The Manaslu Circuit trek is a trail that circles the eighth-highest mountain of the world, Manaslu, and is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal.
It’s a beautiful and challenging walk through traditional villages and Buddhist monasteries.
Aside from its stunning scenery, this trail also offers a unique cultural experience. It’s a must-do for any trekking enthusiast!
Trekking in Manaslu
As you’d expect from a trek in the Himalayas, there is plenty to see and do on the Manaslu Circuit. You’ll have the chance to explore ancient monasteries and traditional villages as well as reach up to the Tibetan border on the northern side of the region.
You’ll also have the chance to hike through beautiful rhododendron forests, which are filled with blooming flowers during the spring months. These will make the views even more spectacular.
It’s important to note that Manaslu is a restricted area, meaning solo trekking isn’t permitted, so you’ll need to book your trek with an agency who can arrange these permits. The agency will also organise accommodation, food and transport along the way.
The Manaslu Trek is an excellent choice for experienced trekkers who want to take in the stunning beauty of the Himalayas without crowded crowds. It is one of the best treks in Nepal and a fantastic alternative to the Everest and Annapurna treks.
As with any trekking, it’s important to be prepared for multi-day walking. You’ll need good hiking shoes, warm clothing and a backpack with at least day-to-day essentials such as food and water.
You will also need a headlamp and a waterproof jacket. You should also bring a pair of gloves and some warm socks as the nights can get cold at higher altitudes.
In terms of weather, the most popular time to trek is in spring, when the mountains are covered in a carpet of blooming rhododendrons and the forests are lush and green. This is the ideal time to enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas and the pristine forest.
The monsoon is another season that can affect the trek, so it’s best to avoid it if possible. It can cause light to heavy rain and can be muddy, making it difficult for you to navigate. You’ll also need to pack more gear than in the summer.
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
When the Manaslu Circuit Trek was opened to trekking tourism in the 1990s it was an almost immediate hit. The first trekkers returned with tales of stupendous mountain scenery, fascinating village life and challenging walking. The Circuit soon became known as the world's best trekking walk.
The route takes you across high mountain passes, through thundering waterfalls and rivers, on rocky trails clinging to cliff faces, through Gurung villages with rice and millet terraces, and along mani walls and Buddhist shrines in the Tsum Valley. It also includes long and mentally challenging suspension bridges.
During this trek, you'll also be able to admire the spectacular views of the Manaslu range, including the world's eighth highest mountain, Manaslu (8163m). You'll have the opportunity to visit ancient monasteries and nunneries, explore local culture and traditions, and interact with friendly and welcoming locals.
Spring and autumn are the best times to do this trek as the weather is stable and the trail is in its best state. Forests are decorated with blooming rhododendron flowers, and the mountains are extra-level stunning.
It's not the cheapest trek in Nepal, but it is one of the most rewarding and scenic. It is especially recommended for adventure seekers and those with prior trekking experience.
In terms of accommodation, the Manaslu Circuit Trek and Upper Mustang Trek is becoming more convenient these days as many villages now have proper lodges. These lodges provide basic amenities like toilets, showers, and beds. They are usually run by locals and are often cheaper than hotels in Kathmandu.
Most of these lodges will have wifi and a hot water shower. Some even have electricity too!
Electricity is now available in almost all of the Manaslu Circuit villages. Before the region was all solar powered, but now hydropower is used in Budi Gandaki to supply it. This has made it easier for trekkers to stay connected with the outside world.
