The Manaslu Circuit trek is a challenging adventure in the remote Manaslu region. The trek encircles the world’s eighth highest peak, Mount Manaslu. It lies on the border of Gorkha and Manang districts. The trek involves passing through rugged terrains, unpredictable weather and high passes. You should prepare physically and mentally for a successful and safe trek. This article highlights how preparation enhances enjoyment and minimizes risks. The trek involves passing through rugged terrains, unpredictable weather and high passes. You should prepare physically and mentally for a successful and safe trek. This article highlights how preparation enhances enjoyment and minimizes risks.
Understanding the Manaslu Circuit
The Manaslu Circuit offers a wonderful combination of nature, culture and adventure. The remote and untouched landscapes are one of the features of this trek. The subtropical lowlands with dense forests, cascading waterfalls and serene valleys give way to alpine grasslands and glaciers as you go higher along the trail.
The villages along the trail are inhabited by people who follow Tibetan Culture and traditions. The monasteries, chortens, mane walls and prayer flags fluttering in the wind reflect the faith and spiritual lifestyle of the locals.
Larkya La Pass is the highest point of this trek, standing at an altitude of 5,213m. Crossing this pass is challenging as the path is rocky and uneven. However, you will be rewarded with the stunning views of majestic mountains including Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal and Annapurna II.
The Manaslu Circuit trek takes around 14 days to complete depending on your fitness level, pace and side trips. The total distance covered by the trek is approximately 117 kilometerNepal Trekking Routes s.
The varied and rugged terrain and high altitude pass is physically demanding. Additionally, long hiking days and lack of communication for several days can be mentally challenging for some trekkers.
Physical Fitness and Training
To handle the physical demands of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you should prepare physically. Physical Preparation involves exercising and doing a fitness regime before 2-3 months of the trek. Here are the recommended fitness routine:
Cardio: You should do cardio exercises to build your cardiovascular endurance. Include running, jogging, walking, cycling, swimming etc
Strength training: You should do strength training for leg and core strength. Include squats, lunges, planks and crunches.
Flexibility exercises: You should do yoga for flexibility.
You can also practice hiking with a backpack to simulate trekking conditions.
Packing Essentials
The Manaslu Circuit trek requires essentials and gear to sustain several days in the remote area. Here is a list of necessary items:
Clothing:
- Thermal layer
- Long sleeved t-Shirts
- Fleece jacket
- Waterproof and windproof down jacket
Footwear:
- Trekking boot
- Socks
- Sandals
Trekking gear:
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Backpack
Accessories:
- Water bottle with purification tablets
- Sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Toiletries
- Snacks
Permits and Documentation
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP): This permit is required to enter the restricted region of Manaslu. The cost is $100 per person for the first week then $15 for additional days.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): This permit is required to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area. It costs $30 per person.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and costs $30 per person.
These permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu. For Manaslu Circuit, an individual trekker should be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide. For the guided trek with our agency, Nepal Trekking Routes will arrange the permits.
Choosing the Right Season
The best trekking seasons for the Manaslu Circuit trek are spring and Autumn.
- Spring (March-May): Spring is one of the popular seasons for trekking. Stable weather, clear skies, stunning mountain views and vibrant rhododendron blooms are advantages of this season. On the other hand, crowded trails, busy teahouses, price hikes and competition for accommodation are drawbacks of the spring season.
- Autumn (September-November): Autumn is one of the peak seasons for trekking. Mild temperature, post-monsoon lush landscape, and dry trail conditions are benefits of this season. Whereas, bustling trails and teahouses, high demand for accommodation and guide are disadvantages of this season.
- Summer (June-August): Summer coincides with the monsoon in Nepal. Lush vegetation, solitude and discounted price of accommodation and services are benefits of this season. On the contrary, heavy rain, slippery trails and leeches are the disadvantages of this season.
- Winter (December-February): Winter is the least popular season of all. Snowy landscape, peaceful trails and seasonal discounts are advantages of this season. Whereas, icy trails, extreme cold and unpredictable weather are disadvantages of the winter season.
Unpredictable weather conditions may disrupt your schedule, so check the weather forecasts and be prepared with proper gear. Keep buffer days in your itinerary for delays and flexibility.
Mental Preparation
Manaslu Circuit trek comes with challenges like high altitude, isolation and long trekking days. You should be mentally prepared to handle these stressful situations with a positive attitude and perseverance. You should interact with locals, admire the beauty of nature, listen to music, read books or write a journal to stay motivated during the trek.
Acclimatization and Itinerary Planning
Manaslu Circuit trek involves trekking in high altitude above 5,000 meters. The thinner air in high altitude may cause altitude sickness or Acute Mountain sickness (AMS) if you ascend quickly. Hence, gradual altitude gain is vital to allow your body to adapt.
Acclimatization day at Samagaun in the itinerary is essential for further ascend. Your itinerary should have flexibility and contingency planning for unforeseen circumstances such as additional rest day or emergency evacuation.
Responsible Trekking Practices
The Manaslu Circuit has a fragile ecosystem and you should trek responsibly for conservation of environment. You should use the “Leave No Trace” principle to minimize the impact.
You should be culturally sensitive and respect local customs and traditions like greeting with “Namaste” or taking shoes off while entering the house.
You should support local communities through sustainable trekking practices like: hiring local guides, staying in teahouses and eating the food prepared locally.
Hiring Guide or Porter
A registered guide is mandatory for Manaslu Circuit Trek. Trekking with experienced guides and porters is beneficial for your overall trekking experience and convenience. Our reputable trekking agency, Nepal Trekking Routes provides professional guides and helpful staff for your trekking. It is important to treat the hired staff fairly and ethically. It is customary to give tips to guides and porters.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an exciting off-the-beaten-path adventure provided that you are well-prepared. You should embrace the adventure and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural experience. By preparing physically and mentally, you will have a memorable and successful journey in the Himalayas.
Book your Nepal trek with Nepal Trekking Routes, pack your bags and lace up your boots for an ultimate experience of your lifetime.
