Manaslu Circuit Trek: A Hidden Trekking Gem in Nepal

April 04, 2023, Post by: Adventure Highpass

Nepal, with its towering mountains, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultural experiences, is undoubtedly one of the most popular trekking destinations in the world. The Manaslu Circuit Trek stands out as a must-try experience among its many trekking routes. Situated in the remote western region of Nepal, this trek takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Himalayas and offers an unparalleled cultural experience. 

So, in this article, we're excited to take a closer look at the Manaslu Circuit Trek - its highlights, challenges, and everything else you need to know to plan your adventure. Get ready to be inspired and embark on an unforgettable journey of a lifetime!

Introduction

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 177 km long journey that takes you on an adventure around the majestic Manaslu Mountain (8,163 m) - a true feast for the eyes. Starting and ending in Arughat, a small town in the Gorkha district of Nepal, the trek follows the Budhi Gandaki River upstream, taking you through lush forests, picturesque villages, and high mountain passes. 

Throughout your journey, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Manaslu mountain range, including several peaks over 7,000 m, such as Himalchuli (7,893 m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m), and Ganesh Himal (7,422 m). The best part? The trek also offers an opportunity to explore the region's unique culture and interact with the friendly locals - making it a visual delight and a cultural one. So, get ready to embark on a journey that will leave you in awe and make unforgettable memories!

Trek Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a teahouse trek, which means that you'll be staying in cozy lodges and guesthouses along the way, where you can rest and recharge for the next day's adventures. With the trek typically taking around 14-16 days to complete and the average daily walking distance being 12-15 km, you'll have ample time to soak in the mesmerizing views and explore the region's unique culture. 

However, the trek's highest point is the Larkya La Pass (5,160 m), which is also the most challenging part of the trek. With the trek graded as moderate to difficult, it requires good fitness and endurance. And while altitude sickness can be a concern, with proper acclimatization and following your trekking company's guidelines, you can easily conquer the mountain. So, get ready for an adventure of a lifetime, where every step you take is filled with stunning views and an experience you'll never forget.

Why Choose Manaslu Circuit Trek?

If you're a trekking enthusiast, the Manaslu Circuit Trek should definitely be on your bucket list, and here's why. Firstly, unlike some more popular trekking routes, such as the Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is relatively unexplored, providing a genuine wilderness experience. With less crowd, you can bask in the beauty of the stunning scenery in peace, truly connecting with nature. 

Secondly, the trek is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's unique culture. As you traverse through several remote villages, you'll encounter various ethnic groups such as the Gurungs, Tibetans, and Tamangs, each with their own customs, traditions, and beliefs, adding a whole new dimension to your adventure. 

And finally, the trek offers some of the most spectacular mountain views in the Himalayas, including the majestic Manaslu peak, the eighth highest mountain in the world. So, prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey combining adventure, culture, and breathtaking views.

Best Time to Trek Manaslu Circuit

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal, known for its breathtaking scenery, cultural diversity, and challenging terrain. Trekking this route can be an incredible experience, but choosing the best time to go can make all the difference.

The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during the autumn and spring seasons. Autumn, which runs from September to November, offers the most stable weather and clear views of the Himalayan mountains. During this time, the skies are clear, and the temperature is moderate, making it ideal for trekking. Moreover, the weather is generally dry, which means that the trekking trails are not muddy, making it easier to navigate.

Spring, which runs from March to May, is also an excellent time to trek the Manaslu Circuit. During this season, the temperature is mild, and the weather is stable. The trekking trails are covered with beautiful rhododendron flowers, which are in full bloom, making it a picturesque journey. However, the spring season can be slightly more crowded than autumn due to the clear weather and beautiful scenery.

The monsoon season, which runs from June to August, should be avoided as trekking during this time can be extremely challenging. The rainfall makes the trekking trails slippery, and there is a higher risk of landslides. Trekking during the winter season, which runs from December to February, is also not recommended as it can be extremely cold and difficult to trek in the snowy conditions.

It's also important to consider the festivals and holidays in Nepal while planning your trek. The Dashain and Tihar festivals, which fall in October and November, respectively, are celebrated with great zeal in Nepal. This can add a unique cultural experience to your trek, but it can also make it crowded and challenging to find accommodation and transportation.

Difficulty Level of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Taking on the Manaslu Circuit Trek requires a moderate to difficult level of fitness and endurance. The trek involves steep ascents and descents and reaches its peak at the challenging Larkya La Pass, situated at an altitude of 5,160 m. 

Altitude sickness is also possible, so it's crucial to acclimatize correctly and adhere to the advice of your trekking company. Nonetheless, with sufficient preparation and training, the trek is achievable for most trekkers with previous experience.

Itinerary of Manaslu Circuit Trek

The typical itinerary for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is as follows:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

Day 02: Kathmandu sightseeing and Permits preparation for the trek

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola (830 m) by a private jeep

Day 04: Trekking to Jagat (1370m)

Day 05: Trekking to Deng (1865m)

Day 06: Trekking to Namrung (2630)

Day 07: Trekking to Lho (3400)

Day 08: Trekking to Samagaun (3850)

Day 09: Acclimatization/exploration day at Manaslu Base Camp (5135) and Birendra Lake

Day 10: Trekking to Samdo (3860m)

Day 11: Trekking to Dharmasala (4470m)

Day 12: Trekking to Bimthang via Larke Pass (5160m)

Day 13: Trekking to to Tilje (2281 m).

Day 14: Drive to Kathmandu By Jeep

Day 15: Free day in Kathmandu

Day 16: Departure

Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is full of highlights, and here are some of the most notable ones:

• The stunning mountain views of the Manaslu range and several other peaks over 7,000 m.

• The unique cultural experience of interacting with the friendly locals and exploring the remote villages.

• The challenging but rewarding crossing of the Larkya La Pass offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.

• The diverse landscapes, from lush forests to barren high-altitude terrain, make the trek a feast for the eyes.

• The opportunity to visit the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to several endangered species, including the elusive snow leopard.

What to Pack for Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Packing for the Manaslu Circuit Trek requires careful consideration, and here are some essentials that you shouldn't forget:

Clothes: 

• Down Jacket

• Windcheater

• Cap

• Gloves

• Warn woolen socks

• Quality trekking boots with gripping sole

• Muffler/ scarf

• Warm trouser

Equipment:

• Trekking poles

• Headlights

• Sleeping bag

• U-lock

• Oxygen

• Survival blankets

• Insect repellent, etc.

Electronics:

• Phone charger

• Power bank

• Torch

• Headlight

• Headphone/ earphone, etc.

Others: 

• Dry foods

• Trekking map

• Snacks

• Mineral water

• Prescribed medicines

• Water bottle, etc.

Accommodation and Food on Manaslu Circuit Trek

Accommodation and food on the Manaslu Circuit Trek are basic but comfortable. Trekkers will find a range of accommodation options, from teahouses to homestays, along the trekking route. Most of the teahouses and lodges offer basic facilities, including clean and comfortable rooms, shared toilets, and hot showers at an additional cost.

The teahouses on the Manaslu Circuit Trek are family-owned, and the hosts are warm and welcoming. They offer a homely atmosphere and traditional Nepalese hospitality. Trekkers can enjoy a comfortable night's sleep in a private or shared room, depending on their preference and availability. It's recommended to carry a sleeping bag and a warm blanket, especially during the winter months, as the rooms can get chilly.

Food on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is predominantly Nepalese cuisine, with some western options available in some teahouses. The food is simple but delicious, with plenty of carbohydrates and proteins to provide energy for the trek. Dal bhat, a traditional Nepalese dish of lentil soup, rice, and vegetables, is a staple food on the trek and is often served with chicken, mutton, or vegetable curry. Other popular dishes include momos, a Nepalese version of dumplings, and chow mein, stir-fried noodles with vegetables or meat.

Teahouses along the trekking route also serve hot and cold beverages, including tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and soft drinks. Trekkers are advised to carry water purification tablets or a water filter bottle, as tap water is not safe for consumption. It's recommended to drink at least three to four liters of water per day to stay hydrated and prevent altitude sickness.

Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Planning to trek the Manaslu Circuit is an exciting adventure, but it's important to know that the trek is in a restricted area in Nepal. So, before embarking on this journey, you must obtain several permits through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.

The following are the essential permits that you need to acquire:

1. Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP)

To trek in the restricted Manaslu Circuit, all trekkers are required to obtain a Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP). The permit is valid for 30 days, and it costs USD 100 per person for the first seven days and USD 15 per person per day for each additional day.

2. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit)

As the trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, trekkers are also required to obtain a Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit. It costs USD 30 per person and is valid for the entire trek.

3. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit)

Furthermore, the trek enters the Annapurna Conservation Area, and trekkers are required to obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit. It costs USD 30 per person and is valid for the entire trek.

It's important to note that you should acquire all the permits through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. You must provide a copy of your passport and two passport-sized photographs for each permit. Remember that trekking without the necessary permits is illegal, and it can lead to fines and other penalties.

So, make sure you get all the required permits before starting the trek to have a hassle-free and memorable experience on the Manaslu Circuit.

Final Say

If you're looking for a trekking adventure in Nepal that's off the beaten path, the Manaslu Circuit Trek might just be the hidden gem you've been searching for. This trek offers a unique and challenging experience that's sure to test your limits, but the stunning mountain views, rich cultural experiences, and diverse landscapes make it all worth it.

 While the trek can be physically demanding, with some preparation and training, anyone with a sense of adventure can take on this unforgettable journey. Get ready for an experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!