Is Manaslu worth travelling to?

Published: 19 Feb 2024   |   Last updated: 19 Feb 2024

You know there is a place where the mountain tells you the stories of the ancient spirits, and the air is filled with adventure. Welcome to the Manaslu circuit trek.

The name Manaslu means "Mountain of the Spirit. It holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. This hidden gem offers adventurers a chance to discover untouched landscapes and encounter rich cultures.

Additionally, the trek in beautiful landscapes away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded destinations. Stay with us to uncover the fun facts about Manaslu and why it should be on your bucket list. 

7 Fun Facts About Manaslu That Make It Worth a Visit

From towering peaks to rich culture, Manaslu has something for everyone. Let's dive in and discover the wonders of this amazing destination!
 

Fun Fact Description
1. Eighth-Highest Mountain in the World Manaslu is the world's eighth-highest peak, towering at 8,163 meters. It offers a thrilling challenge for mountaineers and trekkers, showcasing the raw power and beauty of nature.
2. Escape from Crowded Paths Unlike more popular trekking destinations, Manaslu provides a serene escape from the crowds, allowing travelers to connect with nature and enjoy uninterrupted vistas.
3. Amazing and Majestic Views Manaslu mesmerizes with breathtaking vistas of towering peaks, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls, making it a paradise for adventurers and photographers alike.
4. Encounter Stunning Freshwater Lakes The trekking region around Manaslu features stunning freshwater lakes like Birendra Tal, Phunkar Tal, and Punhyen, offering breathtaking views amidst the towering Himalayan peaks.
5. Experience Cultural Diversity The Manaslu region is a melting pot of diverse cultures, including Gurungs, Tamangs, and Tibetans, providing travelers with unique traditions, cuisines, and languages to explore.
6. Excited to Meet Endangered Wildlife The Manaslu Conservation Area is home to rare and endangered wildlife such as snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan Tahr, offering trekkers a chance to witness these incredible creatures.
7. Tsum Valley: Land of Hidden Treasures Tsum Valley, nestled within the Manaslu region, is a mystical land with ancient monasteries, secret caves, and breathtaking vistas, offering adventurers a fairy tale-like exploration experience.

It is the eighth-highest mountain in the world


You stand at the foot of the majestic peak that immerses you in wonder and awe. Manaslu is the world's eighth-highest peak. 


It is 8,163 meters, giving an irresistible challenge for mountaineers and trekkers seeking new heights. Manaslu is for adventurers and thrill-seekers alike. 


For mountaineers, it offers an exhilarating challenge, a chance to push boundaries and conquer new heights. 


But the magic of Manaslu extends far beyond the seasoned climbers. Manaslu circuit trek is paradise for trekkers, too, with every step along its rugged trails revealing stunning vistas and a sense of achievement. 


Manaslu promises an experience and awe-inspiring—a true statement to the raw power and beauty of nature.

An escape from a crowded path 


You get the experience through a landscape where the only sounds are the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant call of native birds. That's the experience awaiting you in Manaslu. 


Unlike the bustling trails of Everest and Annapurna, Manaslu gives a beautiful escape from the crowds. 


Here, you can go through valleys and along crystal-clear streams without encountering crowds of tourists. 


It's a chance to truly connect with nature, to breathe in the crisp mountain air, and to feel the rhythm of the Himalayas without interruption. Manaslu gives you the experience with its untouched beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

 

Amazing and majestic views 

Everywhere you look, you'll see towering peaks covered in sparkling snow, like giant white hats. That's the magic that lies in Manaslu. And when you're not looking up at the mountains, you'll be gazing down into valleys so green they look like they're from a storybook. 


But that's not all – there are waterfalls too, big ones down the mountainsides that you can feel in your bones. It's a paradise for adventurers and photographers alike, with so many breathtaking views to capture and memories to make. 


So, grab your camera and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the spectacular world of Manaslu!

Encounter Stunning Freshwater Lakes


In the stunning Manaslu trekking region, you'll find some beautiful freshwater lakes like Birendra Tal, Phunkar Tal, and Punhyen. These lakes sit high, above 3500 meters. It offers breathtaking views between the towering Himalayan peaks. 

 


 

Birendra Tal lies near Samdo village, while Phunkar Tal is close to Bihi village. Punhyen, near the Larkya La Pass, serves as the trek's highest point. 

 

Not only are these lakes visually stunning, but they also provide essential freshwater for locals and wildlife. Their serene beauty adds another layer of magic to the Manaslu trekking adventure.


Experience the cultural diversity in the local area 


In the beautiful Manaslu region, you'll meet people from all kinds of backgrounds. Some are Gurungs, known for their colourful clothes and lively dances. 


Then there are the Tamangs, who have their own unique traditions and delicious food. And don't forget about the Tibetans, with their amazing artwork and peaceful way of life. 


Each group has its language, stories, and ways of doing things. It makes the region a place filled with cultural diversity.  


When you explore Manaslu, you'll have the chance to learn about all these different cultures, try new foods, and pick up a few words in another language.

Excited to meet the endangered animal 


The Manaslu trek takes you through the breathtaking Manaslu Conservation Area, a sanctuary for some of the rarest wildlife on our planet. Here, between the towering mountains and lush forests,  creatures like snow leopards and red pandas roam freely. 


But they're not the only ones calling this place home. Endangered species such as the Himalayan Tahr, Asian black bear, and grey wolf also live in this wilderness. And it's not just about the animals. 


The conservation area boasts over 200 different types of plants, including medicinal herbs and fragrant flowers. It gives a burst of colour and scent to the landscape. 


Manaslu trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these incredible creatures and plants in their natural habitat. 


But remember, it's crucial to respect their home and keep a safe distance to ensure their well-being.

 

Tsum Valley: Land of the Hidden Treasures

In the big mountains of Manaslu, there's a special place called Tsum Valley.  It's like a magical land full of hidden treasures! 


In Tsum Valley, you can find really old buildings called monasteries where monks live and pray. There are also secret caves and really pretty views all around with mountains and forests. 


When you visit Tsum Valley, you'll feel like you're in a fairy tale, exploring and discovering new things around every corner. This special place where adventure and magic come together!

Itinerary for Manaslu Trek By Nepal Vision Trek

You are excited to be a part of the Manaslu trek. But if you need to learn about the itinerary, then we are here for you. Here's the plan for your amazing adventure on the Manaslu Circuit Trek! Get ready for 17 days of unforgettable experiences:

 

  • Day 1: You'll arrive in Kathmandu, the bustling capital of Nepal, where your epic journey begins.
  • Day 2: Today, you'll prepare for your trek by getting all the necessary permits sorted out.
  • Day 3: Your adventure officially kicks off as you travel from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazaar, the starting point of your trek.
  • Day 4: From Arughat Bazaar, you'll trek to Soti Khola, a charming village nestled along the banks of a river.
  • Day 5: Trekking continues as you make your way from Soti Khola to Machha Khola, passing through scenic landscapes.
  • Day 6: Onwards to Jagat, a picturesque village with traditional Nepali architecture and friendly locals.
  • Day 7: Your journey leads you from Jagat to Deng, where you'll immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the Himalayan foothills.
  • Day 8: Trekking uphill, you'll reach Namrung, surrounded by breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.
  • Day 9: Today's destination is Lho, where you'll encounter stunning vistas and cultural delights.
  • Day 10: Continuing your trek, you'll arrive at Sama Gaon, a charming village with panoramic mountain views.
  • Day 11: A side trip to Pungyen Gompa awaits, offering spiritual insights and incredible scenery.
  • Day 12: You'll reach Samdo, a traditional Tibetan village with warm hospitality.
  • Day 13: Trekking to Dharmasala, the base camp for crossing the challenging Larke Pass.
  • Day 14: Get ready for an exhilarating day as you cross Larke Pass and descend to Bimthang, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
  • Day 15: Trekking to Dharapani, followed by a scenic drive to Besisahar, where you'll rest and rejuvenate.
  • Day 16: Your journey back to Kathmandu begins with a picturesque drive through the Nepalese countryside.
  • Day 17: Sadly, it's time to bid farewell to Kathmandu as you depart for your next adventure, filled with memories to last a lifetime.
     

To wrap up, the Manaslu region stands as a beacon of adventure, culture, and natural beauty in the heart of the Nepalese Himalayas. From the beautiful valleys to the challenging mountain passes, Manaslu offers an experience like no other. 

 

With Nepal Vision Treks as your trusted guide, every step of the way is filled with expert knowledge, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.

 

FAQS

The highest point on the trek is the Larkya La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,160 meters (16,930 feet) above sea level. 

Yes, trekking in the Manaslu region requires a special restricted area permit, which can be obtained through authorised trekking agencies in Nepal. 

The best time to trek to Manaslu is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is generally clear, and the views are stunning.

Yes, there are teahouses and lodges available along the Manaslu Circuit Trek route, providing accommodation and meals for trekkers. 

The trek is considered moderately challenging, and trekkers should have a good level of fitness and stamina to handle the high altitude and long hiking days. 

While there are no official age restrictions, trekkers should be in good health and physical condition to undertake the challenges of the trek.

Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern due to the high elevations reached during the trek. It's essential to acclimatize properly and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Yes, the trek passes through several traditional villages inhabited by ethnic groups such as the Gurungs and Tamangs, providing opportunities to experience their unique cultures and customs firsthand.