Manaslu Circuit is a trek that encircles the beautiful Mountain Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world. The rounding goes through the east and north side of the mountain. The highest elevation of this trek is the famous Larkya –pass at 5106m.Manaslu, a mountainous region in the northern part of the Gorkha District, has a different charm that attracts the trekkers. The trekking route falls under Manasalu Conservation Area and is a protected area. Often less traveled, it has the vintage vibe of trekking in the late 90s. The off-beaten trail follows the old salt–trading route along the steep Budhi –Gandaki river. The paths are rough. The route is decorated with rivers, waterfalls, and valleys of all kinds, and the final destination is Larkya –La passes at 5106m and the presence of the beautiful Manaslu Himal.
Manaslu circuit trek is a perfect introduction to a spectacular Mountain area with its own culture, traditions, and deep intimacy with mother nature. The trekking is full of natural amusements and rich in a cultural environment. The route is much more challenging than other famous treks and it offers a much more authentic experience. Remoteness hugs the trial and most of the time you might find yourself with our guides throughout the trekking. The off-beaten trail gives a physical endurance test with high steep uphill, rocky terrains, sometimes walking through random glacial and crossing mini streams. The narrow steps, and landslide areas, bring another dimension of a challenge so the optimum focus is required.
Overview
Manaslu circuit is stunningly less trodden paths. Culturally enriching and scenically uplifting the trek has been getting prominent lately. The Manaslu area is under special protection and is considered a restricted area and only a group of at least two people with guides are allowed to pass the area. The trekking to this circuit was opened in 1991 but it has been only a few years since it has gained popularity. With the emergence of new hotels and tea houses, accommodation facilities have been improvised. Although being one of the least visited destinations, the saturation of its neighboring trek Annapurna Circuit in peak season has made it more popular these days yet it has not been receiving the humongous number of tourists and remains the unspoiled trekking.
Amazingly Manaslu Conservation area covers six climatic zones. The route begins from a deep valley at a low altitude with humid weather marching to tundra, arid lands, and eventually to the snow-covered alpine zones. The raging Budi-Gandaki river, about 10 peaks of 6500m and above, dramatic valleys against the classic backdrop of the Himalayas, the up-close view of Mt. Manaslu, and arrival at Larkya –pass are the best highlights of the trek. The journey remains interesting with new experiences. The thrill of crossing the high suspension bridges, walking over the cantilever bridge at the side of the river, waterfalls, mules carrying the loads, villages decorated with colorful cultures, and the tea houses offering a peek of mountain ranges make the trip lively. The captivating natural essence, exclusiveness, and untouched beauty make this trek more beautiful. The forests we pass are decorated with rhododendron, pine, cedar, birch, and juniper. There are delightful meadows with beautiful wildflowers, and yak grazing pastures.
Communities of this region are warm-hearted and welcome foreigners. The main communities are Magars and Gurung, while in the upper area of Budhi Gandaki river above Namrung, they are called Nupris and adopt fully Tibetan culture. They hold their culture, traditions, and rituals very well take. Monasteries, Mani walls, and cultural performances during festivals are cultural highlights.
Trip Highlights
- Larkye La Pass 5106m
- Mansalu Base Camp
- Budhigandaki River and Buddhist civilizations
- Birendra Lake
- Spectacular scene of Mount Mansalu and Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II
- Off Beaten trek and Most challenging
- Varied Eco System