This trek is a strenuous one that takes you around the world’s eighth highest mountain, Manaslu. The trek is a great option for those looking to experience the mighty Himalayas and pristine culture of Nepal.
The trek is popular for its virgin landscapes, mind-boggling scenarios, ethnic culture and epic valleys. It is also a great way to get a taste of Nepali cuisine and ambiance.
Trekking In Manaslu
The Manaslu circuit is a challenging, but stunning trek that offers trekkers breathtaking mountain views and diverse landscapes. It takes trekkers through a relatively remote and less-visited region of Nepal, allowing them to enjoy a more authentic trekking experience without the hustle and bustle of other popular trekking routes.
This trek is a great choice for those who want to experience the Himalayas, but are not quite ready for the intensity of Everest Base Camp or the sheer physical demands of the Annapurna Circuit. This 14-day trek, which starts at Soti Khola and finishes at Besi Sahar, also allows trekkers to extend their trip by adding a side trek to the Tsum Valley.
The Manaslu circuit takes you along a trail that winds through a variety of different landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, and high mountain passes. The route also features traditional villages and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries.
It’s a challenging, point-to-point hike that can take up to 11 hours a day on foot. The highest point is the Larkya Pass (5,130m) which offers epic views of snowy peaks.
You should be in good physical condition and be able to walk for up to eight hours a day. Altitude sickness is a risk in the higher parts of this trek, so you’ll need to have plenty of fluids and eat well. You should also carry a first aid kit, oxygen, and a headlamp.
A trek leader will be able to advise you on how to pace yourself and keep you safe in the mountains. They’ll also ensure that you take time to acclimatise.
In order to complete the Manaslu circuit trek, you must have a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). This can be obtained from your holiday company or a local agency that specialises in treks.
During the high trekking season, September to November, the RAP fee is usually USD 100 per person, with an additional USD 15 for each day trekked. You should also bring a first aid kit and plenty of water.
Getting To Manaslu
The Manaslu circuit trek is one of the most remote treks in Nepal, requiring expert local guides and porters to ensure your safety and comfort. The route hugs the base of Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world, and takes you through Hindu and Tibetan settlements, past frozen lakes, and over the imposing Larkya Pass.
As you climb to high altitudes, the landscape changes dramatically from rice fields to bamboo forests to alpine woodland. At 16,752 feet, the Larkya pass provides epic views of snow-capped peaks and glacier moraines.
Despite its remoteness, the Manaslu circuit has become increasingly popular in recent years. As a result, accommodation options have grown, with tea houses now common along the trail, although they are not as modern or advanced as those found in the more popular Annapurna and Everest regions.
Most teahouses on the Manaslu circuit have shared toilets rather than en-suite facilities. These may be inside the main building or in a squat toilet outside. In these locations, you will need to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser.
Your guide will also help you acclimatise to the high altitudes of the trek, making sure you are pacing yourself correctly and taking oxygen when necessary. The trek will be long, particularly when crossing the Larkya pass, and the elevation can cause altitude sickness so it is important to plan well.
To avoid this, it is a good idea to start your trekking early and make sure to stop at the first point of view to enjoy fresh mountain air before continuing onwards to your next destination. This is especially true in the Himalayan region where the morning air is often much fresher than in the afternoon.
The Manaslu circuit is an ideal option for those who are looking to avoid the crowds on the main Annapurna Circuit. Its beautiful scenery, remote villages, and unique culture will leave you with lasting memories of your time in the Himalayas. For more Information visit: https://www.vertexholiday.com/trips/manaslu-circuit-trek
