8 Nights 9 Days
We Offer Group Discount
Dec 1 - Dec 1, 2023
Oct 12 - Oct 18, 2025
Oct 12 - Oct 18, 2025
Oct 12 - Dec 18, 2025
Oct 12 - Oct 18, 2025
Manaslu Region
Hotel & Teahouse
Forest and Mountain Trail
Spring and Autumn
Moderate to Challenging
8 Nights 9 Days
4-5 hrs
120.5 km
The Manaslu Circuit Trail Running is a high-altitude endurance adventure in Nepal that circles the world’s eighth-highest peak, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m). Covering approximately 120.5 km over 9 days, the route begins in Machhakhola at Dharapani, with the highlight being the 5,106 m Larkya La Pass. The geography ranges from subtropical valleys to alpine landscapes, passing through remote Tibetan-influenced villages like Jagat, Namrung, and Samagaun. Runners require permits, including those for the Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP), as well as conservation and community development.
Day | Route | Altitude | Distance | Duration | Accommodation | Elevation Change |
| 1 | Kathmandu to Machha Khola | 870m | 8-9 hours drive | 8-9 hours | Lodge | -454m |
| 2 | Machha Khola to Jagat | 1,410m | 17km | 4-5 hours | Tea House | +540m |
| 3 | Jagat to Deng | 1,800m | 18.5km | 5-6 hours | Lodge | +390m |
| 4 | Deng to Namrung | 2,660m | 16km | 4-5 hours | Tea House | +860m |
| 5 | Namrung to Samagaun | 3,530m | 17.5km | 5 hours | Lodge | +870m |
| 6 | Samagaun to Dharamsala | 4,470m | 14km | 4-5 hours | Basic Lodge | +940m |
| 7 | Dharamsala to Bhimtang via Larke La | 3,720m | 15.5km | 6-7 hours | Tea House | +636m/-750m |
| 8 | Bhimtang to Dharapani | 1,860m | 22km | 6 hours | Lodge | -1,860m |
| 9 | Dharapani to Kathmandu | 1,324m | 9-10 hours drive | 9-10 hours | Hotel | -536m |
This Nepal trail running adventure is rated moderate to difficult, requiring prior high-altitude experience and strong physical conditioning. Daily distances vary between 14–22 km with 6–7 hours of running on mixed unpaved, rocky, and steep terrain. Costs depend on group size, with guides, porters, food, transport, and permits included. The best seasons are March–May and September–November for clear skies and stable conditions. Combining endurance, culture, and breathtaking Himalayan views, the Manaslu Circuit offers one of the most authentic and challenging trail running experiences in Nepal.
The Manaslu Circuit Trail Running adventure is one of Nepal's premier mountain endurance race experiences, taking runners around the world's eighth-highest mountain through serene villages and challenging high-altitude passes. This Himalayan ultra marathon spans 9 days and reaches a maximum altitude of 5,106 meters at Larke La Pass.
The trail running in Nepal adventure offers a less crowded yet naturally spectacular alternative to the popular Annapurna Circuit, making it a hidden gem for serious trail running enthusiasts seeking authentic mountain experiences.
The Nepal trail running program starts from Machha Khola and ends at Dharapani, covering approximately 120.5 km through traditional villages like Jagat, Namrung, and Samagaun. This Himalayan trail challenge combines natural beauty with rich cultural experiences in the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Runners will experience stunning views of towering peaks, lush forests, and vibrant landscapes while testing their physical condition through demanding high elevation terrain. The adventure running experience requires excellent levels of fitness and previous high altitude experience above 4,000 meters.
Trail conditions consist of mixed unpaved and muddy paths with steep uphill and downhill sections. Accommodation includes comfortable tea houses and lodges throughout the route. Essential permits include the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
This extreme trail race is recommended for experienced runners with previous trekking in Nepal experience, offering an unforgettable combination of physical challenge and cultural immersion through traditional Himalayan communities.
This forest and mountain trail has a moderate to challenging difficulty rating. Proper preparation and fitness are essential.
Best season for this adventure is Spring and Autumn. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
We'll conduct a pre-trip briefing to discuss the Manaslu Circuit Trail Running - 9 Days route, safety guidelines, equipment requirements, and what to expect during your 8 Nights 9 Days adventure.
The main concept of fastpacking is to carry lighter bag will help you travel further distance in lesser time. Fastpacking gears helps trekkers to run and walk cover multiple days. By fitting all necessary supplies into a lightweight backpack, you can travel faster and cover greater distances, enabling you to explore more without needing to return to a fixed base each night.
Comfortable tea houses and lodges are available throughout the Manaslu circuit route. Twin-sharing rooms with basic amenities and shared bathroom facilities. Common dining areas with wood stoves provide warmth and social interaction. Local and international meal options prepared with fresh mountain ingredients.
Support community-based tourism through responsible travel practices
Group Size | Guides | Porters | Guide Cost | Porter Cost | Transport | MCAP Permit | ACAP Permit | Lodging/Food | Total Per Person |
| 2 Runners | 1 Guide | 1 Porter | $450 | $180 | $50 | $50 | $50 | $720 | $750 |
| 3 Runners | 1 Guide | 2 Porters | $450 | $360 | $75 | $75 | $75 | $1,080 | $675 |
| 4 Runners | 1 Guide | 2 Porters | $450 | $360 | $100 | $100 | $100 | $1,440 | $637 |
| 5 Runners | 2 Guides | 3 Porters | $900 | $360 | $125 | $125 | $125 | $1,800 | $687 |
| 6 Runners | 2 Guides | 3 Porters | $900 | $540 | $150 | $150 | $150 | $2,160 | $675 |
The circuit passes through multiple ecological zones from subtropical to alpine environments. Dense rhododendron and pine forests provide habitat for diverse wildlife species. Seasonal wildflowers and medicinal plants are found throughout the conservation area. Traditional agricultural practices support local food systems and cultural sustainability.
The Manaslu circuit trail running difficulty is rated moderate to difficult due to several demanding factors:
An essential MCAP permit is required for all trail runners entering the restricted Manaslu region. Cost of $25 per person for foreign nationals accessing protected conservation areas. Obtained through registered trekking agencies before departure. Supports conservation efforts and community development in remote mountain areas.
Required ACAP permit for accessing the Annapurna region sections of the circuit. An additional $25 per person fee supporting environmental protection initiatives. Combined with MCAP provides complete legal access to the circuit route. Essential for crossing from Manaslu to the Annapurna conservation areas.
Mandatory TIMS card registration provides safety tracking and emergency contact information. Obtained through licensed trekking agencies with passport and photo requirements. Essential for rescue coordination if emergencies occur during trail running. Updated contact details ensure family notification capabilities.
Minimum number of participants required for program execution. Full refund provided if minimum participation is not achieved after registration. Alternative program options are available if the selected event cancellation occurs. Early booking is recommended for preferred departure dates and group composition.
The Manaslu Circuit Trail Running adventure represents the ultimate Himalayan ultra-marathon experience, combining world-class mountain scenery with authentic cultural immersion and extreme physical challenges. This Nepal trail running program offers participants an unforgettable journey through diverse landscapes while testing endurance limits in one of the world's most spectacular mountain environments.
Manaslu Circuit Trail Running - 9 Days is available for booking on the dates below. Please inquire for the best deal or share with friends to plan together. All trips are group based. For custom trips, contact us.
