The circular tour around Manaslu counts as one of the truly great Himalayan treks. Flanked by the Annapurna’s to the West and Ganesh Himal to the East it is one of the most graceful of the 8000-meter giants.
Less than two percent of trekkers go to Manaslu. This means that even in the high season you will not meet many other groups.
Manaslu trek is remote, physically demanding, culturally enriching and scenically uplifting. The circuit takes you from the steamy lowlands with their terraces of rice and millet, through the mighty gorges of the Budi Gandaki with its turquoise waters and amazing waterfalls.
Suspension bridges in Manaslu trek are in a league of their own for both length and height, and the yearly monsoon often washes minor bridges away leaving trekkers to use semi-submerged rocks.
Only opened to a maximum of 400 trekkers in 1992 it still has the feel of a pioneering expedition. If you want to know what trekking the 1980’s was like then Manaslu circuit trek is a visual feast from start to finish, but you better be fit.
Slowly, you wind your way North to the snowbound Larkya La Pass next to the Tibetan border. The altitude here is a problem but almost forgotten with the jaw-dropping views of Manaslu.
At 5167 meters Larkya La pass is usually snow-covered and icy. Micro crampons are often used on the descent. Trekking to the pass requires a 3 am start in order to make the highest point before the winds come, usually around mid-morning.
From the pass looking back the way you have come gives a clear view but by far the most amazing view comes after you have left the pass and walk along a corridor to the west.
Suddenly a great glacial cirque bursts into view. A stupendous wall created by Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Nemjung, Gyaji Kang and Kang Guru, casts down a stream of glaciers, while Annapurna II rises ahead.
This view alone makes the trek worthwhile. Magical Nepal can arrange your all inclusive 15 days trek. The trek can be done on a teahouse basis unless you want to go off route where camping is the only option.
- The jaw-dropping natural beauty of forests, rivers, and flora of the Manaslu region.
- The friendly people and rich culture of the region which includes both Nepalese and Tibetan ethnic groups.
- Larky La Pass (5167 meters), the highest point on the trek.
- Stunning views of Manaslu, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Nemjung, Gyaji Kang and Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
- Abundant wildlife including Tahr (Mountain Goat), Agali (Blue Sheep), Pika (Highest living Mammal), Himalayan Marmots and, if you are lucky Snow Leopard.
