Nepal is a dream destination for trekkers from around the globe. There are several trekking destinations in Nepal with incredible mountain views and enriching cultural exploration opportunities. If you are looking for a destination that is tranquil and offers adventurous experiences in off-beaten paths, the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be an ideal choice.
This scenic adventure in the Manaslu region is a great choice for those trekkers who are looking for peace, thrills and an authentic experience in the Himalayas. This 15 day trek begins in Machhakhola and ends in Dharapani or Besisahar. Throughout your journey, you will see beautiful views of diverse landscapes.
You will walk through lush forests, along rushing rivers and across dramatic mountain terrain and even navigate the Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), which is the major attraction of the trek. Few trekkers take up this adventure, so the trails are much quieter than the busy trails of Annapurna and Everest. However, the scenery, traditional villages and warm local hospitality will reward you with an enriching journey.
Manaslu Circuit trek stands out as one of the best off beaten trekking destinations in Nepal. It has not been commercialized and is taken by a few trekkers.
This circuit passes through restricted zones. So, trekkers must obtain the right permits and be accompanied by a licensed guide while trekking through this area.
On the trail of this trek, you will not encounter busy lodges, congested routes or village hubs full of tourists. In contrast, you will see untouched Himalayan valleys and trek through traditional villages. While exploring such villages, you can observe their way of life and see how local people have lived the same way for generations.
To trek the Manaslu Trail, trekkers must first obtain a special permit. Only a limited number of people can be on the trail, so you can have a peaceful trekking experience and feel a strong sense of solitude.
The Manaslu Trek offers a unique opportunity for everyone looking for an authentic trekking experience in the Himalayas and presents the thrill of navigating high altitude areas, which makes it stand out as one of the best off beaten path treks in Nepal.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers beautiful scenery of diverse landscapes. You can see lush forests, deep river valleys, and high-altitude glaciers while navigating the scenic high altitude paths. The stunning peaks such as Mt. Manaslu, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Himlung and many others can be seen along the route.
As you begin to ascend higher the surroundings become more rugged and stunning. The incredible views from Larkya La Pass reward you with the most stunning scenery of serene Himalayan vistas leaving you in awe.
The trek passes through peaceful settlements like Lho, Sama Gaon and Samdo. So, you can get to observe the daily life of locals. You can stay at a traditional teahouse. While exploring, you can see stone houses, prayer walls and yaks grazing.
Locals are warm and hospitable. You can interact with them. In addition, you can also learn about their culture, traditions and rituals. There are several monasteries along the trail. Here, you can observe locals praying and monks chanting prayers.
Exploring the Manaslu Region's villages, you can see a mix of the Gurung and Tibetan cultures who still live in traditional ways, which lets you experience an authentic mountain culture and will also make your overall experience culturally enriching.
Larkya La Pass is the highest point of the trek. Crossing this pass which is situated at 5106 m is the most challenging. You have to cross it early in the morning. The ascent is difficult but with steady effort it is possible to reach the top.
From the top of the pass, you can see panoramic views of snowy mountains such as Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal, Samdo and many more. Reaching the top of this pass is truly fascinating and one of the major highlights of the trek.
The Manaslu Circuit continues to be peaceful because it is still a restricted area, which means special permits and a licensed guide are necessary. This also restricts the number of trekkers on the route. So, the trails are tranquil.
Fewer people on the trail make it more serene and isolated. In general, this trek is preferred by adventurous trekkers who want to experience the peaceful and navigate the off beaten paths.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a moderate to challenging journey. The trek takes you to the most isolated paths of the country. The long walking hours, altitude and rugged terrains with several steep uphill and downhill sections make the trek challenging.
The most difficult aspect of the trek is the high altitude. This scenic adventure takes you to different high altitude areas, with the highest being Larkya La Pass, which is situated at 5,106 meters. However, these challenges can be tackled with proper preparation. In addition, adequate planning and ensuring acclimatization are also necessary.
Though trek indeed is challenging, the fit trekkers who are physically and mentally prepared for the journey can navigate the trails smoothly and successfully conclude the adventure.
You will stay mostly in simple teahouses during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. These teahouses provide basic but comfortable shelter after long day of walking. Rooms are usually cozy. Most of the teahouse rooms have two single beds. They also provide thin mattresses, pillows and blankets. As the electricity is limited, charging electronic devices may come with an extra cost.
Toilets and showers are generally shared, with squat-style toilets being common while some lower villages offer Western style options. At higher altitudes, hot showers are available only in for an additional fee, usually heated by gas or solar power.
Bedrooms are not heated, but the dining area is warmed in the evenings by a stove burning wood or yak dung, making it the main place to eat, stay warm, and socialize. Foods served along the trail are warm and nutrient rich. The menu is limited but nutrient rich dishes are available at the teahouses, ensuring you stay energized for the entire time.
Dal Bhat, Noodles, Porridge, Thukpa, Bread, Roti, Veggie Curry and Eggs are the popular dishes served at most teahouses along the trail. You can also get many vegetarian and vegan options. Breakfast and dinner are available at teahouses along the trail while lunch is generally arranged at the eatery along the trail.
While the menu may not have many options like in the city, the owners try their best to prepare food according to dietary preferences so that you will stay healthy and have enough stamina to navigate the varied terrain of the region.
Manaslu Circuit Trek offers strong cultural immersion, raw adventure, and takes you to tranquil trails, which make it stand out as the best off the beaten path trek in Nepal. By choosing to trek in this region, you can ensure an experience that feels authentic. In addition, while traversing rugged Himalayan paths, you can feel the thrill and enjoy an adventurous journey.
The restricted status has helped authorities to preserve local culture and authenticity. Solo trekking is not permitted and a guide will be with you to provide guidance. So, you can responsibly travel and complete this adventure successfully while feeling the thrill. For those who are interested in exploring hidden gems, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the perfect choice.
