Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek: A Remote and Culturally Enriching Journey

Manaslu Circuit Trek is often regarded as one of the best treks in Nepal and is now a great alternative to the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Less than two percent of trekkers go to Manaslu and because of this, the trek is remote and physically demanding, yet at the same time, it is also culturally enriching and uplifting.

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Highlights of the Manaslu Trekking Trail

The Manaslu trekking trail takes you from the steam-filled lowlands with their terraces of rice and millet, through the grand gorges of the Budi Gandaki with its turquoise waters and amazing waterfalls. You will also come across cultural diversities and natural scenery with high-altitude dreamy glacier lakes.

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Larkya La Pass (5,167m)

Up north is the snowbound Larkya La Pass next to the Tibetan border. At an altitude of 5,167 meters, the mostly snow-covered and icy Larkya La Pass is widely believed to be one of the most dramatic passes crossing the Himalayas.

• As you make your ascent, suddenly a great glacial cirque bursts into view.
• A stupendous wall created by Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Gyaji Kang, and Kang Guru casts down a stream of glaciers, while Annapurna II rises ahead.

In every sense, the 5,200m pass is the high point of the Manaslu Circuit.

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 walk along a corridor to the west. This is where you will encounter Mani Walls, Prayer Wheels, monasteries, Chortens, and other Buddhist monuments.

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The Isolated Villages and Cultural Diversity

The isolated villages you encounter on this trail serve as a perfect definition of Nirvana.

• The inhabitants in the highlands of this trek are influenced by Tibetan culture.
• You will encounter few trekkers due to the trail’s remoteness and the moderate fitness required to hike it.

Prior trekking experiences will be beneficial, but those without any experience can prepare by exercising a few weeks before the trek.

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Manaslu as a Restricted Area

Manaslu Circuit Trek is government-regulated because it’s a restricted area.

• You must obtain permission before organizing treks in the Manaslu region.
• This adds to the appeal of Manaslu, as the trail receives far fewer travelers compared to Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Base Camp trail.

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Trekking Facilities on the Manaslu Circuit

Even though the trail is relatively wild and remote compared to other treks, these regions are well-equipped and have moderately fair trekking facilities.

• Numerous tea houses are available at every stage of your journey.
• There’s no need to bring tents or camping materials.

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Scenery and Adventure Await

If you are worried about the scenery, fear not, as Manaslu Trekking provides all that Nepal has to offer:

• Trek through subtropical jungle at lower elevations.
• Experience the Himalayan foothills and high, cold, and challenging crossing of the Larkya La above 5,100m.

Despite being an adventurous 126 km (80 miles) drive from Kathmandu to Soti, the trek is well worth the effort.

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Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is the perfect choice for those looking to avoid the beaten path and become one with nature.

• Remote, culturally rich, and physically demanding.
• A trek for true adventurers seeking solitude and untouched beauty.

Manaslu Circuit Trek offers the adventure of a lifetime for trekkers who crave serenity and a connection with nature.