Unlike the popular Everest Base Camp Trek, the Manaslu Circuit Trail has fewer trekkers and more breathtaking views. It also gives you the opportunity to discover traditional villages and experience their culture.
You can also find numerous Buddhist pilgrimages including monasteries, main walls, and chorten along the trail. It’s the perfect off-the-beaten trekking trail for adventurous travelers!
The Trail
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is less frequented than the popular Annapurna circuit due to a number of reasons. It is a more challenging hike, with high altitudes and a crossing of the Larkya La at an elevation of 5,213 meters (17,100 feet). Altitude sickness can be a problem on this trek, but Nepalgram offers itineraries that limit the amount of altitude change per day and include a proper acclimatization day.
The route is a mixture of captivating landscapes, from lush forests and rivers to rocky terrains and snowy glaciers. It also features quaint villages inhabited by people of Tibetan origin and many monasteries and stupas. This unique cultural experience is one of the major draws to this trek. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will leave you with an indelible mark on your heart and mind.
The Culture
The Manaslu Circuit is a popular yet still off-the-beaten-path trek. It’s been gaining popularity as more and more trekkers hear about its beauty, but is not nearly as developed as the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp.
The trail follows a traditional salt-trading route along the exotic Budi Gandaki River and passes through the isolated villages of Nepal and Tibet. It is also home to diverse flora and fauna.
You will also see the soaring peaks of Manaslu, Larke La Pass and other snowcapped mountains during your hike. The jaw-dropping scenery will make you feel like you are walking in a dream. Trekkers can also enjoy a wide range of mountain vistas including Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Gyaji Kang and Kang Guru. During the trek, you’ll encounter friendly locals and learn about their rich culture and traditions.
The Views
Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the best off-the-beaten-path hikes in Nepal, and it offers a unique opportunity to witness authentic culture and natural beauty. From the quaint villages to the monasteries, this region is a testament to the pureness of Tibetan and Buddhist traditions.
The region is also home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. From the dense bamboo forests to the ground-hugging rhododendrons, trekkers will find their way through a paradise of green.
As with any trekking adventure, this trip requires a certain level of fitness and acclimatization. However, for those willing to make the effort, the reward is unparalleled. The fall peak season from October to early December is the most popular time for trekkers to visit Manaslu. This is due to the beautiful mountain views and clear skies.
The Accommodations
As the Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you to high altitudes, proper acclimatization is important. This means taking things slow and steady.
It is best to walk the Manaslu Circuit Trek with a guide. This is because a guided tour will take care of the permit procedures in each village along the way. They will also manage the distances and directions for you.
The season of Spring is ideal for Manaslu Circuit Trek because the beautiful terrains come to life. There are wildflowers such as rhododendrons that bloom.
The Autumn season is another great time to trek the Manaslu Circuit because it transitions from monsoon rains to stable weather. The air is clear and the scenery is breathtaking. This makes it one of the most rewarding experiences in Nepal.
The Weather
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an off-the-beaten trail, which means it requires specialized gear and skills. This is also an area that is prone to landslides, and it is important to understand the weather conditions before setting out on this adventure.
The best time to visit the Manaslu Circuit is during the spring and autumn seasons. This is when you will find the floras in bloom and the mountain views at their most stunning.
March is the start of Spring and is an ideal month for trekking in this region. The pristine trails will be awe-inspiring with beautiful flowers such as rhododendrons and other colorful wildflowers adorning the landscape. The temperature is cool compared to other months and makes it comfortable for hiking. You’ll experience less crowds, as well.