Trekking the Manaslu Circuit is among the best treks in Nepal. It brings you around the Manaslu conservation area and astonishing landscape of one of the eighth highest mountains in the world.
It is an excellent choice when you have trekked in the Annapurna Circuit previously. Manaslu Trek is a 13 days trek commencing at Macha Khola and ending at Beshi Sahar. It may be increased to 18 days including a side trek to Tsum Valley.
Manaslu himal is a beautiful mountain among other 8000-meter mountains flanked by Annapurna ranges to its west and Ganesh Himal to its east.
As compared to the Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek, both of which are filled with hikers all round the world, the Manaslu Circuit Trek tends to be less crowded. It is far and physically challenging and esthetically inspiring.
The circuit takes you from the steamy lowlands with their rice and millet terraces through the mighty gorges of the Budi Gandaki, with their turquoise waters and amazing waterfalls. The suspension bridges in the Manaslu trek are in a league of their own for both length and height, and the yearly monsoon often washes minor bridges away, leaving trekkers to use semi-submerged rocks.
Only opened to a maximum of 400 trekkers in 1992, this trek still feels like a pioneering expedition. If you want to know what trekking in the 1980s was like, the Manaslu circuit trek is a visual feast from start to finish, but you better be fit.
Slowly, you wind North to the snowbound Larkya La Pass beside the Tibetan border. The altitude here is a problem but almost forgotten with the jaw-dropping views of Manaslu. At 5,167 meters/16,952 feet, Larkya La Pass is usually snow-covered and icy. Micro crampons are often used on the descent. Trekking to the pass requires a 4 am start to make the highest point before the winds come, usually around mid-morning.
From the pass, looking back the way you have come gives a clear view, but by far, the most amazing view comes after you have left the pass and walked along a corridor to the west.
A great glacial cirque bursts into view. A stupendous wall created by Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Nemjung, Gyaji Kang, and Kang Guru casts down a stream of glaciers while Annapurna II rises ahead. This view alone makes the trek worthwhile.
Highlights
- This short manaslu circuit trek has jaw-dropping natural beauty of the forests, rivers, and flora in the Manaslu region.
- Friendly people, and rich culture of the region, which includes both Nepalese Tibetan ethnic groups.
- Stunning view of some of the highest peaks in the world- Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, and more
- Abundant wildlife, including Tahr, Agali, Pika, Himalayan Marmots, and if lucky, Snow Leopard
- Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Sama Gaon and Samdo, experiencing the unique blend of Nepalese and Tibetan ethnic groups
- Witness a great glacial cirque formed by peaks like Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Nemjung, Gyaji Kang, and Kang Guru, casting down streams of glaciers
- Engage with friendly locals and immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture, which blends Nepalese and Tibetan traditions