The trek located between the Tibetan Autonomous Region and the world’s eighth-highest peak Mt. Manaslu,is a challenging and less-frequented trekking destination in Nepal. The Manaslu Region, part of the Manaslu Conservation Area, offers treks like the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley, showcasing stunning landscapes and Tibetan Buddhist culture.Starting in Sotikhola and typically lasting 10 to 15 days, trekkers navigate beautiful lakes, rivers, and ancient villages. As a restricted area since 1991, special permits are required to protect its natural beauty and wildlife while managing the border with Tibet.
Explore Manaslu Region- Your Complete Trekking Guide to the Himalayas.
Nestled just between the lap of the world’s 8th Mt. Manaslu and the Tibetan Autonomous Region, Mt. Manaslu is one of the less-scaling mountains due to its difficulty and unpredictable forecast over dozens of trekking like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Kanchenjunga Base Camp, and Lang Tang Valley Trek. Similarly, the Manaslu Region is an iconic trek and expedition that belongs to the western central part of Nepal in the Manaslu Conservation and is renowned as one of the most beautiful remote trekking in the Himalayas.
Manaslu offers more than two treks,including Manaslu Circuit Trek, Manaslu Base Camp Trek, T-sum Valley Trek, and Lower Manaslu Trek. The prominent trekking trails of the Manaslu are less explored and are the most diverse remote routes. It provides trekkers great opportunities for insight into the influenced Tibetan Buddhist culture, mountain lifestyle, monasteries, and stupas, their festivals, rites, and rituals are impressive and enjoyable.
The Manaslu Region is home to diverse flora, fauna, butterflies, birds, and reptiles. More than 1500 species of flowering and herbal plants can be found there. The trek leads trekkers from the Tropical to the Alpine zone, with a stunning view of the world’s 8th tallest peak, Mt. Manaslu, and surrounding peaks.
Typically, the trek in the Manaslu region begins from Sotikhola, a two-hour drive from Aarughat, and ends at Bhimtang, near Besisahar, or the starting point. All the treks can be covered within 10 to 15 days through beautiful lakes, cantilever bridges, big rivers, waterfalls, terrain valleys, ascending and descending rocky trails, ancient villages, and a High Mountain pass. The trek immerses trekkers in a deep insight into the Himalayas.
Manaslu is an off-beaten trekking trail, unlike other popular destinations like Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, and the rest of the iconic trek. Manaslu is a restricted trekking region of Nepal that was officially opened for trekkers in 1991 AD due to the popularity gained by its natural beauty, less crowdedness, and rich cultural heritage. The trek requires a special permit from the Immigration Department, and a trekking permit from the Tourism Board to conduct the trek. This is a restricted zone for protecting natural beauty, preserving endangered flora and fauna, and connecting the border with the Tibetan region.
Manaslu Region Trek Fact.
- Off the beaten trails with adventure and tranquility.
- Ancient trails- salt trading route between Nepal and Tibet.
- The single entry point of the three best treks of the Manaslu region.
- Cross the cantilever bridge over the Buri Gandako River.
- The mesmerizing Birendra Lake.
- The Tibetans influenced Buddhists.
- Open in 1991(Manaslu Circuit) & 2008 AD(T-sum Valley) for trekking.
- Glimpse of Tibetan Border.
- Beautiful lush forest of Rhododendron.
- Tibetan hospitality and culture.
- Challenging trekking trails.
- Buddhist prayer flags and mini walls.
- Tibetan refugee village.
- Mixed cultural group of people.
- Larkey La Pass (5106m)
- Encounters of wildlife, flora and fauna.
- Restricted area trekking route.
- Magnificence view of the world’s 8th tallest mountain and surrounding snow-capped peak.
- Manaslu Conservation Area.
- Less crowded
Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu circuit trekis a renowned and unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking remote part of Nepal Offers a spectacular trekking experience, providing a blend of natural beauty, enriching cultural and heritage villages, Tibetan Buddhist culture, diverse flora and fauna, and warm hospitality of local people. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a profound trekking for adventure seekers. The trails lead trekkers from moderate to difficulty and offer the picturesque iconic Mt. Manaslu (8163m), Ganesh Himal (7422m), and Annapurna II (7939m). The trek starts from the small village of Soti Khola and simultaneously follows the trails toward Machha Khola, Jagat, Samado, and Samagaun and crosses Larkya La pass (5106m) the highest glacier pass of the region. This trek takes 11 to 14 days to complete. The mesmerizing trek with, Recreation Holidays allows you to explore the beauty of the hidden landscape of Nepal and the Manaslu Region.
Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary
Itinerary | Altitude(M) | Walking distance(Km) |
Day 1: Drive to Machha Khola via Arughat and Soti Khola | 730m | 7-8hrs |
Day2: Trek to Jagat | 1300m | 6-8hrs |
Day3: Trek to Deng | 1804m | 5-7hrs |
Day4: Trek to Namrung | 2630m | 5-7hrs |
Day5: Trek to Sama Gaon | 3550m | 6-8hrs |
Day6: Acclimatization Day: hike to Pun Gyen Gompa93700m) or Manaslu Base Camp | 4800m | 2-3/5-7hrs |
Day7: Trek to Samdo | 3875m | 5-7hrs |
Day8: Trek to Larke Phedi (Dharamsala) | 4660m | 4-6hrs |
Day9: Trek to Bimthang (3,720 m) via Larkya la pass | 5106m | 8-10hrs |
Day10: Trek to Dharapani (1960m) via Tilije. | 2300m | 6-8hrs |
Day11: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu (1400m) | 1345m | 8-9hrs |
Manaslu Base Camp Trek
Manaslu Base Camp Trek is a stunning adventure that offers a majestic view of Mt. Manaslu, its base camp, and other magnificent mountains. The trek leads from moderate to challenging routes from the tropical to the Alpine zone, which takes 11- 14 days. The trek is renowned as the home of a species of rare animals. Along, the trails encounter the Tibetan Buddhist culture with Multi-ethnic people. It is one of the least discovered and beautiful remote trekking in Nepal. This trek connects you with the remote Himalayan cosmos and tranquility. Moreover, you can do the Manaslu Circuit Trek along the Base Camp trek to make the journey more satisfying.
Manaslu Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Itinerary | Altitude(M) | Walking distance(Km) |
Day 1: Drive to Machha Khola via Arughat and Soti Khola | 730m | 7-8hrs |
Day2: Trek to Jagat | 1300m | 6-8hrs |
Day3: Trek to Deng | 1804m | 5-7hrs |
Day4: Trek to Namrung | 2630m | 5-7hrs |
Day5: Trek to Sama Gaon | 3550m | 6-8hrs |
Day6: Hike to Manaslu Base Camp | 4800m | 5-7hrs |
Day7: Trek to Samdo | 3875m | 5-7hrs |
Day8: Trek to Larke Phedi (Dharamsala) | 4660m | 4-6hrs |
Day9: Trek to Bimthang (3,720 m) via Larkya la pass | 5106m | 8-10hrs |
Day10: Trek to Dharapani (1960m) via Tilije. | 2300m | 6-8hrs |
Day11: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu (1400m) | 1345m | 8-9hrs |
T-sum Valley Trek
T-sum Valley is the most amazing mesmerizing trekking in the Manaslu region. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas the treasure treks in Nepal of Manaslu provide a great cultural diversity and adventurous experience to the traverser with the dramatic Himalayan landscape, diverse terrains, rich heritages, and peaceful trekking trails. Tsum Valley is the home of the Tsumbas community the unique Tibetan Buddhist community. The treks lead traverses through the ancient monasteries, breathtaking mountain views, and Milarepa cave and traditional village.
T-sum Valley Trekking Itinerary
Itinerary | Altitude(M) | Walking distance(hrs) |
Day 1: Drive to Machha Khola via Arughat and Soti Khola | 730m | 7-8hrs |
Day2: Trek to Jagat | 1300 | 6-8hrs |
Day3: Trek to Lokpa | 2240m | 5-7hrs |
Day4: Trek to Chumling | 2368m | 5-7hrs |
Day5: Trek to Chekampar | 3031m | 6-8hrs |
Day6: Trek to the Nile | 3361m | 5-7hrs |
Day7: Trek to Chumling | 2368m | 5-7hrs |
Day8: Trek to Philim | 1570m | 4-6hrs |
Day9: Trek to Machha Khola | 870m | 6-7hrs |
Day10: Drive to Kathmandu | 1345m | 6-8hrs |
Day11: Departure | - | - |
Essential gear and equipment you should carry for the Manaslu RegionTrek
Clothing
- Waterproof and windproof quality down jacket.
- Thermal set to make your body warm at high altitudes.
- Soft T-shirts and pants are necessary for a comfortable walk.
- Rain poncho to protect self from rain.
- Gloves, hats, head covers, and sunglasses are necessary while trekking.
Footwear
- Soft and flexible trekking shoes.
- Thick and soft shocks
- Slipper (needed while staying at tea house)
Other essential
- Medical kit box
- Personal hand-carry bag
- Reusable water bottles and purification tablets
- Warm sleeping bag (depending upon climate)
- Trekking sticks and crampons (you can buy it in Kathmandu)
- Personal accessories like sun cream, body spray, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.
- Electronic things like mobile, cameras, chargers, power banks, etc.
- Buy insurance that covers all the emergency rescue including helicopter rescue and other Medicare facilities.
Trekking at high altitudes requires good physical and mental preparation. The Manaslu is considered one of the most difficult treks of Nepal. So be prepared to make your visit enjoyable and hassle-free.
Necessary Documents for the Manaslu Region Treks.
Documents:
- Original passports (at least 6-month valid date)
- Valid visa documents.
- Insurance papers.
- Emergencies contact paper.
Manaslu Trek Permit and Fee:
- MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit) costs Nepalese Rs 3000.
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) costs Nepalese Rs 3000.
- TIMS (Trekking Information System)- Nepalese Rs 1000
Manaslu Trek-Restricted area Permit fee:
- (September to November)- It costs USD 100 for the first week and USD 15 per day. (Beyond Week)
- (December to August)-it costs USD 75 for the first week, and USD 10 per day (beyond a week.
T-sum Valley Trek- Restriceted area Permit fee:
- (September to November) -it costs USD 40 for the first week, and USD 7 per day (Beyond a week).
- December to August: it costs USD 30 for the first week, and USD 7 per week (Beyond week).
- T-Sum Valley also requires Mcap and Tim's card.
Know the pros or advantages of guided treks to the Manaslu region.
Trekking always has two faces pros and cons. While talking Cons it comes to tiredness, difficult trails, altitude sickness, and some cultural difficulties. But the Pros of the trek always get victory over the Cons because of the trek's beauty and attractions. Pros can include the peaceful trekking routes, unique cultural customs, natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and the life between the hills.
Mansalu is not allowed for solo trekkers, besides, Manaslu there are lots of pros of a guided trek in the Himalayas. Some advantages of the guided trek.
- Expert knowledge about the trails, nature, valleys, mountains, and local cultural customs.
- For a safe and hassle-free trek.
- For support and motivation during the trek
- For proper logistic handling.
- Cultural experience, easily emerging with local culture, festival and life hood.
- Easily complete the trek with no issues with off-beaten trail location.
- To trek with a Properly customized itinerary
- To follow environmental awareness, leave no trace.
- Get more knowledge about the other trekking trails of Nepal.
- To share trek challenges.
- To build a multi-cultural connection.
How to Reach the Manaslu Region for Trek.
landing in Kathmandu, your representative will be there for you. You will meet with a trek guide for a briefing and introduction session. The next day, after having a lovely breakfast your drive began toward Soti Khola. You can also drive from Soti Khola to Machha Khola or walk. So, the service provider arranges the transportation facilities for drop and pick up during the trek to reach the trek point of the Manaslu Region. While talking about solo travelers, Manaslu is a restricted area so it is not allowed to travel alone at least two people are mandatory, and must trek with a guide and porter. To reach Soti Khola both public and private vehicles are available which is depending upon the service chosen.
Difficulty of the trek
Walking always seems difficult. Over this ascending and descending in the mountain is hard in any condition. So while balancing with other treks the Manaslu is a quite moderate to challenging trek in Nepal. The trek takes from the Tropical to the Alpine zone but is not over 5500m high from sea level. The trek becomes challenging for trekkers due to the high altitude otherwise the trails are not much harder as thinking. Larkya La Pass (5106m) makes some obstacles while crossing because of its rocky path. If there is no difficulty there is no relaxation.
Accommodation during the trek
In the Manaslu region is a remote trek where tea houses fulfill the demand for accommodation as hotels and lodges. The trek has many tea houses along the route and welcomes trekkers with warm hospitality as their culture. During the trek, tea houses provide clean and beautiful rooms with mountain views but are on a shared basis with a single bathroom.
Food during the trek
Manaslu trek is a remote destination so it offers local fresh hygienic food to the trekkers rather than junk ones.Trek provides an opportunity to experience authentic Nepali dishes like DAL-BHAT (steamed rice, lentil soup, pickle, and curry) every item will be fresh hygienic, and healthy for a body that maintains body stamina for the trek. You can order other items like dumplings (MO: MO), Chowmins, Noodles, Spaghetti, Thukpa, etc. High-energy foods like nuts, energy bars, and dried fruits are essential for body balance. Additionally, drinks items, and snacks were found along the trails in the tea house which is a little more expensive than downtown or normal market.
What is included in the trek price?
the Manaslu trek, there are several routes and itineraries. During the trek, the cost has been mentioned as your booking preference. The Manaslu Trek's price covers all the necessary cost procedures like the cost of transportation from airport pick up and drop to the whole trip, standard food, and accommodation, guide service, porter service, duffle bag, trekking permits, and other all the necessary. Similarly, not covering parts is like the cost of snacks, not mentioning food, extra activities, guide porters tips, and other personal belongings.
When is the Ideal Time for Trek?
Trekking in Nepal has become the best achievement for travelers. Nepal calls everyone for all seasons. Nepal is not only for trekking it is for many other religious and adventure activities. Whatever, while talking about the best time to embark in the Himalayas always spring and autumn seasons become the benchmark. The months of March, April, and May are considered mid-season while September, October, and November are taken as high season for trekking in Nepal because of the visible weather, dry and smooth trails, peaceful and breathtaking greenery forest, snowcapped peaks, and the season of Nepalese festivals. Autumn offers a fascinating trek in a lush forest, less dust, and numerous cultural insights. Spring is famous for warm weather that is mind-blowing for trekking, hiking, and other adventurous activities.
What does the trek offer?
Manaslu is more than just trekking, it is the passion, emotions, feelings, and courage of trekkers. Every story, post, and talk becomes less until you visit yourself to Manaslu. The trek offers you a religious belief and a high glacier pass that showcases the real heaven alive. Peaceful trails, unique culture, and traditions, festivals with rich biodiversity, wildlife, ancient trade routes, high altitude lakes, high Mountain pass, and the closest view of the world’s eight highest peaks, remote trails, and local cuisine of the Himalayas create an unforgettable tales in life. The trek offers another life, vision, and world within a day.
How long does it take to trek?
Walking in the high-elevation is not normal. It requires strong stamina, a proper mindset, and time-to-time rest as the destination geography and the days of walking. While talking about Manaslu there are several treks like the Manaslu Circuit Trek takes 11 to 14 days. The Manaslu base Camp trek takes 11 to 14 days and similarly, the Tsum Valley Trek takes over 13 days to complete with acclimatization. Besides, if you have done several trekking already in high altitudes you can take victory in fewer days as well. While measuring daily walking hours it is up to 5 hours per day. If you want to discover the Manaslu Circuit Trek including Tsum Valley it takes over 20 days.
Why should you choose Manaslu for Trek?
The Manaslu trek blends natural scenarios, rich culture, and adventure showcases. The dramatic picturesque of the world's 8th tallest mountain Mt. Manaslu, and insight into the diverse landscape from the terrain valley, and lush forest to the desert land make each day memorable. Unlike other treks in Nepal, the Manaslu trek offers a tranquil experience, immersing trekkers in the unique mix of Tibetan Buddhist and Nepalese culture. The major attraction is Larkya La pass (5106m) one of the highest mountain passes that captures the best of the best experience and the view of surroundings which helps to forget all the pain. Additionally, the Manaslu is renowned for its blends of flora and fauna, typical kitchen and cousins, and the local lifestyle of people.
your heart is full of hustling and bustling life and seeking a peaceful environment to recharge yourself then the Manaslu trek is highly recommended.
Additional Information on the Manaslu Trek
Manaslu is a restricted area so trekking in this region needs a restricted area permit and must travel with registered travel agencies with guides and porters. A major point to know is at least 2 trekkers are required to issue the restricted area permit as per the government rules. The safety and security of the trekkers are important so you must check in check-in and out from the route within the mentioned date or if you take one more day inside the restricted zone you have to fill a charge as per the rules.
Manaslu Trek Conclusion
Manaslu trek is truly remarkable and holds long life memories whether you are an experienced trekker or a passionate discoverer this trek promises you an enriching experience on Nepal’s unique trekking trails. The trek provides breathtaking views of majestic mountains, diverse natural beauty, and wildlife with cultural encounters. Manaslu is a region that is less visited and has fewer tourists, but it is a lifetime adventure for travel enthusiasts.