The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remarkable journey in the Manaslu region of Nepal, offering stunning mountain scenery, rich cultural experiences, and a relatively less crowded trail compared to more popular treks like the Everest or Annapurna circuits. Here’s a concise overview of the trek:
General Information
- Location: Manaslu Region, Nepal
- Maximum Elevation: Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters / 16,752 feet)
- Duration: Typically 14-18 days
- Trek Distance: Approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
- Permits Required:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Highlights
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Scenic Beauty:
- Panoramic views of Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters / 26,781 feet), the eighth highest mountain in the world.
- Varied landscapes including lush forests, terraced fields, glacial rivers, and alpine meadows.
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Cultural Experience:
- Trek through traditional Tibetan-influenced villages with ancient monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags.
- Interact with local Gurung and Tibetan communities and experience their unique cultures and lifestyles.
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Larkya La Pass:
- The high point of the trek, offering breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
- Crossing the pass involves a challenging but rewarding day of trekking.
Trekking Route
- Typical Itinerary:
- Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (700 meters / 2,297 feet)
- Day 2: Soti Khola to Machha Khola (869 meters / 2,851 feet)
- Day 3: Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340 meters / 4,396 feet)
- Day 4: Jagat to Deng (1,860 meters / 6,102 feet)
- Day 5: Deng to Namrung (2,630 meters / 8,629 feet)
- Day 6: Namrung to Samagaon (3,530 meters / 11,581 feet)
- Day 7: Acclimatization day at Samagaon
- Day 8: Samagaon to Samdo (3,860 meters / 12,664 feet)
- Day 9: Acclimatization day at Samdo
- Day 10: Samdo to Dharamsala/Larkya Phedi (4,460 meters / 14,632 feet)
- Day 11: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters / 16,752 feet) and trek to Bimthang (3,720 meters / 12,205 feet)
- Day 12: Bimthang to Tilije (2,300 meters / 7,546 feet)
- Day 13: Tilije to Dharapani (1,860 meters / 6,102 feet)
- Day 14: Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar and then to Kathmandu
Practical Considerations
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Permits and Regulations:
- The Manaslu Circuit Trek is in a restricted area, and trekkers must obtain the necessary permits and be accompanied by a registered guide.
- Permits can be arranged through a trekking agency.
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Accommodation:
- Teahouses and lodges are available along the route, offering basic amenities such as meals and lodging.
- Expect more rustic accommodations compared to more developed trekking routes.
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Physical Preparation:
- Good physical fitness is essential due to the trek's length and high altitude.
- Pre-trek training focusing on cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility is recommended.
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Packing Essentials:
- Proper trekking gear including sturdy boots, warm clothing, a good-quality sleeping bag, and a reliable backpack.
- Essentials such as water purification tablets, a first aid kit, and high-energy snacks.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a fantastic option for trekkers seeking a less crowded and culturally rich adventure in the Himalayas, with the added challenge and beauty of high-altitude trekking.