The Manaslu Circuit is one of Nepal’s most popular treks. It offers a combination of breathtaking mountain scenery, fascinating village life and challenging walking.
The 12 day itinerary includes a visit to local monasteries and shrines that offer a glimpse of the region’s rich spiritual heritage. It also allows you to experience the warm hospitality and delicious cuisine of the people in this region.
The Essential Guide
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an off-the-beaten-path adventure that offers a unique combination of pristine natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is a popular alternative to the Annapurna Circuit, and is a great choice for those who want a quieter and more authentic experience in Nepal.
This remote and less-crowded trek takes you through the beautiful secluded Nar Phu and Tsum valleys, giving you an off-the-beaten-track trekking experience that is not common for other Nepalese routes. It also provides stunning views of the mighty Manaslu, which is the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
As the route is in a restricted area, trekkers are not allowed to hike independently without a government authorised guide. A guide will take care of the itinerary, accommodation, meals and permits, which means you can focus on enjoying the trek itself.
They will also help you navigate the high altitude, language barrier and health safety concerns. They will provide first aid, offer acclimatisation advice and support during emergency situations.
Having a professional guide on the Manaslu Circuit Trek and Upper Mustang Trek will make the trek safer and more enjoyable for you. They will keep an eye on your acclimatisation, make sure you drink plenty of water, and help you stay safe from the effects of altitude sickness, which is one of the most dangerous conditions in the mountains.
The Tsum Valley Trek
The Tsum Valley Trek is a wonderful opportunity to explore a unique and pristine Himalayan valley in northwest Nepal. This hidden valley, which used to be a restricted area until 2008, is still relatively less exposed compared to the more popular touristy areas in the Manaslu region.
The trek features a range of experiences, including high passes and glaciers, deep valleys with waterfalls and canyons, and high plateaus with rural Tibetan communities. It also offers views of Himalchuli (7893 m), Manaslu (8163 m), Ngadi Chuli (7879 m), and other Himalayan peaks.
Moreover, the route passes through authentic villages, as well as a few ancient Gompas. You will have the chance to sample traditional Tibetan Butter Tea and authentic local meals.
This trekking trail is not a difficult one, but it does require good physical condition with intense stamina and strong mental assurance. It can be done in 15 to 20 days, depending on the pace and strength of your body. However, you must be prepared to walk for a minimum of 6-7 hours per day.
The Manaslu Trekking
A trek along this circuit is truly an adventure of a lifetime, bringing you the opportunity to experience rich cultural heritage, breathtaking views of Himalayan flora and fauna, and unforgettable landscapes. You’ll visit remote villages untouched by modern civilization and witness the unique Buddhist lifestyle of the local people.
The Manaslu Circuit is a restricted trekking area in Nepal and requires permits for individual trekkers. You must arrange these with an organized trekking company or an individual guide that is licensed to do so.
There are three different permits needed for a trek in this region: the Manaslu Conservation Area permit, the Manaslu-Tsum Valley permit, and the Larke Pass permit. These can be arranged by your agency or you can also buy them directly from the Department of Immigration (DI).
In order to complete the trek, you need a good level of fitness and a lot of preparation. Make sure you’ve done other remote treks and that you have the right equipment.
You can either trek on your own or you can join a group of friends or family. The Manaslu Circuit is regarded as one of the world’s best hikes and it’s a great way to see the Himalayas, but you have to be ready for the challenges that come with it.
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