Manaslu Expedition

Climbing 8000 meter Peak in Nepal
Manaslu Expedition
Expedition to Manaslu Peak
Mount Manaslu Exepedition
Trip Photos
At a Glance
Duration43 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous Plus
i
Maximum Altitude8,163 m
Best TimeSept-Oct

Trip Overview 

The Manaslu Expedition is a 43 days climbing journey to conquer the world’s 8th highest mountain, Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), whose name itself translates as the “Mountain of the Spirit” from Sanskrit and is famous as the killer mountain. Located in the Mansiri Himal range, the Mount Manaslu Climbing Itinerary of 43 days takes you deep into one of the highly restricted areas of Nepal, the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Although the success rate of the Mount Manaslu expedition is observed to be lower than that of the top of the world itself, Mount Everest (Sagarmatha in Nepal and Chomolungma in Tibet), it is taken as an ideal first “eight-thousander” to begin an extreme high-altitude mountaineering experience. Accessible from all directions with at least six different routes to make it to the top of the Manaslu Summit, it is a daredevil's paradise.

Technicality and physical demands are comparable to those with an ascent to neighboring Cho Oyu (8,188 m/the 6th highest mountain on earth). The Mount Manaslu climbing journey provides you with the right physical and mental conditioning required to make it successfully to the summits of 8,000 m mountain peaks in Nepal, including the Mount Everest Expedition; hence, it also mandates climbing experience of 6,000 m and 7,000 m.

Island Peak Climbing, Mera Peak Climbing, Lobuche East Peak Climbing, Chulu West Peak, and Baruntse Expedition: the Manaslu Expedition is recommended only to those who have already conquered these mountain peaks or similar ones. Bookings are now open for 2026 and 2027. Reserve your spot and get early bird booking and group discounts on the Manaslu Climbing Cost for trekkers and climbers with more than 10 members.

What to expect during the climbing journey to Mount Manaslu?

Climbing the 8,000 m peak of Manaslu is not an ordinary feat; the Mount Manaslu Expedition is technical and requires excellent physical fitness, mental resilience, advanced climbing proficiency, and adaptability to extreme high-altitude conditions. For several weeks of high-altitude treks and climbs, proper preparation and comprehensive trekking gear and equipment are an inevitable part of the journey.

The higher you go, the more basic the amenities get, but overall, it is worth everything, especially when you stand atop Mount Manaslu Peak and enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountain ranges in ultimate serenity, facilitating an amazing sense of adventure and achievement like never before. There is the true test of human endurance and spirit, making it a rewarding mountaineering experience from start to finish.

Mount Manaslu, the 8th-tallest mountain in the world

Nepal is now home to 14 of the mountain peaks measuring 8,000 m above sea level, and among them, Mount Manaslu, also called Kutang, is the 8th highest snow-capped mountain range on earth. It is the highest peak in Gorkha District and was first climbed by Toshio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu, members of a Japanese expedition, on May 9, 1956. Therefore, it is also called the Japanese mountain, like Everest for the British.

Given the many unsuccessful attempts by the British until the duo of Sir Edmund Hillary from New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa from Nepal successfully scaled the top of Everest on May 29, 1953. And if you are eyeing Mount Everest climbing, the Mount Manaslu expedition is just a perfect training ground to collect the critical insight in the “Death Zone” at a high altitude of 8,000 m above sea level. Embrace the raw Himalayan wilderness.

Remote and less crowded experience within the Restricted Area

The journey to climb Mount Manaslu progresses gradually through the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is further designated as one of the highly restricted areas in Nepal with several trekking routes like the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the Nar Phu Valley Trek, and the Tsum Valley Trek. Even for trekking here, you need a special permit whose fee is dedicated to conserving the diverse and fragile ecosystem of the trans-Himalayan region.

Every year, only a limited number of permits are issued. In remote area these have helped a lot for the Manaslu trekking and climbing region to maintain its real natural beauty and culture. Less traversed even during the peak trekking and climbing seasons of Nepal, spring and autumn, unlike on Everest and Annapurna treks and climbs, Manaslu observes a comparatively low number of tourists, including on the Mount Manaslu Climbing Trails.

Exposure of well-preserved, rich Tibetan-Buddhist culture

Until you reach the Manaslu Base Camp, on the high-altitude journey for the Mount Manaslu climb, trekkers and climbers stay in the teahouses, guest houses, and lodges dotted along the villages like Soti Khola, Philim, and Sama Gaun. Opened and managed by Himalayan locals, teahouses provide just the perfect ambience to get an insight into the authentic culture. You get to meet Nubri and Tsum people occasionally.

Especially at high altitudes, you can see them leading a simple life. Distinctive yet closely related to Tibetan and Tibetan Buddhism, as showcased by ancient monasteries, mani walls, gompas, and prayer wheels often decorated by colorful prayer flags, some dating back centuries, and the warm hospitality of locals, happy to have you there and keen to share folktales from the Himalayas, despite its arduous ambience, adds to the cultural dimensions.

Technical climb and crossing of the longest mountain pass in Nepal, Larkya La Pass

From Manaslu Base Camp onwards is when the Manaslu Expedition officially begins, and you stay in tented camps set up by your organizer, such as Mountain Monarch. To ensure a high Manaslu Summit success rate, you will climb to higher camps and return overnight to the camp at a low altitude. The Sherpa mountain guide, in addition, shares climbing techniques with you and helps you practice the climbing skills and use of gear.

It is so that your body is properly acclimatized to the alpine environment and builds up your confidence to tackle anything that awaits you, including the technicality of glacier walking and steep ascents and descents, especially on sections 8,000 m above sea level. You wait for the day with the optimal weather conditions to make it to the top, and as you retrace, you may choose to cross the Larkya La Pass, the highest point on the Manaslu Circuit Trek route.

Incredible mountain views from the top of Mount Manaslu

While you get to steal the glimpses of numerous sky-towering, snow-capped mountain giants right from the trek and climb starting point to conquer Mount Manaslu, such as the Annapurna ranges, Ganesh Himal, Himlung Himal, and Manaslu, including others stretched up to the vast Tibetan plateau, nothing beats the panoramic views from the top of Mount Manaslu itself. Endless glaciers and ridgelines—the scenery is just outstanding.

Hence, the Mount Manaslu Summit Day is the most critical day that is both the most challenging and rewarding phase of the 43-day Mount Manaslu expedition itinerary. Away from modern amenities in the region that is still almost completely untouched by urbanization, you do need both a strong mind and body to have successfully made it to the Mount Manaslu Peak, an ultimate viewpoint in the Manaslu region.

Fully equipped Mount Manaslu Expedition Summit Day: The Final Push on Manaslu

Following the standard Manaslu Expedition itinerary of 43 days from Mountain Monarch, one of the leading trekking and climbing agencies in Nepal with more than two decades of excellence in planning memorable Himalayan holidays, the summit day of the Manaslu climb begins in the late evening. The climbers set off under the cover of darkness to make the most of stable conditions.

The Manaslu Climbing route starts with a moderate slope from the base camp, leading to the first of three distinct summit tables. Each table represents a challenging level of climbing, culminating in the final steep pyramid slope that marks the approach to the peak. As you ascend, you navigate a short but steep slope just below the pre-summit before reaching the final stretch: a 70-meter exposed technical traverse to the ultimate summit.

This section is both the most physically and mentally demanding part of the entire climbing journey to Manaslu that also requires using fixed ropes for safety and precision from Camp 4 to the magnificent summit. The 6 to 9-hour test your endurance, focus, and skill. Regardless, as you celebrate the triumphant moment at the top, you descend back to Camp 4 in 3 to 5 hours, ensuring a safe return before nightfall.

The following day, the team returns to camp, concluding the extraordinary adventure, a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and the indomitable human spirit. Throughout the expedition, Mountain Monarch provides high-quality climbing tents, gear, and equipment, including crampons, rope, ice bars, and others, so that you can make memories cherishable for a lifetime in the most comfortable way possible.

Manaslu Peak Expedition Itinerary and Cost for 2026 and 2027

The Manaslu Climbing Trekking route goes through the beautiful Budhi Gandaki Valley, up to the tiny yet scenic village of Sama Gaon; the first acclimatization stop is at 4,600 m with several possible side trips. Walk at your pace, hike up, sleep low, and listen to your body. After that, you proceed to Manaslu Base Camp at 4,750 meters, below the towering peak. From here, the Manaslu Expedition itinerary of 43 days includes navigating the Manaslu Glacier.

Climbers follow bamboo marker wands, and you will use fixed ropes to cross severe crevasses and hazardous sections, gradually ascending through Camp (approx. 5,700 m) at the base of the North Peak and above the glacier. A perfect strategic starting point for the ascent of Mount Manaslu. Camp 2 is at 6,400 m on a relatively flat area, a safe resting point, and from here to Camp 3 is one of the shorter stages.

Tents here are securely anchored to withstand harsh conditions by the team of Mountain Monarch. We try our best to stick to the standard Manaslu Expedition itinerary. From Camp 3, the route continues across the remaining glacier, navigating steep sections of snow and ice toward Camp 4 at 7,400 m, and finally, the journey culminates in a grueling 6- to 8-hour climb past exposed remnants of past expeditions to reach the Summit Camp.

The ultimate challenge awaits. The combination of technical climbing, breathtaking scenery, and high-altitude adventure is the true test of skill, determination, and resilience, and Mountain Monarch is offering a reasonable Manaslu Expedition cost, including for the years 2026 and 2027. Book it now to collect the triumph of standing atop an 8,000-meter giant. Solo, group, or private, we can arrange it all for you! Stay in touch!

Join the Manaslu Expedition in 2026 and 2027 and Make Climbing History!

In spring and autumn, both offer the most stable Himalayan weather conditions along with excellent visibility and trails, we can guaranteed a fixed departures on Mount Manaslu Climbing journeys as well. We are now accepting bookings for the Manaslu Expedition, climbing an 8,000-meter peak in Nepal in 2026 and 2027. An incredible opportunity is open to individuals or groups of climbers to test their mountaineering skills after 6,000m and 7,000m.

A challenging yet rewarding expedition into the heart of the Himalayas. Grab this chance and join the elite group of adventurers from Mountain Monarch who have summited an 8,000-meter peak. Secure your spot and prepare to make history by standing atop the majestic 8th-tallest peak on the earth, Manaslu, a true giant of the Himalayas. Now is the time to act for one of the most iconic in mountaineering in Nepal.

Manaslu Expedition Itinerary

Expand all
Day 01

As you arrive at the gate of the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), a representative from Mountain Monarch welcomes you and also transfers you to your hotel. If you arrive in the morning, you will have the rest of the afternoon for Kathmandu Valley exploration, and in the evening, you will join the expedition team to Manaslu briefly. Welcome dinner later on.

Day 02

The second day in the Kathmandu Valley is dedicated to getting familiar with Nepalese air and culture. You may visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites inside the valley, such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhnath, Swyambhunath, and the Kathmandu Durbar Square. If any queries do arise, meet your guide in the evening and make sure to clear them.

Day 03

The journey to climb Mount Manaslu, at first to reach Manaslu Base Camp, officially begins this day with a drive to Soti Khola from Kathmandu. After breakfast and a few hours of driving, you will find yourself driving along the roaring rivers amidst the lush green hills and traditional Nepalese villages at their base.

Day 4-12

From Soti Khola, trekkers and climbers trace the classic Manaslu Circuit Trek up to Manaslu Base Camp. You walk past the typical villages like Philim and Sama Gaon and witness the landscape transition from green dense forest to desert-like ones resembling the Tibetan plateaus. It allows a proper acclimatization to handle high altitude and its demands.

Day 13-36

Now, from the Manaslu Base Camp begins the climbing period. You trek to camp after camp, waiting for the most optimal weather day, and then only attempt so that Mount Manaslu's climbing success rate is high. Listen to your guide, follow their lead, and do not underestimate the Himalayas at all; stay prepared.

Day 37-40

As you complete the Manaslu Climbing Summit Day and get back to Manaslu Base Camp thereafter, it is a descending trek to arrive at Soti Khola before finally driving to Kathmandu. If you like, you may also head forward to cross the Larkya La Pass, the longest mountain pass in Nepal; watch out for knee issues and maintain your pace.

Day 41-43

Based on the 43 days Mount Manaslu climbing itinerary, on the 41st day, you drive back to Kathmandu from Soti Khola one more time, past the lush hills and Nepalese villages. Rest, purchase some souvenirs, and three hours before your scheduled flight, a team member from Mountain Monarch drops you off at TIA. Thank you for choosing our service.

Manaslu Expedition Itinerary:

Daily Outline Itinerary of Manaslu climbing expedition in the Himalayas.

Cost Details

Included

  • Airport transportation as per your arrival date to join the Manaslu expedition
  • Standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a B/B plan
  • Private transportation to and from the expedition starting points.
  • Manaslu Summiters climbing Sherpa (01 Sherpa: 02 Climbers ratio)
  • Group climbing gear like rope, ice bar, etc
  • Manaslu expedition peak climbing permit and all government taxes.
  • Manaslu National part permit fee
  • Full board high altitude meal while trekking to base camp and climbing Manaslu.
  • Liaison officer with all his expenses.
  • Expedition Manager, Expedition cook, support crew, and porters with their equipment, daily wages, food, and insurance.
  • All camping and kitchen equipment, including base camp tents, dining tent with table and chair, kitchen tent, and toilet tent.
  • Mountain Hardware high-altitude tents while climbing the Manaslu expedition
  • 02 @ 4 liters of Oxygen with TOP OUT regulator and mask for the user while on the Manaslu expedition.
  • EPI gas and burner for the high climb;
  • Gamow bag / Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC)
  • All necessary climbing hardware group equipment
  • Satellite Phone and Walkie-Talkie in case of emergency

Excluded

  • Medical and personal high-risk insurance
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • The main meal in Kathmandu
  • Personal equipment and climbing gear.
  • International airfare and airport tax
  • Climbing Bonus, tips, and personal nature expenses.
  • Applicable permit fees and customs charges for Sat phone, communication equipment, and commercial filming

Additional Info

Best times of the year for climbing Mount Manaslu

While most of the trekking route for climbing Manaslu is through the trans-Himalayan region in the rain shadow area, and you may consider summer seasons for journeying as well, for high Himalayan climbing, it is best that you stick to the most optimal time of the year for a better experience, i.e., spring and autumn. Typically, from March to May and September to November, these feature the most favorable climbing conditions.

Low chances of rain and snowfall, mostly stable weather, clear visibility most of the time, and fully operating teahouse logistics arrangements also get easier during these seasons. In winter, it can get extremely cold in the Upper Himalayas, especially at 5,000 m above sea level. Heavy snow dumping can block the trails, and teahouses also may get closed; therefore, Mount Manaslu climbing is recommended only during the prime seasons of spring and autumn.

Food and accommodation on the way to the Manaslu Expedition route

Up until you arrive at Manaslu Base Camp, trekkers and climbers stay at teahouses, lodges, or guest houses following the classic Manaslu Circuit Trekking trail, which also offers daily meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Those options may be limited to basic rooms with twin beds and simple bedding, and a menu consisting of typical Nepalese and Tibetan dishes; they are enough to ensure you a comfortable place to rest and stay fully energized.

From Manaslu Base Camp onwards, your organizers make the essential arrangements. With Mountain Monarch, a local-based trekking and climbing agency with more than two decades of experience booking the comprehensive Manaslu Expedition Package, you stay in tents set up by our professional teams, who also prepare daily meals for you with daily checking of hygiene and nutrients. If you have any special requirements, inform us while booking.

Right preparation for Manaslu Peak climbing

Climbing Mount Manaslu is no ordinary feat. It demands excellent physical and mental endurance. High altitude, long days of trekking and climbing, steep climbs and descents, technical sections requiring the use of fixed ropes, navigating glaciers, snowy and rugged terrains, and potential risks of avalanches, the Mount Manaslu Expedition is not for faint hearts, so proper preparation, experience, and acclimatization are non-negotiable.

Successful ascents to 6,000 m and 7,000 m and hardcore physical training with a strong emphasis on building stamina, endurance, and strength, focusing on cardio. If you are beginners, it is good that you start with moderately high-altitude treks and climbs like the Everest Three High Passes Trek and the Everest High Passes and Peaks of 23 days, and slowly increase to peak climbing to Island, Mera, Lobuche, and Baruntse Expedition.

Is the Manaslu Peak climbing permit cheaper than the permit for the Everest Expedition?

Yes, though Mount Manaslu is the 8th highest mountain peak in the world, measuring 8,000 m above sea level like Mount Everest, the climbing permits for Mount Manaslu have always been a lot cheaper than completing the Manaslu Expedition, especially from September 1st, 2025, as Everest climbing permit fees are now USD 15,000 in spring. More in Nepal increases peak climbing permit fees: What every mountaineer should know.

Other than this, you will also need the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), for which one must be part of the trekking group with at least two people and must be accompanied by a licensed guide from a government-registered trekking agency, such as Mountain Monarc,h even for trekking. Regardless, the Mount Manaslu Expedition Permits overall are still fewer than those for Everest climbing permits.

Why hire a guide to go climb Mount Manaslu in Nepal?

First things first, for high-altitude trekking and climbing inside Nepal’s national park, conservation, and restricted area, with the banning of solo trekkers within the premises strictly from April 1st, 2023, hiring a local guide licensed by the tourism bodies of Nepal is mandatory. Other than that, high-altitude, well-trained local guides and porters are the real heroes of the Himalayas. They lead, navigate, and share safety tips.

In an emergency, they provide you with immediate assistance, such as contacting authorities for emergency helicopter evacuation. Therefore, high-altitude coverage comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. We do provide a Sherpa guide and 1 porter per climber; we do not sell insurance. Consider contacting your local agent. While our experienced Sherpa guide also trains you from Manaslu Base Camp, you make it successfully to the top.