Is Manaslu Trekking worth the Hype?

7 Jul 2023 Chandra Gurung

Trekking in the majestic mountains of Nepal is a dream of adventure lovers and nature lovers from all over the world. With its rough terrain, beautiful landscapes and rich culture. Nepal has many trekking options among them, the Manaslu trek is an attraction for many and is also one of the most beautiful treks in the Himalayas. But is the Manaslu trek worth the hype?

Manaslu Trekking is known as the Manaslu Mountain which is the eighth-highest mountain in the world, at an altitude of 8,163 meters above sea level. Located in Nepal’s Gorkha region, this trek takes you to the Manaslu Reserve, an area of incredible beauty and wildlife. The trail passes through the area, offering beautiful views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, rivers, and picturesque villages.

One of the main reasons Manaslu by which it became so popular is its unspoiled beauty and natural surroundings. Unlike some other popular trekking routes in Nepal, such as the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, the Manaslu Trek hasn’t been much affected by tourism. The no-go policy introduced in 1991 allows travellers to visit this place every year, providing a unique and close experience in the mountains. This allows travellers to immerse themselves in the calmness of the mountain forest and connect with deeper nature.

Manaslu Trekking includes a variety of jungles and bamboo forests to different landscapes, as you go higher in the mountains the lush green valley changes into ta waste barren land, and not only the lush greenery but also the waste barren land will capture into its beauty. Manaslu is also the habitat for different plants and animals, such as the rare snow leopard and the red panda. For the people who love to photograph wildfires, Manaslu offers the opportunity to witness them closely.

There are also many factors that make Manaslu a special trek. In this article, we will explore the factors of trekking in Manaslu that have made it beautiful and evaluate how it lives up to its name.

Table of Contents

Manaslu Terrain: A land of beauty, diversity and natural beauty

Majestic peaks & mountain scenery
Manaslu Circle Trek: Majestic peaks & stunning mountain scenery. You will be able to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The view is worth the entire trip.
Forest and Wildlife Manaslu Conservation Area
Manaslu Wildlife Conservation Area is an area rich in biodiversity, with dense forests. It also has many wild animals. You may see Himalayan musk deer, Himalayan bluish sheep or even the elusive leopard snow. Hiking in the mountains is a great way to experience diverse flora.
Unspoiled glacial and lake water
On your journey to enjoy the natural wonders, you will pass unspoiled lakes and glacial ice. These clear waters will reflect the high mountain ranges, creating a beautiful and picturesque landscape. Sit by a quiet pool, dip your toes in the ice and enjoy the tranquillity.

Cultural Highlights: Exploring Local Communities and Culture

Ethnic Peoples
Manaslu Walk offers you the chance to learn about the cultural diversity in the region. Experience the cultural diversity and local hospitality in all parts of Nepal, whether it is the Tibetan-influenced north or the Gurung or Tamang communities on the plains.
Traditions and Celebrations
Enjoy the festivities and traditions of Manaslu. Your trip might include a local celebration or festival. You can enrich your travel experience by learning about these traditions.
Along the Walk: Traditional Villages
Be prepared to go back in history as you walk through the historical villages. Samagaon’s beautiful stone houses and the prayer-flag streets in Lho transport you to an age untouched by modernity. Enjoy the architectural splendour, explore the old monasteries or witness the rich culture.

Challenging but rewarding Trek

Difficulty and duration of the trek
Manaslu Trek is a challenging challenging trek, it is the truth. It will test your body both physically and mentally. Manaslu Trek includes steep ascents and descents, mountain passes and long walks. For it you need to be rightly prepared and have the determination as the trekking involves 14 to 18 days of walking. You need to take your time and continue on the trek by celebrating every step.

High Altitude Challenges and Adaptation
Altitude is the main factor when trekking in the mountains. The important thing, is you need to be settled in the changing environment. Always take time to take the air, stay calm and focused on your target and always follow the instruction provided by your guide. Following this, you could be rewarded with a beautiful view and I promise you, you’ll get the satisfaction of the trek.

Complete personal achievement
Completing the Manaslu Circuit Trek is not an easy task that everyone can do. It is the trek that will push your body to its limit. Remember that every step will make you even more stronger and you will discover the remarkable abilities of your body, which you would have thought impossible. This trek will always remind you of your incredible resilience to overcome any challenges in further stages of your life. The feeling that you’ll get at the end can’t be expressed in words, so that’s a task for you to find.

Lesser Crowded and Undisturbed trails

Escape the crowds
If you are searching the places with less crowds and busy trails, Manaslu Trek is the best option for it. It is unlike other trekking routes in Nepal such as Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Trail, Manaslu offers a quieter and more peaceful and calm environment. You will get the chance to enjoy the peace and calmness of the mountains with only fewer travellers.
Enjoy a peaceful, undisturbed nature
The hustle and bustle of daily life in the city will go away and you will be happy once you start your Manaslu Trek. You will only meet fewer travellers on the trek which gives you the opportunity to walk at your own speed enjoying and immersing yourself in the undisturbed beauty of nature. You will have the opportunity to feel the mountains more closely as you pass through villages, roads and forests which have their own identity to make them unique. Manaslu will give you a chance to reconnect with nature and isolate yourself.

Interaction with Locals
One of many highlights of the Manaslu Trek is that it gives the opportunity to interact with the locals and their cultures and lifestyle. Unlike other places which have frequent tourists, the interaction here is an authentic one. You will be nicely greeted with a happy face with whomever you’ll meet on the way. It is an experience that adds meaning and depth to your trekking.

The Spiritual and Historical Significance of Manaslu

Monasteries and Sacred Places
The Manaslu region holds significant historical and spiritiual values as it is a special place for experiencing cultures. You can find many monasteries and temples which seems covering the most of the area and it provides a place for meditation and self observation. The Manaslu region has significant spiritual and historical importance due to its special place for cultural experience. Monasteries and temples dot the grounds, providing a peaceful place for meditation and self observation. Monasteries such as the famous Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa are not only architectural marvels that not only holds religious significance for the locals but also these places allows you to witness the passion and faith of the people while relaxing in a spiritual place.

Legends and stories about Manaslu
There are many legends and stories handed down from generation to generation in Manaslu. Manaslu mountains itself is a sacred mountain and also is believed as the home to many powerful gods. There are many stories that surround the Manaslu which add mystery to your trekking experience. You cannot help but feel the weight of these old stories. This is an opportunity to get in touch with the local peoples of the region and appreciate the cultural heritage that has shaped the lives of the people here.

Manaslu is full of legends and stories handed down from generation to generation. The mountain itself is considered sacred and believed to be the abode of powerful gods. The stories surrounding Manaslu add to the mystery of the trekking experience. Walking rhe trai, you cannot help but feel the weight of these old stories. This is an opportunity to get in touch with the local peoples of the region and appreciate the cultural heritage that has shaped the lives of the people here.

Discover ancient trade
The region also holds a rich trade and trading history with the earliest trade links between Nepal and Tibet. This trekking routes will take you on the paths that has its own history which also allows you to have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the historic significance of the path. You will also get the chance to see the remains of ancient trade goods and also observe the cultural exchange that takes place. It provides you an sense of going into the past and experience the history that surrounds it.

Accommodation and accommodation during the trek

Teahouses and accommodation options
When it comes to accommodation along Manaslu Circle Trek, you will not have any trouble getting out of the forest. Tea houses, simple cottages and hotels dot the trails, offering simple yet comfortable options. These are great places to rest your feet and reconnect with your fellow hikers over a cup of hot tea. But be aware that during the high season these teahouses can be very busy. So if you want solitude, consider grabbing a cozy tent and camping under the stars.

Food and water
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a Sherpa? Well, get ready to unleash your inner Sherpa as you will fuel your adventure with delicious local food. From dal bhat (rice lentil soup) to momos (steamed dumplings), the culinary choices along the way will make your taste buds dance.
Regarding water, it is very important to stay hydrated while travelling. You can buy bottled water from the teahouse, but we recommend bringing clean water to reduce plastic waste. That way, you can be responsible for keeping yourself hydrated without causing the plastic bottles to grow.

Conclusion: Is Manaslu really hyped?

So is it worth exaggerating with all the unique challenges and rewards of Manaslu Circuit Trek? Definitely!

Remote hiking trails provide a sense of solitude and discovery, making this trek a real adventure. With proper planning and preparation, you can embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey and experience the beauty of the Manaslu region.From stunning mountain views to cultural encounters, the Manaslu Circuit Hike tour has it all.

All in all, Manaslu Circuit Trek truly lives up to its name and is an extraordinary adventure. The stunning natural beauty, variety of animals and plants, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich local culture make this trip a truly unforgettable experience. While the hike presents some challenges and requires good planning, the rewards of great views and unique encounters are well worth the effort. Whether you’re an avid hiker looking for a new adventure or someone who loves to explore the wilderness, Manaslu Circuit Trek is worth the excitement. So put on your trekking boots, get off the trail and prepare to create memories of a lifetime in the beautiful land of Manaslu.

FAQ about Manaslu Circuit Trek

Is Manaslu Circuit Trek suitable for beginners?
Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a bit challenging and suitable for experienced hikers. This route includes steep ascents and descents, high altitudes and rough terrain. Past walks, health and fitness are important. Beginners are advised to take short and less strenuous hikes before trying the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

How long does it take to walk the Manaslu Circuit?
The duration of Manaslu Circuit Trek may vary depending on the route and individual hiker. On average, the journey takes 14 to 18 days to complete. This includes an acclimatization day that allows travelers to travel to high altitudes and reduce the risk of heartburn. It is important to allow enough time for the journey to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and appreciate the traditions along the way.

Do I need a special permit for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, trekking in the Manaslu region requires a special permit. This trek is part of Nepal’s exclusion zone and trekkers must obtain two permits: the Manaslu exclusion zone permit and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits are issued by Nepal Tourism Board and can be obtained from authorized trekking agencies. Before you start your journey, it’s important to make sure you have the right permit.

Do I need to hire a guide or porter for the Manaslu Circle Walk?
Although it is mandatory to hire a guide for Manaslu Circuit Trek because it is restricted trekking region, it is recommended especially for those with limited trekking experience. A map can provide a useful overview of the area, keeping you safe and on track. Carriers can help you carry heavy backpacks to make your journey easier and more enjoyable. Hiring a porter can improve your overall travel easy an experience and facilitate any transportation.