Manaslu Circuit Trek

Lying in the lap of Manaslu which is the eighth highest peak of the world, Manaslu Circuit trek "Hidden Gem" was open for the visitors in 1992 also known as untouched trekking destination. A mystical adventure of the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers traveler a breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains, glacier valleys, the gigantic snow clad peak, narrow river valley, wild animals and lust green forest with lot of flora and fauna. The trial of Manaslu Circuit Trek follows the route of Budi Gandaki River which was also known as salt trading route of the ancient period. During the trekking, magnificent view of Mount Manaslu (8163 meter), Mount Himalchuli (7893 meter), Shring Himal (7177 meter), Buddha Himal (7422 meter) and Ganesh Himal (7422 meter) will engross and makes a traveler forget all the difficulties of the trek.

Eco-tourism is being promoted in Manaslu region for the conservation of natural resources and rich cultural heritage in Manaslu Conservation Area and achieve a sustainable development by NTNC. According to the survey conducted by NTNC (National Trust for Nature Conservation) there are about 9,000 inhabitants living under Manaslu Conservation Area and over 2,000 species of plants, 39 mammals, 201 birds, 3 reptiles and 11 butterflies. Being rich in biological, cultural diversity and ecologically, the flora and fauna found in Manaslu region are Snow leopard, Lynx, Musk deer, Red fox, Jackal, Brown bear and their prey species such as Blue sheep, Himalayan thar, Himalayan serow, Wooly hare and Himalayan marmot. Also known as home of Snow partridge, Tibetan snowcock, Chukor partridge, Himalayan griffon, Golden eagle, among others, including diverse plant communities. During the trek, travelers can embrace a Tibetan culture because the people of the Manaslu region are Tibetan originally following Buddhism.

Beginning from Soti Khola entering to Manaslu Conservation Area and ending at Beshisahar following the Annapurna Conservation Area in 2-3 weeks, the traveler needs permits during the trek which are TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and Restricted Area Permit. Note: If traveler wants to explore the hidden Tsum Valley then Tsum Valley Special Permit is also required. During this trek, group of two people, permits and guide are mandatory for the traveler.

Larkya La Pass is the highest point destination with height of 5160 meter. Unbeaten trekking trials, warm and generous welcome of local people, isolated villages, ancient monasteries, old Gumbas, Birendra lake, breathtaking terrace fields, lush green hillsides, splendid view of waterfall, suspension bridge over the river, walking along the sandy beds of Budi Gandaki River, leading to several uphill and downhill, view of panoramic Himalayas, glacier of Himalayas, beautiful spectacles of the mountains, passing along dense rhododendron forest, crossing the wooden bridge over Dudh Koshi river, heading past Mani walls, high valleys and off course the high Himalayas will make the journey pleasant and unforgettable.

Best time to trek to Manaslu region will be March to May in the Spring season and September to November in Autumn season. During this period, moderate weather condition and clear blue skies will make a spectacular journey to Manaslu region. Hence, other season are rainy and cold wind blowing seasons.

The trek could be challenging for the travelers but without any doubt it is rewarding too. Local tea houses will provide the service of meal and accommodation with the warm welcome. In terms of other trekking region, Manaslu Circuit Trek is cheaper for food and accommodation, new tea houses are being rebuilt as the devasting 2015 earthquake hit the Manaslu area and the area was destroyed. The popular villages during the trek are Soti Khola, Lho, Samdo, Jagat, Machha Khola, Deng, Samagaun, Dharmashala, Bimthang and Dharapani. Balance of Nepali culture and mountain scenery will make the journey flawless.