manaslu trek

Manaslu circuit trek is one of the most highlighted camping treks among all the treks of Nepal with its nature and cultural heritage and having countless trekking trials like Manaslu circuit trek, Tsum valley trek and more which is located on Manaslu region. The 8th highest peak of the world MT Manaslu (8,156m) becomes visible as trekkers starts to trek on this region. The people of this region also believe MT Manaslu that it has spiritual deities and consider as a Spirit-mountain. On the past old days there was restriction to these routes of Manaslu Circuit trekking, and only from 1992 AD the government of Nepal opened this routes for trekking. It is located to the border of Nepal alongside. There is no any doubt that trekking in Manaslu Himalayan region is one of the awesome and delightful adventurous one among the treks of Nepal. You can also enjoy with the views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri on the way of trekking. Trekking in Manaslu area is also considered as one of the finest adventurous destinations of Nepal. View of Annapurna is awesome that includes one of them 8,000m and more than 13 peaks of more than 7,000m and 16 more over of 6,000m bounded by kali Gandaki Gorge, Pokhara valley and Marsyangdi river.

Table of Contents

Main Highlights Of Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Witness the scenic mountain terrain while driving through Arughat
  • Get the chance to explore and witness the culture of the beautiful highland settlements
  • Chance to explore the Budhi Gandaki River Valley
  • Experience the beautiful and unique  mixture of Nepaleses and Tibetan culture
  • Chance to experience an adventurous walk between the borders of Nepal and Tibet
  • Get to cross the Larkya-La Pass which is over 5215 meters
  • Witness the diverse unspoiled ecosystems of the region
  • A calming and fun walk through the tropical green hills covered with pine and oak forests

The Classic Standard Itinerary For Manaslu Circuit Trek

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat (Altitude: 700-m/2296 ft. 6/7 hour’s drive. Meal: BLD)

Day 02: Trek from Soti Khola to Machhakhola (Altitude: 870 m/2952 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 03: Trek from Machhakhola Gaon to Jagat (Altitude: 2340 m/7676 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 04: Trek to Deng (Altitude: 1870m/6170 ft. Trek: 6-7 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 05: Trek to Ghap (Altitude: 2,160m/7,086ft. Trek: 4-5 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 06: Trek to Lho (Altitude: 3150m/10395 ft. Trek: 6/ hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 07: Trek to Sama Gaon (Altitude: 3500m/11550 ft. Trek: 3-4 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 08: Rest day at Sama Gaon (Altitude: 3500m/11550 ft. Trek: 3-4 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 09: Trek to Samdo (Altitude: 3,690m/12,106 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 10: Trek to Larkya Phedi (Altitude: 4,470m/14,665ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 11: Trek to Bimtang crossing Larkya La Pass (Altitude: Larkya La Pass: 5153 m/ 17005 ft. Bimtang: 3,720m/12,204ft. Trek: 8/9 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 12: Trek to Dharapani (Altitude: 1,860m/6,102ft. Trek: 5/6 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 13: Trek to Syange and Jeep/Public Bus drive to Besisahar (Altitude: 60 m/2,493ft) & Private car drive back to Kathmandu. End of the trip.

Some Popular Treks In The Manaslu region?

1.   Round Tsum Valley and Manaslu Trek:

Round Tsum Valley and Manaslu Trek 23 Days is mysterious walking in the isolated valley of Tsum and Nubri that lies in the lap of Mt. Manaslu and Mt. Ganesh.

The round trek to Manaslu and Tsum Valley is the best way to explore the culture, lifestyle, landscape capturing the fabulous view of Mt. Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world. The isolated valley lies in western Nepal starts from Arughat and follows ancient salt-trading trails towards Tsum valley. The area offers the incredible Himalayan vistas, nomadic culture, spiritual Buddhism and wonderful people. The Himalayan peaks like Manaslu, Singri, Hamalchuli & Ganesh among others are a great feast for the eyes; whereas cultural encounters in villages like Chumling, Chhokungparo & Burgi are out of the world. The spirituality trekkers get to experience in highland monasteries like Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa are incomparable.

Here is the standard itinerary for Round Tsum Valley and Manaslu Trek:

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival Day in Kathmandu 1350m (Altitude: 1300 m/4264 ft. Meal: Dinner)

Day 02: Trek preparation (Altitude: 1300 m/4264 ft. Meal: Breakfast)

Day 03: Drive Kathmandu to Soti Khola (Altitude: 700m/2296 ft. Drive: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 04: Trek Soti Khola to Machhakhola (Altitude: 870 m/2952 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 05: Trek Macchakhola to Jagat (Altitude: 1340 m/7676 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 06: Trek Jagat to Phillim (Altitude: 1570 m/5025 ft. Trek: 4/5 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 07: Trek Phillim to Chumling (Altitude: 2386 m/7827 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 08: Trek Chumling to Chhokangparo (Altitude: 3010 m/9903 ft. Trek: 4/5 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 09: Trek Chhokangparo to Nile (Altitude: 3361 m/11058 ft. Trek: 5/6 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 10: Trek Nile to Mu Gompa (Altitude: 3700 m/12174 ft. Trek: 3/4 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 11: Exploration of Mu Gompa (Altitude: 3700 m/12174 ft. Meal: BLD)

Day 12: Trek Gumba Lungdang and to Lokpa (Altitude: 2240m/7168ft. Trek: 5/6 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 13: Trek Lokpa to Ghap (Altitude: 2160m/6912 ft. Trek: 5/6 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 14: Trek Ghap to Lho (Altitude: 3180m/10395 ft. Trek: 5/6 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 15: Trek Lho to Samagaon (Altitude: 3500m/11550 ft. Trek: 3/4 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 16: Acclimatization Day at Samagaon or Exploration of Manaslu Base Camp (Altitude: 4400m/14080ft. Meal: BLD)

Day 17: Trek Samagaon to Samdo (Altitude: 3,690m/12,106 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 18: Climb Samdo Ri or take a day trip to Tibet border (Altitude: 3875m/12400ft. Meal: BLD)

Day 19: Trek Samdo to Dharamsala 4460m (Altitude: 4,470m/14,665ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 20: Trek Dharamsala to Bimtang via Larkya-La Pass (Altitude: Larkya La Pass: 5153 m/ 17005 ft. Bimtang: 3,720m/12,204ft. Trek: 8/9 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 21: Trek Bimtang to Dharapani (Altitude: 1,860m/6,102ft. Trek: 5/6 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 22: Drive Dharapani to Kathmandu (Altitude: 1,300m/4,264 ft. Drive: 7/8 hrs. Meal: BLD)

Day 23: Departure from Kathmandu 1350m (Altitude: 1300 m/4264 ft. Meal: Breakfast)

2.   Tsum Valley Trek:

Tsum Valley, the most isolated & serene valley in the lap of Himalayas is as beautiful culturally as it is naturally. Trek to Tsum Valley is Nepal’s one of the gems of the treks that has incredible Himalayan vistas, nomadic culture, spiritual Buddhism and the most wonderful people.

The region lies very close to the quake epicenter and hence has been affected at few places. However, Tsum Valley Trek has not lost its glory. The Himalayan peaks like Manaslu, Singri, Himalchuli & Ganesh among others are great feast for the eyes; whereas cultural encounters in villages like Chumling, Chhokungparo & Burgi are out of the world. The spirituality trekkers get to experience in highland monasteries like Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa are incomparable.

Here is the Standard Itinerary for Tsum Valley Trek:

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu, Transfer to the Hotel

Day 02: Rest Day at Kathmandu, Obtain Special Permit

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Maccha khola|Altitude: 700m/2296ft|Drive: 6-7hrs|Meal: BLD

Day 04: Trek From Macchakhola Gaon to Jagat|Altitude: 2340m/7676ft|Trek: 7-8hrs|Meal: BLD

Day 05: Trek to Lokpa|Altitude:2240m|Trek: 5-6hrs|Meal:BLD

Day 06: Trek to Chumling|Altitude: 2386m|Trek: 5-6hrs|Meal: BLD

Day 07: Trek to Chokung paro|Altitude: 3030m|Trek: 5-6hrs| Meal: BLD

Day 08: Trek to Nile|Altitude: 3361m|Trek: 6-7hrs|Meal: BLD

Day 09: Trek to Mu Gompa- Monastery stay|Altitude: 3700m|Trek:5-6 hrs|Meal: BLD

Day 10:  Trek to Lar- Visit Rachen Gumba|Trek:4-5hrs|Meal:BLD

Day 11: Trek to Chumling|Trek: 5-6 hrs|Meal: BLD

Day 12: Trek to Philim|Trek: 5-6 hrs|Meal: BLD

Day 13: Trek to Dovan|Trek: 5-6 hrs|Meal: BLD

Day 14: Trek to Sotikhola and Drive back to Kathmandu|Trek: 5-6hrs|Meal: BL|Drive: 7-8 hrs

3.   Manaslu Trek With Larkya Pass:

Adventurous trek, which has been partly affected by the quake despite lying in the district that epicenter the devastating quake, Manaslu Circuit Trek also highlights the beautiful cultural blend of different ethnic tribes. The landscape dominated by wonderful Budhi Gandaki River Valley, the views of majestic Manaslu (eighth highest peak in the world), Mt. Himachuli and Mt Ganesh among others are other major highlights of the trek. Moreover, the latter half of the trek caters the challenge of crossing Larkya La Pass 5153m. The culture of Nuri, which manifests little Tibet in the mountains below Mt. Manaslu is great cultural encounter during the trek. After crossing the wide Larkya pass, it finally enters Annapurna Conservation Area Project and treads along the trails of famous Round Annapurna Trek before it ends at Besisahar. 

Here is the standard itinerary for Manaslu Trek With Larkya Pass:

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Macchakhola (Altitude: 700-m/2296 ft. 6/7 hour’s drive. Meal: BLD)                         

Day 02: Trek from Machhakhola Gaon to Jagat (Altitude: 2340 m/7676 ft. Trek: 7/8 hrs. Meal: BLD)                              

Day 03: Trek to Deng (Altitude: 1870m/6170 ft. Trek: 6-7 hrs. Meal: BLD)                         

Day 04: Trek to Ghap (Altitude: 2,160m/7,086ft. Trek: 4-5 hrs. Meal: BLD)                        

Day 05: Trek to Lho (Altitude: 3150m/10395 ft. Trek: 6/ hrs. Meal: BLD)                           

Day 06: Trek to Sama Gaon (Altitude: 3500m/11550 ft. Trek: 3-4 hrs. Meal: BLD)             

Day 07: Rest day at Sama Gaon (Altitude: 3500m/11550 ft. Trek: 3-4 hrs. Meal: BLD)      

Day 08: Trek to Samdo (Altitude: 3,690m/12,106 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)                  

Day 09: Trek to Larkya Phedi (Altitude: 4,470m/14,665ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)         

Day 10: Trek to Bimtang crossing Larkya La Pass (Altitude: Larkya La Pass: 5153 m/ 17005 ft. Bimtang: 3,720m/12,204ft. Trek: 8/9 hrs. Meal: BLD)                         

Day 11: Trek to Dharapani (Altitude: 1,860m/6,102ft. Trek: 5/6 hrs. Meal: BLD)               

Day 12: Drive to Besisahar in a Shairng Jeep (Altitude: 60 m/2,493ft) & Private car drive back to Kathmandu. End of the trip.

What is the Minimum and Maximum Time frame Of The Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Well this generally depends upon the trekker preference if the trekkers are physically fit and can manage a 7-8 hours trek daily up the mountains then he/she can normally complete the trek in 10 days. So, if you are someone who hasn’t had much experience of trekking and want to trek enjoying each and every moment at the region then a 13 days time frame would be appropriate as it gives you the proper time to acclimatize and enjoy the scenic beauties of the trek.

How much Budget Is Required For The Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Well, the budget estimation depends on what kind of trek one is embarking on and how much of a spender one is. But generally the cost ranges from anywhere around  US $1000 to US $2500. It depends on how much one would like to splurge oneself with various extra luxuries as well.

How Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Temperature on October and November?

This is the most popular trek month to visit any region in Nepal. This month is filled with blue skies and freshly vitalized natural vegetation, clear sky and less haze. During this month the average temperature during the day is 15 Degree Celsius and during the night it’s slightly colder as the temperature drops to 7-8 Degree Celsius.

How Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Temperature From March to May?

The month ranging from March to May are the spring months in Nepal and is another most popular time of the year for undertaking trekking in any regions. The month is full of beautiful wildflowers and splendid views of the snow capped mountains.  The average temperature is around 18-22 Degree Celsius during these months at day time and the temperature can drop to chilling levels.

How Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Temperature From June to August?

These months are known for the tenacious monsoon season in Nepal. During this month due to heavy rainfalls there are many landslides and flight cancellations. On a clear day it’s quite warm during the daytime and makes trekking more easy and during the night time it can get quite chilly.

How Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Temperature on December and January?

These two month signifies the winter month in Nepal and are the coldest months. During the daytime, normally the temperature ranges from 7-12 Degree Celsius on the lower regions. But for the mid regions of 2000-4000m the temperatures are slightly lower. During the daytime the temperature normally is 2-8 Degrees Celsius.  The nights are much colder than the daytime so warm clothing is a must during these months.

How Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Temperature on September and February?

These two months are a bit different from other months as during these months one can experience two seasons in a single month.

During September, one can see the last traces of monsoon with short bursts of rain for the first two weeks.  As the Mid-September kicks in the monsoon also ends and one can enjoy the autumn season. The temperature during this month ranges from 18-22 degrees celsius in the day as it’s quite warm. And at the high passes such as Thorong La one can experience the temperature of -4degrees celsius.

The early month of February is still a bit chilly and has a hint of winter in it. But by the mid of the month the spring makes it way and the arrival of clear days. One can see the beautiful hillsides immersed with blossoms various rare flowers. The temperatures during daytime is 7-12 degrees celsius and night time the temperature can drop below zero degrees.

What Kind Of Accomodation Is Available In Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The accommodation during the trek in Manaslu Region will mostly be in tea houses and it also highly depends upon the routes one takes as well. As some of the less trodden areas of the region may not have as much tea houses as the frequently trekked routes. During most of the journey one will be staying in the teahouses which normally provides facilities such as food,hot shower, WIFI, charging facilities and accommodation. And also it depends upon the remoteness of the area and the availability of transportation in that particular area and also the altitude.

Rooms provided in the teahouses

Generally, the lower region of the Manaslu Region have twin basis room that may or may not have attached toilet. Incase they don’t one needs to share a common toilet. And the bed(s) in the rooms will have a foam mattress, bedsheet, blankets and pillows. If you are looking for a single room then the chances of finding one is better in the lower regions as the further you ascend the limited number of teahouses can be observed and getting a single room is pretty hard.

Toilets and Bathrooms Facilities

If you’re looking for a Western stylized toilets here in the mountains then you can find them only in the lower regions and most of the tea houses have Asian ‘squat’ type toilets. Not all tea houses provided have similar toilet and bathroom facilities as some might have separate system for toilet and bathroom. Usually for hot shower most of the tea houses provide you with the facility but know this by hot shower in some tea houses and places it can be a bucket of hot water and mug not the sprinkle one as you might be expecting.

Dining Rooms in the Teahouses

Every teahouse has a dining room for everyone to gather and indulge in satisfying one’s hunger of meals or stories to share with other trekkers. Most of the dining rooms in the tea houses are well heated so it is a great place for relaxing and socializing with other trekkers.

Is Internet/Electricity Available During Manaslu Circuit Trek?

As well most of the frequently trekked areas have electricity and internet facilities. But one cannot expect it to be similar to the service provided in the more developed areas of Nepal as it is in the mountains and the signals can drop significantly. Most of the teahouses in the frequented routes of this region are able to provide you with basic electricity facilities.

But the region also has many less trodden areas where the trekking routes has not been made popular and not many guest houses are available so in those places chances of the availability of internet is pretty rare. Although many development programs have been launched for promoting tourism here as well so the progress is being made but at the moment, not much can be said. There are teahouses and lodges but not as much as in comparison to other regions where trekkers frequently visit so internet and electricity is not available as in other regions.

Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficult?

Trekking in this region is truly a joy and the region houses some of the best trekking opportunities. The region consists of treks ranging from moderate difficulty level to strenuous as well. As it’s not a plain walking surface and like most typical treks in Nepal there’s a lot of going up and down. The distance you cover does not require super fitness, the altitude does however make it tough. And also having a strong mind set is also very important while trekking in these parts of the mountains. Mardi Himal Trek is influenced by; your pack weight, a porter can make it much easier and season, if you’re cold and miserable then it is definitely harder.

To sum it up you will be walking 5 to 8 hours a day for 12-14 days, with a resting day or two for acclimatization.

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness While Trekking In Manaslu Circuit?

Altitude sickness is caused by ascending too quickly. It is wise to climb slower to prevent it. As, it is very common on most of the treks  and can happen to anybody, irrespective of how old or fit you are or if you have previous trekking experience. So, here are some ways to prevent Altitude Sickness:

  1. Hydration– Drink plenty of water, it’s very important to stay hydrated.
  2. Trekking Pace– Walk at your own pace, take your time, don’t go too fast.
  3. Eat carbs– It’s not often we’re told to eat extra carbohydrates but when you’re at higher altitudes, you need more calories.
  4. Avoid Alcohol– Alcohol,cigarettes and medications like sleeping pills can make altitude sickness symptoms worse. So, avoid it.
  5. Medication– Taking acetazolamide(Diamox)two days before the trip and during your trip can help prevent altitude sickness. Acetazolamide is a medication typically used to treat glaucoma. But is also used to prevent altitude sickness.

What are the Necessary Prerequisites to consider while Trekking in Manaslu Circuit?

Necessary Permits Required

The necessary permits required for trekking to Annapurna Region are:

  1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
  2. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP)
  3. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit(MCAP)
  4. Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit

Why do You Need Permits?

The trekking permits for Manaslu Region Trek has its own significance.

 The permit helps to maintain the safety and security of the trekkers by keeping the trekker’s record inside the National Park. In case of any emergencies such as earthquakes, landslides, etc. the information can then gathered to  help the authorities help you. Rules and Regulations is also maintained with the help of this permits.

Once you enter the region the Local Area Permit helps to keep a record of the trekkers. This permit, allows  to enter the region but must follow the local rules and regulations. The amount gathered from the permit are then used by the local authority for the maintenance of the trails, rest stops and information centers for the travelers.

Necessary Documents for Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit?

You just need your passport details, two photos, and you also need to fill up a short form to obtain the permit. All these fees are payable in local currency only.

Important documents and items:

  • Valid passport, 2extra passport size photos, airline tickets
  • Separate photocopies of passport, visa form( easily obtained at Kathmandu airport), proof of insurance
  • Dollars, pounds or Euros in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying for restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks, and to purchase your own drinks and gifts
  • Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines(bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler’s checks, etc.

Necessity of Insurance:

While traveling to Nepal, you are requested to have travel insurance that should cover any comprehensive expenses possible to acquire due to medical issues or accidents. Especially, your travel insurance must protect air ambulance, treatment charges, rescue and evacuation, product cancellation and refundable charges, flight delays, and cancellations.

Insurance Policy:

Traveling in the Himalayas is full of adventurous; hence it is wise to choose a proper insurance policy. While choosing your insurance policy, make sure that it will protect all such unforeseen expenses. You must ensure that the policy you do take provides an adequate level of protection, well familiar with your itinerary and covers you for the activities involved. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on holiday or send us a scanned copy and it must be issued from your homeland.

How much do you tip Guides and Porter in Nepal?

In Nepal tipping is not mandatory but it is expected as major earning or saving funds is the tips for the guide/porter. Tipping is based on the experience you had with your trekking team. It totally depends upon how you felt about the services and overall hospitality that was provided to you so if you are satisfied you can tip them accordingly. Generally, 12-15% of the trip cost is considered ideal for tipping. You can divide the cost amongst the guide and porter as per your level of satisfaction.

How to prepare yourself for Manaslu Circuit Trek?

It is very important to be fully prepared before undertaking any trips or going on a long journey.

It is vital for any traveler or trekker to always have a list of important prerequisites with them at all times. Here are the list of things one needs to consider while going on a trek.

Physical Condition and Preparation:

It is very important that one should be of sound health before undertaking any kind of trek. Most treks are suitable for passionate walkers who have the ability to walk at least 6-7 hours a day with a light rucksack. It’s not necessary that the trek is going to be 6-7 hours a day sometimes it might even be 7-8 hours. Walking in higher altitudes is more physically demanding than walking in the lower altitudes; however, if we are in excellent health with average physical fitness, have a positive attitude and strong determination, we can accomplish the trek successfully. Exercising and jogging regularly is a good idea to enhance our strength and stability. If one has past experiences with hiking then that would be an asset but no technical skills are required for this trip. Also, we advise you to consult with your doctor(s) before undertaking the trip.

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit(MCAP) can be issued from Nepal Tourism Board located in Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu City. And TIMS card can be issued from Bhrikutimandap or Thamel.

Can You Do Manaslu Circuit Trek Without A Guide?

It is possible to do the Mardi Himal Trek without a guide but we advise you to take a guide as it is considered a strenuous trek and has lots of high altitude passes one being the Thorong La Pass. So, it would be wise to take a guide with you for the trek.

Can You Stay At Manaslu Base Camp?

No, you cannot stay at the base camp as there are no lodges and treehouses to accommodate oneself with but you can sightsee for a while and take pictures.

Where Do You Get The Permits For The Manaslu Circuit Trek?

What Is The Total Distance From Kathmandu To Soti Khola?

The total distance need to be covered from Kathmandu to Soti Khola is 141km/88miles.

What Is The Additional Distance For Trekking Tsum Valley Trek?

The additional distance added to trek the Tsum Valley is 55-70 km.

What Is The Altitude Of Manaslu Base Camp?

The altitude of Manaslu Base Camp is 4800m above from the sea level.

Where Does The Manaslu Trek Start From?

The journey begins with a scenic drive to Machha Khola. You will be driving towards the western part of the valley following a blacktopped Prithvi Highway. Crossing the Trishuli River, you will drive towards Dhading besi you will be passing through a small town Arughat which is mostly settled by the Newar ethnic group. On the way you can view the beautiful landscape, countryside lifestyle, terraced fields, rivers, and waterfalls. Crossing a bridge across the Budhi Gandaki River, you will pass small villages settled by Gurung and Magar ethnic groups, beautiful fields of millet and paddy and landscape along the Sotikhola and finally reaching Macchakhola.

Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit Comparison?

Manaslu Circuit Trek:

  • This trek receives less crowd as it is less trodden region.
  • Has lots of suspension bridges to cross and also houses the famous Budhi Gandaki river
  • There is a difference in the biodiversity while trekking through the region as one gets to trek through the subtropical jungle at lower elevations and the Himalayan foothills in the higher end
  • Also get the chance to trek to the cold and challenging crossing of the Larkya La Pass

Annapurna Circuit:

  • This trek is famous and receives more trekkers than the Manaslu Circuit.
  • The circuit is famous for hot springs so a chance to soak in and relieve the stress in the hot springs.
  • It houses the famous pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and HIndus.
  • Chance to see the ice lakes during this trek
  • The facilities of better homestays and lodges during the trek

Which Trek Is Tougher Manaslu Circuit Or Annapurna Circuit?

Annapurna Circuit trek when compared is relatively easier as the accessibility of roads on both sides up to the towns of Jomsom and Manang has made it more convenient as well as the availability and services provided by the hotels and homestays. As manaslu is a less trodden area meaning not much homestays and lodges are available and the routes are also yet to be discovered. But the sense of adventure gained from both the treks are very overwhelming.

Is it safe to Trek to Manaslu?

Trekking anywhere won’t be safe until and unless one follows all the safety measures and is prepared and cautious. As long as you follow the rules and instructions while trekking it’s pretty much safe to trek anyplace anywhere.

What Is The Total Distance Of Manaslu Trek?

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance does vary upon different conditions. Depending on factors like the start and end point of your trek, your distance of this trek can differ. The average total distance of Manaslu Circuit trek is 177 km/110miles.

Manaslu Circuit Route Map

What Equipments are Required for the Manaslu Trek?

This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Also, understand that the items listed below will vary a little according to the season and the trek duration. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 15 kg. Remember that your luggage will be carried by your porter but you are required to carry a day-pack (with your valuables or anything important) on your own. We also suggest that you pack what is necessary.

Head
  • Bandana or headscarf, also useful for dusty conditions
  • Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Prescription sunglasses (if required)
Upper Body
  • Polypropylene shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves)
  • Light and expedition weight thermal tops
  • Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
  • Down vest and/or jacket
  • Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable
Hands
  • 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.
  • 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves
  • 1 pair of mittens, consists of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)
Lower Body
  • Non-cotton underwear briefs
  • 1 pair of Hiking shorts
  • 1 pair of Hiking trousers
  • 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
  • 1 pair of fleece or wool trousers
  • 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric
Feet                                                                            
  • 2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks
  • 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
  • 1 pair of Hiking boots with spare laces (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support, “broken-in”)
  • 1 pair of trainers or running shoes and/or sandals
  • Cotton socks (optional)
  • Gaiters (winter only), optional, “low” ankle high version
Sleeping
  • 1 sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C or 14 degrees F)
  • Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)
Rucksack and Travel Bags
  • 1 medium rucksack (50-70 liters/3000-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon)
  • 1 large duffel bag
  • A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables should have good shoulder padding
  • Small padlocks for duffle-kit bags
  • 2 large waterproof rucksack covers (optional)
Medical
  • Small, personal first-aid kit. (simple and light)
  • Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters (Band-Aids)
  • 1 skin-blister repair kit
  • Anti-diarrhea pills
  • Anti-headache pills
  • Cough and/or cold medicine
  • Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide
  • Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin, etc. Do not bring sleeping pills as they are a respiratory depressant.
  • Water purification tablets or the water filter
  • 1 set of earplugs
  • Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies
Practical Items
  • 1 small roll of repair tape, 1 sewing-repair kit
  • 1 cigarette lighter, 1 small box of matches
  • 1 compass or GPS(optional)
  • 1 alarm clock/watch
  • 1 digital camera with extra cards and batteries
  • large Ziplocs
  • 2 water bottles (1 liter each)
  • 1 small folding knife
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • 4 large, waterproof, disposable rubbish sacks
Toiletries
  • 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel
  • Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
  • Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
  • Deodorants
  • Nail clippers
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Female hygiene products
  • Small mirror

Personal Hygiene

  • Wet wipes (baby wipes)
  • Tissue /toilet roll
  • Anti-bacterial handwash
Extras/Luxuries
  • Reading book
  • Trail map/guide book
  • Journal and pen
  • iPod
  • Travel game i.e. chess, backgammon, scrabble, playing cards (to help you pass the time at tea- houses and/or camps)
  • 1 modest swimsuit
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Voltage converter (from 220 to 110)
  • Plug adapter (2 round pegs to 2 flat pegs)
  • Lightweight   (in case your tea houses provide you with pillows) or use your own stuff as a pillow

Hope this Information regarding the Manaslu Trek gives you useful insights on how to prepare oneself for the trek to the beautiful, magnificent and aspiring region i.e. The Manaslu. So, if the above mentioned things are taken into proper consideration than you will have a wonderful time trekking in the most spectacular region. Carry all the necessary permits as mentioned above take all the precautions and there’s no way you are not going to have a wonderful time.

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Summary
Article Name
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Description
Manaslu Circuit trekking is one of the most highlighted camping treks among all the treks of Nepal with its nature and cultural heritage and having countless trekking trials like Manaslu circuit, Tsum valley and more which is located on Manaslu region. The 8th highest peak of the world MT Manaslu (8,156m) becomes visible as trekkers starts to trek on this region
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Publisher Name
Langtang Treks Nepal
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