Manaslu Region Trekking

Home to the world’s 8th highest peak Manaslu (8,163m/26,781ft), the Manaslu region is one of the best destinations for remote trekking in Nepal. Compared to its counterparts of Everest and Annapurna, the Manaslu region receives far lesser visitors. This makes it perfect for those looking to experience the pristine wilderness and untouched culture and lifestyle of remote Nepal. Nepal Star Treks offers two main itineraries to explore the Manaslu region; the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. These packages explore the Manaslu and Tsum valley, restricted regions that were only opened for trekking in 1991 and 2008 respectively. As such, you will require the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and Tsum Valley Restricted Area permits to trek in these regions. 

While trekking in Manaslu, you will witness views of multiple peaks over 7000 m, including Ganesh Himal, Kang Guru, Himlung, Siringi, Cheo Himal, and of course Manaslu. Apart from the scenery, the region is also rich in terms of culture and biodiversity. You’ll pass through numerous Tamang and Gurung villages and have a chance to closely interact with the locals. The unique culture, traditions and lifestyle of the 4000 Tsumbas living in 18 villages across the Tsum Valley will be something to remember. The various monasteries including Mu Gompa, Pungyen Gompa also add to this experience. Finally, the lush valleys and forest in the Manaslu Conservation Area are home to thousands of species of flora and fauna.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek generally starts from Arughat Bazaar. The itinerary normally calls for trekking for 177 km (110 miles) around the foothills of the Manaslu massif and ending the trek at Besi Sahar in 2-3 weeks. The trek can be performed as a tea house or camping trip. The trail follows an ancient salt-trading route along the Budhi Gandaki River and eventually leads up to the trek’s highest point, the high pass of Larkya La (5106 m).

The Tsum Valley Trek begins from Arughat as well and explores the various villages throughout Tsum valley over the next week or so. After the hike to Mu Gompa, you will trek to Namrung via Deng and follow the trail of the Manaslu Circuit. The rest of the trek is the same as above, which includes the dramatic crossing of Larkya La.

The best time for trekking in Manaslu region is during the spring (March - May) and autumn (September – November) seasons, with the peak season being in October. During these periods, the skies are at their clearest with stable weather and moderate temperatures, which leads to the best experience. In monsoon, the weather can be unpredictable with the occasional downpour making the trails perilous. While winter trekking does offer fantastic mountain views, the temperatures can drop quite low and sometimes excessive snowfall can even block off the passes.

Finally, altitude sickness is a possibility due to most of the trail being at over 3000 meters. AMS is a threat that can and does kill if not taken seriously. So, remember to listen to your body, take adequate rest days, ascend at a steady pace and stay hydrated.