Overview:

Standing at 8163 meters, Manaslu is by far the most majestic of the ten highest mountains in the world. Considered by many as the best and most picturesque trek in Nepal, the Manaslu circuit trek is certainly not easy. Taking trekkers to elevations above 5100 meters, this trek is pretty strenuous. Flanked by the Annapurna to the west and Ganesh Himal to the east, this region is naturally gifted. Unlike the Everest Base Camp trek and Annapurna circuit trek, which is flooded with trekkers worldwide, this trek usually sees fewer people along its route.

Along the trek, the view from Larkya La Pass of the Manaslu is simply breathtaking. Trekking to this region demands physical endurance and a tough mental state. Due to its restricted status, trekking in this region opened only in 1992. The circuit takes you from the lowlands to the snowy highland terrains covered with snow all year long. Trekking to the base camp of Manaslu gives the trekkers a sense of accomplishment. In this article, let’s look into this majestic trek in more detail.

Quick Info On the Manaslu Circuit Trek:

  • Location: Manaslu Region, Gorkha District
  • Maximum Elevation: 5167 meters, Larkya La Pass
  • Trek’s Duration: 12-15 days
  • Trek’s Starting Point: Machcha Khola
  • Trek’s Ending Point: Besisahar, Lamjung
  • Trek’s Difficulty: Strenuous

Highlights Of The Manaslu Circuit:

  1. Majestic View Of Mount Manaslu: On this trek, you can enjoy the amazing views of the eighth-highest mountain in the world. By far the most majestic of the highest peaks in the world, Manaslu is a picturesque peak. You can also get a glimpse of the Annapurna Range on the way to the Manaslu Base Camp trek. You can get a clear view of the region’s surrounding peaks in spring and autumn.
  2. Larkya La Pass: At an altitude of 5167 meters, this is the trek’s highest point. Trekking to this pass is considered the most treacherous part of the entire trek. The majestic views from this place are simply outstanding. Crossing this pass is both physically demanding and deeply rewarding. The views of the glacial lakes and the surrounding mountains from Larkya La Pass are breathtaking.
  3. Diverse Landscapes: This is a relatively longer trek, so you will witness many changing terrains throughout the journey. As you ascend, the trek starts in a subtropical environment and transforms into alpine and rugged terrain.
  4. Authentic Tibetan Influence: On the way to Manaslu, you will encounter numerous monasteries and religious sites reflecting the strong Tibetan influence on this region. Trekkers can learn about such cultures and traditions in more detail.

When Is The Ideal Time To Trek In This Region

Spring and Autumn are the most prominent times for this trek. As this trek crosses altitudes over 5000 meters, winter can get pretty harsh around this region. It is also advised that you strictly avoid the monsoon season as the trails get slippery and the roads get blocked due to frequent landslides. Autumn would be the best time for this trek due to the clear skies and less probability of snowfall and rain. Spring is equally favorable as the flowers bloom, making the trails even more beautiful.

Manaslu
Manaslu’s Trail (Source: Flickr)

 

Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Kathmandu-Machha Khola- On the first day of your trek, you’ll drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. This scenic drive is around 160 km and will take 8-9 hours.
  • Day 2: Machha Khola-Jagat- On the second day of your trek, you’ll start to ascend along the Budi Gandaki River. A 7-8 hour trek will get you to Jagat, a small settlement of Gurung people.
  • Day 3: Jagat-Dyang- The journey ascends further from Jagat, and the trek becomes more challenging. You’ll cross many settlements, streams, waterfalls, and suspension bridges on the way to Dyang.
  • Day 4: Dyang-Namrung- From Dyang, you’ll pass by the beautiful forest and numerous Tibetan mani walls. You’ll walk for 7 hours to reach Namrung. You’ll stay the night at Namrung.
  • Day 5: Namrung-Shyala- On this day, you’ll walk an additional 7 hours to reach Shyala. From here, the views of Manaslu become more majestic.
  • Day 6: Shyala-Samagaun- On the sixth day, you’ll ascend towards Samagaun via Pungyen Monastery.
  • Day 7: Samagaun-Manaslu Base Camp- You’ll reach the trek’s destination on this day. This is a relatively easier stretch of the trek. Explore the Manaslu Base Camp on this day.

This is the mid-point of your trek.

  • Day 8: Samagaun-Samdo- Your trek continues as you trek from Samagaun to Samdo. You need to be physically prepared for this part of the trek.
  • Day 9: Samdo-Larkya La Phedi- This short day hike to Larkya La Pass is relatively easier to complete.
  • Day 10: Larkya La Pass- Bhimtang- This is the toughest day of the entire trek as you will cross the Larkya La Pass, 5167 meters, which is the highest point of the trek. The views from this pass are worthwhile. From Larkya La Pass, you will descend to Bhimtang.
  • Day 11: Bhimtang-Tilje Village- On the eleventh day of the trek, you will descend to Tilje village from Bhimtang. The return trip is relatively easier and can be leisurely completed.
  • Day 12: Tilje to Kathmandu via Besisahar- On the last day of your trek, you’ll return from Tilje village to Kathmandu via Besisahar. This drive will take around 8-10 hours to complete.

Conclusion

The Manaslu circuit trek is one of the most perfect treks in Nepal. This trek is not too long and is perfectly challenging, with outstanding views of the Himalayas. Be sure to acquire all the necessary permits to trek in this region. Respect the local culture and traditions, and stay on the designated trail to enhance your experience. If you love to travel in less crowded trails with stunning views, then the Manaslu circuit trek is the one for you.

Also Read: A Day In The Hills: Kakani To Suryachaur Hike