Manaslu circuit trek, off-the-beaten-path experiences
Top highlights of Manaslu circuit trek
Throughout the Manaslu circuit trek, you will witness mountains like Himalchuli, Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, Ngadi Chuli Manaslu, Shringi, and many more
Reaching Larke La Pass (5135 meters) offers panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, making the challenging ascend worth every step taken
Provides a peaceful and less crowded environment, making it an ideal trek for those who seek an adventure of a life time and the opportunity to create cherished memories
One of the pristine alternatives to the popular Everest and Annapurna routes
Interact with the warm- hearted locals and experience their cultures and traditions
Opportunity to visit the base camp of Mount Manaslu, allowing you to explore the views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers more closely
The primarily accommodations along the trek are in tea houses and in some areas, home stays that allows to connect with the friendly locals and enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine
Encounters a diverse range of flora and fauna
Passing through the picturesque villages like Deng, Namrung, and Samagaon provide a chance to experience authentic village life in the Himalayas
Trek through terraced fields and subtropical forests to alpine meadows and high desert
Witness several Buddhist monasteries, including the Rachen Gompa in the Tsum valley and the MU Gompa
The side trip to Tsum valley is an extension of the Manaslu circuit trek
The region is dotted with mani walls, chortens, and other Buddhist religious landmarks
Mount Manaslu, Known as “Kutung” is the world’s eighth- highest mountain set in the northern Himalayan range in the Gorkha district of Nepal. It stands at an elevation of 8156 meters (26759 feet), about 64 km east of Annapurna offering incredible views of adjoining peaks of Ngadi Chuli (7871 meters), Sringi Himal (7187 meters), and Himal Chuli (7893 m). Manaslu was first successfully climbed by the members of a Japanese expedition in 1956, May, lead by Toshio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu. Since then the country forbid trekking in this region due to its close border with Tibet/ China. From 1992 onwards the Manaslu circuit trekking slowly begins to open its doors for trekking with limiting the mass flow of trekkers and adventurers. It remains restricted area due to which trekkers need to obtain special permit to enter the high Manaslu valley from the lower village of Jagat. In comparison to few decades ago, the area is obtaining more popularity among the adventure lovers, explorers, and mountaineers. As of May 2008, the Mount Manaslu has been climbed 297 times with 53 fatalities.
Furthermore, Manaslu is one of those peaks that have spiritual importance. Its name, which means “Mount of the Spirit”, comes from the Sanskrit word Manasa meaning “Intellect” or “soul.” This area is home to more than 2000 species of wild plants, 110 species of birds, 3 reptiles, 33 mammals, and 11 butterflies as it lies inside the Manaslu Conservation Area. Inside the conservation area, you can witness golden eagle, kalij, crimson horned pheasant, Himalayan tahr, grey wolf, blue sheep, musk deer, snow leopard, rhododendron flowers and so on. Similarly Manaslu circuit trek provides you with an opportunity to explore and enjoy the walks in remote and off-beaten parts of Nepal. The trek offers you a wild and authentic experience in these areas. You will trek from the scenic valley towards Manang, where the trek ends at Dharapani village of further more. The walk involves crossing over a challenging but rewarding Larke La Pass at 5106 meters/ 16752 feet. You will also get a chance to cross a number of famous rivers like Budi Gandaki, Machha Khola, Tharo Khola, Deng Khola, and Ghatta Khola. Hence, en route, you can witness 10 peaks over 6500 meters including some over 7000 meters.
The history, Religion, and Cultures of high Manaslu Valley
The people living in a high Manaslu region usually follows Tibetan Buddhism. Therefore, the culture and the heritages are similar with its Tibetan predecessors. The people living in the higher area of remote north Gorkha district as well as the people of Tsum Valley are known as Bhot. More than 500 years ago, the native of both Manaslu and Tsum valley migrated to Nepal from southwest Tibet. In early days, the region was the main trade route to Tibet. People still cross the border for exchanging crops, wools, with Tibetan merchandises and other Chinese. The base of Larke- La pass was called Larke bazaar as it was the main trade hub for the traders and merchants from Tibet, Manang, and all parts of Gorkha district. These days, the place is known as Dharmasala or Larke Phedi, the bottom of a hill or a pass.
You can witness several monasteries and religious sites that reflect the rich Buddhist heritage. It serves as centers for religious practices, cultural events, and education. The houses are built in Nepali traditional style: stone houses with flat roofs and intricate woodwork. Similarly, the houses are adorned with various colorful religious flags, and the trails are lined with prayer stone walls and spinning wheels. It is believed that walking clockwise around Buddhist monasteries shows the respect for local heritage and custom. Additionally, Tibetan New Year, Losar is one of the major festivals celebrated in the Manaslu valley, featuring traditional music, dance, and rituals. Besides Buddhists people, the lower mid- hills and warmer regions of Gorkha district you can witness mixed tribes of hill people, including both Hindu and Buddhist religion with various unique traditions and cultures.
Various options to start and end the Manaslu circuit trek
Trekking to Manaslu region offers various trekking route to start the Manaslu circuit trek. The minimum duration is two weeks or more as per the interest of the trekkers. Trekkers can start their trek from Soti Khola or Macha Khola as well as alternative route from Barphak and Laprak (the high hill villages of Gorkha). Note that if you have enough time then you can extend you trek to Tsum Valley i.e. Manaslu circuit trek with Tsum valley.
The Manaslu circuit trek, crossing high Larke La Pass (5103 m)
The walk from the base of Larke Phedi or Dharmasala to the top of the Larke La Pass standing at the elevation of 5106 meters is unforgettable journey. The journey involves steep climb over the ridge and moraine of ice and the boulders of rocks, a long haul up. Along the trail to the pass you will encounter thousands of colorful Buddhists flags on a board with the name Larke La Pass and its altitude. Upon reaching at the pass, you will get a chance to enjoy unparalleled panorama of Manaslu peaks with Damodar Himal towards the North-west. Apart from this, it also offers stunning views of the Larke Peak, Annapurna Himalayas, and the Ganesh Himal. The pass offers heading back within forested areas of Rhododendrons, Pine, and Firs until reaching Bhimthang for an overnight stop. After the pass within beautiful Manang areas, the walk leads on amazing downhill through a lush forested path to another charming Dharapani village. After spending the last overnight, at Dharapani- a lovely village on the high hills of Manaslu Himalayan. Hence, after a mesmerizing adventure and a great experience on Manaslu circuit trek, we will have a wonderful long drive back to the hustle and bustle of city life in Kathmandu.
The villages you will pass through in Manaslu circuit trekking route
The excellent time for Manaslu circuit trekking
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the most popular times for Manaslu circuit trekking. During this season, there is stronger sunlight, temperature begins to rise and the days grow longer providing ample opportunities for sightseeing. It is the pre- monsoon period when nature regenerates its lost beauty. The buds start to appear on trees and bushes and plants start to grow new bright green leaves and colorful flowers. The hills and valleys are covered in colorful blooming flowers including rhododendrons in red, purple, pink and white, making it an excellent time for trekking and enjoying the natural beauty of the country. The sight and smell of blooming flowers boost your mood and overall emotional well- being. Moreover, spring is a time of cultural and religious festivities in Nepal. Each festival has its own unique custom and traditions and they offer great opportunities to immerse you in Nepalese culture and explore the country’s rich religious and cultural diversity.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is another most popular and picturesque seasons for this wonderful trek in Manaslu region. It is the peak trekking season: characterized by clear skies, mild temperatures, and low humidity. The high mountains are still cold and the lower elevations are still warm but the day time walking temperatures are the most pleasant overall. The monsoon rains have usually ended by September, leaving behind lush green landscapes and pristine mountain views. As the season progresses, the lush green landscapes of start to change as leaves turn golden and red, creating stunning autumnal scenes in various parts of the country. You can witness snow- capped peaks against clear blue skies, with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The trekking trails take you through dense forests, terraced fields, and charming mountain villages.
Required permits for Manaslu circuit trekking
The Manaslu region is within a restricted region of Nepal. Therefore, all the trekkers willing to trek in this need to obtain trekking permit from authorized Nepali trekking agency. Similarly, minimum group size of two people is required to access this route, independent and solo trekking is not allowed. Here’s the necessary permit you need to take while trekking in this region:
1) The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)
2) The Manaslu conservation Area Project (MCAP)
2. Restricted Area permits (RAP)
Thus, ACAP and MCAP permits can be applied by yourself (trekker) and collect from offices in Kathmandu, Pokhara OR Besisahar. Remember that Restricted area permit is only issued by a licensed trekking agency in Nepal, being restricted status. That’s why taking a help of a reputed trekking agency to obtain all these three permits will be convenient for you as the agency manages the documentation and application of the permits. Furthermore, if you are seeking one of the reputed trekking agencies in Nepal to plan for holidays for Manaslu circuit trek then anyone can join Visit Mount Pvt. Ltd. We are here to manage all you activities from providing licensed trekking guide with their insurance, porter, foods, accommodation, and shops for shopping your gears as well, which helps to ease your both mental and physical burden and enjoy each and every moment during the trek.
Availability of foods and Accommodation during the Manaslu and Tsum valley trek
The Manaslu and the Tsum valley trekking route is well- equipped with basic teahouses and lodges along the trail. The teahouses offer a variety of meals, including local Nepali dishes, Tibetan cuisine, and some international options. The availability of foods you can expect to find dal bhat (a traditional Nepali meal with lentil soup, rice, and vegetables), noodles, momo (dumplings), and other local dishes. Keep in mind, the options o foods might be more limited, especially as you trek in remote areas (higher elevations). It’s suggested to carry energy bars for emergencies.
Accommodations along the trek, is primarily provided by teahouses and lodges. The facilities may be basic but offer comfortable places to rest and recharges. The rooms are available in twin- shared basis with a bed, blanket, and shared bathrooms. In addition, you will have a chance to eat your meals in a common dining area interacting with the fellow trekkers. Note that hot showers may be available in some places in additional cost. Hence, it’s advisable to carry a sleeping bag, as you gain altitude, you will experience more cold temperatures due to which the blankets provided may not be sufficient. Know that booking in advance is usually not required, except during the peak trekking season when the trail might be busier.
Manaslu circuit trek difficulty
Manaslu circuit trek is suitable for the experienced trekkers as well as beginners, but may feel a bit challenging to undertake due to high- altitude treks. The trek involves continuous hiking, steep ascents, descents, and high altitudes. In some areas you can experience narrow and high trails above the ranging Budi Gandaki River. The way to Jagat and Philim offers a slow gradual ups. Then, the walk leads higher areas from Deng and Namrung villages. You need to take it slowly due to gain in high altitude, stop for rest, and continue to walk to the designated overnight stops.
Reaching on village like Lo- Gaon offer gradual walk with gentle ups and downs to Sama- Gaon. After passing through these beautiful villages, you will enter into Dharmasala, from there to Larke La Pass you will experience the challenging walk and climb on steep ups all the way to the top. Reaching at the top of the pass will be rewarding experience that you will cherish for a long time. Then, we will take our steps back to Bhimthang, one of the longest and hardest walk of the trek. After spending overnight at Bhimthang, in the early morning, you will have a pleasant with an convenient walk towards downhill to Dharapani, the end of wonderful trek.