16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

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16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview

The 16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek is an adventurous and rewarding venture that takes you to the remote Manaslu region. Its quiet, off-beat trails are perfect for those who avoid busy trekking routes. The Manaslu Circuit trail is an excellent alternative trek for commercialized routes like the Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek. The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal offers an opportunity to explore the pristine beauty and hidden trails of the Himalayas.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek was opened for trekkers in 1991. Due to its unique biodiversity and well-preserved ancient cultural heritage, the Manaslu region falls under the restricted area of the country. The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. Its trekking trails go through remote areas, including the Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation areas. The journey takes you through diverse landscapes, rivers, valleys, streams, suspension bridges, waterfalls, lakes, and glacier moraines. Throughout the trek, you can witness stunning panoramas of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Himal Chuli, Annapurna, and more.

Climbing from the subtropical forests to highland pastures and tundra regions is a demanding yet rewarding experience. You will also cross the high mountain pass of Larkya La Pass at 5106 m while encircling the Manaslu massif. En route, you will encounter many traditional Tibetan settlements, monasteries, and gompas. You will stay at small, locally run accommodations during your trek that offer a rich cultural experience. The Manaslu Circuit Trek perfectly combines thrilling adventure with an enriching cultural experience. Join this unique journey with hcTrek’s 16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Trekking Trips Activity
Easy Grade

Highlights of 16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Traverse on the remote and less crowded trails in the Manaslu region.
  • Begin the journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola.
  • Trek from the dense subtropical verdants, alpine meadows, and tundra region within the Manaslu Conservation Area.
  • Get an opportunity to witness the diverse and raw Himalayan flora and fauna.
  • Explore the protected and restricted areas of Nepal.
  • Hike on diverse trails alongside the Budhi Gandaki River.
  • Pass by remote traditional settlements, paddy fields, valleys, rivers, waterfalls, and other diverse landscapes. Cross the iconic Larkya La Pass at 5106 meters.
  • Take a spiritual tour of ancient monasteries, gompas, and stupas.
  • Enjoy the marvelous views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Annapurna, Cheo Himal, Himal Chuli, Kang Guru, and many others.
  • Stay at small but cozy teahouses and enjoy warm Nepalese hospitality.
  • Experience the vibrant Tibetan culture, customs, and the Himalayan lifestyle.

16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

Day 1 | Drive from Kathmandu via Arughat to Soti Khola (730 m). Drive time: Approx. 8 hrs.

Our trek starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. The vehicle will drive on the Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli River. It passes by charming Nepalese countryside, villages, terrace farms, hills, and green forests. The road from the capital city to Arughat is smooth and in good condition. After Arughat, the road begins to get bumpy and off-road. Prepare for a dusty and bumpy ride until we reach Soti Khola, the gateway to our Manaslu Circuit Trek. We will stay overnight at Soti Khola.

Distance:

160 km/ 99.4 miles

Altitude:

730 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 2 | Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (890 m).

We will have breakfast before we start our trek from Soti Khola. Although it is the beginning day of our trek, it will be a full day’s journey. We will gradually begin our journey through the beautiful Sal forest. En route, we will pass by a few waterfalls and make some sharp ascend and descend. We will also come across towering cliffs. Then, the trail will take us through Khursani and Lububesi villages before reaching Machha Khola. We will rest overnight here.

Flight Time:

7 hours

Distance:

9.7 km/ 6 miles

Altitude:

890m

Day 3 | Trek from Machha Khola to Doban (1,070 m)

From Machha Khola, the trail enters dense subtropical forests. We will start our trek with a gentle uphill climb. There are a few uphill and downhill climbing sections before we reach Tharo Khola. We will cross the Tharo Khola as well as Machha Khola on a suspension bridge. Then, the trail will take us to Tatopani before entering the forest again. After trekking for a while, we will reach Doban village. The village lies at the convergence point of Shari Khola and Sarpu Khola. We will rest at a lodge at Doban village for the night.

Flight Time:

5 Hours

Distance:

: 9.5 km/ 5.9 miles

Altitude:

1070 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 4 | Trek from Doban to Philim (1,570 m)

On this day, we will leave Doban and head towards Philim. The trail goes through rhododendrons and bamboo forests. It starts to ascend steeply to Louri and continues until Thado Bharyang. We can also see snow-covered mountains at a distance. Similarly, we will cross several suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River. En route, we will come across a few Gurung villages and Tibetan settlements. We will first reach Jagat village and cross a river to reach Philim. The village of Philim is a picturesque Gurung village and our stop for the day.

Flight Time:

6 Hours

Distance:

13 km/ 8 miles

Altitude:

1570 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 5 | Trek from Philim to Deng (1,860 m).

After breakfast, we will begin our trek in the northern direction. The trail enters dense subtropical forests and climbs gently. As we continue moving forward, the terrain starts to become rougher. Likewise, the trail becomes steeper as it passes by sharp gorges. We will cross the Budhi Gandaki River. En route, we will cross several villages like Chisopani and Narung. We will continue trekking along the Budhi Gandaki River banks and bamboo forest to reach Deng Khola. After crossing the Deng Khola, we will finally get to the Deng village.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

11 km/ 6.8 miles

Altitude:

1860m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 6 | Trek from Deng to Ghap (2,250 m)

We will leave the beautiful Deng Village after breakfast. The trail continues to ascend through dense subtropical forests. We will first reach the Bihi Phedi and Bihi villages before the trail starts to descend. It is a short descent, and we will again begin an uphill climb toward Rana Bridge. The scenery slowly starts to change as the lush green forests begin to turn into pine forests. En route, we will come across mani walls with portraits of Tibetan Gods and Goddesses. For the final stretch of the trek, we will cross a suspension bridge to reach Ghap finally. We will stay overnight at a lodge in Ghap.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

11.5 km/ 7.14 miles

Altitude:

2250 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 7 | Trek from Ghap to Namrung (2,660 m).

After our breakfast at Ghap, we will continue with our trek. We will trek through dense rhododendron groves and forests of conifers, passing by small villages. Similarly, we can see terrace farms where locals cultivate maize, potatoes, and barley. The view of the Manaslu mountain range also becomes closer as we ascend to higher elevations. We will cross several suspension bridges along the way and climb stone staircases to reach Namrung village. It is a small village with Tibetan-style houses and big barley fields, where we will stay overnight.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

9 km/ 5.5 miles

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 7 | Trek from Ghap to Namrung (2,660 m).

After our breakfast at Ghap, we will continue with our trek. We will trek through dense rhododendron groves and forests of conifers, passing by small villages. Similarly, we can see terrace farms where locals cultivate maize, potatoes, and barley. The view of the Manaslu mountain range also becomes closer as we ascend to higher elevations. We will cross several suspension bridges along the way and climb stone staircases to reach Namrung village. It is a small village with Tibetan-style houses and big barley fields, where we will stay overnight.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

9 km/ 5.5 miles

Altitude:

2660 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 8 | Trek from Namrung to Lho (3,180 m).

From Namrung, we will begin our ascent to Lho. The trails are steep, and we must cross several streams and rivers on suspension bridges. En route, we will come across the Lihi village with mani walls, Buddhist stupas, and colorful prayer flags. Then, we will cross a stream that flows from Lindanda Glacier to reach Sho village. You can get a stunning view of the Simnang Himal (6251 m) from here. We will continue trekking forward until we reach the Lho village. Beautiful mani walls, prayer flags, stupas, and chortens adorn the village. We will rest overnight here.

Flight Time:

6 hours

Distance:

11 km/ 6.8 miles

Altitude:

3180m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 9 | Trek from Lho to Samagaun (3,530 m).

We will begin our trek early, passing by a variety of vegetation. En route, we will first come across Shyala village. Tibetan Buddhism has a massive influence, and we can see mani walls, chortens, and colorful prayer flags. Likewise, we can witness stunning views of Mount Manaslu, Shayala Peak, and Himal Chuli. After crossing the village, we will cross a small stream that flows from Punggen Glacier. The trail starts to become flatter as we reach Samagaun village. It is the closest village to Manaslu Base Camp.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

17.2 km/ 10.6 miles

Altitude:

3530 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 10 | Rest Day in Samagaun

Samagaun also serves as a critical acclimatization stop for our journey. It sits at an ideal altitude for us to take a rest day. However, it is essential to stay active. It allows our bodies to adjust to the depleting oxygen level in the atmosphere. So, we will take a short excursion to Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, or Pungyen Monastery.

The hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4800 meters) takes 3 to 4 hours. Its trails are steep and rocky, and you must also trek past glacial moraines. The base camp offers grand views of Manaslu and the surrounding peaks. Similarly, you can also get a breathtaking view of the Pungyen Glacier and icefalls.

Birendra Tal (3450 meters) is also a short hike from Samagaun. It takes only 45 minutes to reach it. The Tal, or lake, is formed from the water of Mount Manaslu and is named after the Late King Birendra of Nepal. Rocky moraine walls and towering mountain panoramas surround the beautiful turquoise-colored lake.

Another short excursion option is the Pungyen Gompa (4000 meters). This sacred site is connected to Tibetan Buddhism’s Bodhisattva Avalokiteshavara branch. Many come to meditate and pray at this sacred site. You can soak into the spiritual and tranquil atmosphere of the monastery. The monastery also offers a grand view of Mount Manaslu and Pungyen Glacier.

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 11 | Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3,875 m)

After an acclimatization day at Samagaun, we will continue our trek to Samdo. The trail ascends uphill to the valley, passing by green pasture. Similarly, we will trek through pine, juniper, and birch forests. The trail descends for a while until we reach the Budhi Gandaki River. Then, we will cross a wooden bridge to cross the river. It is a relatively short trek that will take us to the Tibetan refugee village of Samdo. The village offers a breathtaking view of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding hills. We will rest at Samdo for the night.

Flight Time:

4 hours

Distance:

8.2 km/ 5 miles

Altitude:

3875m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 12 | Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,480 m).

After having breakfast at Samdo, we will continue with our journey. As we exit the village, we will cross the Old Mani Walls and the Budhi Gandaki River over a bridge. Then, the trail goes along the Athahra Saya River and Larke River. Similarly, the beautiful Larkya Glacier also comes into our view. The trail takes us to the Salkha Khola valley and starts to ascend towards the stone guest house (4450 m). The stone guest house is known as Dharmasala or Larkya La Phedi. It is more like a community dormitory rather than a lodge. We can get spectacular views of Mount Manaslu and Larkya Glacier from here. We will rest at Dharmasala for the night.

Flight Time:

4 hours

Distance:

11.7 km/ 7.2 miles

Altitude:

4480 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 13 | Trek from Dharamsala to Bhimtang (3,720 m) by crossing Larkya la Pass (5,160 m)

Today is the most exciting and challenging part of our Manaslu Circuit Trek. We will have our breakfast and leave early as we will be crossing the high mountain pass of Larkya La Pass (5106 m). The high wind during the afternoon can make the climb more challenging, so we will start our trek early.

We will begin our journey by crossing a moraine. Then, we will descend to a small lake along the way. The trail gradually becomes rougher and rugged. Similarly, we must also cross a steep grassy slope while heading South. The trail continues along the edge of the moraine, and colorful prayer flags mark the route. We will descend to four frozen lakes before we begin our steep uphill climb to Larkya La Pass. We will cross a moraine and follow a steep trail with rough bends.

The pass’s demanding trail takes a while for us to conquer. However, upon reaching the top, the spectacular panoramas of Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Kang Guru, and Cheo Himal will greet us. The descent is relatively easier than the uphill climb. It goes downhill on grassy moraine. Then, we will come across a small meadow before the valley widens. We will pass by small houses and mani walls before reaching Bhimtang. It will be our stop for the night.

Flight Time:

7-8 hours

Distance:

24.7 km/ 15.3 miles

Altitude:

5106 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 14 | Trek from Bhimtang to Gho (2,550 m).

After our breakfast, we will begin our downhill descent. The trail first starts to descend to Budhi Gandaki River and enters the rhododendron grooves. After trekking for a while, we will pass by the Karche village within Gandaki Valley. We will continue trekking alongside the river bank until we reach Gho. The trek takes around 4 hours, and we will rest at a lodge in Gho village for the night.

Flight Time:

4 hours

Distance:

10 km/ 6.2 miles

Altitude:

3720 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 15 | Trek from Gho (2,550 m) to Dharapani (1,910 m).

After breakfast, we will leave Gho and head towards Dharapani. The trek on this day is relatively easy and short as we will mostly descend through subtropical forests. En route, we will also come across barley fields and pastures. After trekking for a while, we will reach the large Gurung settlement of Tilije. We will continue trekking forward, passing by several mani walls. Then, we will cross the Thonje village before reaching Dharapani.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

6 km/ 3.7 miles

Altitude:

2550m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 16 | Trek from Dharapani to Besisahar (760 m). Drive back to Kathmandu. Drive time: Approx. 12 hrs.

Today is the final day of our trek. We will have an early breakfast and leave Dharapani on a bus or jeep (per the itinerary). First, we will drive to Besisahar, which will take around 6 to 7 hours. En route, we will pass by the Marsyangdhi River and the towns of Bhulbhule and Khudi. After reaching Besisahar, we will get on a bus to Kathmandu. Our Manaslu Trek package will come to an end after we reach Kathmandu. We hope your time with us was a memorable venture!

Distance:

224 km/ 139 miles

Altitude:

1910 m

Accommodations:

B/L

What's Included?

  • Vehicles pick up and drop off at international and domestic airports.
  • A highly experienced government-licensed guide and porter.
  • All Domestic Flights and Bus Tickets.
  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek.
  • Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, and medication for all the staff.
  • Drinking water during the trek.
  • All Administrative expenses and government taxes.
  • All TIMS cards & trekking permits are required for the trip.
  • Assistance for emergency Rescue.
  • A participation Certificate.
  • Farewell dinner after the trip.

What's Excluded?

  • International flight tickets.
  • Nepali entry visa fee.
  • All accommodation and meals in Kathmandu and extra accommodation in Kathmandu due to early return from the trek, early arrival, or late departure.
  • Personal expenses. (hot shower, wifi, battery charge, cold drinks, alcohol, extra porters, shopping snacks, personal clothing & gear)
  • Travel insurance.
  • Tips for guides and porters.
  • Excess Baggage Charges.

Trekking Permits For 16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

Since the Manaslu region lies in a restricted area, all trekkers must obtain the following permits:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

Trekkers will need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit from Jagat to Sama Gaun. These regions fall within the restricted area, and trekkers must have this permit to access them. The costs for the permit are as follows:

  • September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days. Trekkers must pay USD 15 per person per day for additional days.
  • December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days. Trekkers must pay USD 10 per person per day for additional days.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

  • SAARC residents: NPR 1000 per person
  • Non-SAARC residents: NPR 3000 per person

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, its trekking trails will also access the Annapurna Conservation Area. Trekkers will require this permit from Dharapani until they exit the Annapurna Conservation Area in Besisahar. The ACAP costs are as follows:

  • SAARC residents: NPR 1000 per person
  • Non-SAARC residents: NPR 3000 per person

Best Seasons To Trek To Manaslu Circuit Trek

Peak season:

Spring Season

Spring is among the best times to go on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It has favorable weather and moderate temperatures. The days are bright, warm, and sunny. In early spring, the trails in higher-elevation areas may have some remnants of snow. As the season progresses, the temperature gradually starts to warm, and the snow melts. The warm temperature of spring also makes the flora and fauna active. Hence, the rhododendron-adorned trails bloom in shades of red, pink, and white. Spring also provides an opportunity to spot wildlife. Visibility is also great at this time. So you can witness the gorgeous mountain panoramas without obstruction

Months Daytime temperature Nighttime temperature
March  8 to 10°C -5 to 5°C
April 10 to 15°C 0 to 8°C
May 20 to 31°C 5 to 12°C

Autumn

With the most stable weather and temperature, autumn is the next best season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The sky is clear, and the air is crisp. It makes for a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience. The rain from the monsoon continues until mid-September. Hence, the rain cleanses the vegetation and surroundings. The landscape also looks vibrant, lush, and green. Autumn foliage also adds to the beauty of the surroundings. The visibility is also excellent during autumn. You can enjoy spectacular views of the mountain vistas and the landscapes. The biggest Nepalese festivals, Dashain and Tihar, also fall in autumn. So, trekkers can enjoy the festive atmosphere during the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Months Daytime temperature Nighttime temperature
September 15 to 21°C Around 7°C
October 10 to 15°C -2 to 5°C
November 5 to 13°C -6 to 5°C

Off-season

Summer
Monsoon begins in Nepal with the summer season. It brings heavy rainfall in lower and hilly areas. The forest trails are also wet, muddy, and slippery. Moreover, leeches infest the trails. Due to heavy rain, there is the risk of landslides and mudslides. The rain cleanses the dust and pollution from the surroundings and landscapes. As a result, the vegetation looks clean and vibrant. Summer is the best time to witness the lush and green scenery. However, trekking in summer requires the right rain gear, proper planning, and preparation.

Months Daytime temperature Nighttime temperature
June 20 to 25°C 10 to 15°C
July  Up to 30°C 5 to 10°C
August 12 to 25°C 5 to 15°C

Winter

Winter is off-season for Manaslu Circuit Trek as it begins to snow at higher altitude areas. The temperature also begins to drop as the season progresses. It can drop below freezing point at high elevations. However, the days are usually warm and bright. Winter is the best time to enjoy the snow-covered landscape of the Manaslu region. You can also enjoy gorgeous views of the snow-covered mountain peaks. Trekkers must be careful while trekking in winter. Heavy snow can also block high mountain passes and cover the trails. The accommodations can be closed due to extreme weather. So, trekkers should book one before their trek.

Months Daytime temperature Nighttime temperature
December  8 to 12°C -8 to -5°C
January -5 to 0°C -15 to -10°C
February -5 to 5°C -15 to 10°C

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit is a challenging trek that requires reasonable health and fitness. It is a demanding trek that takes 10 to 18 days to complete. During the journey, trekkers must travel from subtropical lowlands to alpine meadows and tundra regions. The terrains are also rough and rugged, and they go through varied terrains. Moreover, trekkers must ascend and descend on steep and narrow trails.

The trek is physically and mentally demanding. On average, trekkers must hike for 4 to 6 hours each day. It requires significant strength, stamina, and endurance to overcome the challenges. The high altitude also adds to the difficulty of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The lower oxygen level and risk of altitude-related sickness make ascending to higher altitudes physically demanding. Similarly, the weather changes rapidly and becomes unpredictable at higher elevations. It can cause unforeseen events that can add to the trek’s difficulty.

Larkya La Pass: the highest pass in Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek requires proper preparation and the right equipment and gear. Trekkers must prepare for the strenuous trails, including crossing the high mountain trail of Larkya La Pass. Adequate acclimatization is also necessary to prevent altitude-related sickness. The isolated location, unpredictable weather, and lack of infrastructure can trigger mental stress in trekkers. Hence, they also build mental resilience for the trek.

Packing list for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Clothing

Windproof/ waterproof jacket
Down or fleece jacket
Insulating layers (top and bottom)
Long-sleeved shirts
Warm sweaters or pullover
Lightweight trekking pants
Warm trousers or pants
Hiking shorts
Sun hat/ cap and beanie
Warm gloves
Scarves
Sleeping clothes or pajamas
Inner garments and undergarments

Footwear

Moisture-wicking trekking socks
Warm socks
Comfortable hiking boots
Sandals or casual shoes
Gaiters

Equipment & Gear

Backpack (40 to 50 litres)
Daypack or rucksack
Sleeping bag
Adjustable trekking poles
Thermal water bottles
Flashlight or headlamp
Map or GPS device

Miscellaneous

Documents (passport, visa, passport-sized photos, travel insurance, and permits)
Toiletries
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Power banks with extra batteries
Adapter
Camera and smartphone
Binocular
Snacks
Water purification tablets
Personal first-aid kit

Why Trek the Manaslu Circuit?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an extraordinary journey. Here are a few reasons why you should embark on the trek:

Off-beat and serene trails

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the relatively less crowded journey than the other commercialized trek destinations of Nepal. As a result, trekkers can enjoy a serene atmosphere and raw Himalayan wilderness. Its off-beat trekking trails go through diverse and scenic landscapes. You will trek from lower subtropical regions with dense forests of rhododendrons, oaks, birches, and magnolias to forests of conifers and green pastures. Similarly, you will also trek by rivers, waterfalls, valleys, and gorges. The Manaslu Circuit’s off-beat and scenic trails offer a truly remarkable trekking experience.

Spectacular mountain panoramas

The Manaslu Circuit Trek encircles the entire Manaslu massif. Throughout the trek, you will get to enjoy enticing and gorgeous views of the mountain panoramas. You will witness the stunning Mount Manaslu (8163 m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain. Similarly, you can enjoy crystal-clear views of Mount Himal Chuli (7893 m), Larkya Peak (6249 m), Ganesh Himal range, Annapurna range, and others. There are several viewpoints along the route where you can get clear views of the vistas.

Conquer the iconic Larkya La Pass

The highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the Larkya La Pass, which sits at an elevation of 5106 m. It is the highest point of the trek and also the most challenging part. You must trek on rocky and gravel paths as well as glacial moraines to ascend to Larkya La Pass. It is an arduous journey that will test you physically and mentally. However, the climb is also a thrilling experience. The sense of achievement you will get as you reach the top of the pass is worth every second of the challenging ascend. From the top of the pass, you can enjoy stunning views of the mountain panoramas, glacial valleys, and scenic snow-covered landscapes of the Manaslu region.

Unique biodiversity

The trekking trails of the Manaslu Circuit Trek enter both the Manaslu Conservation Area and the Annapurna Conservation Area. Thousands of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species, inhabit the region. Various species of rhododendrons adorn the forest trails. As you ascend to a higher area, the scenery changes into forests of pines and junipers. The Manaslu region is also home to rare plants like the Himalayan Blue Poppy and Yarsagumba (caterpillar fungus). Lucky trekkers can also catch sightings of rare wildlife such as red panda, Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, and more. The trek is an incredible opportunity to witness the unique Himalayan biodiversity of Nepal.

Rich cultural experience

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not only an adventure but also a rich cultural experience. You will experience a unique blend of Nepalese and Tibetan culture during the journey. Gurung ethnic groups live in the lower region of the country. As you move to the Upper Manaslu area, you will begin to see a heavy influence of Tibetan culture, as Tibetan-origin groups mainly reside here. You will see traditional settlements and monasteries with Tibetan-style architecture. The locals mostly speak in a Tibetan dialect. Similarly, you will come across several mani walls, prayer wheels, chortens, and colorful prayer wheels. You will also get to experience the warm and friendly hospitality of the locals.

Altitude sickness during the Manaslu Circuit Trek

It is common for trekkers to experience altitude sickness during high-altitude treks like the Manaslu Circuit Trek. As you move to an altitude above 2500 meters, the oxygen level and air pressure in the atmosphere begin to decrease. The decreased oxygen in the body causes trekkers to feel discomfort and unwell. The symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, dizziness, insomnia, and shortness of breath. Its mild symptoms are known as Acute Mountain Sickness. However, it can quickly turn severe, like High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) or High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE).

  • There are several ways trekkers can prevent or minimize the risk of altitude sickness. These include:
  • Ascend to a higher elevation slowly. It allows your body to adjust to the changing altitude and surroundings.
  • Take acclimatization days. It is crucial to give your body rest while climbing to a higher elevation. Over-exertion can cause trekkers to experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
  • Keep yourself hydrated throughout the trekking period. Drink at least 3 to 4 liters of water every day.
  • Avoid drinking excessive caffeine, hot chocolates, and smoking tobacco. It can worsen altitude-related sickness symptoms.
  • Medicines like Acetazolamide or Diamax help to prevent altitude sickness. However, consult with your doctor before taking them.
  • If you experience severe altitude sickness that does not improve after taking remedies, immediately descend to a lower altitude region. However, if the symptoms persist, seek immediate medical assistance.

The Off The Beaten Trekking Routes in Nepal

The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you to one of the remote and less-traveled trekking regions of Nepal. During the journey, you will get to experience the beautiful and scenic Himalayan wilderness. Moreover, its off-the-beaten trekking route lies within the restricted area. It is because the trail lies close to the Tibetan border. Therefore, you will get to experience rich Tibetan culture on this adventurous journey. You will also cross the high mountain pass of Larkya La at 5106 meters. The sense of achievement upon reaching the top of the pass is remarkably extraordinary.

Tea Houses at Manaslu Reion

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