The “Ramechhap vs. Kathmandu” Flight Reality

One of the biggest surprises for 2026 traveler going to Everest Base Camp is that the Lukla flight. During the peak seasons Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November), almost all the flights to Lukla depart from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, not Kathmandu.

• The Challenge: Ramechhap is about 4-5 hours drive from Kathmandu. So you must wake up at 2:00 Am drive there to get a flight.
• Our Solution: Unlike “budget” operator who leave you to find your own way, out Everest Base Camp 14-Days Trek includes private transportation to Ramechhap and pre-booked flights slots to ensure you aren’t stranded.

14-Day Itinerary | Everest Base Camp Trek

Day	Destination	Elevation	Highlights
01	Arrival in Kathmandu	1,400m	Briefing & Welcome Dinner
02	Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding	2,610m	Scenic flight to Tenzing-Hillary Airport
03	Trek to Namche Bazaar	3,440m	First glimpse of Everest
04	Acclimatization Day	3,440m	Hike to Everest View Hotel
05	Trek to Tengboche	3,860m	Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery
06	Trek to Dingboche	4,410m	Unmatched views of Ama Dablam
07	Acclimatization Day	4,410m	Nangkartshang Peak hike
08	Trek to Lobuche	4,940m	Khumbu Glacier views
09	Everest Base Camp	5,364m	The Dream Realized
10	Hike Kala Patthar & Pheriche	5,545m	Best sunrise over the Everest Massif
11	Trek back to Namche	3,440m	Celebrating in the “Sherpa Capital”
12	Trek back to Lukla	2,846m	Final night in the mountains
13	Fly to Kathmandu	1,400m	Shopping and Farewell Dinner
14	Final Departure	–	Safe travels home!

2026 Trekking Trends: What’s New?

• Sustainable Trekking: Single-use plastics are strictly banned within the Sagarmatha National Park boundaries. We provide all our trekkers with reusable water purification solution.
• Connectivity: High-speed internet is now more accessible than ever, but we recommend disconnecting to truly experience the “Access the Asia Treks” spirit.
• The “Heli Return” Upgrade: Many of our 14-Day clients now choose fly back to Lukla via Helicopter from Gorakshep to save time, so ask us about adding this to you package!

Ready to Trek with Access the Asia Treks?

Don’t leave your Everest dream to chance or outdated information. At Access the Asia Treks, we specialize in high safety, high success treks that handles every permits, flights, and oxygen check for you.

[Click here to View Our Guaranteed 2026 Departure Dates and Prices for the EBC 14-Day Trek]

by Jenny & Pati | 16 Nov 2024

Entry into Nepal

However, we still need a visa to enter Nepal. Well informed, however, we know that we can easily pay for it here. So we go directly to the immigration counter with the inscription Visa-on-Arrival. There, however, the border official looks at us quite aghast, as we have not yet paid for our visa and sends us back to the visa payment office. So we queue a few meters further back at the said place, but here it says we have to fill out a form first. So a little further back to the vending machine where this is possible. Here we finally fill out the entry form. Then we go back to the counter, where we are now allowed to pay for the visa-on-arrival. Finally, we go back to the border official, who now stamps our visa and lets Pati enter without further ado.

With Jenny, the whole procedure takes a little longer, as usual. The border official tries to pronounce Jenny’s last name three times. But Jenny can hardly understand him through the thick protective screen. But he doesn’t mind – he just laughs and asks again louder how to pronounce her name. Then he tries again. When he fails again, he laughs and only says: “Jennifer, where are you from”. From the neighboring immigration counter, the head of another officer briefly appears. He shouts loudly: “Jennifer Lopez”. Then the head disappears again. Everyone laughs. Jenny answers the question that she is from Austria. The conversation continues:

Official: “First time in Nepal?” Jenny: “Yes” Officer: “Are you excited?” Jenny: “Yes” Official (completely over the moon): “It is very exciting!”

Then the border official still loudly counts the number of letters of Jenny’s last name. Laughing and with a “seventeen letters!? (17 letters?!)” Jenny will also be allowed to enter.

Kathmandu

From the airport we take the taxi to our hostel. There we meet Dennis, who accompanies us on our trekking plans. We met Dennis last year in Sri Lanka. After that, we stayed in touch and when he found out that we wanted to go hiking in Nepal, he decided to join us without further ado.

The next day we meet our guide Arjun, who has called a team meeting for the multi-day trek in the Himalayas at the Annapurna Circuit Trek. We clarify what we should pay attention to and what equipment we are still missing. Immediately after the meeting, we go together with Arjun to a shop he knows, where we can buy gloves, hat and headlamp as well as rent a sleeping bag and a thick down jacket. In the afternoon we buy mountain pants for Jenny. Since there is nothing at the original North Face shop, we find a not quite so original, but still logo-embroidered The North Face pants from a gloomy back room. Fits no worse than the original pants and costs a measly 6€.

In the evening, Arjun comes back to the hostel. He brings three duffel bags to carry our porters. However, the three of us only need one. Dennis carries everything himself and we can only no longer stow our sleeping bags and thick jackets in our backpacks. However, we would have had room in the bag as a whole. We can’t imagine how much some people pack for their treks to fill these bags.

Start of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Even before breakfast, we start the next morning. We are picked up by a jeep right in front of the hostel of Arjun. Originally, we would have taken the bus, but Arjun apparently changed his mind spontaneously. At the jeep we get to know the rest of our companions. Arjun’s brother, Rabin, is there as the second guide and would have carried one of the bags, but we couldn’t fill it. And Krali accompanies us as porter. We immediately notice that the three of them are a well-rehearsed team and immediately feel in the best hands.

Then we set off towards the Himalayas. We drive by jeep for seven hours to the Kathmandu Valley. We immediately realize why Arjun preferred to go by jeep rather than by bus. The roads are still extremely battered by the floods of almost two weeks ago and in some cases simply non-existent. Accordingly, the ride is bumpy. We keep overtaking buses that try to drive slowly through the giant potholes. Then there is a short breakfast break. There is chapati and curry. After a few more hours, we eat the infamous Nepalese Dal Bhat (rice with various curries) for the first time at lunchtime. It tastes excellent to us and reminds us a bit of an Indian thali.

In the afternoon we reach the limit of our jeep. It’s time to change, now it’s getting really bumpy. With a real off-road jeep we drive another four hours into a side valley of the Kathmandu Valley. There are four of us sitting in the back seat while Arjun and Krali share the passenger seat. The windows remain open, otherwise we would only bump our heads against them. Everyone, including the driver, is shaken wildly. We drive through riverbeds and over hill and dale. At home, no one would talk about a road or even think about driving for a long time. Our motto: “Is it possible?” – “Somehow it is”. We have the feeling that this could also be the motto of the next few days. The last hour we drive in the dark. Then finally we reach Dharapani. Instead of the specified seven to nine hours, it was eleven. We are happy to get out of the car. Tomorrow our hike will start from here. We are incredibly excited to see what awaits us.

Trek Day 1: Dharapani to Chame

16km, 6 hours, from 1860m to 2670m

On the first day we start early in the morning after a gigantic breakfast. We can’t eat our huge portions at all. Then we start. From the day before, we feel how limp our arms are from holding on to the jeep. Our backs also hurt from the pothole exertions of the day before. Arjun, however, gives us hope for the day when he tells us that today it is only Nepalis flat – a forest road. So we walk all day through various Nepalese mountain villages. Unfortunately, Jenny’s right knee starts to hurt after the first few hours. However, as long as it doesn’t go downhill too much, it’s bearable. So on.

At lunchtime, of course, there is Dal Bhat. Afterwards we walk on until we finally arrive in Chame, the destination of the day. Here we enjoy the last rays of sunshine before the surrounding mountain ranges cast a cold shadow over the valley. Then we sit down in the teahouse. During our trek, we will mainly eat and sleep in such so-called teahouses. The accommodations are simple, but mostly very good – a bed for everyone and, surprisingly, most of them even a private bathroom. We have everything we need. In a large lounge there is always a wood-burning stove where everyone warms up after sunset. Here we always get our food, which, contrary to our expectations (Arjun warned us that the food in the mountains will be rather sparse), almost always tastes excellent.

In the evening we play cards when Krali and Rabin join us. Without further ado, we also teach the two of them our game. Rabin understood it immediately, but the language barrier to Krali makes it a little more complicated for him. Nevertheless, Krali certainly has the most fun in the game. We immediately notice that he is passionate about any game, because when we are done, he immediately continues playing solitaire on his mobile phone. Dinner is eaten punctually at 6:00 p.m. and then we all fall into bed dog-tired from the long day.

Trek Day 2: Chame to Pisang

15km, 5 hours, from 2670m to 3200m

In the early morning we sit back at the breakfast table. The breakfast is gigantic again, but so is the appetite. Today we eat everything. So at 8:30 a.m. we start hiking again – after a selfie together. Unfortunately, both of Jenny’s knees hurt this morning. According to Arjun, however, we are again only hiking Nepali flat. Nevertheless, it goes down short distances from time to time. Therefore, Jenny is equipped with a bandage by Arjun in the morning. Then it goes on. At lunchtime, how could it be otherwise, we eat Dal Bhat, of course. Then we hike on for almost two hours to Pisang.

Arriving at the teahouse, we are immediately assigned our rooms. We are accommodated on the first floor in the corner room and are amazed at the view. We see directly opposite us the snow-white summit of Annapurna II and spread out in front of us the whole way of today. Now we are in the middle of the Himalayas. In addition, the sun shines into our room, so we spend the whole afternoon on our beds and only when Rabin picks us up for dinner can we tear ourselves away from our room. For dinner we have Dal Baht again today – Arjun recommends that we only be willing to experiment again in two days, when we are a little deeper down again. After dinner, we all retire to gather new strength for tomorrow.

Trek Day 3: Pisang to Ngawal

12km, 5 hours, from 3200m to 3650m

On our third day, we already have our morning routine. We pack our things, then off to breakfast and then we start again. Today it goes beyond the critical altitude of 3500m for the first time. Unfortunately, Jenny’s knee still hurts on the way there. Therefore, Rabin and Krali disappear briefly into the forest and immediately return with a wooden stick. The slightly too short stick is a huge help for Jenny for today. We make quite good progress and reach our destination around noon. We spend the afternoon playing cards together again in the common room of today’s teahouse. Unfortunately, Pati doesn’t feel so well in the evening and goes to bed early. The night here gets really cold, so for the first time we are happy to have good sleeping bags with us.

Trek Day 4: Ngawal to Manang

10km, 4 hours, from 3650m to 3540m

In the morning we wake up to sub-zero temperatures and pack our things as quickly as possible. Pati has a very slight fever, a cold and no appetite for breakfast – all indications of an incipient altitude sickness. Denis doesn’t feel very good either. Therefore, the oxygen saturation of both is measured first. Everything in the frame, so we continue. Pati and Denis take a paracetamol and make the four hours to Manang without any problems. Jenny gets a second carved stick from Krali before she leaves. He says then it will be easier – today it goes downhill again. However, the knees are already doing much better.

At regular intervals we pass Buddhist stupas and prayer wheels, each with a mantra. According to our guides, the prayer wheels are turned clockwise to carry the good mantra out into the world with the help of movement and wind. That’s why we turn hundreds of prayer wheels every day. In addition, every now and then there are also large mills that you hold on to and then walk around them three times in a circle – accompanied by a mantra that Krali sings.

In addition, we constantly see the colorful flags typical of Nepal on our way, which you know from the pictures. These are Buddhist prayer flags, which are also inscribed with different mantras. They are attached to windy places so that the wind spreads the positive mantra.

After quite a short time we reach our destination for the next two days, Manang. We stay here for two days because acclimatization is the order of the day at 3500m. From an altitude of 3500m you are more at risk of getting altitude sickness. Fortunately, Pati is doing well again in the afternoon. Unfortunately, Denis doesn’t feel well at all and he fears that he will get sick. But first we hope that the rest day and some rest will fix everything.

In the afternoon, the game will be played again. This time, Rabin and Krali teach us a Nepalese card game. Krali is of course back in the game with heart and soul, so we spend a really fun afternoon. At the same time, we drink liters of tea, as Arjun makes sure that we are properly hydrated. In the evening we don’t eat Dal Baht for once. Arjun says the cuisine here is great and so we try our hand at lasagna and spring rolls. All excellent. Then we fall into bed at 9:00 p.m., already tired.

Trek Day 5: Acclimatize in Manang

4km, 2 hours, from 3540m to 3790m and back

On our acclimatization day, we start comfortably in the morning towards Gangapurna Lake. Yesterday evening we bought hiking poles to relieve the knees a bit. We want to test them today and practice walking with poles. Denis sits out today for the time being, as his cold has gotten worse and Arjun stays with him. So we set off together with Rabin and Krali. Rabin and Krali lead the way and we still clatter a bit awkwardly with our new hiking poles.

Rabin and Krali teach us a few words of Nepali:

• Jam Jam! – Let’s go!
• Bistari, bistari. – Slow, slow.
• Chana chana byō? – Did you eat the rice?
• Kai. – Yes.
• No. – No.
• Timilai kasto chha? -How’s it going?
• Dherai Rāmro. -Very good.
• Dhanyavaad. -Thank you.
• Svagatam. -You’re welcome.

The path is quite steep, but we make good progress and Jenny even has enough air to chat something with Rabin. After the talks in India, we are very interested in whether people here in Nepal pay taxes. Rabin answers Jenny’s question only with: “Jenny. This is Nepal.” So we think the rest. However, he adds that the economic situation is generally very difficult and that there is also a great deal of dissatisfaction among the population.

Just in time for lunch we are back in our teahouse. Unfortunately, Denis is even sicker than before. Pati also has a slight fever again in the afternoon, but feels quite well. Somehow everything seems uncertain. In the evening, the decision is made: Denis will break off the trek. And Arjun will accompany him back to the valley.

After Denis and Arjun leave us, Rabin takes over the leadership of our trek. Krali, who partly carries our luggage, also stays with us. We are emphatically admonished to make our backpacks as light as possible. We should pack everything we don’t need in Krali’s bag to make the way, which is not difficult, but continues high, as easy as possible. In addition, from today on, the saturation will be checked every day and we will of course be under observation. All this sounds like an incredible amount of experience to us and we immediately feel in good hands with Rabin and Krali. Then we are almost sent to bed. So for us it goes on tomorrow. Unfortunately, Denis has to turn back.

Trek Day 6: Manang to Yak Kharka

10km, 4 hours, from 3540m to 4110m

So on the morning of our sixth day of trekking, we only start hiking with four of us. Pati’s cold is slowly getting better, but it is becoming more and more strenuous to breathe due to the altitude. At an altitude of over 4000 meters, everything suddenly changes: Krali smears his face with sunscreen for the first time. Rabin puts on his sunglasses for the first time and smears himself as well. The landscape is so unique and beautiful and we stop again and again to take photos. Suddenly Rabin asks: Jenny, is this a dream?. Immediately afterwards he gives himself the answer: No, it’s Nepal! and walks on elatedly.

Already for lunch we arrive at our destination of the day, Yak Kharka, at 4110m. Here at an altitude of over 4000m it is already quite cold at noon. We therefore spend the afternoon in the dining hall of the tea house. We play all afternoon, take turns drinking coffee and tea and challenging each other in a match 4. Neither Krali nor Rabin knew the game before and both become really fanatical. We can hardly have dinner later because the two are so focused on the game. In the evening we also have Dal Bhat again, before we – equipped with hat and down jacket – brush our teeth and get ready for bed. The night will be icy cold.

Trek Day 7: Yak Karka to High Camp

7km, 5 hours, from 4110m to 4800m

Today is Rabin’s birthday. He will be 22 years old. Today’s plan would be to get to the Low Camp in front of the Thorong La Pass, the highest point of our trek. Unfortunately, Pati is not doing so well today, he had a fever during the night and is now struggling quite a bit with the effort. When we arrive at Low Camp after a few hours of hiking, Rabin thinks that we should definitely walk the 300 more meters of altitude to High Camp in order to save at least an hour for tomorrow morning. After a refreshment with lunch, Dal Bhat as usual, we go up another 300m. Krali, our porter, goes ahead with our luggage to reserve a room for us in the High Camp. There is only one hotel up there and the rooms are booked up very quickly. Once at the top, Krali has actually gotten a room for us. Unfortunately, he couldn’t get a room for himself and Rabin and the two of them later sleep in the dining hall, together with many other guides and porters.

Pati has to rest first. Rabin and Jenny want to walk to a viewpoint 100m further up (she has already arrived in Nepalese “walking”). Jenny is out and about with hiking boots and poles, Rabin walks with his slippers. The view from the viewpoint is incredible. On the way back to the teahouse, however, Rabin admits that proper shoes would not have been a mistake, while he keeps slipping his toes out of his slippers.

In the afternoon, back in the hut, we all celebrate Rabin’s birthday together. Only with tea, because toasting with alcohol is strictly forbidden at this altitude. We spend the afternoon in the tea house, because outside the sun sets at 3:00 p.m. and it is bitterly cold. It is not particularly warm inside either, because the tea house is no longer heated here. Since Yak Kharka we have been a bit above the tree line and there is hardly any wood left. Therefore, from this height onwards, only dried yak flatbreads are used for heating. But even these are rare at almost 5000m.

Already at 17:00 there is Dal Bhat. To go to bed, at about 7:00 p.m., we get an electrolyte solution to drink so that we are prepared for tomorrow. The oxygen saturation is also still being checked: The air is already quite thin, but is expected to become even thinner.

Then we brush our teeth outside before we crawl into our sleeping bag. We are allowed to sleep until 3:15 a.m., then we have breakfast. Everyone hopes that Pati will be fit tomorrow.

Trek Day 8: High Camp via Thorong La Pass to Muktinath

24km, 10 hours, from 4800m to 5416m to 3710m

Let’s go! At 3:15 a.m. the alarm clock rings. Out of the sleeping bags, into the hiking pants and mountain boots. caps and headlamps. Quickly roll up your sleeping bags and pack them up. Brushing your teeth. Seeing a shooting star. Prepare gloves. At 3:45 a.m. there is breakfast.

We try to choke down a muesli and way too salty French toast. After about half we have to give up. Rabin, worried as always, therefore buys a pack of biscuits for each of them to be on the safe side. During breakfast we see out of the window how queues of people with headlamps come up from the low camp. We are glad that we covered this path yesterday. Pati has a headache, but luckily no fever and Rabin is optimistic that we can do it. At 4:15 a.m. we start. Jam Jam!

It’s pitch dark outside, the starry sky is incredible. The path is steep and we make only slow progress. Bistari, bistari is the motto. However, in the first hour we constantly overtake other groups who are already completely exhausted from the ascent of the low camp. Jenny’s headlamp is not the best and that’s probably a good thing. Again and again, Rabin stops and shines his headlamp around. Right next to us, the slope is steep. It’s freezing cold and we’ve pulled the scarf deep over our faces. The further up we get, the windier it gets. The water we had with us is now frozen.

The last few meters to the top will be quite a torture for Pati. Again and again Rabin emphasizes that it is only a hill over which we have to cross, but of course that is never true. After a chocolate break at sunrise, we continue strengthened over the many hills of the pass.

At 7:20 a.m. we reach the highest point. We are actually standing at the Thorong La Pass at 5416m. We can hardly believe it and are completely overwhelmed by the moment. 🥲 Is this a dream? No, its Nepal!

When we signed up for this trek, the only thing in the foreground was that we wanted to go hiking in Nepal. We didn’t want to climb a summit directly, because we had never been so high up before. We therefore thought that the Annapurna Circuit Trek was definitely the right thing for us, but never informed ourselves further about it. We had a guide. But as we stand up here now, we learn that the Thorong La Pass is even the highest pass in the world. We are shocked. And also a little proud.

We take a few photos before it is really too cold. Now we still have a descent of over 1700 meters of altitude ahead of us. When we arrive in Muktinath hours later, of course with Dal Bhat for lunch, we are very tired, but also very happy.

Everyone treats themselves to a hot shower first. Then there is a beer to toast the day’s success and Rabin’s birthday yesterday. In the evening, there is finally no more dal bhat, but pizza and burgers. Once again we fall into bed relatively early.

by Jenny & Pati | 16 Sep 2025

Nepal is the #1 trekking country: from relaxed day hikes to high-altitude treks lasting several weeks, everything is possible here. We did the legendary Annapurna Circuit Trek with Access the Asia Treks. Here you can get a compact overview of our 15-day trekking experience. In this blog post, we share practical tips on planning, equipment and the highlights that will make trekking in Nepal unforgettable.

All details, personal experiences and the complete daily program can be found in our detailed travel diary.

Contents

• Best time to travel for hiking in Nepal
• Important before your Nepal trip
• Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Our experience with Access the Asia Treks
• Extra tips for your trek in Nepal
• Conclusion: Trekking in Nepal – an extraordinary experience

Best time to travel for hiking in Nepal

For trekking in Nepal, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the ideal months. During these times, the weather is stable, the mountains are clearly visible and the temperatures are pleasant – perfect for multi-day hikes.

The monsoon season from June to August brings a lot of rain, slippery paths and limited visibility in the mountains, while winter (December–February) is cold and snowy, especially in higher regions. Trekking is therefore only recommended in lower valleys during this time.

Important before your Nepal trip

A trekking adventure in Nepal – for example on the Annapurna Circuit – is unforgettable, but good preparation makes the difference between stressful endurance and relaxed travel. Here are the key points to keep in mind:

1. Physical preparation for the trek

Trekking in Nepal is challenging, especially at higher altitudes, where the air is thinner and each route requires more energy. A solid basic level of fitness makes the adventure much more enjoyable. Start being active regularly a few months before the trip: running, climbing stairs, short hikes – ideally also with a backpack to get used to the weight.

2. Visa for Nepal

To enter Nepal, you will need a valid visa, which you can apply for either in advance online or upon arrival at the airport in Kathmandu. We did this on site without any problems during our trip – but it is worth checking the current rules beforehand, as the regulations can change.

3. Insurance for the trek

Trekking or travel insurance is mandatory. Make sure it covers high-altitude mountaineering and any emergencies in remote regions. In the Himalayas, unexpected weather changes, illness or accidents can occur quickly – good insurance gives you security and protects you from high costs. We recommend Young Travellers who also insure high-risk sports. You can find more detailed information and prices directly on the website.

Please note that we do not offer insurance advice or brokerage – we only share our personal experiences and opinions. For individual advice, contact Young Travellers directly.

4. Trekking permits

Many regions in Nepal, including the Annapurna Circuit, require special permits such as the TIMS map or the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). If you are traveling with an organization like Access the Asia Treks, the guides will take care of all the formalities.

5. Hiking equipment

Pack weather-appropriate clothing and trekking gear. Access the Asia Treks also offers rental options for certain pieces of equipment. For example, we borrowed a sleeping bag and a thick down jacket on site. Be sure to test shoes, clothing and backpack at home beforehand.

Annapurna Circuit Trek – 15 Days Hiking Adventure

The Annapurna Circuit is a classic among the trekking routes in Nepal – and our 15-day tour was intense, varied and unforgettable. The route took us from Besisahar through green valleys, rice terraces and traditional villages, past breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machapuchare. On the way we stayed in cozy lodges, got to know the warm hospitality of the locals and immersed ourselves in the Nepalese culture away from the cities.

After our arrival in Kathmandu, we met Arjun from Access the Asia to make final preparations and rent equipment such as a sleeping bag and down jacket. The next day we started together with guide Rabin and Porter Krali into the Annapurna Circuit – organized and accompanied by Access the Asia, which made the start particularly uncomplicated.

Our stages led through places like Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, Ngawal and Manang. In Manang we took an extra day to acclimatize. Altitude, cold and minor aches and pains were part of the routine, but the good food, the warmth of the people and the spectacular views made up for everything.

The food on the way was a real highlight. We ate dal bhat almost every day – which sounds monotonous at first, but was actually much more varied than expected. In the morning we tried the traditional Nepalese breakfast, which was not at all comparable to a typical European breakfast, but really tasted incredibly delicious. We can only recommend everyone to try the local cuisine – it makes the trekking experience even more authentic and special.

The highlight of our tour was crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m – a breathtaking moment that was physically challenging and incredibly emotional at the same time. The view over the peaks and the endless Himalayan panorama will remain in our memories for a long time. Then followed the descent to Muktinath, where we enjoyed a hot shower and pizza for the first time again.

On the south side, we continued via Tatopani with its hot springs, through tropical rainfall to Ghorepani, Tadapani and Ghandruk. On the last day of hiking we could even see the majestic Annapurna I (8,091 m). Finally, we drove to Pokhara, enjoyed the lake and a small boat ride before heading back to Kathmandu.

The return to the capital was the worthy conclusion of our trek – 15 days full of adventure, culture and unforgettable moments in the Himalayas.

For our personal impressions and daily reports you can read in our travel diary:

• ⛰️ Annapurna Circuit – Part 1: From Kathmandu to the highest pass in the world
• ⛰️ Annapurna Circuit – Part 2: The Road Back to Pokhara

Our experience with Access the Asia Treks

Our trekking adventure on the Annapurna Circuit with Access the Asia Treks was simply unforgettable. In total, we were on the road for 15 days and climbed the Thorong La Pass at an impressive 5,416 m altitude.

You can find all the details about our trek on the website.

Our team of guides – Arjun, Rabin and Krali – were not only experienced and knowledgeable, but also incredibly friendly and attentive. We were particularly impressed by how much Access the Asia pays attention to authentic experiences: they maintain genuine contact with the villagers whose villages we wandered through and ensure that local traditions are respected and supported. The topic of sustainability is also very close to their hearts – from the responsible use of resources to the support of local initiatives.

If you also want to hike with Access the Asia, you can reach Arjun & his team directly via their contact page. In addition to the Annapurna Circuit, they offer many other trekking adventures, for example Everest Base Camp, Langtang or Gokyo Valley – all information can be found on accesstheasia.com.

Extra tips for your trek in Nepal

If you want to make your trekking experience in Nepal even more relaxed and enjoyable, we have a few practical tips for you:

• Individual tours: For more trekking routes or tailor-made tours, it’s worth taking a look at Access the Asia. They offer not only the Annapurna Circuit but also many other trekking adventures and can customize routes depending on how much time you have or what highlights you want to see.
• Rent equipment on site: You can easily rent large, heavy things such as sleeping bags or down jackets on site. This way you save weight in your backpack and don’t have to carry everything from home.
• Take cash with you: ATMs are rare in remote regions. Therefore, take enough Nepalese rupees with you for personal expenses, food if necessary and tips for porters and guides. Even though larger places like Pokhara have ATMs, many teahouses and shops only accept cash – so plan well beforehand so you can pay for everything on the go.

Conclusion: Trekking in Nepal – an extraordinary experience

Our trek on the Annapurna Circuit with Access the Asia Treks was an unforgettable adventure: 15 days full of impressive landscapes, cultural encounters and unique moments in the mountains of Nepal. From the start in Besisahar to Pokhara through green valleys, traditional villages and the Thorong La Pass, we experienced a journey that was physically and emotionally demanding and at the same time incredibly enriching.

We were particularly impressed by the warmth of the people we met along the way and the authentic Nepalese culture that you can experience up close in the lodges and small mountain villages. The food, from the traditional Nepalese breakfast to Dal Bhat, also made the trekking experience even more authentic and varied.

With the right preparation, the right equipment, good trekking or travel insurance and an experienced team of guides like Access the Asia, nothing stands in the way of a safe and unforgettable adventure. If you want to delve deeper into our experiences, you can find all the details, personal experiences and daily reports in our detailed travel diary.

Nepal is a country that is suitable for hikers and adventurers like no other – a place to return to again and again to discover new trails, see the Himalayan peaks and collect unforgettable moments.

Do you have any questions about our trek? Feel free to write to us on Instagram! 😊

Have fun in Nepal!

Jenny & Pati

Trekking in Nepal is a dream for many trekkers as it is one of the world’s most iconic destination. Nepal trekking cost varies from the trek and service you choose. Adventure experience, travelers’ attraction and cultural immersion with gigantic Himalaya ranges are some of the profound points of attraction for the trekkers in Nepal. The varieties of treks from the basic to elite with immense natural beauty is found in Nepal that makes it the tourist hub especially for the nature lovers. Nepal offers exceptional value and price worthy destinations that make you fall in love with the nature and iconic trekking trials.

Trekking in Nepal typically costs between USD 7,00 and USD 3,500 per person, depending on the trekking route, duration, season, level of comfort, and services included. Nepal has the wide range of trekking trials from the popular Everest region trek to the off the beaten path of Manaslu and Dolpo region. Therefore, Nepal trekking cost depends on various factors where you can have the varieties of option to choose to make it as per your preference.

For sample, you can check on our cost breakdown details of Manaslu Circuit Trek.

• Average Cost of Trekking in Nepal (At a Glance)

Short and Easy Treks of duration around 5 to 7 days average cost is around USD $700–1,400

Classic Himalayan Treks of duration around 10-14 days average cost is around USD $1,200–2,400

Remote and Restricted Treks of duration around 14 to 20 days average cost is around USD $2,200–3,500

Note: In this cost, the international flight prices to Nepal are not included.

• Trekking Permits & Government Fees in Nepal

All trekkers must pay mandatory government fees according to the trekking destinations they have chosen:

TIMS Card: USD 20 (Mandatory)

Sagarmatha National Park Permit (Everest): USD 30

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): USD 30

Langtang National Park Permit: USD 30

Restricted Area Permits: USD 100–500+

Note: Permit costs are the same for all nationalities except for all the nationalities. For the peak climbing, you have to pay additional.

• Trekking Guide & Porter Costs

Hiring a licensed trekking guide improves safety, navigation, and cultural understanding. Along with this, if you hire the guide from the authorized trekking company then the guide’s insurance is also covered during the process.

Licensed trekking guide: USD 25–35 per day

Porter: USD 18–25 per day

Porter-guide: USD 20–30 per day

Access the Asia Treks follows ethical trekking standards and employs experienced local staff.

• Accommodation Costs During the Trek

Most trekking routes in Nepal use teahouse accommodation.

Standard teahouse rooms: USD 10–20 per night

Luxury lodges (Depends on region): USD 150–400 per night

Note: Accommodation prices increase with altitude due to transportation challenges.

• Food & Drinking Water Costs

Food costs rise as you trek higher into the mountains.

Daily meals: USD 30–40 (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Hot drinks (tea, coffee): USD 2–5

Drinking water: USD 1–4 per liter

Note: Reusable bottles and purification tablets reduce both cost and environmental impact.

• Transportation Costs in Nepal

Transportation expenses depend on trekking region and road condition:

Domestic flights (e.g., Kathmandu–Lukla): USD 180–220 one way

Domestic flights (e.g., Kathmandu–Pokhara): USD 100–120 one way

Tourist bus: USD 10–30

Private jeep: USD 250–350 per day

Note: Remote trekking routes generally have higher transportation costs.

• Trekking Gear & Equipment Costs

Gear can be purchased or rented in Kathmandu.

Gear rental: USD 2 per item/day

Sleeping bag rental: USD 3/day

Full gear purchase: Depends on your trekking equipment. For Peak Climbing, you need to hire more gears

Note: Renting is a cost-effective option for international trekkers.

For high altitude trekking, you can check on our link for the preparation techniques.

• Travel Insurance (Essential)

Travel insurance is mandatory for high-altitude trekking.

Insurance cost: USD 100–200

Note: Insurance must cover trekking up to 6,000 meters and emergency helicopter evacuation with medical expenses.

• Tips & Personal Expenses

Guide tip: USD 8–10 per day

Porter tip: USD 5–7 per day

Device charging: USD 2–5 per charge

Hot showers: USD 3–6

Note: Guide and Porter are hard-working professionals, thus, tipping is customary and appreciated across Nepal.

• Cost of Trekking in Nepal with a licensed Trekking Company

Booking with a reputable Nepal trekking agency simplifies logistics and improves safety.

What’s Included in Most Packages:

Trekking permits & paperwork

Licensed guide and porter

Accommodation & meals during the trek

Airport transfers (Private transportation)

Emergency support

Why Choose a Local Trekking Company for Trekking in Nepal?

Better value for money

Local knowledge & cultural insight

Flexible and customized itineraries

• Budget vs Standard vs Luxury Trekking in Nepal

Budget Trek: USD 900–1,400 (basic teahouses)

Standard Trek: USD 1,200–2,400 (best balance of comfort & cost)

Luxury Trek: USD 2,800–5,000+ (luxury lodges & helicopter options)

• Best Time to Trek Nepal & Cost Impact

Spring (March–May): Excellent weather, moderate to high demand

Autumn (September–November): Peak season, stable conditions

Winter & Monsoon: Lower costs, fewer trekkers

Note: The trekking season directly affects the cost of trekking in Nepal.

How to Reduce Trekking Costs in Nepal?

Travel in small groups

Book with a local trekking company

Avoid unnecessary luxury upgrades

Use refillable water bottles

Why Choose Access the Asia Treks?

Access the Asia Treks is a professional trekking company in Nepal, serving travelers worldwide with ethical practices and transparent pricing.

Experienced local guides

Fair porter welfare

Competitive trekking costs

Custom trekking packages

Is Trekking in Nepal Worth the Cost?

Absolutely. Nepal delivers world-class trekking, panoramic Himalayan scenery, and rich cultural experiences at a reasonable cost. The Nepal Trekking cost can be varied as per your preference and you can choose the best alternative for you while trekking in Nepal.

📩 Contact Access the Asia Treks today for a personalized trekking cost estimate and expert guidance.

Are you planning to conquer the “Spirit Mountain” in 2026 or 2027? The Manaslu Circuit Trek has officially become the number 1 alternative to the crowded Annapurna Circuit Trek. But with its “Restricted Area” status, the cost are more complex than your average trek.  

In this guide, we break down every dollar you will spend during the trek. From mandatory permit fees to teahouse snacks, so you can plan your adventure without financial surprises.

Quick Summary: How Much Does it Cost?

For a standard 16- Days Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026, expect to budget:

Budget (Economic package via agency): $900-$1,050

Standard All-Inclusive (Most Popular): $1,200- $1,450

Luxury/Private Trek: $1,800+ USD

Expert Insight: Unlike Everest and Annapurna, you cannot trek Manaslu Circuit Trek solo. Nepalese law requires a minimum of two trekkers and one licensed guide.

Check out our 2026 All-Inclusive Manaslu Circuit Package here.

1. Mandatory Permit Cost (Updated for 2026/2027)

The Manaslu region requires three distinct permits. Prices fluctuate based on which season you are trekking.

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

However, the Chumnubri Rural Municipality now charges a local entry fee of NPR 1,000 (approx. $8-$10) per person.

Permit Type	Peak Season (Sept–Nov)	Off-Peak (Dec–Aug)
Manaslu Restricted Permit (RAP)	$100 (First 7 days)	$75 (First 7 days)
Additional Days (after day 7)	$15 / day	$10 / day
MCAP (Conservation Area)	$30 (Approx. NPR 3,000)	$30
ACAP (Annapurna Area)	$30 (Approx. NPR 3,000)	$30

Note: If you add Tsum Valley Trek, you will have to add extra $40 (Peak season) or $30 (Off-Peak season) for permit fees.

• Professional Guide and Porter Fees

Since a guide is mandatory in Manaslu Region, this is fixed cost.

• Licensed Guide: $30 to $40 per day (Include their food, salary, and insurance)
• Porters: $25 to $30 per day (Porter typically carries 20 to 25 kg of bag, shared between two trekkers.

Why hire a local expert?

In 2026, trails are challenging due to new road constructions. A local guide from Access the Asia Treks knows the old trail to keep you away from the dusty jeep road.

• Accommodation & Food: Teahouse Budget

As you go to higher altitude, the price of foods and rooms keeps on getting high. The prices rise because everything is carried by mules and porters.

• Accommodation: Normally costs $5 to $15 per night for twin sharing room.
• Meals: $25 to $40 per day

Breakfast normally cost from $5 to 8$.

Lunch/Dinner normally cost from $7 to $12 (A plate of Dal Bhat)

• Extra (Hidden Cost)

Hot Shower: $3 to $5

Charging Electronics: $2 to $5 per device

Wi-Fi: $3 to $5 per day and per device

• Transportation

The trek normally starts from Machha Khola and ends in Dharapani/Besisahar. To reach the trailhead and return to Kathmandu, there are two options, Local bus and private transportation.

• Local Bus: $15 to $25 (Bumpy and long but authentic)
• Private 4WD Jeep: $200 to $250 per Jeep (Highly recommended for comfort and safety on the rugged mountain road)

If you want local authentic style transportation, you can use local transportation. But if you want comfort and safety we recommend private transportation.

• Total Cost Comparison Table

Expense Item	Estimated Cost (16 Days)
Total Permits	$160 – $200
Guide (Shared)	$250 – $300
Food & Lodging	$450 – $600
Transportation	$100 – $500
Estimated Total	$910 – $1,300 USD

How to Save Money on Your Manaslu Trek

• Trek with group: Split the cost of guide, Jeep and Porter
• Bring your own power bank: Focus on avoiding daily charging fees in teahouses.
• Water Purification: Bring a LifeStraw or purification tablets to save $3 to $5 for mineral water per bottle.
• Book All-Inclusive: Agencies like Access the Asia Treks lock in 2025 prices for 2026 booking, protecting you from inflation.

Final Verdict: Is it worth the cost?

Absolutely, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a raw, medieval Tibetan culture that you simply wont find in the Everest or Annapurna region anymore. By 2027, more roads will be built, so 2026 is the perfect year to explore Manaslu authentic trail.

Ready to Trek?

Don’t get bogged down in the logistics permits and paperwork. Let our expert handle the details while you focus on the views.

• View our Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026 Itinerary and Early Bird Discounts

by Jenny | 27 Nov 2024

After crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5416m, our hike continues on the other side of the mountain. We descend directly 1700 meters in altitude to Muktinath, where we continue the next day.

Trek Day 9: Muktinath to Tatopani

20km drive, from 3710m to 1200m

Unfortunately, Pati gets a fever again during the night. Probably the exhaustion. At seven in the morning I go to the famous temple complex of Muktinath together with Rabin and Krali. Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims from all over the world travel to this place to pray in the special temple. So with sore muscles from the day before, we go up hundreds of steps to the entrance. Professionally, Krali estimates that there must be 😆 about 40 steps – that’s only almost right.

On the way up, we pass ancient traditional Nepalese earth houses, which are built right next to the steps down into the ground, like a cave. In fact, people still live there and we can even watch a woman cooking on stones and with wood.

We also pass a rest area. When I ask what the huge rest area with at least 20 benches is for, Rabin explains that many people who hike up here get altitude sickness. After all, we are still at an altitude of almost 4000 m. Soon, a clinic is even to be built here at the rest area. Practical to achieve if you “only” have to 😆 overcome several hundred steps. Further up at the temple complex we see another sign that explains the risks of altitude sickness. Somehow absurd.

Rabin tells all kinds of things about the temple complex and its history. He himself belongs to Hinduism and knows a lot about it. The Hindu temple is the only temple in Nepal with 108 water fountains and two huge, ice-cold pools that serve to purify the soul. That’s why many people come here and walk through all 108 fountains on the wall in their clothes and then touch the bottom of the deep pools. In this way, the believers believe that they are freed from all sins. Just watching is spectacular – after all, it’s no more than 8 degrees outside.

After the Hindu temple we look at the Buddhist part of the complex, now it’s Krali’s turn with his stories and explanations – he is a Buddhist. Apparently, there are only 14 of the huge Buddha statue like here in Muktinath in the whole world. I don’t quite understand why and unfortunately Krali can’t explain it that exactly. When I google later, the Internet explains the following to me:

“The Buddha statue in Muktinath, which is considered particularly famous in the region, is not unique in the sense that it exists only 14 times in the world. However, there seems to be a special legend or myth that says that there are only 14 specific Buddha statues in the world that have a special meaning or spiritual status. This number could be symbolic or refer to a particular group of statues that meet certain historical or religious criteria.”

So what exactly is behind it remains a little secret. In any case, many people make a pilgrimage here because of the statue. As with the Buddhist stupas, we walk three laps clockwise around the Buddha while Krali chants a mantra. Then we look at the rest of the temple complex and I hear some more exciting stories before we go back to the hotel to Pati and have breakfast. We were on our way to the temple very early and sober, because it is considered unclean if you have already eaten something before.

I thank Krali and Rabin for taking me along and explaining so much to me. On the way back, Rabin gives me a bracelet with stones from Muktinath, which, according to Krali, bring special luck – a unique gift.

By the way, today we have not had excellent weather for the first time. It is cloudy. So far we have had sunshine and bright blue skies every day. The conditions were perfect to conquer the Thorong La Pass.

For breakfast we have masala tea and Tibetan bread (similar to our Kiachl) with curry. It tastes fantastic! Then a jeep is already waiting for us in front of the front door. The next 20km we only descend through riverbeds into the valley. The paths were washed away during the heavy rainfall a few weeks ago, so we are allowed to drive this part (mostly) off-road instead of walking. We share the jeep with a French couple and their guide and porter. There are nine of us in a jeep for seven people. So it’s going to be cuddly again.

Let’s go to Tatopani. The road is really only partly a road and the ride is bumpy again. Many bridges are simply no longer there. When we have to go over one, we see how our driver quickly worships the little Buddha on his dashboard. Fortunately, everything goes well.

After about an hour we stop him Jomsom. There is a Buddhist monastery to see there. At first it seems as if the monastery is closed, but the policeman on site asks our guide to simply open the door. Shortly afterwards we are standing in the monastery garden. The door to the actual monastery also seems to be locked, but our guide can no longer be stopped. He shakes the door, which is opened immediately afterwards. Then we’re already in. The main part of the monastery consists of only a single room with three huge Buddha statues at the very front. The reason why all the doors seemed to be locked is quickly obvious: the young monks who are being taught here are currently writing an exam. But we are in Nepal, so no problem. One of the examinees (the one who speaks English best) even has to stand up and give us a short tour of the monastery room. Again, it’s all kind of absurd – but nice. After a 20-minute visit, we leave the monastery again and our bumpy ride continues.

During the journey, the porter of the French group, who is in the passenger seat, falls asleep. The guide of the other group, who is sitting at the very back of the car, sees this and asks the French woman in the middle row to fasten his seatbelt. Apparently, you can drive awake without a seatbelt, but sleeping it is too dangerous😅 even for Nepal.

At a waterfall we take another break. Rabin comes up to us and offers us a piece of “hard something”: yak cheese, as it turns out. More precisely, probably the bark of it. This is chewed like chewing gum, except that it is much harder than chewing gum and really doesn’t taste that good. But definitely a good pastime.

For the 20km to Tatopani we need a little more than three hours. Then we have a Dal Bhat for lunch in Tatopani. Tatopani is known for its hot springs, which we check out in the afternoon. The hot springs are indeed really hot. After 5 minutes we almost can’t stand it anymore and after 10 minutes we have to get out of the water again. Krali, who came with us but of course didn’t go into the water, is surprised that we are out again so quickly. He claims to have been water for about 1 hour last time (but according to his estimation it was only 40 steps up to the temple, so who knows 😄).

Trek Day 10: Tatopani to Ghorepani

17km, 6 hours, from 1200m to 2850m

The next day we have a long hike ahead of us. 1600 meters in altitude and 17 km from us is the next village, Ghorepani. The first half of the day we are really lucky with the weather. We pass countless rice plantations, walk through local villages in the mountains and take a tea break in the sun. Rabin buys a kind of banana on the way that we have never seen before. It weighs at least one kilo and is incredibly huge. Fortunately, it is not yet ripe in the middle, so at least we don’t have to eat it completely. Guava, lemons and oranges also grow along the way. It’s really tropical here.

For lunch we have Dal Bhat in a tea house on the way. As always, we wait quite a long time for our food. This time, however, we can watch the weather get worse by the minute. Even before the food is on the table, it rains.

While eating, Krali hits the window next to him and catches his target: a fly. When she still moves, he hits it with the flat of his hand, takes it and carries it out – of course while he is singing a mantra… these Buddhists.

After the meal it rains even more. We unpack our rain jackets and pull the rain cover over our backpacks. Then we march off in the rain. When it rains here in Asia, you can’t imagine it the same way as at home: a few drops, a few more, half an hour a lot of water falls from the sky, but then the thing comes back and it drips away for a while at most. Real rainy days are rather rare.

Here, however, it rains first, and then it pours. And tomorrow it may stop again. We stop again not too far from our lunch stop and Rabin and Krali get a garbage bag there, which they pull over their equipment. They still ask us if we want one too. We say no (but should have known better).

800 meters of altitude still lie ahead of us and we are already soaking wet. We are really fast, but the mood in the group is slowly sinking into the basement. When we are still about half an hour away from our destination – we are already back at over 2600m, wet from head to toe and everyone is freezing cold – it starts to hail. We are somewhere in the middle of nowhere and can’t let it get us down. We hike as fast as we can further up. The last 15 minutes we can also hear a thunderstorm from afar. But before it gets closer, we finally reach our accommodation for the evening.

Fortunately, the stove in the dining hall is already heated and we can spread out all our equipment in front of it. Then there is a gas-powered hot shower and all the wet contents from the backpack (the rain cover could no longer keep everything out) are spread out on the room floor.

The thunderstorm is getting closer and closer. Suddenly we hear a loud crash. In the next second, the power fails. So that’s it for the electricity until tomorrow. Luckily, there are a few battery-operated lights in the teahouse and one of our cell phones can also act as a flashlight.

After dinner we are quite exhausted and want to go to bed. However, our things that are in front of the stove are not yet dry. I ask Rabin if we can let the things dry here overnight. Rabin’s answer is, as with the tax question: “Jenny, this is Nepal”. So for us, this means that we pack all the clothes that are still damp and spread them out in our small room overnight.

In addition to some words of the national language, we learn Rabin’s very own language for time and route indications

• It’s close. – 30 minutes.
• Not far. – 1 hour.
• Not so far. – 2 hours.
• Not too far. – 3 hours.
• Just a little. – 3 hours.
• Little far. – 5 hours.
• A bit far. – 8 hours.
• It depends… – He really has no idea.

Trek Day 11: Ghorepani to Tadapani

14km, 3 hours, from 2850m to 2610m

The very next morning, when the alarm clock rings, we bring the things, which of course have not dried in the ice-cold night at 2850m, back down in front of the stove. Today we go to Tadapani. The weather is much better than yesterday and only a little further up on the higher mountains we can see snow. Immediately after breakfast it starts. We use the morning and reach our next destination on time when the first raindrops patter down again. We spend the afternoon in the hut warming up, drying, reading, playing and drinking beer.

Trek Day 12: Tadapani to Ghandruk

7km, 2 hours, from 2610m to 1940m

The last hiking day of the trek has begun. The weather is good again this morning and so we leave early. This morning, still in Tadapani, we even catch a glimpse of Annapurna I (8091m) for the first and only time right at breakfast.

Instead of the usual 12-17 km of the last few days, the way today is much shorter and only 7 km long. So we are already in Ghandruk before lunch. Here we spend the rest of the day with good food and sunny weather. Of course, a deck of cards is not to be missed. After dinner, there is rum Nepali style (with hot water and honey) for everyone to celebrate the day. The mood is exuberant. We play, dance, laugh and talk about all kinds of things. We are a little bit sad that the trek is already over. Time has passed incredibly fast.

Trek Day 13: Ghandruk to Pokhara

28km drive, from 1940m to 822m

At 6:15 a.m. the last day of our trek starts. Today we just have to have breakfast and then walk to the jeep parking lot. Our driver is already waiting there. Once again, we are in for a bumpy ride. It takes about three hours until we arrive in Pokhara. Our Porter Krali leaves us there. He is already taking the bus back to Kathmandu today. Rabin, on the other hand, stays with us in Pokhara for another day.

Together we explore the city, which is located on a large lake. The lake is considered the Nepalese sea, so to speak. Many people come here for holidays because of the lake. Accordingly, many people are there and rent boats (you don’t swim in Nepal, as elsewhere in Asia). Rabin persuades us to borrow a small nutshell. We think that we will paddle across the lake with the boat ourselves, but Rabin even rents a driver for a whole hour for 100 rupees (about 60 cents). So we are paddled across the lake.

Rabin tells us beforehand that he can stay afloat in a swimming pool, but he can’t really swim. He therefore prefers to put on a life jacket, which we find reasonable, but also very funny. When we get in, Rabin sends us both ahead with the words: “I don’t know how to swim if it sinks”. Quite nervous at first, Rabin holds on to both sides of the boat.

Of course, he is always up for a cool pose. We walk around a temple that is located in the lake and are on the water for about an hour. Afterwards there is masala tea for all of us. In the evening we meet Rabin again for a beer and let the – this time really – last day together come to a leisurely end. Early the next morning Rabin drives back to Kathmandu, we stay another day in Pokhara.

Pokhara

The next day in Pokhara we do what we do best: we walk from one café to another and have a good time. In the late afternoon, Denis joins us, who is now feeling better again. We meet him for dinner and have a lot to tell about the trek. The next morning we go back to Kathmandu and Denis stays in Pokhara for two more days. But we meet him again in Kathmandu.

The bus ride from Pokhara to Kathmandu is anything but pleasant. You could also call the trip the worst bus ride ever. The bus, which is even called a tourist bus, is very comfortable inside and has couch-like seats, but unfortunately that doesn’t help if the roads are not available. 11 (!!) For hours we are thrown out of our seats and pushed back in; Everything hurts. Maybe it would be better to have regular bus seats instead of this ultra-soft couch. In 11 hours we cover only 200km – amazing.

When we finally arrive in Kathmandu after a long 11 hours, we are very happy and really exhausted. This bus ride was certainly the most strenuous part of the entire trek. We check into our hostel, return our borrowed sleeping bags and down jackets, eat something else and then fall into bed. The next morning we have sore muscles all over our bodies. Life here is really crazy.

Back in Kathmandu

Our last five days in Nepal we stay in Kathmandu. We don’t want to go anywhere by bus anymore and Kathmandu is really beautiful. Denis also comes back and we are even invited home by Arjun and Rabin for dinner.

Arjun calls in the morning to tell us that Rabin will pick us up – after all, we don’t know where Arjun’s house is. At 3.30 p.m. the time has come. Rabin does not have a driver’s license and therefore comes by taxi. Together with us, he then takes a taxi back to his home.

The family lives in a large house just outside. In the living room we sit together on the floor, we are served tea and we are allowed to taste delicious Nepalese specialties. Even before dinner, we are all more than full. To top it all off, there is, how could it be otherwise, Dal Bhat. Everything tastes really excellent and we almost burst.

After dinner we say goodbye. Arjun will be working in Austria again next summer and we have already agreed to visit him there in the Zillertal.

We spend the last few days in Kathmandu looking at and sorting out photos from the trek (thousands of photos we can tell you), writing down our travel diary and meeting Denis for coffee or dinner in between.

All in all, we really liked Nepal incredibly much and we are sure that we will come back here again. For now, however, we are ready for a change of country.

For reference, you can visit this link.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic and less crowded trekking route. This trek offers dramatic Himalaya scenery, authentic Tibetan village, and a thrill to cross Larke La Pass (5,106m/16,752ft). This trek is also often considered as the best alternative to the Annapurna Circuit. This trek circles the Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth highest mountain in the world.

Here, you can visit our 16 days Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary carefully designed by Access the Asia Treks, focusing on proper rest/acclimatization, safety comfort, and cultural immersion, making this trek ideal for those who are seeking to get remote and raw Himalayan experience.

Looking for the official tour? Check out our updated [Manaslu Circuit Trek Package for 2026] with full logistics and permit handling.

Quick Facts about Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Trek duration: 16 days
• Maximum Elevation: Larke La Pass (5,106m/16,752ft)
• Starting point of the trek: Machha Khola
• Ending point of the trek: Dharapani
• Trek difficulty: Moderate
• Best seasons: Spring and Autumn
• Permit required: MCAP, ACAP, RAP

Why Choose Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is less crowded than Everest Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek. While doing this trek you can encounter stunning views of Mt. Manaslu, Himchuli, Ganesh Himal and many more beautiful mountains. You can have experience of local Tibetan influenced village culture. This region is rich in Buddhist culture and ancient monasteries. Here, you can experience dramatic landscape change from subtropical valleys to alpine terrain. This trek is challenging but achievable high mountain pass.

Manaslu Circuit Trek 16 Days: Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft)

After arriving in Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to hotel.

Overnight at Kathmandu

Day 2: Sightseeing at Kathmandu Valley (1,400m/4,593ft)

On this day, you can explore UNESCO World Heritage Site with an experienced licensed city guide:

1. Pashupatinath Temple
2. Swoyambhunath (Monkey Temple)
3. Boudhanath Stupa
4. Kathmandu Durbar Square

Overnight at Kathmandu

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900m)

On this day, you can have scenic drive through lush forest, waterfall, rivers and many more to Machha khola, the starting point of the trek.

Drive duration: 8-9 hours

Overnight at Machha Khola

Day 4: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410m)

On this day, you have to cross suspension bridge, pass waterfall, and walk through narrow gorges. Jagat is marked as entry point of Manaslu Restricted Area.

Trek duration: 6-7 hours

Overnight at Jagat

Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,804m)

The trail to Deng starts to ascend gradually through forest and small villages with increasing Tibetan influenced culture.

Trek duration: 6 hours

Overnight at Deng

Day 6: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630m)

Walk through bamboo forest, monasteries and Mani stones on the way. Amazing mountains views starts to see from this point.

Trek duration: 6-7 hours

Overnight at Namrung

Day 7: Trek from Namrung to Shyala (2,460m)

On this day, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Mt. Manaslu Himchuli and Ngadi Chuli while trekking through alpine villages.

Trek duration: 4-5 hours

Overinght at Shyala

Day 8: Trek from Shyala to Samagaun (3,530m)

On this day you can hike to Pungen Gompa and hike down to Samagaun. While hiking to Pungen Gompa you can have best view of Mt. Manaslu.

Trek duration: 5-6 hours

Overnight at Samagaun

Day 9: Acclimatization day at Samagaun (3,530m)

On this day, you will have optional hike;

• Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m)
• Birendra Lake

This day is very important for altitude adjustment.

Overnight at Samagaun

Day 10: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3,860m)

A gentle ascent through yak pastures and barren landscape near the Tibet border.

Trek duration: 3-4 hours

Overnight at Samdo

Day 11: Acclimatization in Samdo (3,860m)

There is a optional hike to Tibet boarder on this day. This hike will help you a lot to cross Larke La Pass.

Overnight at Samdo

Day 12: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4,460m)

The trail is more rugged and alpine as you are preparing for the highest pass of the trek.

Trek duration: 4-5 hours

Overnight at Dharmasala

Day 13: Trek from Dharmasala to Bhimthang (3,700m) via Larke La Pass (5,106m)

This is the most challenging and most rewarding day in the whole trek. Cross Larke La Pass with beautiful Mountain View from the top and back down to Bhimthang.

Trek duration: 7-8 hours

Overnight at Bhimthang

Day 14: Trek from Bhimthang to Dharapani (1,960m)

On this day, you will descend through forest, river, and village, and also reconnecting with the Annapurna Circuit Trail.

Trek duration: 6-7 hours

Overnight at Dharapani

Day 15: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu (1,400m)

Enjoy the scenic mountain road back to Kathmandu.

Drive duration: 8-9 hours

Overnight at Kathmandu

Day 16: Departure

Our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu for your onward journey, marking the end of memorable trek to the Himalayas.

Best Time to Trek Manaslu Circuit

1. Spring (March to May): Blooming Rhododendron, stable weather
2. Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, best mountain views, best season to trek
3. Winter: Very cold but possible for experienced trekker
4. Monsoon: Not recommended due to landslide

Cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek cost normally starts from USD 1100 to USD 2200, here with Access the Asia Treks. But it does depend upon you group size also. If you’re in a bigger group the cost comes out low but if you’re solo it may get higher. And the cost varies on what service you have taken.

Permits Required for Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP/RAP)
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Access the Asia Treks will arrange all this permits for you.

Why Trek with Access the Asia Treks?

• Experienced government license holder local guide
• Well planned itinerary
• Carefully planned acclimatization days
• Ethical trekking and local community support
• Competitive pricing
• 24/7 support during trek

Book your Manaslu Circuit Trek with Access the Asia Treks for your authentic trekking in Nepal.