Manaslu Region Trekking

Manaslu region trekking package is one of the wealthiest treks offered in the Himalayas and stands as the second best sell, apart from the Annapurna circuit trek. The Manaslu area, near the Annapurna region, is often compared to trekking in Annapurna before it got busy. It has equally stunning but less-trodden paths. Long isolated from the world until the 1990s, the region is hard to access. It is one of the most pristine, biodiverse, and culturally diverse areas worldwide.

It starts at Budhi Gandaki and reaches a gorge separating Manaslu and Ganesh Himal; cliffs are nearly vertical on both sides. Hikers on the trail through Nupri Valley meet people who look and speak like Tibetans. This adds a cultural element to their adventure.

It is a scenic route along Tibet’s border. It offers stunning views of Manaslu North, the Ngadi, and the Himalchuli.

The trekking region of Manaslu presents various trekking programs. The Manaslu Circuit Trek, Tsum Valley Trek, and Rupina La Pass Trek are among them. The Manaslu Region offers memorable trekking if you are inclined to a particular route or want a tailor-made trip.

9 Best Manaslu Region Trekking Package

Manaslu Honey Hunting Tour – Starts At $490

The Manaslu Honey Hunting Tour is a 4-day adventure in Kathmandu, followed by a drive to Machhakhola and a short trek to Khorlabesi. Priced from $490, this leisurely tour takes you through off-road tracks to honey-hunting cliffs. There, you’ll witness the Gurung tradition of extracting honey from wild bee hives on steep slopes. This ancient practice in the Budigandaki Valley offers a thrilling, rich experience. It is set in the stunning Manaslu region.

Tsum Valley Trekking – Starts At $780

Tsum Valley Trekking is a 12-day adventure from Sotikhola, costing $780. This easy trek involves a scenic drive and then a hike. You’ll visit traditional villages, Rachen Gompa, and Milarepa’s cave. Then, reach Mu Gompa before returning to Sotikhola and driving back to Kathmandu. Tsum Valley, in Gorkha, Nepal, is remote and rich in culture. It has Tibetan influences, stunning mountain views, and ancient traditions.

Tsum Valley and Manaslu Trekking – Starts At $1,100

The 17-day Tsum Valley and Manaslu Trek, from $1,100, starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola. It then treks through the Tsum Valley to Mu Gompa. The route then joins the Manaslu Circuit. It has a tough climb to Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters) with stunning views of Annapurna, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal. The trek ends with a descent to Dharapani and a drive back to Kathmandu. This trek requires restricted area permits and offers cultural experiences and rugged terrain.

Manaslu Circuit Trek – Starts At $830

The Manaslu Circuit Trek, available from $830, is a 12-day adventure with strenuous difficulty. The trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. It then ascends through remote villages and lush forests. It reaches high-altitude areas and crosses the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters). The circuit offers views of Manaslu, Annapurna, and Ganesh Himal. It crosses valleys, woods, leveled grounds, and bare highlands. The trek is rigorous and requires acclimatization because of the high altitudes involved.

Tsum Valley, Manaslu, and Annapurna Circuit Trekking – Starts At $1,650

The 28-day trek, from $1,650, starts in the pristine Tsum Valley, showcasing unique Tibetan culture and stunning landscapes. It continues through the Manaslu region, crossing Larke La Pass (5,160 meters). Then, it enters the Annapurna Circuit. There, you’ll visit Tilicho Lake, Thorong La Pass, and Muktinath Temple. You’ll see breathtaking views of the Tibetan Plateau and Kali Gandaki River.

Manaslu, Annapurna Circuit, and Upper Mustang Trekking – Starts At $2,650

This 33-day trek ($2,650) starts in Kathmandu. It goes through the Manaslu Circuit, including Larke La Pass (5,160 meters). Then, it continues on the Annapurna Circuit, passing through Manang and Thorong La Pass. The trek continues to Muktinath, Kagbeni, and Upper Mustang. It explores Lo Manthang and crosses Lo La Pass (3,950 meters). It ends with a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara and a drive back to Kathmandu.

Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trekking – Starts At $1,390

The 23-day trek, from $1,390, starts in the Manaslu Valley. It has scenic trails through Tibetan-influenced villages with unique cultures and ancient Chortens. After exploring these areas, the route takes you over Larke La Pass into the Annapurna region. There, you’ll visit Tilicho Lake, cross Thorong La Pass, and see Muktinath. This trek blends hidden experiences with high-altitude adventure. It combines the remote beauty of Manaslu with the iconic Annapurna Circuit.

Manaslu Short Trek – Starts At $800

The Manaslu Short Trek costs $800. It is a 9-day trek through the Gorkha region. It follows a trail that was a salt trading route to Tibet. This trek offers opportunities for viewing Mt. Manaslu, Annapurna, and others, and the highest point is the Larkya La Pass, 5,123m. This has attractions such as scenery, archeological sites, monasteries, and ethnographic regions. This trek is for trekkers who have limited time. It introduces you to the Manaslu region in the shortest time possible.

Lower Manaslu Trekking – Starts At $650

The Lower Manaslu Trek, starting at $650, is a 10-day trek. It’s perfect for those seeking scenic and cultural experiences in Nepal’s Lower Manaslu Region. This trek has Mountain View trekking. It also takes tourists to historical and cultural sites, like Dharche Danda, Sirandanda, and Barpa. It is ideal for all trekking levels. This route is a shorter, more accessible alternative to the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It has off-the-beaten-path trails in the Gorkha district.

Best season to trek the Manaslu Region

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the best times to trek in the Manaslu Region. The weather is mild and stable. Daytime, at lower elevations, it is 10°C to 20°C. It gets colder at higher altitudes. It is famous for its spectacular Rhododendron forest this season. It gives the terrain an aerial outlook.

The trails are relatively dry, which is a good reason for trekking. Also, the clouds won’t block the view. So, one can get the best view of the Manaslu Range and other mountains.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the peak trekking season in the Manaslu Region, and for good reason. After the monsoon rains, the skies clear. They provide crisp views of the mountains. The weather is chilly during the day, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C, making it appropriate for trekking. The weather is excellent, and the breeze makes the environment even more beautiful.

This season also falls during Nepali festivals such as Dashain and Tihar, which expose the trekkers to Nepali customs and creeds. This is the season of activity; thus, the trails are busy, but the trekking adventure is at its best. The trails are busier during this time, but the trekking experience is at its finest.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in the Manaslu Region is cold, especially at high altitudes, where it can drop well below freezing. The lower regions remain relatively mild, but snow can make the higher passes, such as the Larkya La Pass, challenging or impassable.

But, for experienced trekkers seeking solitude, winter offers a chance to enjoy the region without the crowds. The clear winter skies can provide stunning mountain views, but trekkers must be well-prepared for the cold and potential snow.

Monsoon (June to August)

The monsoon season brings heavy rain to the Manaslu Region. It makes trekking risky due to slippery trails, landslides, and leeches. The frequent cloud cover often obscures mountain views, and the humidity levels are high.

The monsoon makes the landscape lush and green. The rains revive the terraced fields and forests. This season is the least crowded. It’s for those who want a quiet trek and can handle wet weather.

How to Prepare for the Manaslu Region

• Build physical fitness through cardio, strength training, and hiking practice.
• Plan for gradual acclimatization and consider pre-trek altitude exposure.
• Pack essential gear, including broken-in trekking boots, layered clothing, and accessories like trekking poles and a headlamp.
• Get a medical check-up and necessary vaccinations, and pack a comprehensive first aid kit.
• Maintain proper nutrition and hydration; carry lightweight, energy-rich snacks.
• Obtain all the required permits: Manaslu RAP, ACAP, and MCAP.
• Hire an experienced guide and porter through a reputable agency.
• Pack according to the season and monitor weather forecasts.
• Mentally prepare for challenging days and be flexible with your plans.
• Familiarize yourself with the trek itinerary and emergency contacts.