Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remarkable trek in the Himalayas that takes you around the 8th highest peak in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,156m). It is a unique trekking experience that combines spectacular mountain views, cultural diversity, and natural beauty.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek starts at Arughat, a small mountain village in the Gorkha district of Nepal. This picturesque village provides the perfect starting point for the trek. From Arughat, the trek winds its way up the Budhi Gandaki River Valley, passing through remote villages such as Deng, Prok, and Lho. The trek is a challenging yet rewarding experience as you slowly ascend to higher altitudes. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Annapurna, and Mt. Dhaulagiri.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is also a cultural journey. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the diverse culture of the region, including its unique Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, and traditional villages. You’ll also get to meet and interact with the local people, learning more about their culture and way of life.
The trek culminates with a challenging summit of Larke Pass (5,106m). From the top of the pass, you’ll get an amazing view of the Manaslu massif and the surrounding peaks. On the other side of the pass is the breathtaking Annapurna Circuit.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not for the faint of heart. There are a few reasons why this trek is considered difficult. First and foremost is the fact that the trekking route is high in elevation. The highest point of the trek is at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). This high altitude can lead to altitude sickness, which is a serious problem that can be life-threatening.
The second factor contributing to the difficulty of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the terrain. The trek involves a lot of steep ascents and descents. This can make it difficult for some trekkers to cope with the physical demands of the trek. The terrain is also often quite rough and rocky, which can cause problems for those who are not used to trekking in the mountains.
The third factor contributing to the difficulty of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the weather. The route passes through the rain shadow of the Annapurna range, so it can be quite cold and windy. In addition, the weather can be unpredictable and can change quickly. This can make it difficult to plan a trekking itinerary.
The best time to complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek is during the months of October to December and March to April. During these months, the weather is dry and the trails are in good condition. The day temperatures are also pleasant and the nights are cold.
During the trek, you will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful villages of Samagaon and Samdo. You will also be able to experience the Buddhist culture and traditions in the region.
The trek also takes you to the summit of Larkya La Pass, which is an amazing experience. From the top of the pass, you can get a magnificent view of the Himalayas, including Manaslu.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging trek and requires a good level of fitness. You should plan and pack accordingly, including warm clothing and plenty of snacks.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most rewarding treks in Nepal and is definitely worth the effort. The best time to complete the trek is between October to December and between March to April. With its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and amazing views, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an experience that you will never forget.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek permit is required for all trekkers who wish to undertake the trek. The permit is issued by the Nepal Government and is valid for a period of 3 weeks. It is important to note that the permit cannot be extended beyond 3 weeks and the trek must be completed within this period.
The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek permit is US$70 per person. This fee is payable when you register at the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) office in Kathmandu. You will need to provide a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek permit also requires that you hire a registered guide and porter. This is to ensure your safety and protect the local environment. The cost of the guide and porter can range from US$20 to US$30 per day.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek permit also includes the cost of an ACAP entrance fee and the Tsum Valley entrance fee. The ACAP entrance fee is US$20 for each person and the Tsum Valley entrance fee is US$35 for each person.
In addition to the Manaslu Circuit Trek permit, you will need to obtain a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card. This card is required for all trekkers who wish to undertake any trek in Nepal. The cost of the TIMS card is US$20 per person.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek permit is an essential requirement for any trekker who wishes to undertake the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It is important to note that the permit cannot be extended beyond 3 weeks and the trek must be completed within this period. The cost of the permit is US$70 per person and you will also need to hire a guide and porter and obtain a TIMS card.
The overall cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek depends on various factors such as the duration of the trek, the route taken, and the services required. The cost for a standard 15-day trek usually ranges between $1,500 and $2,000 depending on the type of accommodation chosen and the services included.
The cost of the trek includes accommodation, permits and fees, food, guide and porter services, and transportation. It is important to note that the cost of the trek does not include tips for the guides and porters, as well as personal expenses such as snacks and drinks during the trek.
Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek can range from basic local guesthouses to more luxurious lodges. The cost of accommodation will depend on the type of accommodation chosen. Basic local guesthouses are usually the cheapest option, while the more luxurious lodges offer more amenities such as hot showers and comfortable beds.
Food is a major expense on the trek and the cost will depend on the type of food that is eaten. Most trekkers opt for traditional Nepali food, which is usually prepared in the local guesthouses. The cost of food can range from $10-15 per day, depending on the type of food eaten.
The cost for permits and fees for the trek usually range from $50-100 depending on the route taken. This cost includes entry fees for Manaslu Conservation Area and the Annapurna Conservation Area. Transportation is another cost to consider when planning the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The cost of transportation will depend on the route taken and the type of vehicle used. Most trekkers opt for a local bus or jeep for the journey to the start of the trek.
The cost of a Manaslu Circuit Trek will also depend on the services of a guide and porter. A professional guide is highly recommended for the trek to ensure the safety of trekkers and to provide detailed information about the route. The cost of a guide and porter will usually range from $20-30 per day, depending on the size of the group.
In total, the cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek depends on various factors such as the duration, route, and services required. The overall cost of the trek usually ranges between $1,500 and $2,000 depending on the type of accommodation chosen and the services included.