Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal - Difficulties | Tips | Itinerary

After Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Manaslu Region Trek (Manaslu Trek or Manaslu Circuit Trek) has become one of the most popular treks in Nepal. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore untouched pure nature in the Himalayas' unusual land. The un-trodden routes, beautiful scenery, ecological richness, old culture, and majestic mountain ranges of the Manaslu Circuit Trek are naturally delightful. The Manaslu trip is known for its breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks such as Ganesh Himal (7422m/24,350ft) and Mt. Manaslu (8,163m/26,781ft), the world's eighth highest summit. Apart from that, the Manaslu Trek is known for its stunning glaciers, Larkya La Pass (5,160m/16,928ft), historic Gompas, and ecological harmony. For the preparation of Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal you need to know many things which are included in this blog. They are:

Preparation of Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal

Tips

Train Physically and mentally for a Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trekking is a modest hike in the Himalayan foothills that does not necessitate technical mountaineering skills. Because a successful climb necessitates many hours of walking at high altitudes, physical fitness is essential. Mountain walking requires a lot of endurance and strength, which can be developed with regular exercise. Cardio-oriented exercises such as walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling should be done four to five times a week. Hiking on local routes for 5 to 7 hours with minimal breaks is the best method to prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trekking. Trekker taking photo with beautiful background of Mt. Manaslu and Village

 In the mountains, your mental toughness and confidence are just as important as your physical fitness. This journey leads you to rural communities, far from your opulent surroundings.

Pack Essential Gears

The first thing you should think about before embarking on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a nice pair of hiking shoes. To avoid blisters, it's best to wear trekking shoes you've worn before. Because the temperature lowers quickly, it's advisable to dress warmly with down jackets, fleece, and base layers. We recommend bringing a raincoat and a windcheater to remain protected from the elements. Carrying your own gear, such as a sleeping bag and down jacket, is strongly suggested because it will be more comfortable and convenient. If you forget something, MMT provides sleeping bags and required gear list for Manaslu circuit trek.

Walking at your own pace

When embarking on the Manaslu Circuit trek challenge, it's critical to keep your pace and acclimate to the greater altitude. Walking slowly and steadily at high elevations will keep the body properly acclimatized and limit the risk of sickness. Keep in mind that this isn't a race! Rushing can make you tired or unwell since your body doesn't have enough time to acclimate to the decreased oxygen levels at higher elevations. Walk at a comfortable speed and allow several days of acclimatization to ensure that your body is properly prepared. We advise you to reassess your plans if you plan to accomplish the Manaslu trek on a tight timeline. Although trekking can be done in fewer days, rushing your itinerary can cause several problems during your adventure vacation. If time is still an issue, consider this plan, which allows you to return by jeep. We also have Short Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 days for time limited trekkers. Beautiful stupa at Manaslu Circuit Trek

Be Aware of Altitude Sickness and Know the Symptoms for AMS

You're constantly at risk of getting Acute Mountain Sickness when climbing to high altitudes like the Manaslu Circuit. Anyone who climbs to higher elevations without sufficient acclimatization will be easily irritated by the mountain's state. If altitude sickness is not treated promptly, it can swiftly progress from mild headaches to life-threatening situations. When trekking the Manaslu Circuit, you should be mindful of the early signs of altitude sickness. Headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, shortness of breath, and a loss of appetite are some of the symptoms. If you are experiencing any symptoms, it is imperative that you take all required precautions to ensure that your condition does not worsen.

Drink plenty of safe water to avoid dehydration

On the way, you make sure to drink enough of water. Because you'll be walking for 5 to 7 hours every day on the trek, your body will quickly get dehydrated and electrolyte depleted. It's usually a good idea to pre-hydrate your body and fill your bottles in the morning. Altitude sickness can be avoided by drinking enough water at a higher level. In the mountains, an adult will consume 4-5 liters of water each day on average. Another important consideration when trekking around Manaslu is the safety of the water you consume. Because local streams provide the majority of Himalayan water, this may not always be safe. In the Manaslu region, tea houses sell both mineral and boiling water. Because boiled water may not always be accessible, chlorine or iodine tablets are also necessary for water purification. Make sure you have oral rehydration salts on hand, since these can help with taste and electrolyte replenishment. Beautiful natural waterfall during Manaslu Trek in Nepal

Difficulties

Distance of the Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is located in Gorkha district, in the northern Himalayan range. The landscape varies greatly during this walk, with the lowest point being 228 meters and the highest point being 8,163 meters on Mt. Manaslu, the world's eighth highest peak. The overall distance of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is around 177 kilometers. On a typical 17-day tour, you'll be walking for 10-12 days, covering an average distance of 15-20 kilometers each day, which can be exhausting for you. The trek becomes challenging after the first few days because the Budhi Gandaki Gorge is incredibly steep. You'll travel along winding paths and over suspension bridges that span the Budhi Gandaki River. At 5,213 meters above sea level, crossing the Larkya La Pass is a difficult task. Trekking via the uneven terrain and rocky trail also requires stamina and endurance.

Weather of Manaslu Region

The difficulty of the Manaslu trek is largely determined by the weather. The Manaslu trek passes through six different climate zones: tropical and subtropical, temperate, subalpine, alpine, and arctic. During your trek, you may encounter heavy rain, freezing nights, scorching sun, and a chilly wind. The days are warm and dry, but the nights are cold. It is critical to prepare clothing appropriate for the season in which you'll be traveling. Winter trekking can be difficult. The weather is mild during the day, but dips to -20 degrees Celsius at night. The Larkya La Pass and several tea houses are closed throughout the winter due to excessive snowfall. During the summer and monsoon seasons, there is a lot of rain. The trail is slick, muddy, and full with leeches as a result of the heavy rain. The greatest time to go trekking is during the spring season, when the weather is clear and the best views of snow-capped mountains are available. It's also the best time to see rhododendrons in bloom. Autumn is also a good time to go trekking. It's also the busiest season for hikers. The temperature is good, and the scenery is breathtaking. As a result, the weather-related difficulty of the Manaslu Circuit Journey can be lessened if you schedule your trek during the spring or autumn. Trekker taking photo after conquering Larkya La Pass
Altitude Sickness During the Trek

Altitude sickness, sometimes known as acute mountain sickness, makes hiking difficult, especially at high altitudes. The altitude on the Manaslu Trek varies greatly. As a result, one of the most difficult aspects of the Manaslu Circuit Trek may be your ability to acclimate to high elevations. The journey begins at 700 meters in Soti Khola and ends at 5213 meters at the Larkya La Pass. Because everyone is at risk of altitude sickness, being properly informed on the condition can help to reduce the risk. To prevent getting altitude sickness, you should take the following precautions:

• Slowly ascend. To acclimate to the changes, your body needs two to three days of gradual elevation.
• Your body demands more calories while you are at a greater altitude. As a result, bring along plenty of carbohydrate-rich snacks.
• Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and sleeping drugs, all of which can exacerbate altitude sickness.
• In order to avoid altitude sickness, it's critical to stay hydrated. As a result, drink plenty of water while on your hike.
• Stop and relax where you are if you get a headache or feel unwell, take suitable drugs, and notify the guide right away.

Outline Itinerary

• DAY 1: Arrive Kathmandu (1,300m/4,265ft)
• Day 02: Kathmandu valley sightseeing and trek preparation
• DAY 3: Kathmandu(1,300m/4,265ft) – Arughat (600m/1,970 ft) – Soti Khola (70m/2,300ft): 135km, 8-9 hrs drive.
• DAY 4: Soti Khola(700m/2,300ft) – Machha Khola (870m/2,855ft): 13km, 5-6 hrs.
• DAY 5: Machha Khola(870m/2,855ft) – Dobhan (1,070m/3,510ft): 10km, 5-6 hrs.
• DAY 6: Dobhan)1,070/3,510ft) – Philim (1,570m/5,150ft): 13km, 7-8 hrs.
• DAY 7: Philim(1,570m/5,150ft) – Deng (1,860m/6,102ft): 10km, 6-7 hrs
• DAY 8: Deng(1,860m/6,102ft) – Namrung (2,630m/8,630ft): 15km, 7-8 hrs.
• DAY 9: Namrung(2,630m/8,630ft) – Lho (3,180m/10,432ft): 7km, 4-5hrs.
• DAY 10: Lho(3,180m/10,432ft) – Sama Gaon (3,520m/11,550ft): 9km, 5-6 hrs.
• DAY 11: Rest and exploration day
• DAY 12: Sama(3,520m/11,550ft) – Samdo (3,860m/12,664ft): 8km, 4-5 hrs.
• DAY 13: Samdo(3,860m/12,664ft) – Larkya Phedi/Dharamsala (4,460m/14,631ft): 7km, 4-5 hrs.
• DAY 14: Dharamsala(4,460m/14,631ft) – Larkya La (5,160m/16,928ft) – Bimthang (3,590m/11,777ft): 13km, 8-9 hrs.
• DAY 15: Bimthang(3,590m/11,777ft) – Gho (2,515m/8,250ft): 13km, 6-7 hrs.
• DAY 16: Gho(2,515m/8,250ft) – Dharapani (1,920m/6,300ft): 8km, 3-4 hrs.
• DAY 17: Dharapani(1,920m/6,300ft)- Besi Sahar (760m/2,495ft) – Kathmandu (1,300m/4,265ft): 190km 7-8hrs
• DAY 18: Final departure

Trekker taking pose with majestic view of Mt Manaslu in background

Permit

Manaslu is in a restricted area, so you'll need a permit, a government-approved trekking service, and a qualified guide to accompany you. To secure a trekking permission across the area, a minimum of two persons are required. The special permit costs $100 for the first seven days plus $15 for each extra day from September to November, and $75 for the first seven days plus $10 for each additional day from December to August. The prices listed are per person. Trekkers must additionally get permits from the Nepal Tourism Board for the Annapurna and Manaslu Conservation Areas, which cost 3000 Nepali Rupees per person and include 13% VAT for each region.

Best Packages of Manaslu Trek

• Manaslu Trek 18 days
• Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek 24 days
• Tsum Valley Trekking 18 days
• Rupina La Manaslu Circuit Trek 22 days

Conclusion

Manaslu Circuit Trek/ Manaslu Trek is one of the best trekking destinations for the trekker who loves natures. This trek is the rich collection of beautiful scenery, ecological richness, old culture, and majestic mountain ranges. It offers classical experience of trekking in the hidden valley of the Himalayas called Tsum Valley and also offers Rupina la Pass (4,643m/15,232ft) which is a challenging and the 2nd highest pass. For the preparation of Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal, physical fitness and strength is essential, because you need to walk many hours in the himalayan trails. All in all, Manaslu trek is suitable for all age group, beginners, veteran, backpackers, and budget travelers and it is also AMS friendly itinerary and with proper acclimatization days. Regarding treks, if you have any queries then feel free to ask our trek expert 24x7. If you want to explore the thrilling experience of trekking then Contact Us now.