Thrill of Encountering Rare Wildlife During Manaslu Circuit Trek

Rare wildlife in manaslu circuit trek

10 Apr 2023 Chandra Gurung

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an unforgettable tour across Nepal’s mountains along an ancient salt trading route. The trail begins in the Gorkha district, and the remote and unspoiled terrain adds to its allure of rare wildlife. Birdwatchers may be fortunate enough to see some of the more than 200 bird species found in the Manaslu Conservation Area’s rare wildlife. 

Manaslu circuit trek is a genuinely one-of-a-kind trekking experience, and the remote setting allows trekkers to immerse themselves in nature. Furthermore, the region’s ancient culture and religious traditions provide an exciting and unique addition to the trekking experience. The rare animals and diverse bird species provide fantastic wildlife viewing, but the region’s rich cultural heritage offers a unique glimpse into the past.

About Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging yet worthwhile trek that takes you across various landscapes and ecosystems in Nepal’s Himalayan area. The possibility of encountering unusual and unique species along the road is one of the many fascinating features of this expedition.

The Manaslu region is biologically diverse, with a wide range of flora and rare wildlife. The Manaslu region is home to various flora and animals, including endangered species like the Snow Leopard and Red Panda. The trek crosses through the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to many rare wildlife and endangered animals.

Wildlife Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Conservation Area is a breathtaking trekking destination that stretches from the slopes of Gorkha to the Tibetan border. While trekking in this area, it is important to obey the conservation rules. You’ll be able to visit several climatic zones, from the lower section to the high glaciers and mountain passes, and see a wide range of wildlife and plants. Along the route, the Gurung community shows their culture, and the old narrow trails take you to a calm and mesmerizing environment all to yourself.

NTNC

The National Trust for Nature (NTNC) of Nepal now supervises the region after the wildlife was properly preserved as a result of making hunting a prohibited area. The conservation area’s goal is to safeguard the area’s flora and fauna, as well as to manage natural resources and encourage sustainable development.

The National Trust for Nature of Nepal manages the Manaslu Conservation Area, formed in December 1998 under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act. The Manaslu Conservation Area was established on December 28, 1998. 

It is located in Gorkha District, Nepal, and covers an area of 1,663 square kilometers. This area is protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act and promotes ecotourism to improve villages’ livelihoods. 

Encountering Rare Wildlife

Over 110 bird species, 33 animal species, 11 butterfly species, and three reptile species are protected by the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Hunting is not permitted in the area, which has benefited the preservation and conservation of animals.

Rare wildlife in Manaslu

This area’s landscape is separated into three sections: low hills, middle mountains, and high mountains, with some overlap in surrounding areas. Depending on microclimates and other factors, vegetation overlap is observed in nearby areas. 

Restricting hunting in the area has helped safeguard animal and plant habitats, providing them with a safe and stable environment to thrive and reproduce. The conservation attempt has allowed many plant and animal species to thrive in various terrains and temperatures, diversifying the environment. 

Furthermore, the area has become a haven for many endangered species on the verge of extinction due to hunting and habitat damage. The vegetation overlap has helped to preserve biodiversity and create a more sustainable environment by providing these animals and plants with a safe area to reside.

Encountering Rare Animal During Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu is an important habitat for several endangered animals, including the Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Blue sheep, Musk deer, and Red Panda. 

In addition to the endangered species, the Manaslu region is home to a variety of other animals, including the Lynx, Asian black bear, grey wolf, dhole, Assam macaque, Himalayan Tahr, mainland serow, Himalayan goral, wooly hare, horseshoe bat, black-lipped pika and many more to keep the balance of nature and sustain biodiversity, it is crucial to protect these species. Along the way, you may see the following animals:

  • Musk Deer 
  • Snow Leopard
  • Red Panda 
  • Himalayan Tahr 
  • Lynx
  • Assamese Monkey
  • Gray Wolf
  • Leopard Cat
  • Great Tibetan Brown Bear
  • Himalayan Brown Bear

Musk Deer:

Another rare and secretive species found in the Manaslu Protected Area is the musk deer. Musk Deer’s scientific name is Moschus Cyrysogaster. It is a small deer species found in the Himalayan highlands. They are hunted for their musk glands, used to make perfume and traditional medicine.

Snow Leopard:

Snow Leopard (Panthera Uncia) – A huge cat found in the Himalayan highlands. They are becoming extinct due to habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. Rare wildlife enthusiasts are eager to spot this rare large cat. The Manaslu region is one of the greatest sites in Nepal to see a snow leopard, yet sightings are relatively uncommon due to the shy nature of the species.

Red Panda:

(Ailurus Fulgens) Red Panda is a tiny, arboreal animal found in the eastern Himalayas. They are becoming extinct due to habitat destruction, hunting, and the pet trade.

The red Panda is a critically endangered species found in the Manaslu Conservation Area. These cute animals can be found climbing trees or hunting for food in the forest and are distinguished by their striking red and white fur.

Himalayan Tahr:

This wild goat species can be found in the Manaslu region’s alpine meadows and rocky cliffs. Their fur seems long and thick, and their horns are elegantly curved.

Lynx:

Lynx (Felis Lynx): The Himalayan wildcat is a medium-sized animal. Because of habitat destruction, hunting, and fur poaching, they are in danger.

Assamese Monkey:

A species of monkey that lives in the northeastern region of the Himalayas is the Assam Monkey (Macaca Assamensis). They are endangered because of habitat loss and hunting for their meat.

Gray Wolf:

Gray Wolf (Canis Lupus) – A wolf species native to the Himalayas. Hunting and habitat destruction have put them in danger.

Leopard Cat:

It is a small wild cat found in the Himalayan forests, the Leopard Cat (Prionailurus Bengalensis). The destruction of their habitat and the poaching of their fur 

has led to their extinction.

Great Tibetan Brown Bear:

Great Tibetan Brown Bear(Ovis Ammon) – A giant bear found in the Himalayan highlands. Loss of habitat, hunting, and poaching for their body parts are potential threats to their extinction.

Himalayan Brown Bear:

Himalayan Brown Bear (Ursus Arctos) – A huge bear found in the Himalayan highlands. In addition to hunting and poaching for their body parts, they face threats from habitat loss.

Encountering Rare Birds During Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu area is also famous for bird watching as many endangered species live there. Impeyan Pheasant and Crimson Horned Pheasant are also protected in this area. Some of the endangered species of the Manaslu region are as follows:

  • Himalayan Monal
  • Impeyan Pheasant
  • Crimson Horned Pheasant

Himalayan Monal: 

The Himalayan Monal, Nepal’s national bird, is a beautifully colorful bird commonly found in the forested sections of the Manaslu region. Bird watchers love them because of their brilliant feathers.

Impeyan Pheasant:

Impeyan Pheasant (Lophophorus Impejanus) is a huge, colorful pheasant found in the Himalayan forests. They are endangered due to habitat degradation and hunting for their meat and feathers.

Crimson Horned Pheasant:

Crimson Horned Pheasant (Tragopan Satyra) – A medium-sized pheasant found in Himalayan woodlands. They are endangered due to habitat degradation and hunting for their meat and feathers.

Encountering Rare Plants During Manaslu Circuit Trek

The area has nineteen various types of forests, including rhododendron and Himalayan blue pine forests. The region is characterized by Himalayan blue pine and rhododendron forests, with 19 forest types.

There are nineteen types of woods, Rhododendron and Himalayan Blue Pine dominating, and 1500 to 2000 plant species growing here. The region is home to 1,500-2,000 plant species, including medicinal and fragrant plants.

Conclusion on Rare Wildlife of Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Conservation Area is home to many animal and bird species, including rare sightings of Himalayan Thar, Snow leopard, and Musk deer. In addition, about 2000 different varieties of mountain flowers bloom in the area during the spring. The trek takes you through the Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation Areas, where you can see endangered animals like red pandas, snow leopards, and other rare wildlife.

Manaslu Mountain

This walk is unique because of the distinct Nepalese culture, monasteries, and spectacular vistas of mountains, lakes, and glaciers. These lovely blooms cover the picturesque meadows and pastures, providing trekkers with a unique and diversified experience.

Overall, the Manaslu Circuit is a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with a diverse range of species and spectacular natural splendor. These characteristics contribute to the Manaslu region being a unique and biodiverse location critical to protecting numerous endangered species and promoting sustainable development through ecotourism.

In addition to over 200 different types of plants, the region is also home to various endangered animals, including the Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, and Red Panda. Meeting these rare and unique animals on the Manaslu Circuit Trek would undoubtedly be an exciting experience. To prevent disturbing these animals, remember to respect their natural habitat and remain at a safe distance.