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Manaslu Trek Guide
Are you planning to go Manaslu area for trekking? If yes, then read this Manaslu trek guide which covers the trekking Itinerary, cost idea, packing list, and necessary permits for Manaslu trekking.
The virgin land of Manaslu is yet to be sojourned by the travel freaks of the world. Manaslu trek takes you to Nepal’s off-beaten treks, deep into the remote villages and lush green forest. The thrill of passing the massive river on a suspension bridge, waterfalls, and lovely mountain vistas. The Journey to Manaslu trek commences in the busy market town of Soti Khola and goes up and back on a different path, ending in the beautiful city of Syange. This abundant natural beauty is complete peace that will please your heart. It’s a journey that rejuvenates you to a better life.
So, are you ready to learn more about this prodigious trekking destination? Let’s get started.
Why is Manaslu Trekking Special?
The Circuit trek of Manaslu is outright special. One gets right into the valley following the ancient salt–trading route on the steep-sided Budhi Gandaki river. Ten peaks over 6,500 meters/21,300 ft will greet you with a grin.
Manaslu area is primarily inhabited by two regions, Nubri and Tsum. Chhikur’s branching off separates these two racial territories. While Nubri was popularly visited in the mid-19s, Tsum Valley retains its traditional culture, art, and tradition. The hospitable Gurung people add to the charm of Manaslu.
How long is the Manaslu Trek?
The Manaslu trek demands 12 to 17 days of commitment. You will be traveling more than 177 kilometers during the journey. One will walk for about 6 to 7 hours each day while covering about 10 to 20 km of distance. The distance, however, differs from Itinerary to Itinerary. Here is the general route you will be taking.
General Itinerary
| Day | Description | Altitude |
| Day 1 | Drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola | 815m |
| Day 2 | Trek from Sotikhola to Maccha Khola | 800m |
| Day 3 | Trek from Maccha Khola to Jagat | 1370m |
| Day 4 | Trek from Jagat to Philim | 1570m |
| Day 5 | Trek from Philim to Deng | 1865m |
| Day 6 | Trek from Deng to Ghap | 2165m |
| Day 7 | Trek from Ghap to Lho | 3180m |
| Day 8 | Trek from Lho to Sama Gaon/Ro | 3525m |
| Day 9 | Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon | 3525m |
| Day 10 | Trek from Sama Gaon to | 3850m |
| Day 11 | Acclimatization Day in Samdo | 3850m |
| Day 12 | Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala | 4460m |
| Day 13 | Trek from Dharamsala to Bimtang via Larkya La (5135m) | 3590m |
| Day 14 | Trek from Bimtang to Dharapani | 1860m |
| Day 15 | Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu | 1340m |
How difficult is Manaslu Trek?
Manaslu Trek’s difficulty might sound hectic, but in reality, it’s pretty easily achievable. This Manaslu Circuit Trek is marked as moderately complex and is suitable for any level trekkers.
For most of the journey, one will be roaming the exotic and off-beaten paths of the Manaslu. So, Manaslu is the best choice if you are craving adventures in the Himalayas. Trekking in high mountains will be challenging- altitude being one of the significant challenges. Distance and unstable weather can be other difficulties you should be aware of.
Moreover, the trails are rocky, sloppy, and steep in some places.
Thankfully, the route to Manaslu is not that harsh. The thrill and excitement one experiences on the trek will be forever engraved in your memories while the pain disappears in a few days.
Manaslu Circuit Trek’s difficulty mostly depends on one’s physical condition. Before the trek, a few weeks of jogging, running, cycling, and swimming can prepare you for such a walk.
Tips to Overcome Manaslu Trek Difficulty.
- Always carry a personal bottle in your handbag and stay hydrated on the trek.
- Some physical training, such as running, cycling, swimming, and short hikes, is helpful about a month before the trek.
- Packing light and innovative is the key- having extra luggage will only slow you down and make the trek even more difficult.
- Including some rest days in your Itinerary is very important. Such acclimatization allows your body to adjust to the current environment.
- If you face altitude sickness symptoms, immediately get first aid from your guide or hotel owner. Also, it would help if you moved to a lower altitude.
- Booking the traveling package or accommodation, especially if you are traveling during peak season, is essential.
- Get a friendly guide and porter who accommodates you throughout the journey.
- Ensure your travel insurance is updated and covers the risk of high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation.
Manaslu trek permits
Being a restricted area, one must issue three permits before getting into Manaslu. To note more, you need a group of at least two people accompanied by a guide. Here is the list of Permits for the Manaslu region.
Manaslu Restricted Permit
This special permit to enter the restricted region costs USD 70.00 for the first seven days. For each additional day, you will need USD 10.00. To encourage off-season Manaslu trekking, the cost is decreased to USD 50.00 for the initial week and USD 7.00 for each extra day from December to August.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
MCAP for SAARC Nationals is 300 NPR, and that for Nationals is 3,000 NPR per person.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
This permit is necessary to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and costs Rs 3000 per person.
Accommodation for the Manaslu Trek
You can expect to stay in a decent-star hotel in Kathmandu. Along the trekking trail, you will be staying in the tea houses. Tea houses are small hotels that are locally known as Bhatti. Besides beginning small, they offer a certain level of comfort. Tea houses have a basic double room with a mattress and a blanket. Accommodation is relatively and accordingly cheap. The per-night cost of the room ranges from $5 to $10.
The tea house offers you different international cuisine and good Nepalese food. They offer various food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Best Season for Manaslu Trekking?
The months of October or November (which marks Autumn in Nepal) are the best time for Manaslu Circuit Trekking. The clear sky, warm weather, and stable climate make this time of the year prodigious. On the other hand, the spring (March to May) is decorated with colourful wild blooms.
The rest of the year, Winter and Monsoon, receive fewer visitors. The cold weather can make the trek difficult during this time of the year. What must be said is that all trekking season bestows their excitement and atmosphere on hikers.
Summing Up
Manaslu Trek is a hidden gem that is yet to be explored to the core. The beauty of the place and the thrill of high-altitude trekking captivate your soul in the mountains of Manaslu. But having the correct information about the area is vital before you trek into the unknown land. It’s wise to book a well-arranged trekking package to Manaslu to make your journey easier.
Let us know if we can help you in any way…
Good wishes!!
