How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The Manaslu Circuit trek is moderately difficult and takes you on an off-the-beaten Path journey. It is a great alternative to the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit trek if you love tranquility and isolated places. The Manaslu trek is known for its challenging terrain, lesser crowds, awe-spiring views, and rare wildlife. In addition, the trek takes you to the untouched part of western Nepal.
The Manaslu Circuit trek lies in the Manaslu Conservation Area, where you can observe the rare flora and fauna. The trek takes you through one of the eight highest mountains among the 14th peaks of the world above 8000m, Mount Manaslu. Moreover, you will pass one of the longest passes in the Himalayas of Nepal, Larkya La Pass, at 5,106 meters above sea level, which will be a major highlight and challenge for you. In this article, we will discuss how difficult the Manaslu Circuit trek is, the factors affecting it, and how to prepare for a safe, comfortable, and successful trek to the Manaslu Circuit.
Factors Influencing Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty
Altitude Sickness
Altitude Sickness is a common difficulty faced by everyone. Many trekkers feel altitude sickness when they reach 3000m above sea level. As you ascend higher, your body finds adjusting to the changing atmosphere difficult, resulting in Acute Mountain Sickness. Further, the trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,108 meters from sea level at Larkya La Pass, which can lead to life-threatening altitude sicknesses such as HAPE and HACE. That’s why you should know the common symptoms and never ignore the first signs of the symptoms. You may experience nausea, dizziness, difficulty breathing, headaches, fatigue, etc. Proper acclimatization is the only way to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. Therefore, you should be fully prepared and drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness.
Trek Distance and Duration of Manaslu Circuit
Distance and duration also influence the difficulty level of the Manaslu Circuit trek. You must cover approximately 180km to trek the Manaslu Circuit. Exploring the Manaslu region will take an average of 12 to 17 days. However, it will take extra days based on your itinerary and acclimatization days. Also, because of the rugged terrain, you will be trekking 6 to 8 hours daily to reach your destination, covering 8-12km. Thus, distance and duration affect the difficulty of the trek.
Trail Conditions
The rugged trail condition is another challenge of the Manaslu Circuit. You must make steep ascents and descents in varied terrain, demanding physical endurance and stamina. It will be difficult for first-time trekkers to trek through the rocky path at higher altitudes. The trails are rugged and not maintained properly. Moreover, you have to cross several rivers throughout the trek. The major challenge you may encounter is descending from the Larka La Pass because of the steep trails. Thus, you need good physical fitness to trek in the Manaslu region.
Unpredictable Weather
The weather is unpredictable for trekking in Nepal. Manaslu region experiences a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. However, the weather is stable and has moderate temperatures in the peak season (spring and autumn) compared to the off seasons (Summer and winter). You may experience heavy rainfall in the summer season, which leads to several landslides. During this time, the trails are muddy and slippery. Similarly, you will feel extremely cold, especially in the Winter season. Heavy snowfall and thunderstorms lead to avalanches at higher altitudes, making the time riskier to trek. Moreover, the gradual snowfall makes the trekking trails icy and slippery, making them hard to trek on.
Fitness Level Required
Manaslu Circuit is a challenging trek with a diverse, difficult trekking route. Due to the rugged terrain and high-altitude region, the trek demands a good physical fitness level and sound health. If you do not have physical endurance, it will be difficult to trek to the Manaslu region. Thus, it is recommended that you undergo physical training to increase your stamina and strength, which will help you trek to the Manaslu Circuit successfully.
Key Challenges in the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Crossing Larkya La Pass
Larkya La Pass is the maximum altitude (5,160m) of the Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal. It is the longest pass in Nepal, which is situated between Dharmasala and Bhimthang. Crossing Larke La is the biggest challenge of the Manaslu trek because of its high altitude. It is located at a higher elevation than the Manaslu Base Camp(4800m). Even if you start trekking in the morning, reaching the Larke La Pass will take 8 to 10 hours of walking. As you have to reach higher elevations, the oxygen level will be lower, and there are high chances of Altitude sickness. Thus, it is very important to have proper acclimatization before crossing.
Similarly, the weather is unpredictable, especially with the strong winds. There is also the risk of frostbite because of freezing temperatures, which drop daytime temperatures to -15 degrees. The major difficulty of the Manaslu trek is trekking through the long uphill from Dharmasala to Larke La Pass. Likewise, it’s more challenging to descend through the icy patches from the Pass. Therefore, it is necessary to take proper physical training, take essential gear, and start trekking early for maximum daylight hours.
Remote Area and Accommodation
The Manaslu region is restricted, and the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit is required to explore the region. Manaslu Circuit Trek is the lesser known and less visited area because of the remoteness and difficulty. There is limited access to road and transportation options to reach the Manaslu region. The remoteness of the Manaslu Circuit gives a more challenging experience to the trekkers. The terrain of the trek is rugged, and trekkers have to pass through narrow rocky paths and steep ascents and descents. Moreover, you have to cross the suspension bridges. There is a high chance of landslides and avalanches in the higher regions.
As the region is remote, we don’t have high expectations regarding accommodation. The common accommodation you will find is basic teahouses and lodges. The major challenges trekkers will face are finding and adjusting to the accommodations of the Manaslu region. You get minimal facilities with shared beds and shared bathrooms. Also, you will not be provided with a variety of dishes but the staple Nepalese cuisine, which is delightful and gives you energy for the full day of trekking. Moreover, in the higher altitude regions, it will be hard to find good network connectivity, and hot showers will also not be available. Thus, carrying a first aid kit and essential accessories is recommended, and hiring a guide and porter is a good idea.
Tips to Overcome Manaslu Trek Difficulty
Now that you know about the difficulty of the Manaslu trek and the challenges you will face during your journey, let’s discuss tips for overcoming this difficulty to make your journey much easier, safer, and more comfortable.
Physical Training
Since the trek is challenging and demands physical fitness, you must trek in the rugged terrain with steep ascents and descents in a remote area, train your body, and prepare to complete the Manaslu Circuit trek beforehand. You should do strength training to increase your strength and stamina, which will help you trek uphill. Also, cardiovascular exercises help you to adjust to the higher-altitude regions with lower oxygen levels and balance your heart rate. You can do exercises like running, jogging, cycling, swimming, stair climbing, and many more in your free time.
Mental Preparation
Like sound physical health, the Manaslu trek demands mental endurance as well. You must go through a challenging journey with unpredictable weather, rugged terrain, longer trekking hours, and remote places, which will also be mentally exhausting. You have to be mentally prepared for the challenges you will be facing and have that motivation and confidence in yourself. Staying calm and focused on the natural beauty of the Manaslu region will be helpful rather than stressing over the difficulty of this trek.
Choosing the right trekking season
Choosing the right trekking season is very important while trekking in the Himalayas in Nepal. Seasonal factors play an important role in determining the difficulties in the trek. If you want warm and pleasant days for your comfortable journey, then you should go on the peak seasons: Spring and Autumn. If you want solitude and love to see greenery, then you should choose the Summer season. Again, if you love adventure and can handle the cold temperature, then the winter season is a great choice for you. It is recommended for beginners not to plan their trip in the off seasons because of the heavy rainfall and extremely cold weather.
Hiring a guide or porter
As the Manaslu Circuit trek is in a restricted area, it is compulsory to hire a guide. The terrain is difficult to walk on for several hours, so you need a porter to carry your luggage. Guides have much experience and knowledge about the place, so always listen to tour guides. Manaslu region is a remote area; it is a bit risky to trek alone, so always be on the side of your guide or trek in a group. It is difficult for beginners to trek in the Manaslu region, so hiring a guide or porter is a good idea to begin the journey on the Manaslu Circuit trail.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Manaslu Circuit trek is moderately difficult but can be conquered by anyone with a basic fitness level and strong mental desire. Some factors like distance, weather, narrow trails, higher elevations, and varied terrain of the Manaslu trek influence the difficulty level of the Manaslu Circuit trek. Thus, it is necessary to prepare yourself for the trek. The trek does not require technical skills; even first-time travelers with proper preparation can complete this trek. The Manaslu region offers an off-the-beaten-path journey where you can witness the greatest Himalayan ranges and diverse landscapes and encounter Tibetan-influenced communities. Don’t worry about the difficulties; plan your journey and make unforgettable trekking memories.
FAQS
Is the Manaslu Circuit trek difficult?
Yes, the Manaslu Circuit trek is difficult, but it is not unachievable. The basic accommodation, lack of proper electricity and network, difficulty trekking trails, unpredictable weather, higher elevations, trek distance, and many other factors make the Manaslu Circuit trek difficult.
Is the Manaslu Circuit harder than the Everest base camp?
No, the Manaslu Circuit is not harder than the EBC. Both are challenging, but Everest Base Camp is considered more challenging because of the higher altitude and steeper terrain. However, both have unique difficulties; the distance of the Manaslu trek is longer than that of the EBC trek; in this case, the Manaslu trek is more challenging. The difficulties can vary from person to person.
Do you need a guide for the Manaslu Circuit?
Yes, you need a guide for the Manaslu Circuit because of the restricted area, and the Nepal government does not allow solo trekking. Guides can help you to ensure your safety regarding emergency medical support and help you arrange necessary permits.