TripZillaUnlike other marvelous treks in Nepal, Manaslu Circuit Trek is a rather short one with a combination of both Hindu and Buddhist cultures. Being the eighth highest peak (8,163 metres) in the world, the Manaslu Trek is filled with enchanting and breathtaking scenery.
You can never get enough of its conspicuous scenery, wildlife, and settlements. Although the trek itself is relatively easy, you still need to be prepared both mentally and physically.
Image credit: Mosaic Adventure
The fun fact about Manaslu Circuit Trek is that it is often revered as an alternative to the popular Annapurna Circuit Trek. Which means it truly does justice if one wants to visit and enjoy an authentic Himalayan experience. So if this charming trek piqued your interest, hop on the ride as we dive deep into the Mysteries of Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Why choose this trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a high-altitude trek that circles Mount Manaslu, also known as the eighth-highest peak in the world, standing at 8,163 metres tall: towering mountains, massive slopes, snow-white glaciers, and breathtaking scenery shift with every turn.
This is filled with such scenic wonders. Along with these, the Manaslu Trek is home to some of the oldest and unchanged traditions of the Gurung and Tibetan Communities. The people have lived here for centuries, which gives you a glimpse of history and ancient Himalayan culture.
Moreover, the Manaslu Mountain Trail Race is one of the most adventurous yearly trail races in the world. Runners from around the globe gather in Manaslu every year to participate in this grand event. Such a race doesn’t exist anywhere else in the world where you get to enjoy the magnificent beauty of the Himalayan mountains.
Overview of the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek is unlike other popular treks like Annapurna and Everest Base Camp Trek. This trek is not visited as much, meaning the trails are more untouched. Lately, this trek has been gaining more popularity, and more and more trekkers are attracted to its pure charm. Let’s look at the steps you have to go through to get to this scenic wonder.
Image credit: Mosaic Adventure
Beginning the trek in Soti Khola
Like every fantasy story, you begin from your starting point, which for the Manaslu Trek starts in the town of Soti Khola. Soti Khola is a small riverside settlement. All the trekkers gather in this town and prepare for their journey ahead. Now, the trail that follows the Budhi Gandaki River starts. Along this river, you experience many small villages, lush valleys, and terraced fields.
At the beginning of this trail, you face gentle terrain, where you’ll get a lot of opportunities to connect with the locals. You’ll get to experience rural Nepali life: small villages surrounded by bamboo groves, riverside paths, and rainforests. And with each day, as you mount towards Mount Manaslu, the forests will become thick, and more and more hillside waterfalls will surround you.
Trekking through Gurung villages and Buddhist monasteries
As you get farther away from the land and ascend in height, the villages will become sparser and more traditional. These villages reflect the actual Tibetan influence that defines this region. On your way, you’ll pass through villages like Namrung and Samagaon. These villages mainly reflect the Buddhist side of Nepal; prayer wheels, Mani walls carved with Buddhist mantras, and ancient monasteries, you’ll find such traditional elements everywhere.
The atmosphere here feels very spiritual. Monks can be seen everywhere, chanting their prayers, performing their teachings, and keeping their traditions alive. In the morning, the flaps of prayer flags can be heard. Each step here feels like a journey back to simpler, more spiritual times.
Conquering Larkya La
Finally, after several days of climbing, you’ll reach the high point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek: the Larkya La Pass. At this point, you’re standing at a stunning height of 5,106 metres. Reaching this point is a demanding task that tests you both mentally and physically. The morning here starts with freezing temperatures, and the Day is filled with other challenges, but the reward is well worth all the effort.
Image credit: Mosaic Adventure
Larkya La is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, including Manaslu, Cheo Himal, and Himlung Himal. And standing among these peaks feels like you’re on the edge of the world. Reaching this point is a challenge and a highlight. A moment of exhilaration that encapsulates the spirit of high-altitude trekking.
Practical tips to prepare for trek
Mansalu Trek is a breathtaking place, and a chance to visit this place is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But there are some crucial tips that you should keep in mind before starting your journey.
- Permits: As you know, mountain treks, as much as they are beautiful, can be very dangerous as well. To explore this region, you’ll need special permits and a registered guide to help you along the way to your destination.
- Best seasons: Mountain ranges change their colors throughout the seasons. So knowing the best seasons to explore is crucial. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons when you can enjoy the best weather conditions without many challenges.
- Physical preparation: The trek of Manaslu usually extends to 5,163 metres. You’ll get to experience long days and high-altitude trekking conditions. So, it is essential to prepare beforehand with cardiovascular and stamina training.
- Gear: Good gear is very important, as in such dangerous regions, not having enough supplies can be life-threatening. Pack up warm clothes, a quality sleeping bag, trekking boots, and some extra layers for emergencies. Weather conditions are not definite in mountain regions, so make sure to prepare extra in advance.
Final thoughts
An opportunity to encounter a world of natural beauty and cultural depth comes once in a lifetime. From the river valleys and lush forests to the stark alpine passes, each Day on the Manaslu Circuit feels like an expedition into the heart of the Himalayas. This hidden wonder might not be as famous as other Everest and Annapurna treks, but more and more travelers have started to explore this relatively unexplored trek.
One of the best guides who know every step of this trek is Mosaic Adventure. With a fantastic team of experienced trekkers, guides, sales, and logistics, they are ensuring that more and more trekkers get to explore Manaslu’s enchanting trails.
So, if you’re ready, hit them up on their socials.
Contact them via email at [email protected] or WhatsApp at https://wa.me/ +9779823816556 to start planning your trek today.
