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Manaslu Circuit Trek: Itinerary, Difficulty, Attractions & More


Manaslu Circuit Trek: A Blissful Journey in the Midst of Mountains and Culture
Manaslu Circuit Trek is amongst the most popular and challenging treks, which offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and adventure. Trekking in the vicinity of towering, snow-capped mountains is a sublime experience that attracts trekkers from around the world to Nepal.
Manaslu at 8,163 meters is the eighth tallest mountain in the world and is located in the west-central part of Nepal. The meaning of this mountain is rather interesting, “mountain of the spirit,” that comes from Sanskrit word Mansa referring to intellect or soul. Being one of the tallest peaks, Manaslu attracts admirers and adventurers from around the world. Journeying towards the base of this towering peak is as pristine as it can be, however, the popularity has recently raged bringing more enthusiastic trekkers and climbers alike than ever.
ABOUT MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK
Also known as Manaslu Base Camp Trek, the journey is in the off-the-beaten-path trail, which is far more serene and remote. Manaslu Circuit trek comprises magnificent natural beauty of the lush green forest, streaming rivers, and diverse floral region.
Another striking part of Manaslu trek is the people, who have been living in isolation surrounded by mountains for generations. Their cultural exhibition that depicts Tibetan practices and the friendly-nature is another pleasing part. You can observe Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, architecture, and tradition all along. The ancient culture and medieval life is no less a wonder to witness.
Trekking in the foothill Himalayas obviously bestows you with the incredible range of mountains; Manaslu, Annapurna II, Kang Guru, Himlung Himal, Nemjung, Gyaji Kang and Cheo Himal will remain in your backdrop as your scale further on Manaslu trek.
Manaslu Circuit trek is a blissful journey in the ancient trail in the midst of authentic culture, tradition, and hospitality, along with the awe-inspiring view of Himalayan peaks on your background. Trekking in Manaslu might feel like a different part of the world, as modernization has barely found its way to this region. Walking in off-the-beaten-path in the distant region amid mountains and hills, where the ambiance feels too medieval, Manaslu Circuit trek is definitely a journey of a lifetime.
MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK INFORMATION
–TIMS card is the obvious one which you need while trekking in Nepal. You will also require Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Project Area permit and as this region was closed for foreigner up until 1991 and falls under the restricted area of Nepal, you will need Special Restricted Area to permit too.
-The Internet has become a part of our life, but during the long day trek of Manaslu Circuit Trek, you have to compromise your need. You can have internet access and charge for your gadgets in some tea houses along the trail.
-The highest point in Manaslu trek is Larkya La pass at 5,125 meters. As the trek is up to that extreme altitude, symptoms of altitude sickness is common. However, keep a slower pace, acclimatize, get enough sleep, and keep yourself hydrated.
-Although the typical itinerary is of around 20 days for Manaslu Circuit trek, it can be completed in 14 days as well.
-You might get worried about the accommodation thinking this remote trails might lack tea houses. But, as the Manaslu circuit welcomes fewer trekkers, there are enough tea houses on your service.
MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK DIFFICULTY
As spectacular and rewarding is the Manaslu Circuit trek, it is demanding as well. It certainly is a strenuous trek, however, a good level of fitness, prior preparation, and your confidence will help you accomplish this journey.
If you are thinking of doing a solo trek of Manaslu trek, then you can’t as it is a restricted region. A licensed guide or a porter is a must.
MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK DISTANCE
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a long trek that takes from 15-20 days. Its total distance is about 177 km ranging from lowest, Soti Khola at 710 meters to highest Larkya La Pass at 5,125 meters.
MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK ATTRACTIONS
Raw and Unexplored
The influx of trekkers in the Manaslu Circuit trek is a recent change. Its major part is yet to be seen and explored. Despite its potential and what it has to offer, it receives a very less number of visitor. To trek in this quiet and quaint region surrounded by the striking natural beauty is one of the major attraction of Manaslu trek.
Serene Trails
As Manaslu is an isolated and remote region, you can certainly expect the tranquil paths. The trek is equally exhilarating and pleasing as the Everest and Annapurna and more to that; it receives less crowd. Instead of paving your way along with a throng of trekkers in crowded destination, you can walk in the extremely calm trail of Manaslu trek.
Cultural Outlook
Manaslu region is rich in ancient culture and practice, and Manaslu Circuit trek will let you will witness a good bit of it to you. The people you encounter in the trek, their lifestyle and culture are Tibetan-influenced. Thus it will be a great opportunity for you to have an insight into one of the most preserved culture in the world. Monasteries, chortens, prayer wheels, colorful prayer flags, and mani-walls can be seen throughout the trek.
Quaint Villages
You will pass by several villages and settlement that serves as the pool of Himalayan Tibetan culture and tradition. These villages are traditionally built amid mountains and hill, where people speak their dialect and wear an ethnic dress. Samdo and Samagaon are few of such villages where its authentic beauty and lifestyle will strike you.
Rich Biodiversity
Of everything, Manaslu Circuit trek is equally rich in biodiversity. Located within the Manaslu Conservation Area that comprises 33 species of mammals, 110 species of birds, 211 species of butterflies, 11 types of forest and 2000 species of flowering plants, the trek will be more than what you have expected. Himalayan Tahr, blue sheep, pika, Himalayan marmots are some of the animals that can be seen in the Manaslu region. So, be on your guard and look out for these wild ones.