Standing high at an altitude of 8163m, Manaslu peak is one of the most beautiful peaks in the whole country. More than the base camp trek, Manaslu is famous for the circuit trek and brilliant results.
Manaslu is more often called the perfect alternative to Everest and Annapurna, providing the right beauty and authenticity. Most of the time, you will find Tibetan culture, with the major highlight being Larkya La Pass.
Manaslu circuit trek takes place at Manaslu Conservation Area whereby you will require special permits to visit. The Trek Nepal arranges all of the required permits.
Right through the journey, you will face steep slopes, challenging rough trails, along with 7 to 8 hours of trekking every day. In this blog, we will provide you with every detail about the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Chance to view rare animals like Tahr, Argali, Pika, Himalayan Marmots, Snow leopard, etc
- Witness the beautiful peaks like Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Kang Guru, etc
- Be part of the local Tibetan ethnic groups and their lifestyle
- View other peaks like Annapurna II, Manaslu, etc
How Difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Any peak that is above 8000m is a tough peak to climb, and the same is the case with Manaslu peak. But when we talk about the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it could be difficult to access.
The major reason would be the uneven trails present. Added to that, the extreme length, rough terrain, increase in altitude, along with sudden changes in the weather, can make things harder.
As the altitude is high, the frequent weather changes demand more of your physical skill. Moreover, trekkers will have to walk around 7-8 hours at the higher altitude. So the Manaslu Circuit Trek is termed a challenging trek.
Best Time For Manaslu Circuit Trek
Similar to all the other treks in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is also perfect during the spring and autumn seasons. The Trek Nepal believes the maximum outcome can be gained during these seasons.
Spring falls during the months of March to May, while autumn is more during the months of September to November. The weather during the day remains mild with good flow of air.
Added to that, the peaks are more visible. This doesn’t mean you can’t do the Manaslu Circuit trek during the winter or monsoon season. However, you will need to be experienced to complete the trek during these seasons.
The temperature drops to around -20 degrees Celsius, with intermittent rain and slippery routes. This makes the overall trekking experience much more difficult and full of hassle.
Food and Accommodation During Manaslu Circuit Trek
Due to the remoteness of the region, there is a limited supply of food during the journey. With limited food and simple accommodation, this adds to a new level of challenge for the trekkers.
Most of the time, the accommodation is simple and is run by local families. Local lodges and tea houses are more present in the region. You will be provided with clean beds, shared rooms, and a warm blanket to pass the night.
In the case of food for the Manaslu Circuit trek, you will find the staple food of Nepal, which is Dal, bhat, curries, etc. Furthermore, trekkers will find the option of Tibetan noodle soup, fried rice, noodles, etc. Be mentally prepared for the challenges in food and accommodation.
Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Safe?
If you have some experience of trekking, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a safer climb for you. But with the altitude being higher than 5000m, the risk associated with it can be unseen too.
You will go through remote areas with limited facilities, so any injury might create some issues. But with a talented and experienced team like The Trek Nepal, we are prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
In the rarest of cases, you will face the risk of rockfall or even landslides in tough weather conditions. However, with the right itinerary, proper planning, and guidance, the risk can be easily minimised.
Best Way to Prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Every trek requires the right set of preparations, and the Manaslu Circuit Trek is no different. In the case of Manaslu, you will need to be in the right physical and mental space.
Performing a trek above 5000m isn’t easy at all. Meanwhile, you will need to plan the itinerary in the right manner so that you can acclimatize better as well.
Other than that, the key factors to look into include:
- Get an experienced guide for the trek
- Arrange necessary permits along with accommodation and transport
- Pack the essential gear like boots, waterproof jackets, pants, warm layers, first aid kit, headlamps, extra batteries, etc.
- Trekkers will need to have a portable charger along with a power bank during an emergency.
Cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek
The exact cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is harder to predict. The major reason for that would be the quality of service that a trekker would look for.
It differs from person to person. Anyone who looks for luxury and private service would have to pay more compared to shared services.
On average, the Manaslu circuit trek would cost you between $1500-$3000 per person. This cost would be based on everything you would need.
It would include the porter and guide fees along with food, accommodation, transport, and also the permits that come along.
Anything that isn’t included in the itinerary needs to be paid extra by the trekker himself. It could be the hot shower, extra charging cost, tips to the homestay, etc.
Final Thoughts
Manaslu Circuit trek isn’t the toughest of the treks, but you will need to be physically and mentally ready. You will be spending almost two weeks in the remote regions, so selecting the right trekking agency is also important.
It is valuable that you look for a trekking agency like The Trek Nepal. The experienced team, along with the guides and the medical staff, will make the journey easier.
More than that, our customised package will work wonders as a value for money. Based on your time, budget and also the goals we can make itinerary and package which will be useful.
If you are willing to know more, feel free to contact The Trek Nepal, and we will handle it from there.