Everything You Need to Know About Manaslu Trek

Jun 05, 2023

Everything You Need to Know About Manaslu Trek

The Manaslu Trek is a challenging and rewarding trekking route in the Himalayas of Nepal. Located in the Manaslu Conservation Area, the trek offers breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a unique cultural experience. The trek takes you through traditional villages, rhododendron forests, and snow-capped peaks, with the majestic Manaslu peak towering above you. The trek is considered one of the most beautiful and remote treks in Nepal, with minimal tourist infrastructure and a limited number of trekkers. The trek is challenging, with steep ascents and descents, and requires a good level of physical fitness. The best time to trek is during the spring and autumn seasons, when the weather is clear and the temperatures are mild. 

The trek requires a special permit, which can be obtained through a licensed trekking agency. The trek takes around 14-16 days to complete, and can be customized to fit your needs and preferences. Accommodation is basic, with tea houses and lodges providing simple rooms and shared facilities. The trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and way of life, with traditional villages and monasteries along the way. With proper planning and preparation, the Manaslu Trek is an adventure of a lifetime, offering breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a unique cultural experience.

Manaslu Trek vs Annapurna Trek 

The Manaslu Trek and Annapurna Trek are two of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal, offering breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a unique cultural experience. While both treks offer similar experiences, there are some key differences to consider when deciding which trek is right for you. Scenery: Both treks offer stunning scenery, but the Manaslu Trek is known for its more rugged and remote landscape, with towering peaks and glaciers. The Annapurna Trek, on the other hand, offers a more varied landscape, with rice fields, forests, and traditional villages. 

Difficulty: 

The Manaslu Trek is considered more challenging than the Annapurna Trek, with steeper ascents and descents, and a higher altitude. The Annapurna Trek is generally easier, with more gradual ascents and descents. 

Crowd: 

The Annapurna Trek is more popular and crowded, with more trekkers and tourist infrastructure. The Manaslu Trek is less crowded, with fewer trekkers and more of a wilderness experience. 

Permit: 

The Manaslu Trek requires a special permit, which can be obtained through a licensed trekking agency. The Annapurna Trek does not require a special permit, but does require a TIMS card. 

Duration: 

The Manaslu Trek typically takes 14-16 days to complete, while the Annapurna Trek can be completed in 7-10 days. Ultimately, the choice between the Manaslu Trek and Annapurna Trek depends on your personal preferences and goals. If you're looking for a more challenging and remote trek with stunning scenery, the Manaslu Trek may be the better choice. If you're looking for a more relaxed and varied trek with easier access to amenities, the Annapurna Trek may be the better choice.

How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit? 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek, with steep ascents and descents, and high altitude. The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,160m at the Larkya La Pass, and the trail is often narrow and rocky. The trek requires a good level of physical fitness, and acclimatization to high altitude is essential. The trek is not recommended for beginners, and previous trekking experience is highly recommended.

Is Manaslu Circuit Trek safe? 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is generally considered a safe trek, but as with any high-altitude trek, there are risks involved. The trek passes through remote areas with limited access to medical facilities, and altitude sickness is a risk. Additionally, the trail can be narrow and rocky, and there is a risk of rockfall and landslides. However, with proper planning, preparation, and guidance, the risks can be minimized.

Do you need a guide for Manaslu Circuit? 

It is highly recommended to hire a guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. A guide can provide valuable insights into the local culture and history, and help you navigate the trail. Additionally, a guide can help you acclimatize to high altitude, and provide emergency assistance if needed. A guide can also help you obtain the necessary permits and arrange for accommodation and transportation.

How do you prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trek? 

To prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you should:

  • Be in good physical shape, with previous trekking experience
  • Acclimatize to high altitude by spending a few days in Kathmandu or Pokhara before the trek
  • Hire a guide or join a guided group
  • Obtain the necessary permits and arrange for accommodation and transportation
  • Pack essential gear, including trekking boots, waterproof jacket and pants, and warm layers
  • Bring a first aid kit and know how to use it
  • Bring a water bottle and water purification tablets, and know how to purify water
  • Bring a map and compass, and know how to use them
  • Bring a headlamp and extra batteries
  • Bring a portable charger and power bank for your phone and camera
  • Bring snacks and energy bars, and know how to cook simple meals

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and successful Manaslu Circuit Trek.

When Should I Trek Manaslu? Best Time to Trek 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a year-round trek, but the best time to trek depends on your personal preferences and what you're looking for. 

Spring (March to May) The spring season is considered the best time to trek Manaslu, with mild temperatures, clear skies, and blooming rhododendron forests. The weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This is the peak trekking season, with many trekkers on the trail. 

Autumn (September to November) The autumn season is the second-best time to trek Manaslu, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and stunning scenery. The weather is cool and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). This is a popular time to trek, with many trekkers on the trail. 

Winter (December to February) The winter season is the quietest time to trek Manaslu, with few trekkers on the trail. The weather is cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from -10°C to 10°C (14°F to 50°F). This is a good time to trek if you prefer a more solitary experience and are prepared for cold weather. 

Monsoon (June to August) The monsoon season is the wettest time to trek Manaslu, with heavy rainfall and landslides. The weather is hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is not a recommended time to trek, as the trail can be slippery and dangerous. 

Special Considerations 

  • The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted area, and trekkers are required to obtain a special permit. 
  • The trek is closed during the winter months (December to February) due to heavy snowfall and avalanches. 
  • The trek is also closed during the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall and landslides.  
  • The best time to trek Manaslu depends on your personal preferences and what you're looking for. If you prefer a more solitary experience, winter may be the best time. If you prefer milder weather and blooming rhododendron forests, spring may be the best time.

How much does the Manaslu Circuit trek cost? 

The cost of the Manaslu Circuit trek varies depending on several factors, including the length of the trek, the type of accommodation, and the services included. On average, the cost of the Manaslu Circuit trek can range from $1,500 to $3,000 per person, including:

  • Guide and porter fees: $500 to $1,000
  • Accommodation: $300 to $600
  • Food: $200 to $400
  • Transportation: $100 to $200
  • Permits: $100 to $200
  • Equipment rental: $100 to $200

How many kilometers is Manaslu Circuit trek/ How long? 

The Manaslu Circuit trek is approximately 170 kilometers (106 miles) long and takes around 14 to 16 days to complete. The trek starts from Soti Khola and ends at Besisahar, passing through several villages and scenic viewpoints.

Is Manaslu Trek better than Everest Base Camp? 

Both the Manaslu Circuit trek and the Everest Base Camp trek are popular treks in Nepal, but they offer different experiences. The Manaslu Circuit trek is considered a more challenging and remote trek, with a higher altitude and more rugged terrain. The trek offers stunning views of the Manaslu range and a more authentic Nepalese experience. The Everest Base Camp trek, on the other hand, is a more popular and crowded trek, with a lower altitude and more tourist infrastructure. The trek offers stunning views of the Everest range and a sense of accomplishment at reaching the base camp of the highest mountain in the world. Ultimately, the choice between the two treks depends on your personal preferences and goals.

Accommodation and Food on the Manaslu Circuit Trek 

Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit trek is basic, with tea houses and lodges providing simple rooms and shared facilities. The rooms are generally clean and comfortable, with blankets and pillows provided. Food is also basic, with a limited menu of Nepalese and Western dishes. The most common dishes are dal bhat, momos, and noodles. The food is generally hygienic and safe to eat. It's recommended to bring snacks and energy bars to supplement your diet.

How challenging is the Manaslu Circuit Trek? 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek, with steep ascents and descents, and high altitude. The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,160m at the Larkya La Pass, and the trail is often narrow and rocky. The trek requires a good level of physical fitness, and acclimatization to high altitude is essential. The trek is not recommended for beginners, and previous trekking experience is highly recommended. 

Suggested Preparation For Manaslu Circuit Trekking 

  • To prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it's essential to:  
  • Be in good physical shape, with regular exercise and cardiovascular training 
  • Acclimatize to high altitude by spending a few days in Kathmandu or Pokhara before the trek
  • Hire a guide or join a guided group 
  • Obtain the necessary permits and arrange for accommodation and transportation
  • Pack essential gear, including trekking boots, waterproof jacket and pants, and warm layers 
  •  Bring a first aid kit and know how to use it 
  • Bring a map and compass, and know how to use them 
  • Bring a headlamp and extra batteries 
  • Bring a portable charger and power bank for your phone and camera 
  • Bring snacks and energy bars, and know how to cook simple meals 
  • Train yourself mentally and physically to adapt to high altitude and challenging terrain 

Conclusion 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging and rewarding trek that offers stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and a unique cultural experience. With proper preparation and planning, the trek can be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Remember to acclimatize to high altitude, pack essential gear, and hire a guide or join a guided group. With the right mindset and preparation, you'll be ready to take on the Manaslu Circuit Trek and experience the beauty of the Himalayas.

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