Manaslu Circuit Trek is the classic off-beaten trek in Nepal through the remote and isolated Manaslu region. The trek takes you to the circuit of the 8th highest peak in the world-Manaslu (8156m). Mt. Manaslu is adjoined to Mt. Annapurna to the west and Ganesh Himal to the East. Similarly, the highest point of this trek is somewhat similar to the Annapurna Circuit trek. Crossing through the Larkya La Pass at 5213 meters is the highest altitude, which is challenging. Unlike the EBC Trek or the ABC Trek, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is less crowded. Walk along the remote villages, get closer to the local people, and experience their culture, tradition, and lifestyle.
What to expect during the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Manaslu Circuit Trekking is the hidden gem that offers a classic trek with epic scenery, rich diversity, stunning landscapes, and staggering mountain views. The trail begins with the narrow valleys through tropical vegetation and passes the Budhi Gandaki River. Similarly, the circuit trek to Manaslu allows you to encounter different charming villages like Jagat, Ghap, Lho Gaun, Samagaun, etc. The villages offer unique local lifestyles and cultures along with superb views of Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and six other 6,000-meter peaks.
You will be walking for an average of 5-6 hours on each trekking day. Before heading above 4000 meters, you will have an acclimatization day at Samagaon. Likewise, the trail takes you near to Tibetan Border and allows you to explore stunning landscapes. You will usually walk through the Bank of Budhi Gandaki during the trek. And, also witness the mighty Budhi Gandaki Gorge with amazing waterfalls. Moreover, you will find many long suspension bridges along the way.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty:
Trekking to the Manaslu Circuit is not as difficult as it seems if you are an experienced hiker. If you are a beginner, we would suggest doing some short trekking in Nepal before doing the Manaslu Circuit trek. The trek is physically demanding and mentally exhausting at some points. Likewise, crossing the Larkya La Pass at 5213 is not easy. There can be a risk of Altitude sickness when you feel nausea, dizziness, vomiting, and lack of breathing. These are the phases where you have to be mentally strong and ready to move forward. However, if you can’t feel like moving ahead, never push yourself. Rather, descending to a lower elevation is the ideal option.
Permit Cards for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu region is a restricted trekking region of Nepal. No trekkers are allowed to trek without a guide in the Manaslu region. And trekkers need to get a special trekking permit to trek to the Manaslu Circuit. Here is the list of permits required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek:
- Special Restricted Area Permit: The cost of this permit is USD 100 per person for the first week, and then you have to add USD 15 per day after the 7th day of the trek. However, from December to August, the cost is USD 75 for the first week and USD 10 after the 7th day.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit: When you start to trek towards Philim, the Manaslu Conservation Area starts, and you need this permit. The cost of this permit is USD 30 throughout the whole year.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit: An ACAP is required when you enter the Dharapani, which is in the Annapurna Region. It costs you USD 30 throughout the year.
- Trekkers Information Management System Permit: Trekkers Information Management System is a trekking permit card that costs you USD 16.
