Nepal is the destination of trekkers from all around the world. Nepal consists of beautiful snow-capped mountains, including the World’s highest peak. Nepal is genuinely a god-gifted paradise with abundant mountain peaks and ranges. As autumn is approaching, the best season for mountain trekking, many are excited about it.

The best part about trekking is choosing the destination from many lists. We will help to choose the best-suited destination for you. After you go through our blog, you will be able to pick one. 

However, in this blog, we will discuss two of those places. Which one to choose? Everest Base Camp or Manaslu Circuit Trek! Well, both regions have their unique features that amaze us with their beauty.

Introduction about Everest Base Camp Trek

Everest Base Camp trek is the trek towards the World’s highest peak, Mount Everest with an altitude of 8848 m above sea level. This trek takes 14 days to complete. It starts from Namche bazaar of Solukhumbu district in the eastern part of Nepal.

Along the journey you coincide with abundant mountain ranges, and panoramic views of many submits, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Lobuche, and many other mountains. The most welcoming sherpa community makes your heart flutter wanting to visit this place again and again. 

The journey to this trek starts from 35 minutes of the most scenic flight of Nepal from Kathmandu to Lukla. After reaching Lukla, trekkers start their journey from the river bank of Dudh Koshi, passing through Sagarmatha National Park to Namche Bazaar; the trading point of the Everest region. Most of the mountaineers start their journey to the peak of this region.

After reaching Namche bazaar, trekkers start walking to Tengboche monastery, then to Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep; with the world’s deepest glacier Khumbu glacier, and finally Mt. base camp. The next morning, trekkers trek to Kala Patthar at an altitude of 5555m for sunrise through the peak. This is the highest altitude any trekker could reach in the base camp region. It is located on the border between Nepal and China. 

Mahalangur mountain range including many submits in the Khumbu region, Sherpa village, Buddhist, and ascending journey is a breathtaking life experience you will never forget. The well-maintained paths, raw beauty of the Himalayas, Sherpa people, most vivid tradition, culture, lifestyle, and their cultivation remind you to be down to earth; and very humble.

Further reading: Everest Base Camp trek

Introduction about Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit trek is the trek to Mt.Manaslu with an altitude of 8163m situated within the Mansiri Himal range in the north-central part of Nepal; Gorkha district. This trek challenges our physical ability due to its difficult landscapes and narrow mountain passes.

Trek to Manaslu leads to the World’s eight highest peaks with submits like Manaslu, Himlung, and Annapurna II. Many beautiful mountains, forests, rivers, flora, and wildlife make you feel heavenly. 

This trek lasts for 13 days starting from low landscapes and slowly ascending to high altitude. It starts at Machha Khola leading to Beshi Sahar, then north to Larkya La pass. Manaslu circuit having Annapurna to the west and Ganesh Himal to the east is the most peaceful trek you will ever experience. It is not flooded with people at all. 

The gorgeous low landscapes from various cultivation to gorges of Budi Gandaki with its waterfalls lead to Larkya La pass next to Tibet which is the most difficult part of the journey. You can see Cheo Himal, Gyali Kang, Himlung Himal, and Kang Guni Himal from Larkya La Pass (5167 m); the highest you could reach in this region. 

Abundant mountains bring beautiful landscapes, variation of wildlife, and cultural and religious diversity here will leave a good mark on your heart. It is a more peaceful trek than the Everest base camp with fewer people. 

Further Details: Manaslu Circuit trek

Everest Base Camp & Manaslu Circuit: Duration, Route, Map, Culture, Lifestyle, Crowd, Best Time

Not only the destination but the journey to both places gives you authentic lifestyle beauty and good vibes. Both regions will welcome you with the warmest gestures, make sure you are having a great time, and farewell you with many memories. 

The trek length, altitude, terrain, and weather conditions vary between the Everest Base Camp and Manaslu Circuit trek. The Manaslu circuit trek 177 km of trek is longer than the Everest Base camp trek with 130 km distance.

The Everest Base camp trek starts from Lukla while the Manaslu trek starts from Machha Khola. The Everest base camp journey ascends continuously from the beginning of the journey while the Manaslu trek starts from low to high altitude giving you time to adapt to that region. 

The Everest Base camp trek is an over-hyped trek among trekkers so it is quite populated during peak seasons. So better choose the Manaslu trek if you want a peaceful journey with fewer people. Lets compare abong this trek so you can find out which one is best for you.

Reaching starting point of trekking route:

To reach the EBC there is option by both flight and taking the road transportation. The most popular ways to reach EBC trek is by taking lukla flight or ride through Jiri and trek to reach Lukla Town. For the Manaslu circuit trek there is no flight option so you need to take road transportation to reach Besisahar which is the starting point of trek. If you want to enjoy the thrilling flight in world dangerous airport than you can choose EBC trek. For those who want to avoid the flight then it is best to choose the Manalsu Circuit.

Altitude & Difficulty:

Though Everest Base camp(5,364 m) is situated at a higher altitude than the Manaslu Circuit trek(5,110 m), Manaslu is considered a challenging trek due to the longer distance and difficult landscapes in Larkya La pass. Everest can be done with friends and family but Manaslu Circuit is best for the experienced trekkers.

Culture:

Everest region is full of Sherpa people only whereas Manaslu is more diversified with Gurung, Tibetans, Tamang, and Brahmins. Both places are full of warm welcoming people. Due to immigrants in Manaslu, you can enjoy diversity in culture.

Religious Diversity:

You can find only Buddhism in the Everest region while you get to see both Hinduism and Buddhism in the Manaslu region. Religious diversity is something that teaches about the famous quote “Unity in Diversity”. If you want to learn about the Sherpa culture than Everest base camp trek is best but if you want to learn mix culture than you can undertake Manaslu Circuit. 

Trial Crowd:

Everest Base Camp is more crowded than Manaslu. During peak season many people prefer to trek the Everest region that’s why Everest base camp trekking route is more crowded than Manaslu Circuit. Both places are peaceful, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, but if you prefer less crowd, Manaslu is the best option.

Permit Process:

Trekkers can get the Permit easily for the Everest base camp. It is even possible to grab the permit for the EBC without trekking agency. Trekkers can apply on thier own. However for the Manaslu circuit trek they need to go through the trekking agency to grab the Manaslu trek permit.

Group Size:

For the Manaslu Circuit you must trek in a group of minimum two perople. Also hiring the liscensed trekking guide is Compulsary. For the EBC trek you can trek along by hiring the guide so Manaslu trek is best if you are in a large group.

Food Accomondation & Facility:

EBC which is the world famous trek has numerous tea house on the trekking routes so here trekkers can trek without getting difficulty in finding food, accomondation and other extra facilites. Whereas in the Manaslu Circuit, compared to the EBC here you will find less facilites of accomondation, food and other extra facilites. Additionall, trekkers can also find the Luxirious EBC trek package to explore Everest Base Camp. If you want luxury it is best to choose EBC.

Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

• Activities: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport then transfer to 4 Star hotel.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
• Notes: Rest and prepare for the trek. Check gear and permits.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Preparation

• Activities: Visit UNESCO Heritage Sites of Nepal (Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath).
• Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
• Notes: Grab Trek permits from your trekking agency and meet with your guide and porters.  For hiring guide and porter check here: Guide and porter for Everest base camp trek

Day 3: Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding

• Flight: Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800 m / 9,186 ft).
• Trek: Lukla to Phakding (2,610 m / 8,563 ft) – 3-4 hours.
• Accommodation: Lodge in Phakding.

Note: If the flight is diverted to Ramechhap airport then you need to reach Ramcehhap airport first. Then you can take a Ramechhap to Lukla Flight.

Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar

• Trek: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft) – 5-6 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Namche Bazaar.
• Notes: Steep ascent, scenic views of the Himalayas.

Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

• Activities: Trekkes can have option to visit Everest View Hotel or Sherpa Museum.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Namche Bazaar.
• Notes: Acclimatization is important in this day to prevent from alitude sickness and other health complication that can airse due to high alitude. So rest well, drink enough water and eat healthy nutrious food.

Day 6: Trek to Tengboche

• Trek: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860 m / 12,664 ft) – 5-6 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Tengboche.
• Activities: Visit the Tengboche Monastery.

Day 7: Trek to Dingboche

• Trek: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 m / 14,470 ft) – 5-6 hours.
• Accommodation: Lodge in Dingboche.
• Activities: Enjoy views of Ama Dablam and other peaks.

Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

• Activities: Short hike to Nagarjun Hill or Chhukung Valley.
• Accommodation: Lodge in Dingboche.
• Notes: Monitor your health conditoins. Check whether there is any symptoms of alitude sickness or not. Preparation for higher altitudes.

Day 9: Trek to Lobuche

• Trek: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940 m / 16,207 ft) – 5-6 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Lobuche.
• Notes: Next day you will set your foot to the Everest Base Camp. So make sure to charge your mobile/camera to capture the panoramic view from base camp.

Day 10: Trek to Everest Base Camp

• Trek: Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m / 17,598 ft) – 7-8 hours.
• Accommodation: Return to Gorak Shep (5,164 m / 16,942 ft).
• Activities: Explore Everest Base Camp, snap enough photograph and return to Gorak Shep for the night.

If you want to skip the trek after exploring you can also do that. For this you need to check our another package: Everest base camp trek with helicopter return

Day 11: Hike to Kala Patthar, Return to Pheriche

• Activities: Early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,644 m / 18,519 ft) for sunrise.
• Trek: Return to Gorak Shep and descend to Pheriche (4,371 m / 14,340 ft) – 7-8 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Pheriche.

Day 12: Trek to Namche Bazaar

• Trek: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar – 6-7 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Namche Bazaar.
• Notes: A long day of descent and some ascent.

Day 13: Trek to Lukla

• Trek: Namche Bazaar to Lukla – 6-7 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Lukla.
• Notes: Your trekking guide and porter will do farewall to you. Best Day to celebration with your team for the sucessful completion of Everset Base Camp Trek.

Day 14: Fly to Kathmandu

• Flight: Lukla to Kathmandu.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
• Activites: After you reach Kathmandu airport you will be taken to the hotel form trekking agency staff. Later you can go for Shopping or exploring the city.

Day 15: Departure from Kathmandu

• Activities: Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for departure.
• Notes: You will be taken to the airport as per you schedule flight from trekking agency in private vehicle.

Important Notes:

• Weather and Flight Conditions: Lukla flight depends upon the weather so make sure to travel during the best time so chances of flight cancellation will be low.
• Altitude Sickness: During Everest base camp trek chances of alitude sickness is high so before undertaking make sure to learn altitude sickness sypmtoms and prevention.
• Permits:  Before starting the Everest base camp trek make sure to obtain Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit. To know more about the permit check here: Everest base camp trek permit

Manaslu Circui Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

• Activities: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, get tourist visa then transefer to the nice star hotel in Thamel area.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Preparation

• Activities: Explore Kathmandu’s highlights (Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath).
• Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
• Notes: The fees to enter the heritage sites will not be include in trekking pakage therefore make sure to carry some Nepalese currency.

Day 3: Drive to Soti Khola

• Drive: Kathmandu to Soti Khola (approx. 7-8 hours).
• Accommodation: Tea house in Soti Khola.
• Notes: The driving hour will be long and the road condition near the sotio khol is bumpy and dusty. Make sure to wear mask, comfortable shoes and snacks items.

Day 4: Trek to Machha Khola

• Trek: Soti Khola to Machha Khola (900 m / 2,952 ft) – 5-6 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Machha Khola.

Note: You can directly reach to Machha Khola as well to shorten the trekking itinerary. To reach directly Machha khola check here: Machha Khola Transportation

Day 5: Trek to Jagat

• Trek: Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340 m / 4,396 ft) – 6-7 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Jagat.
• Notes: On this day you will enter the Manaslu Conservation Area so make sure to carry the permit and do check in the check point.

Day 6: Trek to Deng

• Trek: Jagat to Deng (1,860 m / 6,109 ft) – 6-7 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Deng.

Day 7: Trek to Namrung

• Trek: Deng to Namrung (2,630 m / 8,626 ft) – 6-7 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Namrung.

Day 8: Trek to Lho

• Trek: Namrung to Lho (3,180 m / 10,433 ft) – 5-6 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Lho.
• Notes: Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks.

Day 9: Trek to Samagaon

• Trek: Lho to Samagaon (3,530 m / 11,583 ft) – 4-5 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Samagaon.
• Notes: Explore the beautiful Samagaon village and visit the Pungyen Monastery if time allows.

Day 10: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon

• Activities: Short hike to Birendra Lake
• Accommodation: Tea house in Samagaon.
• Notes: Acclimatization well to adjust to the altitude and reduce alitude sickness.

Day 11: Trek to Samdo

• Trek: Samagaon to Samdo (3,860 m / 12,664 ft) – 4-5 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Samdo.
• Notes: Keep monitior your heath and drink enough water for hydration.

Day 12: Acclimatization Day in Samdo

• Activities: Hike to the Tibetan border or explore local areas.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Samdo.
• Notes: Acclimatization in Samdo helps you prepare for the challenging Larkya La Pass ahead.

Day 13: Trek to Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi)

• Trek: Samdo to Dharmasala (4,460 m / 14,633 ft) – 4-5 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Dharmasala.
• Notes: Tea house in the Dharmasala has very basic facilites of lodging and food.

Day 14: Cross Larkya La Pass, Trek to Bimthang

• Trek: Dharmasala to Bimthang (3,720 m / 12,205 ft) via Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,930 ft) – 8-10 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Bimthang.
• Notes: Today trek will be one of the hardest and challenging so make sure to follow your guide instruction. You will start trekking from early in the morning.

Day 15: Trek to Tilije

• Trek: Bimthang to Tilije (2,300 m / 7,546 ft) – 5-6 hours.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Tilije.

Day 16: Trek to Tal, Drive to Kathmandu

• Trek: Tilije to Tal (1,700 m / 5,577 ft) – 4-5 hours.
• Drive: Tal to Kathmandu (approx. 8-9 hours).
• Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 17: Departure from Kathmandu

• Activities: Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for departure.
• Notes: Depending on your flight time, you might have some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Important Notes:

• Weather and Road Conditions: During the winter season the road condtion can be challenging for driving. So it will best to trek during the month of spring and the autumn season.
• Altitude Sickness: During Manaslu Circuit trek also there is  high chance of getting altitude sickness. So prepare well.
• Permits: Manalsu Circui trek is considered as the restricted trekking destination in Nepal therefore trekkers must obtain the restricted permit before undertaking this trek. Read more abou the permit required for Manalsu Circuit trek: Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit

How to Book Everest Base Camp or Manaslu Circuit Trek

You can book the Everest Base Camp or Manaslu Circuit trek with Eco Nepal by contacting us via WhatsApp, IMO, Viber, or email. You can also visit our office and book the trek if you wish.

Address: Amar Chitrakarmarg, Kathmandu, Nepal 44600.
Phone: +977-9813322433
Cell: +977-9813322433
Email: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Which one is more costly Everest Base Camp or Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Compared to the Everest Base Camp trek, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is often more cost-effective, despite the need for a restricted area permit. This is primarily due to the high cost of round-trip flights to Lukla for the Everest trek. In contrast, reaching the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit trek is more affordable as it can be accessed via ground transportation.

Which trek is easier: Everest Base Camp or Manaslu Circuit?

In short, the Everest Base Camp trek is more popular and accessible, typically taking 12-14 days to complete. It’s known for well-established trails and amenities but can be challenging due to altitude and unpredictable weather.

The Manaslu Circuit trek is more remote and rugged, lasting 14-16 days. It involves crossing the challenging Larkya La pass and offers a less crowded experience with limited amenities.

The choice between the two depends on preferences, fitness levels, and the desire for either a more popular or remote trekking experience.

When is the best time to trek for Everest Base Camp and Manaslu Circuit?

For both of the trek Everest base camp and Manaslu Circuit Trek, the best time to go trekking is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season from March to May and the post-monsoon (autumn) season from September to November.

During the Spring and Autumn, you can expect less rainfall and stable weather conditions compared to winter and rainy seasons. clear skies, long daylight hours, and moderate temperatures indeed create ideal conditions for trekking.

They offer better visibility, allowing trekkers to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Additionally, comfortable temperatures make the trek more enjoyable and manageable, enhancing the overall experience for trekkers on both the Everest Base Camp and Manaslu Circuit routes.

Is hiring a guide and porter necessary for the Everest Base Camp Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, it is mandatory to hire a licensed guide for both the Everest Base Camp Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal. Trekking without a licensed guide is against local regulations and can result in penalties, including hefty fines. Hiring a licensed guide ensures your safety, as they are trained in mountain rescue techniques, familiar with the terrain, and can provide essential support and guidance throughout the trek.

Read more: Guide and Porter Hiring For Trekking In Nepal

How to book the Everest Base Camp Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek?

To book the Everest Base Camp Trek or Manaslu Circuit Trek, simply fill out the form on our website with your preferred package details. Afterward, send us a scanned copy of your passport via email. If you require any assistance with booking, feel free to contact us at +977-9813322433. We’re here to help!

Conclusion

By far you must have known about the details of both regions. Choose the one that is best suited for you. Both the places amaze you and they are going to be the best journey in your entire life.

Autumn is the best season for both places because during winter the extreme climate in the Everest region is not favorable while the monsoon region brings landslides in the Manaslu region. We Eco Nepal trekkers will assist you and manage treks for you at an affordable cost. For booking or any queries regarding the trek please contact or mail us. Have a great day!