Manaslu Circuit Trek has ample opportunities to see high snow capped mountains, picturesque waterfalls, and centuries-old culture leave visitors in constant awe. It attracts visitors every year in search of its unparalleled beauty. As opposed to the popular Everest and Annapurna regions, the Manaslu Circuit trek offers a far more tranquil experience with traditional heritage sites along the way. Manaslu Circuit Trek has been attracting a number of trekkers whereas last year’s number of trekkers were approximately 6000M.This ancient salt-trade route of 180 km (110 miles) was only available to a maximum of 400 hikers until 1992. As a result, the trek path is free of contemporary infrastructure. In other words, if you want to take a trip back in time, the Manaslu Circuit Trek will provide you with a complete picture.The trail passes through dramatic and varied landscapes while traversing around the 8,163-meter-high Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world at 26,781 feet. Several tea houses line the way, which offer basic amenities such as food and accommodation, making the trip easier and cheaper.
This 14-day trek can also be extended to 22 days with Tsum valley as an additional side trek that begins at Soti Khola. In the meantime, you can take full advantage of two hiking options: There is an easy trail behind the Samdo Valley that has lots to offer. Among the Himalayan peaks visible from this route are Manaslu, as well as Simrang, Hiunchuli, Ngadi, Larkya Peak, Cheo, and perhaps Kang Guru. The way to these viewpoints is marked by many seasonal herding settlements called doksas and by mountain birds such as the Lophophorus (Nepal’s national bird), Lammergeyer (, and Himalayan Griffon vulture.
The second option is a full-day hike that is not recommended for people looking for a quick break. Walking to the Gaya La (big pass) north of Samdo, a more commonly used trade route to Tibet, is more challenging. Despite being bleak and barren, the Gyala Pass still has a certain mystical allure that attracts visitors to Tibetan landscapes. As you continue north, you’ll come to the Gyala Pass and the glaciers draping these northernmost mountains. Chenge Lake lies on the east side of the valley. At Gyala Phedi, you get to camp in a deep valley surrounded by mountains, making it even more interesting.
EXPLORING ROAD TO MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK
Exploring Road To Manaslu of the great Nepalese treks, the Manaslu Circuit trek’s trailhead is the closest to Kathmandu. However, the 140-kilometer (80-mile) journey from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (710 meters/ 2328 feet) is still an adventure, taking about 6 hours by jeep (ideal) or 8+ hours by public transportation. Alternatively, you can hike from Machha Khola, situated 160 kilometers (99 miles) from Kathmandu, which takes up to 7 hours by private vehicle and 8 hours by public bus. It is possible that, with deteriorating road conditions, which are often the case after the monsoon in September, you will have to begin your journey in Arughat, which could add a day to your itinerary. The trekking route flows along the bank of the ice-cold waters of Budhi Gandaki with panoramic views of Annapurna and Ganesh Himals to the west and east. Numerous suspension bridges are interspersed along the trail. In terms of length and height, suspension bridges in the Manaslu trek are unparalleled, but during the monsoon season, minor bridges often wash away, leaving travelers to use semi-submerged rocks.
The trail then slowly ascends to higher altitudes a few days into the journey, leaving the steamy lowlands of green rice and millet fields behind.
Samagaon offers the best hiking options to acclimate with the altitude change. A full day hike to Manaslu Base Camp, located at 4750 meters, takes around 7-8 hours, or you can do small hikes around the village. Within walking distance is Sama village, where you can see the ancient monastery of Pungyen Gompa and enjoy stunning views of the glacier, or you can explore Birendra Lake. As you move closer to the destination there is a strenuous trail of Larkya La Pass next to the Tibetan border. The windy conditions at 5167 meters make it necessary to start early in the morning for this challenge. A day of rest is required in Samdo prior to ascending Larkya La Pass, so the body can adjust to the higher elevation. After completing the trek, you will have to travel 6 hours in a Jeep from Dharapani to Kathmandu, where you will change to another Jeep or public bus for a 7-hour journey.
Beyond being one of Nepal’s most renowned treks, the Manaslu circuit trek offers more rewarding options than any other trek in the Himalayas. You could opt for the higher Manaslu way, a scenically beautiful and rarely used path across the mountain, to get even further off the beaten path. Another detour is the trail to mystical Tsum Valley, which has been closed to the public for many years and has only been reopened on a limited basis. Alternatively, you might skip the climb up and over Larke La entirely and concentrate solely on the attractions of Tsum Valley Buddhist culture and its renowned monasteries. Manaslu Trekking Circuit offers more than just cascading rivers and steep trails replete with stunning views. It is also a melting pot of ethnicities, including the Gurung, Tamang, and Tibetan communities living harmoniously together at the foothills of the Himalayas. Therefore, you get the chance to immerse yourself in the culture, even for a short time.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL OF MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a tough yet rewarding journey via the sturdy landscapes of the Mountain range. With its differed surface incorporating high rises, and rocky paths coupled with high-altitude passes the expedition requires a modest to high degree of physical fitness. Trekking days are long frequently extending 6 to 8 hrs as well and consist of navigating through remote areas with limited facilities. Acclimatization is important specifically when ascending to the Larkya La Pass the highest point of the travel at 5,160 meters. Climate condition can additionally present obstacles, specifically throughout winter treks with cold temperatures and snowfall. Despite its difficulties, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an unique opportunity to involve oneself in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas and also the rich cultural heritage of the region.
BEST SEASON FOR MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK
You can experience the excitement of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal, a trekking journey that differs with each season. Throughout Spring (Early March to End of May) it brings colorful rhododendron blooms in the lower regions of Deng and Shyala. With amazing temperature levels and bright sunshine, it’s an ideal time for trekking. However, be prepared for crowded trails because of the peak season and potentially warm climate by mid-May.
In Summer (June to Mid-September), the summer monsoon season in Nepal brings cooler temperature levels as well as rainfall. Most trekkers prevent from this period as a result of muddy and slippery trail conditions, and also the visibility of leeches and mosquitoes. Additionally, swollen streams and potential landslides can present obstacles.
Fall (Late September to Mid-December) is considered the best time to discover the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The weather conditions is perfect for climbing Larke Peak, and the clear skies offers spectacular sights of the snow-capped mountains. Nonetheless, the popularity of this season means crowded trails and higher prices for restricted permits.
Winter season (Late December to Early March) on the Manaslu Circuit Trek brings dropping temperature levels, with the potential for temperatures as low as -8 degrees Celsius. Trekking to Manaslu Base Camp can be risky due to snow-covered routes, and many teahouses in the upper region are closed.
Therefore, this trek is best enjoyed during spring and fall.
ACCOMMODATION AT MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK
The walk to Manaslu Circuit is a teahouse trek. Along the way, you’ll spend each night in local teahouses run by local communities. The majority of teahouses are fairly modest, with two single beds in each room and shared toilets that can be found outside of teahouses.
Teahouses offer common rooms for dining and relaxing, so trekkers can stay warm around the fire at night. Although camping is also an option, most trekkers prefer to stay in teahouses because it is easier and more comfortable.
