Heli Tour Vs Trekking in Manaslu: Which One is Best for You?
5 Dec 2023 Chandra Gurung
Heli Tour in Manaslu and Trekking in Manaslu are the two most popular ways to explore this region. Both of these ways are preferred in their respective ways. The choice is ultimately yours as both paths will present you with some of the majestic vistas of the Manaslu Region and the surrounding landscapes.
Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world lies in the Gorkha district of western Nepal. It offers a dazzling panorama of the snow-capped mountains, rich culture, and diverse wildlife.
Manaslu is the ultimate destination for adventure seekers for it be trekking to heli tour. But there is a question. Are you seeking an experience to soar above the clouds with an aerial view of mountains or are you planning to immerse yourself in a trekking expedition?
Heli Tour in Manaslu
Heli Tour are typically short tours via helicopters which takes around 30-45 minutes. The overall trek is around 5 hours. You will be soaring through the peaks of Manaslu where you will glide effortlessly above the rugged terrains. Unlike trekking, heli tour provides an unparalleled vantage point without having to get inside the wilderness through the trek.
However, it could be quite expensive. But every penny is worth the experience as you will be riding above the majestic peaks, glistening glaciers, and verdant valleys. You will be above the clouds, you will be serenaded by the gentle whistling of the wind and the cascading waters of waterfalls.
The Helicopter tour is designed for people seeking to explore the Manaslu region in a short time. While on the Manaslu Helicopter Tour, you can appreciate and explore some of the key attractions of the Manaslu such as:
- The green lush forest
- The Northern Himalayan range
- Langtang and Ganesh Himal.
- Small pristine settlements of the local people
- Buddhist stupas
Opting for a Heli tour of the Manaslu area presents some of the key advantages to you. Some of these are mentioned below:
Easy and fast:
Heli tour offers a rapid and effortless way to explore the Manaslu area making it suitable for those who are limited with time and physical abilities.
Accessibility:
Heli tour reduces the challenges of trekking and hiking and enables access even to remote areas around the region for every age group.
Customization:
you can focus on a particular landmark or activity as per your interest during a Heli tour.
Trekking in Manaslu
Trekking in the Manaslu Region is a further immersive and rewarding experience than the Heli tour. This is because trekking allows you to connect with nature, and the local culture along with the close-up view of the majestic landscape of the Manaslu area. The challenging tour is generally planned for 12 to 18 days.
The Path of Manaslu Trek is a 177-kilometer loop that takes you around the mountain and passes through a wide landscape from the low valleys to high-altitude passes.
You will be trekking above an altitude of 5000 meters. Thus, it will indeed turn challenging and require a good level of fitness. Moreover, you will be hiking for several hours each day with steep ascends and descends.
Some of the major highlights for you to view during your trek are:
- Diverse ecosystem including flora and fauna
- Secluded areas that are not visible from above
- Interaction with the locals and exchange of culture
- Cascading waterfalls and hidden trails
Well, trekking in the Manaslu area has its own sort of benefits in comparison to the Heli tour in the Manaslu area. Presenting to you some of the major advantages of Trekking in Manaslu:
Natural and cultural experience:
Trekking in the Manaslu area will offer you a deeper connection with the natural and cultural sanctuary of the area. You will be able to appreciate the beauty at a slower pace and will be able to interact and immerse yourself in the cultural communities and their way of life.
Physical challenges:
Trekking in the Manaslu area allows you to step out of your comfort zone and eventually enhance your fitness to have a sense of accomplishment. While, it is advised to stay aware of updates, existing road conditions, and weather fluctuations.
Affordable:
Trekking is much less costly than that of a Heli tour. It is more affordable which makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious travelers.
Why choose between the Heli Tour and Trekking in Manaslu?
Choosing between a heli tour and trekking in Manaslu could depend upon your personal preferences, interests, personal fitness level, and budget allocated. However, both of the options offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience with their own set of pros and cons.
Let me walk through some of the major comparisons between the heli tour in Manaslu and trekking in Manaslu so that you can make an informed decision.
| Elements | Heli Tour in Manaslu | Trekking In Manaslu |
| Duration | Short (30-45 minutes) | Long (10-14 days) |
| Experience | Quick and easy | Challenging yet rewarding |
| Budget | Expensive | Affordable |
| Fitness | Suitable for every age and fitness level | Requires a moderate level of fitness |
| Immersion and interaction | Not as immersive | More immersive |
| Customization | Can be customized as per your preference needs | May not be as customizable due to a particular route and package |
| Sceneries | Astonishing views above from the air | Up-close sceneries of the mountains and valleys |
| Gatherings | Can be crowded | Less crowded |
| Trekking Gear | May not be required | Compulsory |
| Accessibility | Can see all the sights of the region | May not be able to see all the views of the region |
A heli tour is ideal for those seeking a cozy and uncomplicated experience. Trekking, however, is a better option if you are looking for difficulties, excitement, and a closer bond with the natural world. Heli excursions are preferable if you want quick access to the distant areas and an aerial view while hiking will offer you more opportunities for cultural interaction and physical challenges.
The decision between trekking in Manaslu and heli tour in Manaslu eventually comes down to your personal preference. Both options present you with unique outlooks and sensations of the divine Manaslu Area with either choice.
Conclusion
The path you choose will not only determine your journey but also reveal the depths of your own spirit. Whether you yearn for a quick panorama of the Manaslu area or you seek a more intimate and challenging Trekking in Manaslu, THE REGION has everything to offer with no specific barriers. Nepal and the mountains of Nepal do not restrict anybody from immersing themselves in the wild untouched beauty.
The Himalayas will whisper the path that best suits you and your soul. Let the echoes get to your ear and eventually take the step into the wild. Every step will present you with an experience that you will remember for your life and you will unfold new aspects of your own life.
Select the trip that resonates and matches your heart’s desire and let the mountains guide you towards an adventure that will transform your perspective and view of Nepal’s nature, culture, and heritage with limitless potential within it.
If you are planning a trip to the Manaslu region, Pure Adventure Nepal provides packages as per your preferences and needs. This company delivers you with some personalized packages for your ultimate trekking experience in Nepal. You can contact Pure Adventure Nepal now and plan your trip to the majestic Himalayas of Nepal.