Why Manaslu is Known As Killer Mountain

Mount Manaslu, at an altitude of 8,163 m, is the eighth-highest peak in the world. Because of its challenging ascent and high fatality rate, it is also known as the killer mountain. Various sources claim that there has been a total of 89 deaths on the slopes of Mount Manaslu to this date. Manaslu is derived from the Sanskrit word “Manasa.”, which refers to “intellect” or “soul.” However, Manaslu is generally called the “mountain of spirit.” 

The mountain is located in one of the most remote parts of Gorkha district. Manaslu region is one of the most isolated regions of Nepal. However, this region still attracts several trekkers or expeditors every year. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the popular off-the-beaten treks in Nepal. This blog will highlight all the essential information about Mount Manaslu, its location, expedition, tips for Manaslu Trek or expedition, etc.

Where is Manaslu Mountain located?

The eighth-highest peak in the world stands tall in central Nepal. It is one of the nearest 8000+ m peaks to Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu Valley. Mount Manaslu lies on the border between two districts of northern Nepal: Gorkha and Manang. To be precise, the peak’s Latitude is 28° 32’ 58” N, and its Longitude is 84° 33’ 43”. The Manaslu region starts from the sub-tropical foothills and reaches the trans-Himalayan high pastures to border with Tibet in the north. The Manaslu Base Camp Trek begins at Soti Khola, 141 km from Kathmandu. You must trek for around seven days from Soti Khola to reach the Manaslu Base Camp. There are no direct roadways that take you to Mount Manaslu.

Facts about Manaslu Mountain

Altitude

Mount Manaslu is 8,163 meters (26,781 ft.) above sea level, the world’s eighth and Nepal’s seventh-highest peaks. However, it is the tallest peak in the Gorkha district of Nepal. In the context of Prominence, the mountain is 3,092 m and ranked 80th globally. 

Ways to reach it

The only options to reach Manaslu are trekking for several days or taking a helicopter ride. No roadways directly connect you to the base of Manaslu Peak. The most popular option to reach Mount Manaslu is trekking. You will need to trek for around seven days to reach Manaslu Base Camp, and the trek starts from Soti Khola or Machha Khola, a 9/10-hour ride from Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. 

Success rate

The success rate of Mount Manaslu is around 60%. To this date, over 80 mountaineers have died. Many people have retreated halfway, and only 2,172 people have been able to reach the top of Mount Manaslu. 

Why Manaslu is Known As The Killer Mountain of Nepal

Manaslu is Known As Killer Mountain because, Mount Manaslu’s death rate is comparatively higher than other peaks, so it is known as the killer mountain in Nepal. There have been more than 80 deaths during the Manaslu ascent, and the success rate of this peak is only 60%. Moreover, the Manaslu climb has many challenging ascents, increasing the chances of fatality. Despite not being the tallest peak, the Manaslu climb is hazardous. Many other factors, like altitude sickness, lower oxygen levels, etc., make climbing one of the toughest peaks. 

What Makes Manaslu Mountain Climbing So Dangerous

Unpredictable Weather Conditions in the Himalayas

The weather in the Himalayas can’t be predicted. It may turn to chilly, freezing weather in no time, even during the ideal seasons for Mountaineering or trekking in the Himalayas. Unpredictable weather is one of the major concerns in Mountaineering expeditions. 

High Percentage Of Avalanche Risks

The chances of Avalanches in Himalayan peaks are very high. In the context of Mount Manaslu, a terrible record has been established from an avalanche. In 1954, the avalanche destroyed the Pung-Nguyen Monastery and killed 18 people. The highest risk period is generally during the post-monsoon season (September-November) when fresh snow and unsettled weather can make the area particularly vulnerable. Climbers often take extreme caution, relying on experienced guides, checking weather forecasts, and avoiding specific risky slopes during known avalanche-prone conditions.

Hit by Falling Seracs

One of the significant dangers mountaineers face during a climb of Manaslu is being hit by falling seracs—massive blocks of ice that can break off from glaciers without warning. Navigating these hazardous zones safely demands experience, proper route planning, and sometimes luck, making the climb even more challenging. These things can’t be predicted and are a significant threat to mountaineers. 

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is one of the major concerns at high altitudes. The number of people native to the Himalayas is minimal compared to the global population. The chances of visitors suffering from altitude sickness are very high. There have been cases of people suffering from Acute mountain sickness during the climb. Acclimatization is essential for mountaineers as they need their body to adapt well to the weather conditions. 

Fall

Another significant danger climbers face is falling on Manaslu’s steep, icy slopes. A slip or fall, especially at higher altitudes, can lead to severe injuries or worse. The chances of being alive after falling from a high altitude are rare. Manaslu, one of the most challenging mountain climbing, increases the risk of falling because of its steep ascents and descents.

Equipment for Manaslu mountain

You will need a lot of high-quality equipment during the Manaslu ascent. The list of gear and equipment required for a Manaslu mountain climb are listed below:

Climbing Equipment

• Climbing Helmet
• Crampons
• Climbing Harness
• Ice Ax
• Multi- Led headlamp
• Ascender
• Locking and non-locking Carabiners
• Ski poles
• Rappel/ Belay device
• Slings
• Ropes
• Lightweight pulleys
• Prusik Cords
• Avalanche Transceiver

Body Cloths

• Lightweight Merino t-shirt
• Lightweight Merino long-sleeve t-shirt
• Medium-weight fleece pullover
• Fleece jacket
• Breathable and Waterproof jacket with a large hood that can fit the helmet
• Lightweight down jacket
• Warm down/ duvet suit
• Lightweight thermal base layers
• Lightweight underwear briefs
• Walking shorts
• Walking trouser
• Lightweight thermal bottoms
• Heavy thermal bottoms
• Fleece trouser
• Waterproof and breathable trousers with full side zips
• Warm down/ duvet bibs
• Synthetic or warm wool hat that covers the ears
• Scarf, buff, or neck sleeve
• Head Scarf or Bandana
• Balaclava
• Sun cap/ hat
• Face mask
• Medium or heavy wool or poly socks
• Poly or wool Liner socks
• Lightweight trekking socks
• Lightweight wool or cotton socks
• Overboot or good quality plastic shell Aveolite liners with inner boot
• Sturdy synthetic or leather hiking boots with good ankle

Things to Consider Before Climbing Manaslu

Take Necessary Permits

Trekking in the Manaslu region or the Manaslu mountain expeditions will require certain permits. In the context of the Manaslu expedition, you will need the Manaslu Climbing permits, which will cost you $1800 in Spring, $900 in Autumn, and $450 during the winter or summer. In general, for the Manaslu Circuit Trek or the Tsum Valley Trek, you will require a special Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, and the Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit.

The Manaslu RAP costs $100 for the first seven days and $15 for extra on each additional day from September to November. However, the price decreases to $75 for the first week and $10 for additional days from December to August. Likewise, the cost of MCAP and ACAP is $30 per person. 

Appropriate Climbing Gears

The right gear for a Mount Manaslu climb is essential for safety and success during any mountaineering expedition. This includes high-quality mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axes, ropes, and harnesses. Warm, layered clothing to protect against cold temperatures and a reliable sleeping bag for high altitudes are also essential. Ensure you bring durable gloves, goggles for snow glare, and a helmet for safety. Investing in proper equipment ensures you’re prepared for the challenging conditions on this 8,000-meter peak.

First Aid Kit

A First Aid Kit is the mandatory equipment to carry in any sort of adventure activity. A first aid kit is a must when climbing a steep, rugged mountain like Manaslu. Even though you will have a doctor in your mountaineering team, you will need to carry a few first aid kits along with you. Some of the essential first aid kits to carry are:

• Small personal kit including aspirin, band-aids, tape, personal medication, etc
• Personal medication with prescription
• Skin blister repair kit
• Anti-diarrhea pills
• Headache pills
• Cough medicine
• Water treatment tablets
• Water filters
• Antibiotics for chest or stomach

Expert Guidance

Having expert guidance is always a boosting factor in any activity. Likewise, you must have an experienced guide with a good mountain climbing track record. The Sherpas are native to the Himalayan region and are often considered the best guides. These guides will help you navigate challenging ascents and descents with some ease. Expert guidance will boost your confidence, which is crucial in mountaineering. The valuable insights they come up with will be crucial during your Manaslu ascent. 

Physical & Mental Preparation

The two fundamentals for a successful Manaslu climb are your physical and mental preparation. Climbing to a rugged, snowy terrain with a very low oxygen level is very challenging. You must prepare your body to acclimate well and provide enough stamina during high-altitude climbs. It is beneficial if you attempt to climb a few training peaks before you summit Mount Manaslu. Your mental strength is another crucial factor in determining your expedition. You should always have that positive attitude no matter the challenges the mountains present you. A strong determination and positive attitude will push you to move forward in hard times. 

Acclimatization

Acclimatization is another crucial factor in high-altitude climbs. Your body needs to adapt to challenging weather conditions. Mountain climbing is never an easy feat. You will need to acclimate well to the Himalayan weather. Acclimatization determines how well you tolerate the cold weather conditions. Climbing Manaslu is not a one-week thing, and you will need to start preparing at least 3-4 months prior to your climbing date. Spending a few weeks in the base camp will help your body acclimatize to the Himalayan weather. 

Conclusion

To sum up, the Manaslu region is one of the pristine regions in the Himalayas. Trekking in the Manaslu region will allow you to witness the panoramic views of Mount Manaslu and other peaks. Despite being popular as the killer mountain, hundreds of expeditors attempt to reach Mount Manaslu every year. Climbing to the top of the 8th highest peak in the world is a surreal feeling. It is something you will cherish for the rest of your life. However, you will need to prepare well for this challenging ascent.

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