One of the less-crowded trails in Nepal's central Himalayas. The Manaslu Circuit Trek trail is dominated by the Mansiri Himal sub range, and it is filled with breathtaking mountain views, diverse people and cultures, and much more. Manaslu is the world's eighth highest mountain, alongside Himalchuri (7893 m), Nadhichuri (7871 m), Shringi (7178 m), and a number of other snow giants. The trek begins at Maccha Khola and takes 3.5 hours to reach Dhading Besi, followed by a 4 hour off-road ride. Aside from the number of snowcapped giant mountains, the area is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, and many others.
The journey through Nepal's Himalayas includes untamed remote villages, mountains, an ancient monastery, a high altitude pass, and much more in a breathtaking landscape. The terrain with ancient monasteries and rugged terrain offers an interesting culture and lifestyle for people. From difficult mountain passes to tranquil valleys, the beauty of this trek lies in its ability to capture the hearts and minds of adventurers from all over the world.
In Nepal, there are two primary trekking seasons. Given that rhododendron blooms from March to May in the spring, spring and autumn are thought to be the best seasons. Autumn, from September to November, is thought to be the best time to visit because of the beautiful scenery and clear skies. Trails are crowded during this time, though. However, the trails are less crowded than that of major trekking destinations of Nepal like Annapurna base Camp trek and Everest base camp trek. Regarding the trail, the mountainous terrain is rugged and rocky, but the ascent is not as steep. The Larkya La Pass (5106 m/16751 ft.), one of the longest passes in the Nepalese Himalayas, is the highest point and longest day of the entire trek. Despite being one of the longest and most difficult passes, this area of the terrain is thrilling, demanding, and rewarding. It is also heavily snow-packed. If you have a strong will and a strong mentality, finishing the trek over the pass will be easy.
The Manaslu Circuit trek is off-the-beaten-path and isolated. However, there are teahouses in each village along the way, so you can get a good night's sleep in a bed with blankets, take a shower, eat delicious meals at a restaurant, and charge your electronics and cameras. The first few days of the circuit follow the trail next to the river in the Budi Gandaki, a deep gorge with numerous suspension bridge crossings. The last few days of the trek are spent in the snow, but you can still enjoy the massive snowy mountains on either side of the trail with regular hiking boots.
Because the Manaslu region is a restricted area, you cannot trek there alone and must seek the assistance of a local company to obtain restricted area permits. If you're looking for a travel company online, prioritize local businesses. Because of the high competition in the international market, a Nepalese company may not appear on the first few pages of Google searches. They do not have the same resources or access as international travel companies.
Starting on this trekking journey, you will be fascinated from the first day, and as you hike higher, you will be more captivated and hungrier to learn more and explore more of the Manaslu region. The arts inside the monastery will also catch your attention, and the colors used to create the art are not the typical acrylic or water colors found in stores. Natural substances such as stones, muds, saffron, and other locally available resources are used to create the colors, which are then processed naturally to produce the desired results.
Essential to Pack
You must have boots that are waterproof, dependable, and comfortable. Don't buy unnecessary gear. Trekking poles can be extremely useful. Remember to bring a headlamp, gloves, and as many socks as possible because you will need to change your shocks every day. When it comes to body wear, use moisture-wicking layers on your hike. Have wind and water-proof jackets. Pack thermals and jackets for staying in accommodation.
Do not rely on hotel amenities while on the trek. Having your own benefits you greatly. Pack your own serum, moisturizer, sunscreen, hand/body wipes, shaving gel, tooth paste/brush, deodorant, hairpins, hair spray, body spray, and other items.