Manaslu Bhimthang Trek: Witness the Epic North Face of Manaslu & Ponker Lake
16 Jul 2024 Chandra Gurung
What makes the Manaslu Bhimtang Trek so popular that every trekker wants to trek and acclimate there for more than two days? The place of heaven to witness the beautiful number of highest peaks, settlements, and lakes flowing from the glacier.
Bhimthang village has a history that used to be a trade point of salt between Nepal and Tibet. One key location for ancient trades now has been the trekking spot known as the “Manaslu Bhimathang Trek” or “Manaslu Mini Trekking Route.” It is the most challenging and rewarding destination for trekkers in the east of Manang in the Tilije Village Development Committee who seek a love for nature’s beauty and endure it.
Bhimathang village (3590 m) is reached after descending from the highest pass of Manaslu, Larka La Pass (5106 m). Then, you would witness two different glaciers developed from the Himlung Himal, Ponkar Glacier and Kechakyu Khila Glacier and the view of eighth-world highest epic north-faced Mount Manaslu (8163 m).
Manaslu Bhimthang Trek: A Hidden Gem of Manaslu’s Grandeur
Manaslu Bhimthang Trek is a mini trek to Manaslu Circuit Trek, taking 7-8 days to reach from Kathmandu as a starting point. Travelling to the land of the Manaslu region from Soti Khola and then moving to Machha Khola (869 m) – Khorla Bensi—and reaching Jagat (1400 m) by crossing the steel suspension bridges attached to the metamorphic rock alongside the Budhi Gandaki River.
Ascending to Samagaon, through the beautiful Himalayan pine forest and vegetation, trespassing wildlife reached the scenic towns of Rana, Bihi Phedi, and Ghap with the view of bounded mountains. Take a day to acclimatise yourself to the altitude in Samagon and keep ascending towards Samdo, passing the villages of Lihi, Sho Lho, and Shyala.
Trekkers would be heading to Dharamsala (4460 m), following the trail from Lajyang and Gyala. Then have a challenging, steep climb to the highest peak of Manaslu, Larke La Pass, and descend to Bhimthang Village.
Manaslu Bhimtang Trek is the shortest trek that offers to venture into high-altitude regions with a mid-elevation point of Manaslu. You would be passing and encountering major different types of:
S.N. | Category | Description |
1. | Mountain Majesty Views | Mt Manaslu (8163 m) Himlung Himal (7893 m) Ngadi Chuli (7871 m) Peak 29 (7861 m) Manaslu North (7157 m) Nemjung Himal (7140 m) Kangaru Himal (6981 m) Cheo Himal (6812 m) Phungi Himal (6538 m) Larke Peak (6249 m) |
2. | Forest Delights | Subtopical forest in lower elevation: rhododendrons, oaks, pines, ferns and mosses Temperate forest in upper elevation: spruces, firs and birch trees |
3. | Wildlife | Birds: Golden eagle, Kalij, Himalayan Tibetan snow cocks, Crimson horned pheasant and many others Mammals: Himalayan tahr, Musk deer, Langur monkeys, snow leopard, blue sheep, grey wolf, and many others |
4. | Medicinal Herbs | Yarshagumba (Himalayan Viagra) Kutki Panchaule Suganshwal Bhote |
Forests along the way to Bhimthang create a cooler and denser environment, a sense of refreshment for your soul, and the meticulous voice of birds chirping. The air is hugging you with a welcome to chill with the changing weather as you trail upward and downward. There are magnificent views of hillocks and the adjacent mountains.
When you reach Bhimthang village, you will land on a bowl-shaped plateau surface after passing many settlements in the Manaslu Region. This place is less crowded and surrounded by awe-inspiring 360-degree panoramic views bounded by Himachuli on the east and Ngadi Chuli and Peak 29 on the west of the north-facing Manaslu. It’s a fantastic viewpoint to witness the sunrise and sunset painting the mountain in its hues.
After 3–4 hours of walking, trekkers can see the glaciers of Ponkar Glacier and Kechakyu Khola Glacier coming from the Himlung Himal. This glacier forms a Ponkar lake with clear blue water hidden beneath a mountain range.
Bhimtang village is the settlement of diverse ethnic communities, including Nubri and Tsum Valley people. Trekkers can enjoy the unique Tibetan cultures and traditions, which have been preserved for centuries. Trekkers can try their typical food with a taste of Tibetan flavour.
Ponker Lake: A Crystal Blue Jewel
Ponker Lake is a side trip from Bhimthang, formed by melting and pulling out of Ponkar Glacier and Kechakyu Glacier, originating from the Himlung Valley, making a U-shaped lake along the Bhimthang.
Ponker Lake is in the middle of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including the epic north face of Mount Manaslu. Similarly, the surrounding meadows transform into a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, adding a touch of mischievous charm to the scene.
The water in Ponker Lake is a crystal blue jewel, reflecting an image of mountains on the lake. During the summer months, it becomes a habitat for ducks to swim in a lake but in the winter, the water level drops to a frozen or icy surface. This place would give you a peaceful atmosphere for escaping into the heart of the mountains.
The Epic North Face of Manaslu
A major highlight and draw of the Manaslu Bhimthang Trek is the epic view of the north face of Manaslu Peak (8163 m) with other surrounding peaks like Phungi Himal, Manaslu North, and Larke Peak from the Bhimthang Valley. Trekkers can have a closer chance to look at Manaslu without trekking at a higher altitude.
As the trekkers gaze upward from Bhimthang Village, the sheer vertical cliffs and icy walls of the North Face loom high above, rugged with immense beauty, captivating your senses. The sunlight on the top of the north face of Manaslu contrasts, showing the mixed colours of orange and yellow, which makes it eye-appealing. It would be sparking like a diamond in the sun.
Sometimes clouds hide parts of the mountains but when it’s clear, it gives the best combination of an amazing view of clouds unveiling snowy mountains. Similarly, if you take your 360° round, you will feel like a place in heaven full of mountains.
Conclusion
Manaslu Bhimthang Trek is a journey of a lifetime The Mini Manaslu Trek offers trekkers adequate access to the natural beauties, wildlife, and cultural richness within a short time. Make unforgettable memories by travelling to different quaint and historic places, exploring the vegetation, and challenging yourself to reach the tranquil destination of Bhimthang. You get to witness the epic north face of the world’s eighth-highest mountain and a short hike to Ponker Lake, where water forms with a mix of many glaciers ranging from the Himalayas.
Step your leg forward to witness the epic north face of Manaslu, with other bounded peaks and U-shaped Ponker Lake formed from the extraction of different glaciers. If you want to plan your most adventurous and rewarding journey to the Manaslu Bhimthang Trek expedition, contact Manaslu Guide to schedule your preferred itinerary to explore more of the Manaslu Region.