How Difficult is Manaslu Trek?

Nepal is a significant destination for trekkers from all over the world. It has exceptional trekking destinations, like Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Everest Base Camp, and the Manaslu Trek. Many trekkers know Annapurna and Everest Base Camp Trek are accessible to moderate levels, but how difficult is the Manaslu Trek? Let’s get into it.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a stunning 12-13-day trek that brings you closer to Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. The main places to visit during your Manaslu Circuit Trek is the fantastic journey through the wilderness, subtropical forests, and vibrant valleys; finally, you will reach snow-peak mountains. Manaslu Circuit Trek lets you be closer to nature and learn about new cultures and traditions. 

During this fantastic excursion, you can see incredible mountain views, such as Manaslu and Manaslu North, Samdo Peak, Naike Peak, Larke Peak, and Cheo Himal. You will also explore Larkya La Pass and monasteries like Nubri Monastery & Pungyen Monastery. So, let’s look at the trek’s difficulty level.

How Difficult is Manaslu Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek ranges from moderate to challenging difficulty levels. Many factors determine the difficulty level of any trek, so let’s get into it.

Elevation

The one significant difficulty of the Manaslu Trek is the high altitude. During your trek to the Manaslu Circuit, you will be trekking at an altitude of 4,860 m. Due to the high elevation, every trekker risks altitude sickness. As the altitude increases, the air becomes relatively thinner, and the oxygen level decreases. When the body doesn’t become adjusted to the oxygen level, you will suffer from altitude sickness. The trails on Manaslu Mountain affect people differently. Some people have trouble breathing at high altitudes, while others don’t. Going up too high too quickly can make you feel sick. Hence, it is essential to know how to prevent or decrease the incidence of altitude sickness, including climatization.

Duration

The Manaslu Circuit’s long duration is another major factor that is increasing its difficulty. The trek takes at least two weeks to complete. The trails are challenging to scale as you have to pass through many terrains, such as forests, villages, barren landscapes, peaks, valleys, glacial moraines, and snowy mountains. Since the trek is long, you must cover long distances daily, which will take a toll on the body.

There is also a trek package for Manaslu Short Trek, which can be great for those who have limited time.

Terrain and Distance

The total distance round trip of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is about 177km. If you are trekking for about 13 to 14 days, you have to cover a distance of about 6–7km daily.

As you head toward the trek, expect to start off feeling energized and enthusiastic. However, be prepared for the altitude to rise as the days pass and fatigue gradually sets in. You will feel tired, and breathing at a higher altitude will be more challenging. The trek difficulty increases even more with the rugged, slippery terrain.

Weather and Climate

The weather in the Manaslu region can change unexpectedly, with heavy rain and snow possible at any time of the year. This can make trekking challenging. From December to February, temperatures can plummet to as low as -8°C, making the trek an actual test of endurance, especially at higher elevations. Snowfall during winter can block trails or make them hard to follow, which could cause delays or cancellations of the trek if the weather is severe. It’s crucial to be well-equipped and prepared for these conditions.

Similarly, heavy rain and thunderstorms during the rainy season can cause landslides or make the trails slippery and risky. The best months for the Manaslu Circuit trek are mostly April and October, but other months, such as March, May, September, and November, are also ideal. The weather is good during these months, with mild temperatures, clear skies, and occasional rain and snow.

Accommodation and Food

Food and Accommodation are essential factors that you need to pay attention to during your high-altitude trek in the Manaslu Circuit. In the lower region, you will have many food choices. But as you rise the altitude, you will mostly stay in the teahouse for accommodation, where you will also get your food options, and the menus are limited. You will have two choices of meals: vegetarian and nonvegetarian.

Eating vegetarian food at the tea shops is best when hiking in the Manaslu region. Eating meat at high elevations can make you sick. Also, eat something other than frozen food at the tea houses. Eating local vegetarian food is better to stay healthy during your hikes.

You’ll typically have three meals daily: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The trekking day begins with breakfast in the teahouse, where you will stay overnight. Generally, you will have breakfast between 6 Am and 8 Am before you start your trek. The menu for breakfast is tea, coffee, Tibetan bread, eggs, toast, pancakes, etc. For lunch and dinner, the menus are generally similar as they range from local Dal, Bhat, Vegetable curry, Pizzas, Burgers, Dumplings, Sandwiches, Spaghetti, Macaroni, Steaks, etc. In some remote teahouses of the Manaslu region, the options for lunch and dinner are even fewer and can only be limited to local Nepali produce.

During your Manaslu circuit trek, accommodation is also limited to higher altitudes. The teahouses are small with expansive rooms and mostly have twin beds, which means each room has two beds with pillows, mattresses, bedsheets, etc., so that you sleep warm and cozy. The rooms are generally clean and hygenic, but if you need more time, you can bring your pillow casings and, even better, your sleeping bags. The restroom or toilets in most teahouses are old Asian type where you have to squat. The restrooms are cleaned every day, and they are well-hygienic.

Cultural Difference

One of the significant difficulties that trekkers face during their trek to the Manaslu region is the difference in culture, tradition, and language barrier. When trekking through remote villages, it’s essential to respect local culture, traditions, and rituals, which may differ from yours. Remember to dress modestly, take off your shoes before entering homes or temples, and be mindful of carrying out trash and waste. Hence, to simplify the difficulty of the culture, it is wise to hire a guide, pay attention to the behavior, and listen to their instructions so that you don’t offend the local people.

Training and Preparation for the Trek

Physical and Mental Preparation 

Physical and Mental preparation is essential for any high-altitude trek like the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Preparing for the Manaslu Circuit Trek requires regular exercise, such as cardio, breathing, and strength training, to build stamina and endurance. You can practice walking uphill or climbing stairs with a backpack to prepare for the trek conditions. Mental preparation is also essential for the physically and mentally demanding journey, as is learning about the trek’s challenges and being ready for altitude sickness.

Acclimatization

Manaslu Circuit Trek ranges from moderate to challenging difficulty levels as you have to trek at an altitude of over 5160m. Hence, one of the significant risks of trekking at that height is the risk of altitude sickness. Acclimatization is one crucial way to prevent altitude sickness, but many beginners or less experienced trekkers are unaware of the concept of acclimatization. There are a few ways of acclimatization: Gradual Ascent, Separate acclimatization days, listening to your body, hiking at your own pace, and keeping yourself hydrated all the time. Furthermore, the golden rule of trekking is to trek high and sleep low. Altitude trekking might still affect you during the early trekking days, so take proper medication.

Take Guide or Porter

If you want to make your trek more accessible and less complicated, then hiring guides and porters during your trek is a wise choice. In recent years, guides have become compulsory, which means you will only get a trekking permit if you have hired a qualified and experienced guide. Guides will help you navigate the routes easily, provide accommodation and food, overcome language barriers, and provide first aid, medication, or even helicopter rescue. On the other hand, porters are not compulsory to hire, but it is wise to hire them as they can carry heavy loads for you.

Trekking in the alpine climate, with steep ascents and tons of luggage, could be more fun. Porters have experience and can carry up to 20kg of bags. Furthermore, they also have their yaks or mules for group services, enabling you to not worry about your baggage and enjoy your trek.

Packing and Gear

One key thing to prepare even before the start of your trek is the packing list for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. We can divide the things and items you can pack into different types, like documents, clothing, equipment, toiletries, etc.

Documents

• Valid Passport
• Nepali Visas
• 4 Passport size photos
• Airline tickets & Trip blueprint
• Travel Insurance

Clothing

• Balaclava
• Knit Hat 
• Brimmed Hat or Sun Cap
• Bandana or Headscarf
• Buff/Neck Warmer
• Sunglasses
• Trekking Sandals
• Running shoes or trainers
• Hiking Pants
• Gaiters 
• Insulated Jacket 
• Down Jacket 
• Lightweight Thermal Tops
• Trekking Boots
• Soft Jacket 
• Underwear
• Cotton Socks
• Light thermal trouser
• Long/Short Polypropylene Sleeve Shirt for trekking at lower altitudes
• Heavyweight Gloves or Mittens
• Fleece Pullover or Jacket
• Hiking shorts for summer-time trekking
• Waterproof Jacket
• Sports Bra
• Fleece Pants
• Lightweight Gloves
• Hiking Socks

Trekking Equipments

• Thermosets for sleeping bags
• Navigation equipment (optional)
• Head torch with extra batteries
• Water Bottle
• Trekking backpack
• Book/Diary/Games
• Face Mask
• Garbage Bag
• Binoculars (optional)
• Trekking poles
• Sleeping Bag*
• Daypack cover (optional)
• Crampons (optional)
• Sleeping bag liner (optional)
• Raincoat
• Duffel Bag

Best Time for Manaslu Trek

Trekking in Manaslu is fun and challenging, but trekking at the best time is even more fun and less demanding. The best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be categorized into peak and off-seasons. The peak seasons are ideal trekking seasons, like Spring and Autumn, whereas the off-seasons are Winter and Monsoon. Let’s look at the best time for the Manaslu trek according to season.

Spring

In spring, the Manaslu region is beautiful, with many flowers and good weather for trekking. March is the start of spring there. It starts getting warmer, but mornings and nights are still cold. It’s even more excellent in April with mild temperatures and longer days. The views of mountains and skies are more apparent in April, and the blooming flower trails will melt your heart. May is still good, but it might rain sometimes. It gets warmer, and some lakes melt and look nice.

Autumn

Autumn’s weather is ideal because it’s not too hot, and the days are nice and long. Fall is also the best time to go over Larke La Pass (5,165m) because no rain or snow makes it hard. October is the best month for the trek. It’s a bit chilly, especially in the higher parts. October is a busy time for the trek, and it’s a good time to go over Larke La Peak because there’s less snow.

Winter 

The winter season is less ideal for trekking due to less favorable trekking conditions. Some people like to travel when it’s cold so there are fewer crowds. In Nepal, winter is in December, January, and February. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is famous during this time. The views of the hills and mountains are stunning. The weather is good for trekking because it doesn’t rain. You can visit ancient villages and see snowy mountains, big valleys, and clear rivers.

Summer/ Monsoon

The least ideal season among other seasons is summer or monsoon. Due to relentless rainfall, the trekking trails get wet and slippery. The forests are filled with insects and leeches, and there is also a high chance of natural disasters like floods, landslides, and avalanches in higher altitudes. You might want to trek in other seasons, but avoiding the rainy season is wise.

Understanding How Hard it Is to Climb Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is challenging but doable. It requires moderate physical fitness but doesn’t require any prior experience. Depending on your pace, the season, and the trek itinerary, you can complete the trek in 12 days, which can be increased to 14 or even 18 days.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you trek from Soti Khola and follow the breathtaking Budhi Gandaki River valley route. As you reach Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, you’ll pass through Manaslu Circuit Trail through green forests, stepped fields, and small towns. At every step, you’ll enjoy amazing views of snow-capped peaks that will leave you in awe.

The landscape changes as you ascend from subtropical to alpine desert-like regions in the highest trek regions. The highest altitude in the Manaslu Circuit is Larkya La Pass, which is 5,160 meters above sea level. This pass offers breathtaking views of Manaslu, Himlung, and Cheo Himal.

The trek ends in Dharapani Village, from where you can return to Kathmandu or continue your trek to the Annapurna Circuit or Tilicho Lake.

Geographic Location and Significance

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a high-altitude trek where you can reach the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Mt Manaslu. Some experts may consider it to be an easy trek, but due to its geographical location, it poses some challenges to the people.

Location of the Manaslu Circuit

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a hiking trail in west-central Nepal within a protected region called the Manaslu Conservation Area. The trek starts at Soti Khola, a small town near the Trishuli River Valley, and ends near Besi Sahar, a village near the Marshyangdi River Valley.

During the trek, you will pass through several villages and high-altitude passes. The Manaslu Circuit is a loop trail north of the Annapurna range and east of Ganesh Himal.

Key features of the Landscape

The Manaslu Circuit Trek consists of different types of landscapes throughout your treks. You will come across different kinds of landscapes, such as 

• Dramatic Valleys
• Soaring Mountains
• High Passes
• Richness Biodiversity
• Varied Terrain
• Cultural Immersion

Historical and Cultural Context

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a journey that offers a chance to appreciate the beauty of nature and learn about the rich history and culture of the region. It takes you deep into the stunning Manaslu area.

History of the Manaslu Region

Manaslu region has been a popular and influential place for many people for centuries. It shares historic significance as a trading post between people from Tibet and Nepal.

However, at that time, only a short part of the enormous Manaslu massif was discovered and explored by people. The Manaslu Peak was not climbed until 1956, when some Japanese climbers were successful, leading others to follow their path of climbing the giant peak.

During the unification campaign, King Prithvi Narayan Shah also built a castle on the route towards Manaslu, which local people can still explore today.

Cultural Significance and Local Customs

The Manaslu region is famous for the harmony and love of people of different ethnicities, castes, and traditions living together. In the lower section of the region, you’ll be able to meet friendly Gurungs and Tamang people. Similarly, the upper area is inhabited by Sherpas, Lamas, and Bhotes, who are equally helpful and friendly.

Buddhism is the main religion followed by people inhabiting the region. You’ll find tons of ancient Gumbas and monasteries along your way. They are highly protective and sensitive about their culture, monasteries, and their way of living.

Respecting their religion and lifestyle is crucial to making your trek experience even more wholesome. Always dress modestly, ask permission for photos, and respect their culture and religion. These are some local customs that you must be mindful of.

Interaction with Local Communities During the Trek

These local people have their own culture and customs and can take significant credit for tourism flourishing in the Manaslu region. Many foreign people who visit Nepal regularly have commended their selfless behavior, friendly nature, and strength in easily scaling the highest peaks of Nepal.

You will have plenty of opportunities to interact with the local community by staying in their homestays, tea houses, and lodges, visiting monasteries, and learning about their histories and traditions.

Trekking Route and Itinerary

Detailed Day-to-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Drive to Machha Khola
• Day 2: Trek to Jagat
• Day 3: Jagat to Deng
• Day 4: Trek to Namrung
• Day 5: Trek to Lho Gaon
• Day 6: Lho Gaon to Sama Gaon
• Day 7: Acclimatization Day
• Day 8: Trek to Samdo
• Day 9: Samdo to Dharmashala
• Day 10: Trek to Bimthang
• Day 11: Bimthang to Dharapani
• Day 12: Dharapani to Besisahar and Drive to Kathmandu

Short Description of the Starting Point, Key Stops, and Endpoint

The itinerary is for the 12-day trek to Manaslu Circuit Trek. The trek takes you to the amazing view fo of the eighth-highest mountain in the world.

Starting Point: The starting point of the trek is Machha Khola. Maccha Khola is also the entry point of the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Key Stops: Some important stop areas during your treks are small villages like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, Sama Gaon, and Samdo. There are some high-altitude remote settlements like Dharmasala, Bhimtang, and Dharapani, where you can stop for trekking or stay overnight.

Endpoint: After your trek to Dharapani, you will return to Besisahar, which concludes your trek. The endpoint is the drive from Besisahar to Pokhara and then back to Kathmandu.

Variations in the Trekking Route

The Manaslu Circuit Trek’s trekking route has some variations. The primary route takes you to Jagat, Deng, Lho Gaon, Samdo, Dharmasala, etc.

The second trekking route of this trek is the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek. On this trek route, you will head towards Lokpa from Jagat. Moving forward, you will trek toward Chhokangparo and Mu Gompa, after which you will head towards Lho Gaon and continue the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

The third variation of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is via the Larkye Peak Climb, which takes about 20 to 25 days. Hence, there are not many variations in all the trekking routes of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Comparison with other Treks in Nepal

Physical Fitness

The Manaslu Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek are more challenging than the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Hence, they require higher fitness levels than the ABC trek.

Highest Elevation

The highest elevation of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is Larkya La Pass, which is 5,106 meters, compared to Kala Patthar of Everest Base Camp, 5,644 meters, and Annapurna Base Camp, 4,130 meters.

Time Constraints

Manaslu Circuit Trek is longer than the Annapurna Base Camp Trek but shorter than the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Budget

Manaslu Circuit Trek is more expensive than the Annapurna Base Camp Trek but is cheaper than the Everest Base Camp Trek if you book all of them as a typical itinerary.

Tips for a Successful Manaslu Circuit Trek

Every successful trek gives the trekker a sense of accomplishment. If you follow the basic tips of the trek and avoid some common mistakes, your trek will always be successful unless unforeseen circumstances halt your path.

Let’s get to know some of the most common tips:

1. Always take acclimatization seriously. Listen to your body and rest when you need it.
2. Do not skip meals during your trek. Take plenty of food rich in protein, carbohydrates, and fiber.
3. Only drink boiled water, especially at higher altitudes, and avoid drinking directly from taps or hand pumps.
4. Do not rush to climb the altitude as it is the most common way to suffer from altitude sickness.
5. Always listen to your guide, ask questions, and learn about the next day’s plans.
6. Be prepared for every weather at higher altitudes, as they constantly change.
7. Respect the people, culture, and traditions of the trekking destination no matter where you visit.

Conclusion

Hence, if you were wondering how difficult the Manaslu Trek is, we hope our blog gave you the answer you sought. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is moderate to challenging mainly because of its high altitude, remoteness, rugged terrain, and dynamic weather conditions.

However, you can minmize that difficulty by trekking in ideal trekking conditions like Spring and Autumn. Also, preparing your physical and mental endurance before the trek and hiring guides and porters ease the burden on the trek.

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