Manaslu region trek offers the sweltering lowland countryside to the world’s highest 8163m Manaslu which is considered the 8th highest Himalaya on the earth with snowy passes Larke la and habitation of many faunas like the snow leopard.
Tea houses are available on all the classic routes of Manaslu trekking trails. The tea houses are more simple and more naive as compared to Everest and Annapurna trails. Due to a huge number of public and private transportation facilities can find to access and get away from this region so trekking there and away is very easy.
Inside the Manaslu Conservation Area, the traditional religious valley is wealthy with Tibetan Buddhist tradition and culture. Monasteries seem valuable Tibetan gems.
Manaslu region trek offers the secret Gompa encounter, a Long side tour along glaciers, an intoxicating trek that few trekkers did, and adds off the beaten trek Tsum valley just opened in 1990 AD.
After many road constructions in the Annapurna Conservation area, this trek route is developing and is now the most popular gratifying trail for peace trekkers.
Manaslu Circuit Treks 12 to 15 days:
Manaslu Circuit Trek is the soul of Himalaya which is one of the 8th thousand Himalayas in the world situated at the elevation of 8156m above sea level. It is situated just after to Annapurna Himalayan ranges and is one of the thrilling conservation areas of Nepal and restricted regions of the trek.
Manaslu trek offers a good scene of some Annapurna’s and Manaslu Himalayas ranges above 6000m. The difference between Manaslu and Annapurna is Manaslu just pen and few trekkers trek here whereas Annapurna’s large number of trekkers did. It’s been a quieter trekking route till now.
Many parts of Annapurna trails are not as beautiful as before due to road construction so Manaslu is a newly open trek route as the alternative to Annapurna.
The view of the Himalayas from Manaslu is also nicer and different cultures enchant tourists. In lower elevations, Hindu culture can influence whereas in higher elevations Buddhist Tibetan culture is highly influenced.
The higher viewpoint of this trail is the Himalayas pass Larkya la which is a strenuous distant pass that offers extraordinary views of Cheo Mountain, Himlung Mountain, Annapurna2, Kang Guru, and Manaslu.
The nearest from pass can extend the trip through Manaslu Base camp and if have a long holiday can extend a side trip to the Annapurna circuit with Tilicho lake otherwise finish the trek in Besisahar.
The trekkers who have enough time frame can trek via Tsum valley offers the Glacier, the unique culture of local people, and the Tibetan monastery. Also can encounter side trips to the Tibetan border.
Trip Facts:
Grade: Difficult
Trekking period: 12 to 20 days.
Trek style: Tea house to tea house trek
Higher elevation; 5160m Larkya pass.
The starting point of the trek: Soti Khola or Arughat in Gorkha
Ending point: Dharapani or Besishahar or Jomsom
Tsum Valley Treks 16 days:
Tsum valley trek is a secret hidden trekking destination and is just open for trekkers since 2008. Just the Tsum Valley trek is not that exciting and marvelous if not added on the Manaslu circuit or Ganesh Himal routes which give an extraordinary view of the Himalayas above 4000m.
Tsum valley is a voyage of travel on a remote path to encounter an ancient way of life with Tibetan plateau agriculture and Buddhism influenced by Tibetan origin.
Explore the charm of the Tsum valley trek needs just 1 week to encounter and observe but the side trip from Tsum valleys like Encounter Milarepa Cave, Tibetan Gompa named Lungdang, and Ganesh Himal Base camp needs an extra 5 more days.
Trekkers add 3 days extra and visit the place Lokpa and add the Manaslu circuit. The best trail; in this region is the Manaslu Larkya pass with Tsum Vally.
Tsum Valley Trek facts:
Grade of Trek: Moderate
Period of Trek: 7-15 Days
Highest altitude: 3,710M.
Accommodation: Homestays and new teahouses trek open.
The starting point of the trek /Ending Point: Lokpa
Rupina la Pass trek:
Rupina la Trek consider a Camping category trek and also a marvelous optional trail. This trek is a combination of the Manaslu circuits beginning from Barpak a small remote village in Gorkha. Rupina la trek can be suitable only from the month of March to November and join the same Manaslu circuit trek in Lokpa after crossing Rupina la pass 4720m asl.
This trek is a real remote region trek where trekkers are very far from all facilities that normal trekking routes have. There sometimes can find just the shelter of Yak and Naks during the trails. Can observe the Buddha Himal’s fascinating view on this trek.
Rupina La Pass Trek facts:
Trek Grade: Difficult
Trek period: 5-7 Days
Max. Altitude: 4720M (Rupina La)
Trek style: Camping
The start point of the trek: Barpak
End Point of trek: Lokpa
Charm of Manaslu Trek:
Tsum valley:
Tsum valley trek is a newly discovered trekking hub in 2008 AD which is a unique and remote Tibetan influence empire destination. Tsum valley is the heaven of travelers full of Tibetan Gompas, countryside Villages, Buddhist culture, and off-the-beaten paradise treks in Nepal.
Explore the Village Lifestyle:
Compared to other trekking trails of Nepal Tsum valley and Manaslu trek offers to explore the ancient village where agriculture is highly influenced so tourism plays a vital role in the economy increasing of local people. It’s quiet trekking trails in Nepal.
Marvelous side tour:
Manaslu and Tsum valley offers numerous side treks and tour when add-on extra days. Manaslu Base camp (MBC), Tibetan border visit, Birendra and another lake, Monastery visit, and Annapurna circuit add-on made this trek more unforgettable.
Famous Pass Larkya La:
The best viewpoint and most thrilling point of the Manaslu region trek are Larkya la pass 5160m which is one of the trekking higher passes in the Himalayas region. Numerous Himalayas vistas reward from Larkya pass so it’s one of the most famous tourist center points of this trek.
Wildlife Encounters Along the Manaslu Trek
Diverse Habitats and Exotic Wildlife:
The Manaslu Conservation Area offers a unique opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitats, ranging from dense forests to alpine pastures. This region is known for its biodiversity, hosting species that are rare and often elusive. Trekkers might catch a glimpse of the endangered Snow Leopard, Himalayan Tahr, and the Red Panda, all of which are native to the Nepalese Himalayas. Birdwatchers can also marvel at the sight of the Himalayan Monal, Nepal’s national bird, known for its vibrant plumage.
Guided Nature Walks:
For wildlife enthusiasts, several guided trek options focus specifically on the fauna of the region. These guided walks are led by local experts with deep knowledge of the wildlife and their habitats. They provide insight into the behaviors and conservation efforts concerning these species. Not only do these walks enhance the trekking experience by connecting trekkers with nature, but they also promote wildlife conservation through education and awareness.
Eco-sensitive Trekking:
The Manaslu trek is designed to be eco-sensitive, ensuring that wildlife habitats are respected and preserved. The trails are planned to minimize disturbance to natural habitats, and guides are trained to provide trekkers with instructions on how to observe wildlife responsibly and safely. This approach ensures that the wildlife continues to thrive and that trekking remains a sustainable activity in the region.
Participation in Wildlife Conservation Projects:
For those who are interested, participation in ongoing wildlife conservation projects can be a highlight of their trek. These projects may involve setting up camera traps, collecting data for research studies, or even participating in community-led habitat restoration projects. This active participation provides a hands-on approach to conservation and offers a deeper understanding of the ecological balance within the Manaslu region.
Is Manaslu harder than Annapurna?
Comparing the difficulty of the Manaslu trek and the Annapurna trek involves considering several factors such as altitude, terrain, length, and the level of infrastructure and support available. Here’s a comparison:
Manaslu Trek
Length: Approximately 14-18 days
Altitude: The highest point is the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters (16,929 feet)
Terrain: Remote and less developed; includes rough trails, river crossings, and high mountain passes
Facilities: Fewer teahouses and lodges; more basic accommodations and fewer amenities
Permits: Requires a special restricted area permit, a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and a guide, more bureaucratic requirements
Crowds: Less crowded than the Annapurna trek, offering a more isolated and authentic experience
Scenery: Diverse landscapes, including forests, terraced fields, glaciers, and high mountains
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Length: Approximately 15-20 days
Altitude: The highest point is the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).
Terrain: Well-established trails, but still challenging with steep ascents and descents.
Facilities: Well-developed infrastructure with numerous teahouses, lodges, and amenities.
Permits: Requires an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card; fewer bureaucratic hurdles.
Crowds: More popular and busier, especially in peak seasons.
Scenery: Varied landscapes including lush subtropical forests, alpine meadows, arid semi-desert, and stunning views of the Annapurna range.
Summary
Remoteness and Infrastructure: The Manaslu trek is more remote and less developed, making it harder in terms of logistics and self-sufficiency. The Annapurna trek has better infrastructure and more facilities.
Terrain and Trail Conditions: Both treks involve challenging terrain, but the Manaslu trek can be rougher and more rugged.
Permits and Bureaucracy: The Manaslu trek requires more permits and has stricter regulations than the Annapurna trek.
Crowds and Accessibility: The Annapurna trek is more crowded but also more accessible, with easier access to amenities and support.
Altitude: Both treks reach similar high altitudes, but acclimatization is crucial for both.
The Manaslu trek is generally considered more challenging due to its remoteness, fewer facilities, and more rugged terrain. The Annapurna trek, while still demanding, is more accessible with better infrastructure and support, making it easier to compare. Both treks offer stunning scenery and a rewarding experience, but the level of difficulty can be subjective based on an individual’s experience, fitness, and preference for remoteness and adventure.
Is trekking in Manaslu Difficult?
Yes, the Manaslu trek is considered to be challenging and demanding. Here are some key factors that contribute to its difficulty:
Altitude
High Altitude: The trek reaches a high point at Larkya La Pass, which is 5,160 meters (16,929 feet). High altitude can cause altitude sickness, making it important for trekkers to acclimatize properly.
Terrain
Rugged Trails: The trails can be rough and uneven, with steep ascents and descents. Some sections may require crossing rivers and navigating landslides or narrow paths.
Remote and Isolated: The region is less developed and more remote, meaning the trails are less maintained and can be more difficult to traverse.
Length and Duration
Long Duration: The trek typically takes about 14-18 days to complete, depending on the itinerary. This requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance.
Daily Hiking Hours: Trekkers usually hike for 5-8 hours a day, which can be tiring and requires good stamina.
Weather and Conditions
Unpredictable Weather: The weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Trekkers need to be prepared for rain, snow, and cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.
Avalanche Risk: There is a risk of avalanches, particularly around the high passes, which can make the trek more dangerous.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Limited Facilities: Compared to more popular treks like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, the Manaslu trek has fewer teahouses and lodges. Accommodations are more basic, and there are fewer amenities.
Logistics: The remoteness of the trek means that logistics can be more challenging. Trekkers need to carry sufficient supplies and be more self-reliant.
Permits and Regulations
Special Permits Required: The Manaslu trek requires a restricted area permit, a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and a guide. These requirements add to the complexity of planning the trek.
The Manaslu trek is difficult due to its high altitude, rugged terrain, long duration, unpredictable weather, limited facilities, and logistical challenges. However, for those who are well-prepared and physically fit, it offers a rewarding experience with stunning scenery and a sense of adventure. Proper acclimatization, a good level of fitness, and thorough preparation are essential for successfully completing the Manaslu trek.
Manaslu Trek FAQ:
Permits:
Manaslu region trek is a restricted region trek so special permits are necessary to trek there. Trekkers Information Management system(TIMS) permits Manaslu Conservation area project(MCAP) permits and Restricted region 7 days permits (US$70) in high season and us$50 in low season necessary to trek in Manaslu.
Similarly, the Tsum valley permit season is US$35, and off-season US$ 25 is also necessary for the Tsum valley trek. Without a local guide or Nepali staff not allowed to trek in this region.
Best Time:
All the trekking routes in the Manaslu region can be undertaken except in winter due to heavy snow in passes. So the best time is spring and autumn to explore there. From June to August the cloud covers the snow peaks so not the best period to travel.
Get there and away:
NO flight is available in this region. Public buses or private vehicles are only the options to get there for trekking and get away after the trek finishes. Both Kathmandu and Pokhara bus services are accessible.
