Overview of the Manasalu Circuit Trek

Bipin Kunwar
7 min readSep 28, 2023

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View of Mount manasalu
View of Mount Manasalu

Introduction

In essence, we have designated the Manaslu area as the location where an intrepid traveler would discover genuine peace and a genuine natural hiking experience. The actual essence and singular experience of the outdoors are only known by those who have gone on this expedition.

Due to the presence of wilderness in the area, we will also add that some work will be required on your part in order to fully understand the nature of this area.

Many of the people that join us on these experiences are often eager and well-prepared, as we have seen with trekkers. However, as they go down the paths, various problems start to appear. Trekkers will require appropriate supervision and direction in order to avoid such problems, which will ultimately result in a successful trek.

Since then, Mission Himalaya has been able to astonish trekkers of all experience levels and assist them in having a successful trek with ease by providing them with professional and high-quality service. In particular, we get along with everyone, support them in every way, and encourage their best selves. Our main goal in all we do is to support the hikers. The completely planned 14-day trek package to the Manaslu Circuit is currently being introduced, as per usual, only for you. Since we appreciate our trekkers, we will go over every detail of this package because they deserve to know everything. So let’s get right to the introduction and then delve deeply into the various elements of this unique adventure.

What distinguishes the Manaslu Circuit Trek from other treks?

In essence, hikers will traverse the Manaslu region in one direction. As a result, the journey’s official name is Manaslu Circuit trek.

One of Nepal’s most profound places, the Manaslu region, offers trekkers all they could possibly need from a trekking expedition. This voyage covers every facet of nature and culture, from remote treks and enormous mountains to rich culture and an authentic village living.

To be more precise, this experience is really special since you will pass via the majestic Larkya La pass (5106m) while taking in the breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, which is located at an elevation of 8163 meters. You will travel through off-the-beaten-path areas while pursuing Mount Manaslu, which unquestionably gives you a genuine sense of discovery. While traveling off-the-beaten-track, you will see lovely forests, thundering waterfalls, and terraced farms that haven’t changed much over the years.

The Manaslu Circuit is known for its originality and tranquility because it is still mostly undisturbed by tourist throngs. Additionally, as you travel along the routes, you’ll be welcomed by the local indigenous communities with warm smiles and hospitality, giving you a special chance to get to know their culture and traditions. Finally, we would like to state that these are the characteristics that add to the magic and uniqueness of the Manaslu circuit trip.

The Manaslu Circuit ensures a great tour that showcases the hidden treasures of Nepal’s Himalayan terrain, whether you’re an experienced trekker seeking a new challenge or a nature enthusiast seeking breathtaking views.

Trip Highlights:

  • The eighth-highest peak in the world, together with Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, and Himlung Himal, Mount Manaslu, is visible in all its captivating glory.
  • Immerse yourself in the community’s culture as you pass through quaint Tibetan and Hindu settlements.
  • Conquer the difficult high mountain pass Larkya La (5106m).
  • Explore the rough Manaslu Conservation Area to see a variety of species.
  • In warm tea houses along the trail, savor the aromas of traditional Nepalese cuisine while warming up with a cup of hot tea.
  • Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries to discover Tibetan Buddhism and find tranquility.
  • Crossing suspension bridges that wobble over rapid rivers and cascading waterfalls will make you feel adventurous.
  • Enjoy the bright night skies at higher elevations, ideal for astrophotography and stargazing.

Where does the Manaslu Circuit trek start, then?

Well, the Manaslu trek can now be begun from Maccha Khola instead of the previous starting point of Soti Khola.

Machha Khola is currently considered the starting point of the walk because hikers find it more convenient to begin there. Particularly, Maccha Khola offers trekkers the chance to cut the opening days of the trek short because it is located a little farther along the trail than Soti Khola.

Trekkers ascend gently through magnificent scenery, including terraced fields and charming villages like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Samagaon, as they follow the Budhi Gandaki River from Maccha Khola.

In essence, this track joins the main Manaslu Circuit trail, enabling hikers to join the conventional circuit and tour the entire area. As a result, individuals who want to save a few days of trekking while still enjoying the splendor of the Manaslu region can consider beginning at Maccha Khola.

When is the optimum time to complete the Manaslu Circuit trek?

As we all know, different people have varied opinions on when this walk is best done. Many people believe that the summer is the ideal time to complete this walk because it is located in the Himalayan region. But that is untrue because the trail also includes a mountainous area, and hikers could have to endure the sweltering heat. In light of the fact that this choice can significantly affect the caliber of your trekking excursion, we eventually want to let you know when it is finest to do it.

The Manaslu Circuit trek, which I’ll get to in a moment, is a high-altitude excursion that passes through a variety of landscapes, from lush forests to arid alpine territory. Given this, the weather, the clarity of mountain panoramas, and your level of enjoyment all depend on when you travel.

Taking everything into account, we now want to talk to you about the two main trekking seasons: spring and fall. Any one of these two is ideal if you’re thinking about safe trekking.

We’ll also go through the difficulties and restrictions of trekking in the monsoon and winter months so that you have all the knowledge you need to organize a safe and successful journey to the breathtaking Manaslu region. So let’s begin.

Autumn (September to November)

This time of year is thought to be the ideal for hiking in the Manaslu region. The greatest time of year to enjoy the breathtaking mountain vistas is in the autumn because the weather is usually clear and constant. This time of year is the driest for the walkways while the weather is still pleasant. Additionally, it is ideal for trekking due to the lush greenery, colorful flora, and pleasant daytime temperatures. These factors have allowed this season to establish itself as the preferred time of year for trekkers.

Spring (March to May)

The spring is a fantastic season to hike the Manaslu Circuit. With milder temperatures, blossoming rhododendron forests, clear and picturesque scenery, and a vibrant display of wildflowers, the weather is especially nice at this time of year. We can thus conclude that spring is the second most popular trekking season in this area for the reasons listed above.

Winter (December to February)

Throughout the winter, higher heights experience snowfall and colder temperatures. Trekking might therefore be challenging at this time of year due to the chilly and snow-covered routes. Naturally, some teahouses in higher altitudes will also be closed as the difficulty increases. Even with these challenges, if one sets out to complete the voyage, the proper equipment and diligent planning will be needed.

Monsoon (June to August)

In the monsoon season, the area experiences heavy rains, landslides, and leeches. Trekking during this time of year can be challenging and less fun due to the rainy weather, low visibility, and increased hazards. As a result, we specifically do not suggest trekking during this time.

Your tastes and level of weather tolerance will ultimately determine the best time to do the Manaslu Circuit trek. As a result, we want to let you know that most hikers opt for autumn or spring to lower hazards and maximize fun.

Getting ready for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Preparation is crucial for achieving anything in life, including adventure and traveling. Trekking in wilderness areas like the Manaslu circuit trek requires extensive preparation due to limited resources and facilities. It’s essential to plan and utilize small details at the right time to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience.

Physical Fitness

The Manaslu Circuit Trek involves a variety of terrains, so starting a fitness routine months in advance is crucial. This includes aerobics, trekking, and weight training to increase strength and endurance. Strength building exercises include squats, lunges, and push-ups.

Hiking nearby can provide a similar experience to the Manaslu circuit trek, allowing you to assess your body’s capabilities and prepare for the 14-day journey, ensuring you are ready for the mesmerizing journey.

Packing List

Pack your trekking essentials carefully, including layers, rain gear, well-fitting shoes, and a comfortable sleeping bag. These items will keep you warm on cold alpine evenings, protect you from unexpected downpours, and ensure a comfortable and warm journey.

Acclimatization

Imagine acclimatizing to the altitude challenges in Samagaon village during your trek, observing your body’s adjustment and receiving expert guidance from our advisors throughout the process.

Trekking Itinerary

Choose a suitable trekking itinerary for your fitness level and preferences, allowing ample time for acclimatization and enjoying the beauty of the Manaslu region, with our team working closely to customize your experience.

Travel Insurance

High-altitude trekking requires insurance to cover mishaps and emergency evacuations, ensuring financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Respect Local Culture

Our tour guides ensure meaningful encounters with locals, promoting cross-cultural dialogue and courteous interactions, allowing participants to learn about unique customs and the area’s rich history.

Environmental Responsibility

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an exciting adventure, requiring ethical practices such as responsible disposal of non-biodegradable garbage. The trek’s preparations are meticulously planned to ensure a secure, engaging, and unforgettable experience for future generations.

Mental Preparation

To prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, develop a resilient mentality by accepting physical and mental obstacles. Maintain a cheerful outlook, adapt to unexpected scenarios, and set achievable expectations. Focus on personal growth and discovery, and remember the sense of fulfillment at the end of the journey.

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Bipin Kunwar

From the breathtaking Annapurna Circuit to the remote villages of the Khumbu region, I'm here to share my trekking experiences and travel tales.