The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remarkable trekking route in Nepal that offers a blend of rich cultural heritage, unparalleled mountain views, and diverse landscapes. The Manaslu Circuit Trek encircles Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world, standing at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). This trek is less crowded compared to other popular trekking routes in Nepal, such as the Annapurna and Everest regions, providing a more calm and peaceful experience.

Why trek Manaslu circuit?

Following are some reasons for trekking in the circuit of Manaslu region surrounded by Himalayas.

Untouched Beauty and Isolated:

Unlike the bustling paths of Annapurna and Everest, the Manaslu Circuit Trek provides a more secluded and peaceful trekking experience. The trail takes you through remote villages, pristine forests, and along the roaring Budhi Gandaki River. The serene environment and fewer trekkers make it an ideal choice for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature. The trek is part of the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive snow leopard and red panda. Circuit provides a more solitary and peaceful trekking experience, ideal for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature.


Cultural Richness

The Manaslu region is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including the Nubri and Tsum people, who follow Tibetan Buddhism. Trekkers can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting ancient monasteries, chortens, and Mani walls adorned with intricate carvings and prayer flags. The villages along the route, such as Samagaon and Samdo, offer a glimpse into traditional Himalayan lifestyles and hospitality.

Challenging and Rewarding

The trek is considered moderately challenging, making it suitable for experienced trekkers. The highlight is crossing the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet), one of the most dramatic and scenic passes in the Himalayas. The ascent is demanding, but the reward is a breathtaking panoramic view of snow-capped peaks, including Manaslu, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna II.

Diverse Landscapes

The trek offers an incredible variety of landscapes, from lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to arid high-altitude terrain. As you gain altitude, the scenery transforms dramatically, providing an ever-changing backdrop of natural beauty. The Manaslu Conservation Area is also rich in biodiversity, home to rare species with elusive character such as the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and red panda.

Stunning Mountain Views

Dominated by the range of Mansiri himal, you will see this mountain on your entire trekking journey. The trek offers spectacular views of Mount Manaslu, as well as other peaks like Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Shringi Himal.


Best Time to Trek

The best seasons for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is generally clear, and the temperatures are moderate, offering the best conditions for trekking and stunning mountain views. Winter can be a good time to go trekking, until and unless it doesn’t snow. Although the temperature drops more than usual, the low season is characterized by clear skies. In monsoon season, there is almost daily rainfall. For this reason, when every trail is muddy and wet, it is not the best time to go trekking. Furthermore, there’s a good chance you’ll get attacked by leeches.


Permits Required for Trekking in the Manaslu region:


 Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP): Required due to the region’s proximity to the Tibetan border.

Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit: To support conservation efforts.

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit: As part of the trail passes through the Annapurna region and in order to support conservation efforts.

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: For safety and record-keeping purposes.

Acclimatization

Proper acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness. The itinerary must include rest days, in places like Namrung and Samagaon, to help your body adjust to the higher altitudes. Hydration, a gradual ascent, and listening to your body are essential to staying healthy during the trek. The general for preventing altitude sickness is to increase elevation during the day and sleep at a low altitude at night. Do pay attention to your body and do not push yourself beyond what is necessary. If you experience any symptoms, speak with your guide and follow his advice. When experiencing altitude sickness, garlic soup is frequently helpful and is regarded as a natural remedy. The general symptoms of Altitude sickness are headache, loss of appetite, difficulty in sleeping, nausea etc.

Accommodation and Food

This is trek is a tea-house trek, so you’ll be staying in simple lodges run by local families. These tea houses provide basic amenities such as beds and shared bathrooms. Traditional Nepalese dishes include dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), and a variety of soups and noodles. The tea houses offer a comfortable place to rest and refuel after a long day of hiking.

Some idea regarding packing your bag for trek.


 Clothing: Layered clothing is essential due to varying temperatures. Include thermal layers, a fleece jacket, a down jacket, and a waterproof outer layer. Make sure you pact moisture wicking or dry fit T-shirts as well.


Footwear: Durable, comfortable and waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support. Both thick and thin pair of socks depending on your trekking days. Suppose you are trekking for 12 days then you must have 6 pair of thin and 6 pair of thick socks. 


Gear: Trekking poles, a good-quality sleeping bag rated for low temperatures, a headlamp, and a backpack with a rain cover.


Health and Safety: A basic first aid kit, altitude sickness medication, and water purification tablets or a filter.


Lastly, The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an excellent option for trekkers looking for a less crowded, but equally rewarding, trekking experience in Nepal. With its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and challenging high-altitude pass, this trek provides an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas. This breathtaking journey circles the majestic Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth highest peak. This trail provides an unparalleled trekking experience, combining breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural encounters, and high-altitude adventure. The Manaslu Circuit is often overshadowed by the more well-known Upper Mustang jeep tours and Everest helicopter tours, but it remains a hidden gem for those seeking peace and unspoiled nature. This trek will be an unforgettable adventure that combines high-altitude trekking with cultural exploration and natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to the majestic mountain views, the rich cultural heritage, or thse peace and quiet of the remote trails, this trek promises an unforgettable journey through one of the Himalayas’ most breathtaking regions.

Contact to Global Holidays Adventure 

“Global Holidays Adventure Pvt. Ltd. is a reputable local tour operator based in Kathmandu, Nepal. Specializing in multi-day tours tailored for solo travelers and private groups, we invite you to reach out to us via email at info@nepaltraveladventure.com or WhatsApp at +977-9851162501 for further inquiries.”