Manaslu Circuit Trekking Facts
- Trip Duration: 12-16 days
- Natural Scenery: Eighth-Highest Mountain
- Accommodation: Tea houses/ lodge
- People: Ethnicity and religion
- Geography: Rich in Bio-diversity
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
- Highest Point: Larkya-La Pass 5106m/16,747 ft
- Trek route: Off the beaten path, less crowded
Manaslu Region Culture and People
There are several different ethnic groups living in Manaslu region. Where the Shah dynasty began, unified Nepal into its present state. However, Gurung people currently make up the majority of population. Likewise, Tsumbas, residents of Tsum Valley, reside.
The Gurung gained international recognition as Gorkhas, tenacious and brave soldiers in British and Indian armies, starting in the 19th century. It is believed that before entering Nepal from Mustang, ancestors trekked west through Tibet.
Before the advent of Buddhism in Tibet, they came Nepal and eventually converted to Tibetan Buddhism. As a result, religion is blend of Buddhist doctrine and animistic rituals.
Besides, Tsumbas have descended from Tibetan immigrants who came to this area in 16th century and lived there. As a result, speak and behave like Tibetans in northern part of Nepal, according to their clothing and customs.
They practice Buddhism, and it is so pervasive that people have taken an oath of nonviolence prohibiting from hunting, conducting animal sacrifices, or igniting forest fires.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Highlights
- Before 1991, locals were permitted to travel to the Manaslu region. Tsum Valley area accessible to travelers since 2008 because it encompasses the open border. The government forbids solo trekking over this path due to difficulty, and each party must have certified guide or porter.
- Manaslu region's Tsum Valley Trek is stunning. Visitors weren’t allowed in until 2008. The valley included Kyimu Lung, pilgrimage route that passes across portion of southern Tibet.
- Most important historical location in Nepal is Gorkha. Because Prithvi Narayan Shah founded modern nation of Nepal in this former kingdom. Despite being victim of horrific earthquake that rocked Nepal in 2015, palace where he was born, Gorkha Durbar, is still intact today.
- One of longest passes in Nepal is Larkya-La Pass. Highest point of Manaslu Circuit Trekking and situated at an elevation of 5,106 m/ 16,752 ft.
- The first ascent of Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft) was made by Gyaltsen Norbu of Nepal and Toshio Imanishi of Japan. Who was working for Japanese group that Aritsune Maki, oversaw. As a result, the peak continues to draw many Japanese climbers. Locals refer Manaslu as killer mountain, 60 individuals have perished on its slopes.
- Due to excellent weather, late September to mid-December is ideal period for this trek. Since it is beginning of spring, March through Late May is good period. As Birendra Lake melts and rhododendrons blossom, Manaslu region's natural beauty fully appreciated.
How hard is Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trekking is moderate to difficult trekking route in Nepal. Moderate during autumn and spring due to consistent weather.
In some places, the trail is rough and steep. The hardest section of the trek is the Larkya-La pass. To cross it, you'll need to trek for around 10 hours through ice and rugged terrain, which needs to be crossed in a day.
Before significant elevation change, you need to take day to relax and acclimate. Maximizing the period of acclimatization is important, as is achieving physical conditioning through appropriate activity.
Are you planning to Manaslu Trek? So learn Manaslu Trek Difficulty level, when and which day is hard.
How long does Manaslu Circuit Trek take?
It takes while to complete Manaslu Circuit Trekking, anywhere from 14 to 20 days. Here we present an itinerary of 16 days. The trekking distance is 110 miles or 177 km. However, it is 200 km/124 mi if you wish to trek Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit.
The time taken to complete Manaslu Circuit varies with Ace Vision treks trekking itinerary. On average, trekkers hike for 6-7 hours every day.
Approximately 4,176 m/ 13,700 ft of remarkable elevation change are covered during this trek.
The Soti Khola is lowest elevation (730 m/ 2,394 ft), while Larkya-La pass has highest elevation at 5,106 m/ 16,752 ft.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Itinerary
The Manaslu Circuit Trek begins with an 8–9-hour ride from Kathmandu to Soti Khola through the hills of Gorkha District and take 12-16 days to complete. It proceeds gently along trails through heavily forested areas and alongside the Budhi Gandaki.
On your way to Manaslu Circuit route, you cross quaint villages of Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Sama Gaon.
At Sama, day of rest and exploration is scheduled, explore the surrounding areas of Birendra Tal, PungGyen Gompa, or Manaslu Base Camp. Two days from Samdo is Larke-La Pass, the highest point of trek at 5,106 m/16,747 ft. The walk ends with a gentle descent to Tilije, Tal, and Syange over the next few days and drive to Kathmandu.
16-Day Manaslu Circuit Trekking Itinerary
16-day Manaslu Trekking itinerary from the day you arrive in Kathmandu till the day you depart is as follows. If you have limited Vacation and interest to Manaslu Trek! Ace Vision Treks 13-day Short Manaslu Circuit Trek and 14-day Manaslu Circuit Budget is for you. We customize itinerary and package per your interested and timeframe.
1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m/ 4,600 ft.)
On arrival in Kathmandu, Ace Vision treks welcomed by our representative, and he/she take you to hotel. You take rest for day or city tour, as you wish. You have general briefing session with your trekking guide in the evening.
2: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (730m)
The first leg of your journey to Manaslu is drive from Kathmandu to Arughat. Drive takes through Dhading Besi in direction of Arughat Bazaar and then Soti Khola. Although the bus travel is lengthy, countryside is gorgeously viewed. You can see little of Nepal's rural life.
3: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (930m) 4-5 Hrs
You hike to Machha Khola from Soti Khola. The view and natural beauty are pretty remarkable, despite the narrow and rough roads. You pass multiple streams and waterfalls while hiking through dense Sal woodland before settling in Ghale.
Uphill and downhill pathways can be found along the river. These are unpaved mule paths. You will eventually reach Machha Khola.
4: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1300m) 6-7 Hrs
Today, you will have an adventurous trek through rugged terrains with combination of striking views of mountains and cultural exploration. Gurung villages such as Khorlabensi, Tatopani, and Dobhan passed with many traditional Buddhist monasteries.
5: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1860m) 6-7 Hrs
Today, you pass through riverbanks and dense sub-tropical forests. Many suspension bridges must be crossed while crossing Budhi Gandaki and other small rivers.
6: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2540m) 5-6 Hrs
To get to Deng, you must travel tortuous path through bamboo grove. You can ascend to Rana and Bihi Phedi communities by crossing suspension bridge. After that, the trail avoids landslide region and heads in the direction of Ghap. Arrive at Namrung by crossing Ghap.
7: Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaon (3390m) 5-6 Hrs
After passing the Mani stone wall, continue walking from Namrung toward Banjam along terraced field. The Lihi and Lho settlements are reached from here via trail that then enters rhododendron woods. Additionally, there are many painted gate arches along the trail.
After Lho, there is steady increase in elevation, and hurrying can be hazardous. Vistas of Manaslu peaks will accompany you as you travel. You can continue on the trail to Sama Gaon from Shyala.
8: Hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4400m) for 6-7 Hrs or Pungain Gompa for excellent Mountain View
You spend today exploring Samagaon and all of its attractions. Visit the PungGyen Gompa and Birendra Tal, both east of the Nubri Valley.
Stunning view of Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), cross the river and ascend peak. As well as, north of Samagaon, you hike to Manaslu Base Camp. To get to the base camp, continue on the trail through Birendra Tal and turn left.
9: Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo (3690m) 2-3 Hrs
You ascend in altitude slowly today as you climb to Samdo. The meadows extend up pathways and are dotted with several Mani Walls and prayer flags. Once out of tree line, proceed across wooden bridge and up ridge to Kani. When you get to Samdo, you can stroll around the community or climb Samdo Peak to view the valley's Larkya La Pass.
10: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4460m) 4-5 Hrs
Hike the beautiful trek from Samdo to Larkya Phedi, commonly known as Dharamsala. This charming little town is the best locations to unwind when traveling. To get Dharamsala, entire trip follows the Marsyangdi River. Amazing views of Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft) from here.
11: Trek from Dharamsala to Bimthang (3590m) via Larkya La Pass (5106m) 7-8 Hrs
One of the most eagerly awaited hiking days as you pass across the highest point (5,160 m/ 16,929 ft), Larke La Pass. It can be strenuous, vista of Manaslu's entire valley is well worth it.
Great views of Himlung Himal (7,126 m/ 16,818 ft), Cheo Himal (6,812 m/ 22,349 ft), Annapurna II (7,937m/ 26,040 ft), and other Annapurna ridges can be seen from summit. Follow pass to village of Bimthang from above.
12: Trek from Bimthang to Tilije (2300m) 5-6 Hrs
As you descend, you mesmerized by the views of Himlung, Lamjung, and other peaks. The trekking trails take through Yak Kharka, containing expansive pasture land. Then you led to beautiful rhododendron forest, arriving at Tilije.
13: Trek from Tilije to Tal (1680m) 4-5 Hrs
Today you pass through beautiful Thonje Village and later cross Dharapani, which connects to Annapurna Circuit Trail. You arrive at Tal by crossing the beautiful Marsyangdi River and passing numerous beautiful waterfalls.
14: Trek from Tal to Syange (1150m) 4-5 Hrs
Today you descend to Syange, with sometimes steep trail but otherwise a gentle hike down. You pass through the village of Chyamje and cross Marsyangdi through suspension bridge. Then you come across terrace fields and follow the trail across picturesque rhododendron forest, finally arriving at Syange. Syange has magnificent waterfall, so check it out.
15: Drive from Syange to Kathmandu
In the morning, you hike to Besisahar. Besisahar is home to Gurung and Limbu, and where Manaslu Trek ends. Take bus to Kathmandu after reaching Besisahar. Later, enjoy the night in historic city of Kathmandu. You enjoy local Newar cuisine and souvenir shopping in Thamel.
16: Departure from Kathmandu
Finally, Manaslu trek has ended. Today, you escorted back to the airport. With loads of memories and lifelong experience, check your cameras to relive this experience again.
Food and Accommodation in Manaslu Region
There are numerous tea houses along the Manaslu Circuit Trekking where you get hot meals and place to sleep. This implies that you do not need to bring any camping equipment.
Manaslu Circuit Trek offers wide selection of food products. They include Western foods like Spaghetti, and pizza and staples like rice, lentils, and vegetable curry.
Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are readily available. Snacks are available, including cookies, chocolate, and quick noodles.
Rooms are typically shared accommodations. For an additional cost, private room amenities are available at some locations. Nepal Tea Houses in Manaslu region feature western-style restrooms with cold running water with mostly extra costs for hot showers.
Best Season for Manaslu Circuit Trekking
The optimum seasons for Manaslu Circuit Trekking are in spring (February through May) and fall (September through December).
While the monsoons are not good for traversing the routes because hillsides are not suitable for trekkers, winters are cold, and weather appears undesirable for hiking.
Manaslu Trekking usually advised in spring and autumn. This time of year offers the best views of mountains and is nearly mild in temperature. Learn More about Manaslu Trek weather and Temperature before booking the trekking package.
Is Manaslu harder than Everest?
Manaslu Circuit Trek is harder than Everest Base Camp Trek because it takes longer to complete, and the trails are rougher and steeper.
Even though the highest elevation of EBC is 5,644 m (18,517 ft) which is higher than Manaslu Circuit Trek’s highest elevation at Larkya-La Pass, which stands at 5,106 m (16,747 ft), the trek is quite arduous at Manaslu.
To cross Larkya La Pass, you'll need to trek for around 7-9 hours in rugged terrain in single day.
However, climbing Everest peak is harder than Manaslu. Compared to Everest and Manaslu Camp I to Camp IV climb is more difficult. But ascent is simpler and shorter than the peak.
Manaslu Expedition, however, lacks features like Hillary Step on Everest. Likewise, Everest death zone is notorious for high fatalities. It lies in the area between Camp IV and the summit.
The time spent in this region is said to be borrowed time, and extreme caution is to be exercised for successfully summiting the peak and then back.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits
For Manaslu Circuit Trekking, you need three different permits: The Manaslu Special Restricted Area Permit (Manaslu RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit), and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit). Because the route includes portion of Annapurna Conservation Area, ACAP is required.
A licensed organization must distribute Manaslu RAP. The same authority may issue MCAP and ACAP permits.
Additionally, you can obtain them at NTB (Nepal Tourism Board) offices and TAAN (Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal) Secretariat, which is situated in Kathmandu and Pokhara, respectively, as well as at both cities’ entrances.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Cost
Manaslu Circuit Trek is comparatively more economical than other long treks in Nepal. Reliable Local Tour Trekking Company charges around USD 1200 for Manaslu Trekking.
The prices vary from trek to trek depending on number of trekkers in the party, trekking itinerary, amenities, guides and porters required numbers and other services.
Manaslu Restricted Area permit costs USD 75 per person for first seven days from December to August. There will be USD 10 daily surcharge per person starting at this point.
Likewise, MCAP and ACAP cost around USD 30 each.
The hiking price includes local transport from Kathmandu and back, three meals per day, all lodging services, permit pass, and guides and porters’ fees.
A minimum of two trekkers are required to undertake this trek, and RAP, Should Issued through Trekking Company. Let's Contact us for Single supplementary to take restricted area Permit.
Conclusion
Manaslu Circuit Trekkingis fantastic route over Nepalese Himalayas. This Moderate-challenging journey around Mount Manaslu travels through Nepal’s inaccessible highland regions and stunning Himalayas.
Discover valley unspoiled by outer world as you journey through Tsum Valley's vibrant and untamed environment.
Meet Gurung people, renowned around the world as fierce warriors. Likewise, Buddhist temples spread out over the area. Throughout tour, Buddhist culture and site explored.
How long is your Vacation? if you have long vacation to explore the remote Himalayas! the 24-day Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek is best for you. Contact us for custom-made trek itinerary to you.
Best Travel Blog to Complete Nepal Trekking
