Manaslu Circuit Trek 15 Days

Why is Manaslu Circuit Trekking Restricted?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is restricted because of the border of the Tibetan region, as well as the culture and ecology of the area. For more than 30 years, the region was only opened to foreign travelers in the 1990s to allow for the safe and sensitive management of the Tibetan communities and rich biodiversity to thrive. To maintain the area’s cultural and ecological balance, specially restricted area permits must be organized through the registered trekking companies and guides. This is to ensure that tourism remains beneficial and economically for the local communities, and the ecological balance of the area is preserved.

The best seasons to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring is great because the trekking trails are adorned by blooming rhododendron flowers, there are mild temperatures, and the skies are clear, which makes trekking and photography very enjoyable. Moreover, the autumn season also has stable and mild temperatures, which make it easy to trek and enjoy the remarkable views of the mountains.

These conditions also facilitate easy and enjoyable trekking when crossing the Larkya La Pass. Furthermore, winter (December to February) conditions consist of heavy snow at the higher elevations, which makes passes very difficult to trek. The other challenging time is the monsoon (June to August), when there are landslides and blocked trails. This makes spring and autumn the best times for a safe and rewarding experience at Manaslu.

Level of Difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit Trek has been deemed moderate to challenging because of its elevation, protracted periods of trekking, and diverse landscapes. Trekkers take around 177 kilometers (110 miles) over difficult pathways, which include some very steep ascents and descents. The Larkya La Pass (5,106m) crossing is the most challenging. This crossing takes stamina and is one of the most critical sections of the trek.

Proper acclimatization is crucial, however, with pacing, physical conditioning, and the assistance of adept guides, most of the trekkers in decent physical condition are able to complete the trek. The mixture of adventure, culture, and stunning Himalaya views is rewarding, and for most is more than sufficient motivation.

Can a Newcomer Participate in the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Certainly, there are relatively few prerequisites for one to take part in the Manaslu Circuit Trek. This is true for the individual with little experience, as long as they possess reasonable physical and mental stamina. The individual who has hiked the most will not lock in the most benefit, and there are no serious requirements.

With suitable conditioning, pacing, and acclimatization days, first time trekkers can take this trip. The only real thing to watch is a slow pace with plenty of fluid. Having a guide and a porter is a great benefit; they will take care of many important details and the comforts of the trek. This is crucial for the high-altitude sections of the trek, particularly Larkya La Pass.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) in the Manaslu Circuit Trek

As the Manaslu Circuit Trek crosses the height of 5000m, it carries the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). AMS can give rise to symptoms such as a headache, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, and nausea, among others. To avoid the condition, offering trekkers a proper scheduled gradual ascent, as well as rest days to properly acclimatize, is necessary and should particularly be taken in Samagaun and Samdo. Also, proper hydration as well as a steady pace rest are alcohol avoiding means necessary to protect against AMS. Finally, in the means of AMS treatment, a quick descent to a lower altitude is recommended.

However, rest assured, our guides are more than prepared to act fast should you appear to be suffering from any AMS condition.

Preparation and Training for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit can only be completed successfully after proper preparation. Those going on the trek need to start their training at least 6-8 weeks prior and concentrate on their cardiovascular and leg strength/endurance training. For stamina building, people can go for regular walks, hikes, bike rides, jogs, swims, or even stairs, which can be done with a light backpack that will mimic conditions of the trek.

Mental training is just as important, the trek will involve stunning remote parts of the country, but will also mean long days of walking, which you need to be conditioned for. It is also smart to get all the gear ready for the trek, as well as break in the shoes that you will use for the trek to avoid blisters.

Alternate Paths and Extensions to the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Balance your expectations with the trek length and your interests. First, the Tsum Valley Trek is the most popular extension and incorporates a spiritual and cultural trek into the hidden Tsum Valley.

Tsum Valley is known for its age-old monasteries and rich Tibetan heritage. One can also extend their trek to the Annapurna Circuit by joining the route at Dharapani for a few more days. For trekkers short on time, there are shorter variations of the Manaslu Circuit. These shorter circuits will allow you to flex your time without missing out on the key highlights of the region. For the culturally inclined, these alternative circuits will also satisfy more challenging routes.

Accommodations

While on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you’ll stay in the locally run tea houses or in the mountain lodges. Each room has a bed with a blanket, and the lodges have simple but decent facilities. Each tea house has a dining room with a cozy wood stove. Most meals include a combination of Nepali, Tibetan, and Western dishes, including dal bhat, noodles, soup, pasta, and omelets. Higher up in the mountains, the selection becomes more basic, but the hospitality and charm of the mountains more than makes up for it. It is a good idea to bring your own snacks and water purification tablets, as mountain hospitality may take a while to materialize.

Transportation

It is a drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola at the start of the trek and a return drive from Dharapani or Besisahar to Kathmandu at the end. This is arranged as either a private jeep or a local bus, depending on group size and preference. It is a beautiful road trip as you go through terraced fields, mountain roads, and rural villages. The last stretches might be bumpy, but they offer an engaging view of rural Nepal before embarking on the trek.

Travel Insurance

Purchasing travel insurance for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a necessity. The travel insurance policy needs to include high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 meters), evacuation by helicopter, trip cancellation, and other medical emergencies. Since the trek traverses areas where medical help is far away, thorough insurance is indispensable due to the risks posed by altitude sickness and other medical emergencies. You need to confirm with your insurance provider whether your policy includes high-altitude and restricted zone trekking in Nepal.

Permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

In Manaslu area has various permits. The former is the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) that can be granted by registered trekking agencies. Trekkers must also obtain the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) because the trail crosses some parts of both the Annapurna and Manaslu conservation areas. The check of permits is on the way at many points. A licensed guide has to be offered to obtain a limited area permit that makes the trek responsible and safe.

Required Guide and Porter

In the case of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it is not only recommended but compulsory to employ a licensed guide and porter due to its exclusive nature. An experienced guide and goes through the route, manages the cultural and logistical issues of the journey and assists in the event of an emergency or altitude sickness. The services of porters are very helpful, as they carry your bags, and you can walk more and more in order to enjoy the scenery. This is also beneficial to the local economy, responsible tourism and to enjoy your trek safer, more skilled, and in the company.