Considering Manaslu Trekking???

Private Guided Tour in Manaslu???

The Manaslu sky-high at a height of 8,163 meters is the world's eighth highest peak. Larkya Pass is the main highlight of the Manaslu Trekking that offers an unrealistic picture of the Himalayan ranges. Situated over 1500 meters, Larkya Pass is the soul of Manaslu Trekking.

Manaslu Trek is a challenging trekking route recently opened to tourists. The views of the Manaslu region along with its mighty Himalayan ranges lure the trekkers for the repeated visits. The exotic nature and the pure beauty of Manaslu are overwhelming. There is no much difference in trekking to Manaslu as compared to other treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp. The feel is much of the same. But still, Manaslu is Manaslu. Less crowd, serene surrounding, lush vegetation comprising of subtropical as well as alpine forests, rivers, streams, gorges, and top of that the amazing sight of soaring Manaslu peak.

Why choose trekking to Manaslu?

The reasons to explore a mountain is quite similar. The main difference is the attractions along with the cultural and natural diversity. Likewise, trekking to Manaslu has its own whys and wherefores.

The Larkya Pass situated at the height of 5106 meters/16752 feet
Less crowded, less explored areas as a recently opened trekking route
Thrilling suspension bridges connecting two hillocks or above the gurgling river
Dense forests of rhododendrons, pines, firs, oaks, etc., rivers, gorges, rivulets, waterfalls, etc.
Tea house stay with in-house meals
Opportunity to experience the traditional settlements with its authentic cultural diversity and naïve lifestyles of the local people, in comparison to Annapurna and Everest Trekking

Manaslu Trekking is considered as one of the longest trekking of Nepal. But the luring X-factor despite its long duration is the discovery of the beautiful Manaslu region with full of adventure. Hiking up every meter brings you the incredible scenarios of the mountains and valleys of Manaslu. The hindering part is the length and the limited availability of communication, transportation, meals, and accommodation. Despite many trekkers have successfully done the Manaslu trekking, the summit was reached by fewer. The revealing of the amazing beauty of Himalayas will endure your power to explore and overcome the hindrances of this difficult trekking route to Manaslu.

A Route map of Manaslu Trekking

The Manaslu trekking route starts from Soti Khola(710m). Next stops are Machha Khola (870m)à Jagat(1410m) passing via Khorlabesi(970m)à Chisopani (1660m) àDeng (1804m) à Namrung (2630m) à Sama Gaun (3500m) àPungyen Gompa à Samdo (3860m) à Dharmashala (4450m) à Bimthang (3720m) passing via Larkya Pass à Tal(1725m) à Syange (1080m) àBesisahar (720m).

From Besisahar, the end-destination is Kathmandu which is also the starting point.

The difficulty level of Manaslu Trekking

Relatively outspread trekking in Manaslu trekking but still some areas are restricted. Categorizing Manaslu trekking as easy to moderate trek, Manaslu trekking fits all kinds of trekkers; novice to experience. It is up to the trekkers how to fit they are and stamina they possess to face the challenges of a less explored, less trodden trekking route. Fear might draw you back but enthusiasm and self-motivation will surely drag you to fulfill the attracting exploration and discovery of hidden pearls of Manaslu region trekking.

Weather and Climate

Alterations of weather and climate are expected at any time of the year in the mountains. Trekking to Manaslu is considered better in Autumn and Spring with the main reason for a more stable climate and favorable weather. Snowfall and rainfall are unpredictable. So, one must be ready to tackle the problems that are and can be aroused due to these changes.

Altitude sickness during Manaslu trekking

Altitude sickness is basically caught if you are unfit to adapt according to the changes in the surroundings due to increasing altitude. Many stop-overs will be during the Manaslu trekking at different elevations mainly for acclimatization. Hence, there is a high possibility this might affect your Manaslu trekking adversely. Here is the main benefit of doing trekking with a trekking guide with or without a group. Informing a trekking guide or your group members in time will help you adjust and cope with the altitude sickness. And it will be easier to get medical help immediately. Basic knowledge of signs and symptoms of Altitude sickness like heavy headedness, severe headache, shortness of breath, the difficulty of breathing, etc. is a must.

En route to Manaslu, if you feel you need a break for acclimatization, it is recommendable to stay and then proceed further. An extra day will lengthen your trekking but it will prevent all the unwanted outcomes.

Meals and Accommodation in Manaslu Trekking

Another vital part of Trekking is Meals and Accommodation. It is very obvious that you will be walking for about 6 to 8 hours depending upon the stop-over destination. A fine yummy meal with comfortable beddings will be the desire to ease your sore legs and exhausted body. There are teahouses en route offering pretty much comfortable rooms with basic facilities and hygienic meals. Vegetarian meals are always recommendable but if you are ordering any non-veg food items, better to make sure the meat is fresh. Tea or coffee is always available in medium or large pots. Lunch or dinner might cost around USD 5-7 per meal. The rooms as well are fairly cheaper than the Everest or Annapurna Trekking depending upon the room structure and facilities provided.

Check on permits before start

As already mentioned, the Manaslu trekking is a recently opened but still under Restricted trekking zone. It is a must to get a Restricted Area Trekking permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Project permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit with TIMS card. Here comes the big role of the trekking agencies or companies to achieve the trekking permits for Manaslu. Trekker is allowed for Manaslu trekking with a registered Trekking guide. Solo trekking is not yet permitted for Manaslu trekking. If you want to add Tsum Valley Trekking to Manaslu circuit trek, you will need another restricted permit. These permit fees tend to be much higher than the Everest Base Camp trekking and the Annapurna Base Camp trekking, but the expenses on these permits to Manaslu is really worthy. The exclusive experience to Manaslu is paid off when you reach the Manaslu region.

What to take along?

Trekking permits with Identification documents as Passport or Identity card is just as it will be checked at every entrance point and check posts. Additional to these, basic trekking gears and equipment should be taken with a sense of being lightweight as much as possible for less strenuous trekking. Trekking poles, Sleeping bag, thermal gears, first aid kit, toiletries like wet wipes, toilet rolls or tissue, a sanitary napkin (females), etc., water purifying tablets, shampoos, soaps, moisturizing lotion, sunscreen lotion, etc.

Avoid bringing heavy items. It might slow down your pace. A light backpack of 60L should be enough.

Itinerary

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

Day 02: Soti Khola to Machha Khola

Day 03: Machha Khola to Jagat

Day 04: Jagat to Deng

Day 05: Deng to Namrung

Day 06: Namrung to Samagaon

Day 07: Samagaon to Samdo

Day 08: Samdo to Dharmasala/Larkya Phedi

Day 09: Dharmasala to Bimtang Via Larkya Pass

Day 10: Bimtang to Tilije

Day 11: Tilije to Tal

Day 12: Drive back to Kathmandu

This is a basic itinerary for the Manaslu circuit trek. If you want to divert your Manaslu trekking to Tsum Valley trekking, it is very much possible. Any modifications in the itinerary for your preference is always welcome.