A Beginner’s Guide to Manaslu Trekking

4 May 2023 Chandra Gurung

Manaslu trekking is a famous hiking route in Nepal that presents breathtaking views of the world’s eighth-tallest mountain, Mount Manaslu, towering at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). It is a difficult and isolated walk that passes through thick forests, uninhabited villages, high mountain passes, and stunning scenery. 

Similarly, the trek lasts for around 14 to 16 days. It is considered a fantastic substitute for the crowded Annapurna and Everest regions. The trail also offers a view into the locals’ distinctive culture and way of life, who still uphold their ancestral customs and practices. 

However, trekkers need a special permit, good physical shape and prior high-altitude trekking experience to participate in the Manaslu trek. The best months for Manaslu trekking are March to May or September until November because the weather is usually clear and consistent.

In this blog post, we will detail the Manaslu Trekking experience, including the ideal time to set off, what to anticipate on the path and tips for a successful trek. The Manaslu Trekking experience is one that you will remember, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time traveler.

Why Should You Go On Manaslu Trekking?

A great excursion, Manaslu Trekking takes you through the breathtaking high-altitude scenery of the Manaslu region of Nepal. Various factors should encourage you to take this trip:

1. Natural Beauty: The Manaslu region is well-known for its breathtaking Himalayan scenery. You’ll pass through isolated settlements, green forests, and breathtaking scenery along the way, including valleys, glaciers, and snow-covered mountains.
2. Cultural Immersion: Many different ethnic groups, including Gurungs, Magars, and Tibetans, reside in the Manaslu region of Nepal. You can learn about the distinctive cultures and traditions of these tribes as you travel through remote villages and settlements on the journey.
3. Off the Beaten Track: Unlike Nepal’s well-known trekking locations, the Manaslu region is largely unexplored by tourists. As a result, the trek is less crowded and provides a more authentic experience, letting you fully embrace the natural beauty and cultural exchange.
4. Challenging and Rewarding: The trek is demanding, with rugged terrain and high altitude, but the rewards are well worth it. You’ll push your physical limits along the journey while enjoying breathtaking scenery and cultural activities.
5. Conservation Area: The Manaslu region has been declared a conservation area to protect its natural and cultural history. Trekking in this region can make your trip more impactful and meaningful because you can help with local economic development and conservation efforts.

How To Prepare For Manaslu Trekking?

Preparing for the Manaslu Trek requires a qualified guide, appropriate equipment, acclimatization, necessary goods, physical fitness, and cultural awareness.

1. Get in shape: The Manaslu Trek is a tough trek with steep ascents and descents. As a result, you should regularly do cardio workouts like jogging, cycling, and swimming to increase your endurance. Similarly, it would help to concentrate on building your legs and core by doing squats, lunges, and planks.
2. Get the right gear: Purchase superior equipment, such as hiking boots, warm, water-resistant clothing, a sleeping bag, and a trekking pole.
3. Acclimatize: Your body requires time to acclimate to the changing altitude as you climb higher. Therefore, it is crucial to proceed slowly, have rest days, and drink lots of water to acclimate properly.
4. Pack essential items: Remember to bring first aid supplies, sunscreen, bug repellant, a headlamp, a map, and a compass, among other things.
5. Get necessary permits: To trek in the Manaslu area, you need a specific permit. Before beginning your adventure, make sure to have the required permits.
6. Hire a guide: It is highly advised that you hire a knowledgeable guide to help you with navigation, accommodations, and conversation with the people.

Manaslu Trek Permit

You will need the following Manaslu permits to begin the Manaslu circuit trek:

1. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
2. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
3. Manaslu Restricted Permit (MRP)

The MRP is the most significant permit necessary for the Manaslu trip. No matter where they live, all trekkers to Manaslu must possess this permit provided by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. The MRP is valid for 30 days and allows trekkers to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Trekkers must obtain the MCAP and ACAP issued by the Nepal Tourism Board in addition to the MRP. These permits are required to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area and the Annapurna Conservation Area, respectively.

Packing List For The Manaslu Trekking

For the Manaslu Trekking, consider the following general packing list:

Clothing:

• 2 to 3 T-shirts that dry quickly 
• 2-3 long shirts 
• 2–3 Lightweight pants
• Fleece sweater or jacket
• Waterproof pants and jacket
• Warm gloves and hat
• Four to five pairs of trekking socks
• Sandals and a pair of hiking boots

Equipment:

• Sunglasses
• Trekking sticks
• A headlamp with extra batteries
• Camera and extra batteries/memory cards
• Water bottles and tablets for purifying water
• A minimum SPF 30 sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Personal hygiene products, such as wet wipes, soap, toothpaste, and toothbrushes
• Small first aid kit

Note: This is merely a sample packing list, which you can modify to suit your unique requirements. Additionally, you can ask your trekking company or guide if any additional equipment is likely necessary for the trek.

Best Time To Go For The Manaslu Trekking

Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are the ideal seasons to go to Manaslu for trekking.

Autumn is a great time to trek because the weather is typically clear, and the skies are blue. Additionally, the temperature is moderate, making daytime walking enjoyable. Since it’s also harvest time, you can see how the locals celebrate various festivals.

Spring is a wonderful time to undertake Manaslu trekking. Flowers are blooming at this time, adding color and beauty to the trail. The weather is typically mild during the day. There is also a chance that you might experience snowfall or rain. 

However, it is not advised to go Manaslu trekking during the winter (December to February) because the trail is covered in snow and can get very cold. Similarly, the trail could get slippery and muddy during the monsoon (June to August), with a significant risk of landslides and avalanches.

Mistakes To Avoid During Manaslu Trekking

Manaslu Trekking is a popular trekking route in Nepal that passes through charming towns, breathtaking vistas, and the magnificent Manaslu mountain. However, to maximize your trekking experience, you should avoid a few common mistakes, just like with other adventurous activities. Here are some mistakes to avoid when trekking in Manaslu:

1. Not acclimatizing properly: Acclimatization is important for high-altitude trekking, and failure to do so can result in altitude sickness, which can be life-threatening. During the journey, it’s crucial to take enough rest days to take care of your body.
2. Not packing appropriately: It’s important to bring the proper equipment for the trek. Pack plenty of warm clothing, cozy hiking boots, an excellent sleeping bag, and a backpack with a rain cover. Don’t carry unnecessary items in your backpack.
3. Ignoring the trekking permits: Manaslu trekking requires obtaining permits from the Nepal government. Legal issues and penalties may result from failing to acquire the required permits.
4. Not adhering to the trekking regulations: To safeguard the security and welfare of hikers, the Nepali government has set in place several regulations. These rules include not littering and sticking to the specified trekking trails. It is crucial to abide by these rules to avoid any unfortunate events.
5. Not hiring a trekking guide or porter: A guide can assist you with carrying your bags, offer you helpful knowledge about the trekking path, and give you a sense of comfort in emergencies.
6. Underestimating the trekking difficulty: The Manaslu trek is difficult. Therefore it’s crucial to prepare both physically and emotionally. Exercise and prepare for at least a few months to ensure you are physically healthy for the trek.

Accommodations On Manaslu Trekking

1. Tea Houses: The most typical type of lodging on the Manaslu trek are teahouses, which are small guesthouses. They provide the basic facilities, such as a bed, a blanket, and a pillow. The tea houses also offer cuisine, often serving Western-style food and regional Nepali dishes.
2. Camping: You can also set up camp along the hiking trail for a quieter and private hike. You must bring your camping supplies, such as sleeping bags, tents, and cooking utensils.

Facilities On Manaslu Trekking

• Water and Food: There are numerous water and food sources throughout the trekking path. There are also small stores selling snacks, beverages, and other necessities, in addition to the meals and snacks that the teahouses serve.
• Communication: Most tea houses have Wi-Fi, but their reliability and speed vary. In addition, if you have a local SIM card, you may use your mobile data.
• Medical Assistance: A few small clinics along the trekking trail offer medical assistance. They provide basic medical services like first aid and altitude sickness treatment. However, if you have a serious medical condition, you might need to be evacuated by helicopter to Kathmandu for the necessary medical care.
• ATM: No ATMs are on the trekking path, so bring enough cash.

Conclusion

This blog aims to provide crucial information to inexperienced hikers about to start the Manaslu trek. If you want more information, you can check out other blogs on our website that offer more information about the trek. Additionally, you can count on the services of Himalaya Guide Nepal P. Ltd. to ensure a hassle-free trip to the Manaslu circuit trek.