Manaslu Region

Manaslu Region is popularly known for Manaslu Circuit Trek and Tsum Valley with the one of the world's highest passes of the, Larkya Pass(5106m).

Manaslu Region: A Hidden Gem of the Himalayas in Nepal

The Manaslu region, located in west-central Nepal, is a remote and untouched trekking region renowned for its breathtaking views, rich and unique culture, and the towering summit of Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world's eighth-highest peak. The Manaslu region offers a combination of Tibetan-influenced culture, dramatic river valleys, high-altitude passes, and pristine nature. Manaslu Circuit Trek (5,106m, Larkya La Pass) is the most trekked route with panoramic views of Manaslu, Himalchuli (7,893m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871m), and Ganesh Himal (7,422m). Trekkers experience traditional villages, monasteries, and wonderful scenery via diverse climatic zones.

Manaslu region is restricted area of Nepal which requires special area permits. For Manaslu region trekking, trekkers need to collect 4 different permits: ACAP, MCAP, Local Tsum Valley and Manaslu Region Entry Permit and Restricted Area Permit. 

Manaslu Region trekking normally begins from Machhakhola, next to Sotikhola and Arughat Bazaar or trekker can begin their trek via Barpak village.

Suggested blog posts related to Manaslu Circuit Trek

1. New Additional Local Area Permit in Manaslu Region

2. Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring

3. Manaslu Circuit Trek Package Cost Details

4. Manaslu Circuit Trek Transportation Service Details

5. Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

6. Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

7.Manaslu Circuit Trek- A Complete Trekker's Guide

8. How Difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek? 

9. Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Worth it? 

10. IS Manaslu Circuit harder than the Everest Base Camp? 

11. How to plan for Manaslu Circuit Trek? 

12. Manaslu Trek in Spring

13. Kathmandu to Machhakhola Bus

14. Manaslu Circuit Trek in April

15. 50 Facts You May Not Know About Manaslu Circuit Trek

16. Manaslu Circuit vs. Annapurna Circuit

17. Manaslu Circuit Trek in May

18. How much does Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost?

1. What are the most popular trekking routes in the Manaslu region?

The most used trekking itinerary in Manaslu region is, Manaslu Circuit Trek, typically does in 12–16 days and crosses Larkya La Pass (5,106m). The next option is Tsum Valley Trek, a culturally interesting and lesser visited trail to a sacred Himalayan valley near the Tibet boundary. A few trekkers combine Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley and do the trek for 20–25 days. Both the trails provide awe-inspiring views of mountains, typical Tibetan-influenced villages, ancient monasteries, and spectacular scenery, making them ideal for people looking for adventure in an unpolluted area. Both Manaslu Circuit Trek and Tsum Valley Trek are for the adventure enthusiasts who love ascending above 5000m into the core Himalayas of Nepal with Mt. Manaslu.

2. How are the food and accommodation facilities in Manaslu region?

The Manaslu region trek has a teahouse trekking system, which implies that the accommodation is in the local lodges with basic facilities. The rooms on the Manaslu Trekking Trail typically have twin beds, blankets, and common bathrooms. In some villages, there are nicer lodges with Wi-Fi, hot showers, and electricity. Food is plain Nepali Dal Bhat, Tibetan bread, momo (dumplings), noodles, pasta, soups, and eggs. At higher altitudes like Samagaon and Dharmasala, the choice of food is less since transport is an issue in remote areas of Manaslu region. It's advisable to carry some snacks along. Drinking water is available in lodges but must be sterilized using tablets or a filter.

3. How do I get to the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu trek begins from Soti Khola (710m) or Machha Khola (900m). The trekkers travel 7–9 hours by road from Kathmandu to Arughat (600m) and further 2–3 hours by jeep to Soti Khola or Machha Khola. The roads are poor, especially during the monsoon season. The majority of the trekkers after the trek return by jeep from Dharapani (1,860m) to Besisahar (760m) and further jeep or bus to Kathmandu. 

You have to check the condition of road if you are travelling in pre and post rainy days.

4. What are the permits required for Manaslu trekking?

Manaslu is a restricted zone and requires special permits:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP): USD 100 for the first week (Sep-Nov) and USD 75 (Dec-Aug); USD 15 extra per day.
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (~USD 25).
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): NPR 3,000 (~USD 25).
• Manaslu Local Area Entry Permit: NPR 1000
• Tsum Valley Entry Permit (optional if visiting there): USD 40 for the first week, USD 7 extra per day.

The minimum of two trekkers and one certified guide are required to obtain the restricted area permit.

5. How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu circuit trek is moderate to challenging, mostly due to high altitude, long trekking days, and rough roads. The trekkers trek 10–20 km per day, with many steep ascents and descents. The highest point of Manaslu Circuit Trek, Larkya La Pass (5,106m), needs endurance due to thin air and freezing temperatures. Good physical fitness is necessary for Manaslu Trek. Prior trekking experience is recommended but not mandatory. Proper acclimatization and gradual elevation are required to avoid altitude sickness during Manaslu Circuit Trekking.

6. Is it necessary to hire a guide and porter?

Yes, there is a requirement to engage a licensed guide since Manaslu is a restricted zone. Guides provide assistance with direction, permits, and local information while ensuring safety. Porters are optional but strongly recommended if you do not want to carry your baggage. Porters tend to carry 20–25kg. Guide fees range from USD 30–40 per day, and porters charge USD 20–30 per day, including lodging and meals.

7. What is the main risk of Manaslu trekking?

Altitude sickness is high risk, especially above 3,000m. To reduce risk:

• Climb gradually and acclimatize in Sama Gaon (3,530m) prior to crossing Larkya La.
• Drink a lot, eat reasonably, and not consume alcohol.
• Plan for isolated situations with minimal health facilities. Nearest evacuation points are Sama Gaon and Dharapani.
• Consider travel insurance with emergency helicopter evacuation cover.
• Weather can be uncertain, especially in winter and monsoon.

8. When is the best time to trek in the Manaslu region?

The best time is in autumn (Sep-Nov) and spring (Mar-May) with settled weather and vistas of mountains. Autumn has clear sky days, and spring is filled with flowering rhododendrons. Winter (Dec-Feb) is extremely cold with deep snowfall at Larkya La. Monsoon (Jun-Aug) experiences rain and landslides, rendering the trails slippery and dangerous.

9. What do I need to pack for the Manaslu trek?

The must-haves for Manaslu Trek are:

Clothing: Layering (base, fleece, down parka, waterproof shell), trekking pants, gloves, hat, and thermal gear.

Footwear: Fitting trekking boots with ankle support.

Gear: Sleeping bag (-10°C to -20°C rating), trekking poles, headlamp, sunglasses, and water purification tablets.

Miscellaneous: First-aid kit, snacks, spare batteries, and quick-dry towel.

10. What mountain views can I see on the Manaslu trek?

The trek offers great views of:

• Mount Manaslu (8,163m)
• Himalchuli (7,893m)
• Ngadi Chuli (7,871m)
• Ganesh Himal (7,422m)
• Shringi Himal (7,161m)
• Larke Peak (6,249m)

The most sublime view is from Larkya La Pass (5,106m), when trekkers are greeted with snow-white peaks fading into the distance.

Manaslu region trekking is an excellent adventure for one who desires to have an off-the-beaten-path experience with spectacular mountain vistas, cultural encounter at the Tibetan border, and wilderness feel of solitude. With careful planning, permission, and a guide, the Manaslu and Tsum Valley trek offer a lifetime experience through the heart of the Himalayas.