Manalsu Circuit Trek Overview
Manaslu Circuit Trek is the classic off-beaten trek in Nepal through the remote and isolated area of Manaslu region. The trek takes you to the circuit of the 8th highest peak in the world-Manaslu (8156m). Mt. Manaslu is adjoined with Mt. Annapurna to the west and Ganesh Himal to the East. Similarly, the highest point of this trek is somehow similar to Annapurna circuit trek. Crossing through the Larkya La Pass at 5213 meters is the highest altitude, which is challenging. Unlike EBC Trek or ABC Trek, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is less crowded. Walk along the remote villages and get closer to the local people, experience their culture, tradition, and lifestyle.
What to expect during Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Manalsu Circuit Trekking is the hidden gem that offers classic trek with epic scenery, rich diversity, stunning landscapes, and staggering mountain views. The trail begins with the narrow valleys through tropical vegetation and goes pass 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 offers unique local life style and culture along with superb views of Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and other 6000 meter peaks.
You will be walking for average of 5-6 hours in each trekking day. Before heading above 4000 meters, you will have acclimatization day at Samagaon. Likewise , the trail takes you near to Tibetan Border and allows you to explore stunning landscapes. You will walk through the Bank of Budhi Gandaki most of the times during the trek. And, also witness the mighty Budhi Gandaki Gorge with amazing waterfalls. Moreover, you will find many long suspension bridged along the way.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty:
Trekking to Manaslu Circuit is not that difficulty as it seems if you are experienced hiker. If you are beginner, we would suggest to do some short trekking in Nepal before doing Manaslu Circuit trek. The trek is physical 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 phase 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 down to lower elevation is the ideal option.
Permit Cards for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu region is the restricted trekking region of Nepal. No trekkers are allowed to trek without a guide in Manaslu region. And trekkers need to get special trekking permit to trek to Manalsu Circuit. Here are the list of permits required for Manaslu Circuit Trek:
- Special Restricted Area Permit : The costs of this permit is USD 100 per person for the first week and then you have to add USD 15 per day after 7th day of the trek. However, during the December to August, the costs is USD 75 for first week and USD 10 after 7th days.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit : When you start to trek towards Philim, the Manaslu Conservation Area starts and you need this permit. The costs of this permit is USD 30 throughout the whole year.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit : ACAP is required when you enter the Dharapani, which is Annapurna Region. It costs you USD 30 throughout the year.
- Trekkers Information Management System Permit : Trekkers Information Management system is a trekking permit card which costs you USD 16.