Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview
The astonishing trail of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the less crowded regions of the Nepal Himalayas. Manaslu Circuit Trekking is a perfect combination of rich cultural heritage, unsurpassed Himalayan beauty, and distinct biological diversity. It starts at the Budi Gandaki River and goes up to Larke-La. Larke La is a wide mountain pass (5211 m) connecting Budi Gandaki Valley with Marshyangdi Valley. During the trek, the panoramic mountain views and a superb glimpse of attractive mountains like Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu will make your journey memorable.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the best off-the-beaten-path treks in Nepal. It is famous for its solidarity and untouched natural beauty. This trek lets you explore the pristine region of Nepal. It is considered to be a moderate-level trek with cultural, historical, and natural wonders. The total length of the Manaslu Circuit trek is around 177 kilometers. Nowadays, Manaslu Trek has become the best alternative to the Annapurna Circuit for trekkers who desire to explore the diversified landscape, culture, and Himalayan views.
Major Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Manaslu Circuit Trek is a well-known peer of Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit but is far less crowded than them.
- Manaslu is gaining popularity, but we still see fewer trekkers on the trail.
- The trek is wild and remote, yet there are tea houses at every stage, so trekkers don’t need to bring tents and food, making it more accessible and affordable than similar treks.
- Easily avoids domestic flights to reach the trailhead.
- Opportunity to visit an exemplary cantilever bridge.
- You will trek from the subtropical jungle at lower elevations through the Himalayan foothills to the highlands, experiencing the scenery in a single trip and all that Nepal has to offer.
- Ultimately, the cold and challenging crossing of the Larke-La is above 5,100 meters (17,000 feet).
Is Manaslu a good alternative to visiting the Annapurna Circuit?
Yes, touring the Manaslu Circuit is an excellent alternative to the Annapurna Circuit. Unlike the Annapurna Circuit Trek, which has become exceedingly commercialized and crowded, the Manaslu Circuit stands remote and raw. While the route is less crowded and peaceful, the mountain views and village experience are not any less impressive than on the Annapurna Circuit route.
How long is the trekking journey to Manaslu Circuit?
The Manaslu Circuit walk takes, on average, 17 days in total. However, the actual time stands between 14 and 21 days, depending on your pace and itinerary. The trailhead is the one that is nearby in Kathmandu.
The 126 km (80 miles) drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola takes an incredible 6 hours. Starting from there, the Manaslu Trek Circuit is a 14-day adventure following a standard itinerary. But there is always room for customization. So, you can choose to shorten or extend the tour, including adding more acclimatization days, according to your fitness level.
How difficult is it to trek to Manaslu Circuit?
The ascent on the Manaslu Circuit trekking journey is not particularly challenging. But with the region’s high altitude, steep ascents and descents, and rocky terrain with landslides flooding paths, it is considered strenuous to walk on. The other thing you can bet on is running into yaks.
There is no need for mountaineering gear, and the path doesn’t involve climbing snowy mountains. Instead, we cross the Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters, 16,752 feet), the highest point of the trip, so proper acclimatization and a decent fitness level are required.
What are the best seasons for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The best seasons for Manaslu Circuit Trekking are in the fall (September to November) and spring (March to May).
The spring season offers a unique combination of natural beauty and outdoor fun, along with comfortable temperatures and predictable weather. Autumn offers consistent weather and comfortable daytime hiking temperatures, but it also presents several difficulties.