Mount Manaslu is the eighth tallest mountain worldwide, reaching a stunning 8,163 meters. The trek
follows the ancient salt-trading route alongside the Budhi Gandaki River. The trek provides a wide range
of views for the trekkers looking for a scenic view.
The Manaslu Circuit trek has a moderate level of difficulty. It is wise for both beginners and experienced
trekkers to go on this trek.
Unlike many of Nepal’s well-known trekking trails, the Manaslu trek isn’t as busy with crowds. It takes
you through the stunning Budi Gandaki and Nubri Valleys, offering a variety of landscapes. You’ll pass
through the sub-tropical foothills of the Himalayas, cross the high pastures of the Trans-Himalayan
region, discover ancient villages, and pass through glacial rivers and waterfalls and high mountain passes
along the way.
The best part of the Manaslu trek is the Larkya La Pass, which stands at a high altitude of 5,106 meters.
Larkya La Pass gives the best views of the surrounding mountains and assists as the trek’s highest point.
One can feel the joy and excitement of accomplishment after reaching there.
The adventure begins in the busy Arughat Bazaar and ends in Besishar. However, for those looking to
have an adventure, the trek can also be started from Barpak, adding some extra challenge.
In the past, trekkers were required to be fully self-sufficient throughout the journey. However, with the
establishment of many tea houses along the route, trekkers can now enjoy the comfort and convenience
of local accommodations, adding to the overall demand for the trek.
The Manaslu region becomes less travelled and crowded, despite its permit and issuance at the altitude.
The Manaslu circuit is less traveled by travelers because of its difficulty level. One of the primary factors
contributing to the difficulty of the Manaslu trek is the weather. The Manaslu conservation area includes
six different climatic zones, with a permanent snow line above 5000 meters. This means that trekking
during winter is almost impossible, as frigid temperatures make it challenging to find open tea houses,
and heavy snowfall reduces the Larkya La Pass blocked.
The land of the Manaslu region is also likely due to landslides and avalanches during the monsoon
season, making trekking dangerous. As such, the best times to start the Manaslu trek are during the
spring and autumn seasons when the weather is more constant. However, even during these seasons,
the weather in the Manaslu region can be unpredictable, so trekkers must be prepared for all
possibilities.
Another challenge of the Manaslu trek is the altitude. The trek starts at 600 meters and reaches a
maximum altitude of 5,106 meters at the Larkya La Pass. This means that trekkers risk developing
altitude sickness, a possibly serious condition when the body cannot acclimatize to the reduced oxygen
levels at higher altitudes.
Altitude sickness can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue, and in severe
cases, it can be life-threatening. Trekkers are advised to climb slowly, stay well-hydrated, and allow for
acclimatisation days in their itinerary to lessen the risk of altitude sickness. It is also essential to be
aware of altitude sickness symptoms and seek medical attention if they occur.
If you start feeling dazed or experience difficulty breathing, it is decisive to stop the trek immediately
and seek assistance. It is advised not to ascend more than 500 meters daily and to acclimatize
appropriately to avoid altitude sickness. You can also go for a low-altitude Pikey Peak Trek.
Extra Tips
Preparation should include following a demanding fitness routine to ensure your body is in ideal
condition for the challenging landscape. Additionally, gaining a trekking permit for the Manaslu region is
mandatory, costing US$70 per person for the first week and an additional US$10 for each following
week.
Other tips to reduce the challenges of the Manaslu Trek Nepal include staying hydrated by drinking at
least 5 liters of water daily, keeping up-to-date about the weather forecast, taking slow and steady
steps, pre-booking accommodations to avoid last-minute hassles, getting complete travel insurance,
carrying nutritious snacks like chocolate bars for energy, using insect repellent during summer treks,
avoiding alcohol consumption, and bringing a water purifier and reusable water bottle.