Manaslu Region Trek Packages

Trekking in the Manaslu Region

Trekking in the Manaslu region takes you on a journey that feels both wild and deeply rooted in tradition. It is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal, after the Annapurna Region Trek and the Everest Region Trek. The Manaslu region treks encircle Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth highest mountain in the world. So, you’ll witness stunning, close-up views of its massive peak, along with its neighbors peak like Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. A fun fact is that you trek at a much lower altitude (below 4,500m), with Larkya La Pass (5,106m) being the highest point of the trek.

Likewise, Manaslu treks had been restricted for foreigners till 1991. At present, trekking activities have increased, but it remains a restricted area, for which you’ll need a special permit, the Restricted Area Permit (RAP). It holds a fragile Himalayan ecosystem and a unique culture of Nubri, Tsumba, and Gurung communities inside the Manaslu Conservation Area. As the majority of people follow Buddhism, you will walk through paths decorated with prayer flags, chortens, mani walls, and ancient monasteries like Ribung Gompa and Pungyen Gompa. Another fun fact: you may even see leopard footprints in rugged, high-altitude snowy sections along the Manaslu trekking routes.

Thus, the Manaslu region trek is a perfect journey if you’re looking for some off-beaten experience. However, know that these treks are moderate to strenuous. You should first set your goals, then consider your fitness level and mental capacity to take on challenges. If you’re a beginner, you can extend the trekking days and enjoy a relaxed pace around the Manaslu Circuit. And if you’re a seasoned one, you can pace yourself faster but without pushing your limits and go around the secluded Tsum Valley. The trekking experience in each trek will be soothing to your mind, allowing you to create lasting memories.

To learn about Nepal’s Manaslu region trek packages, read till the end!

Best Manaslu Region Trek Packages

Looking for the best trek in the Manaslu Region? The answer is quite subjective because it depends on your trekking goal. There are several packages to choose from if you’re trekking to the Manaslu region. Some of them take you to the Manaslu Base Camp, others circle the entire Manaslu region, while a few let you experience the beautiful Tsum Valley. That being said, you can discover the region’s adventurous Manaslu Circuit trail and the most exquisite local culture in each trek.

Among them, the most popular trek to Manaslu is the Manaslu Circuit trek. As of now, this trek is being called the second Annapurna Circuit trek because it offers a similar experience of diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and a high mountain pass. What’s different is that Manaslu Circuit remains less crowded and more authentic, just like the Annapurna Circuit before roads and tourism transformed it. Besides just the Manaslu Circuit trek, there are many other treks that you can go to when in the region. Some such treks include the 10 Days Tsum Valley Trek and the 17 Days Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley Trek.

12 Days Manaslu Circuit trek – from USD 870

• Best Time: Late March–May, October–November
• Distance: ~177km trekking

The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary encircles the Manaslu massif through lush valleys, alpine terrain, and Tibetan-influenced villages. It begins with a drive to Machha Khola, a popular starting point for treks in the Manaslu region. The trek’s most thrilling moment comes when you cross the Larkya La Pass. After you conquer the pass, you’ll see some unforgettable views of Mount Manaslu, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna II.

The cultural highlights are just as memorable as the scenery, with monasteries like Pungyen Gompa, Ribung Gompa, Serang Gompa, and many others. The traditional settlements, such as Jagat, Philim, Lho, and Samagaun, offer a glimpse into the way of life in the Manaslu Circuit. You can even visit the Manaslu Base Camp and Birendra Tal on the acclimatization day at Samagaun. The only downside is that trekking paths are strenuous than the ABC and EBC treks. You’ll need good fitness and prior high-altitude experience to be able to enjoy this trek.

10 Days Tsum Valley Trek – from USD 830

• Best Time: Late March–May, October–November
• Distance: ~127km trekking, ~320km driving

This popular trek takes you to one of the most remote parts of the Manaslu area, the Tsum Valley. The valley, situated between Shringi Himal and Ganesh Himal, was only opened to trekkers in 2008. Trekkers often refer to it as a hidden gem of Nepal. Starting with a drive to Machha Khola, this Tsum Valley Trek offers phenomenal views of the Manaslu Himal, Ganesh Himal, Boudha Himal, and Shringi Himal. You will explore authentic Magar, Gurung, and Sherpa villages, alongside numerous mani walls, prayer flags, and chortens.

As you trek through villages, you’ll meet a unique tribe of Nepal, the Tsumba people. You’ll stop at places like Mu Gompa (3,700m), Milarepa Cave, and Rachen Gompa. And if you’re lucky, you’ll also get glimpses of rare wildlife species like the Himalayan Tahr and the Himalayan black bear. If you already have some trekking experience, this moderate trek will be perfect for you in terms of difficulty. It’ll give you a more peaceful and authentic Himalayan adventure compared to the Everest or Annapurna trails.

17 Days Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley Trek – from USD 1,180

• Best Time: Late March–May, October–November
• Distance: ~170km trekking

Manaslu Tsum Valley trek is an extended adventure that lets you explore both the remote Tsum Valley and the Manaslu Circuit. In this trek, you’ll first trek the Tsum Valley trek section from Machha Khola to Philim/Deng and then join the Manaslu Circuit Trail from Deng to Tilche/Dharapani. After that, you drive to Besisahar, which is the starting point of the Annapurna Trek Region. All in all, you get to enjoy the highlights of both treks.

You can encounter the Tsumba community and their preserved Tibetan culture in the Tsum Valley section, as well as Gurung and Tibetan-influenced Bhotia communities in the Manaslu section. Similarly, you will visit key stops of both the Tsum Valley and the Manaslu Circuit, like Chumling, Mu Gompa, Milarepa Cave, Namrung, Lho, Samagaun, and Samdo. So, you can visit the Birendra Tal and the Manaslu Base Camp and then cross the high Larkya La Pass for the breathtaking views of Shringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu Himal.

Another advantage of this trek is that you get more time to explore different wildlife species as they enter the Manaslu Conservation Area. You’ll witness more landscapes, flora, and fauna species, including langur monkeys and blue sheep. You’ll also have an easier time trekking through difficult sections since the Tsum Valley section provides a gradual ascent. This naturally helps your body to acclimatize before you reach the more demanding high-altitude sections of the Manaslu Circuit and Larkya La Pass.

7 Days Ruby Valley Trek – from USD 470

• Best Time: Late March–May, October–November
• Distance:~75km trekking,~80km driving

This valley lies between the Langtang National Park region and the Manaslu Conservation Area. Thus, Ruby Valley Trek provides you with beautiful views of multiple mountain ranges, including Ganesh, Langtang, Manaslu, and even the Annapurna range. It actually starts with a scenic drive to Syabrubesi. Then, you trek through traditional Gurung and Tamang villages like Gatlang and Somdang. This moderately challenging trek offers you a lot, considering its duration.

You’ll cross the Pangsang La Pass (3,842m) from where you can see the stretched views of at least 23 snow-capped peaks from its summit. The most prominent ones are Ganesh I, Ganesh II, Ganesh III, Boudha Himal, Himalchuli, Mount Manaslu, Langtang Lirung, and Annapurna II, across several mountain ranges. More importantly, most of the route stays below 3,000m. So, you won’t face extreme altitude challenges. It’s an excellent choice if you want a cultural experience and stunning mountain scenery without the crowds of more famous treks.

How difficult is trekking in the Manaslu region?

Manaslu region trekking is quite tricky. However, this trek is challenging due to rugged terrain, long days, and altitude. Still, it is not as crowded or logistically complex as Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, two of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. Factors like unpredictable weather make the Manaslu trek challenging. The days are usually very warm, whereas the nights are colder. Winter weather can be too harsh for the trekkers at night. Summer days are just as challenging for treks due to heavy rainfall.

The beauty of Manaslu may overpower the challenges you will face throughout the journey. So, will it be worth it? Totally! The spring season is the best for treks. You can also trek in autumn. Choosing the right season can also determine the difficulty level of your journey. You have to, however, be aware of altitude sickness at all times! The legendary Manaslu circuit and many other treks will take you to an altitude of 5,106m at Larkya La Pass. But avoiding altitude sickness is what acclimatization days are for!

Why Visiting Manaslu Requires Permits

The primary reasons for obtaining a permit for trekking in the Manaslu region are to protect the region’s unique environment, preserve its cultural heritage, and ensure the safety and security of trekkers. This regulation is made mandatory by the Government of Nepal because of the following reasons:

1. Conservation of endangered species: The Manaslu region is a designated conservation area. It is home to diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species like the snow leopard and the Himalayan black bear. The permit fees are used for conservation efforts, waste management, and the maintenance of trekking trails.
2. Cultural Preservation of unique Tibetan communities: This region’s culture is heavily influenced by its proximity to Tibet. You’ll see the local communities have a distinct way of life that has remained intact for several generations. The restricted access helps to preserve this unique cultural heritage from the potential negative impacts of mass tourism.
3. Trekker Safety and Regulation: The permit system allows authorities to monitor the number of trekkers in the remote region. In case of an emergency, having a record of who is on the trail makes search and rescue operations more efficient.
4. Security and Border Control: Due to the region’s proximity to the Tibetan border, the government needs to maintain tight control over movement in the area to prevent illegal activities. This is why you must travel with a registered trekking agency and a licensed guide.

Note: In addition to the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), trekkers require the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). If the trek exits via Tilche/Dharapani into the Annapurna region, you also need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

Backpack for trekking in the Manaslu region

Anyone who treks frequently also knows how vital a backpack is for their journey. It includes everything you need to remain comfortable throughout the trek. Even a one-day hike will require the hikers to carry essentials in a backpack. Hence, you can only imagine the necessity of one during a much longer Manaslu region trek. You will need more than just your clothes, shoes, and gear along the trek. The following are all you’re going to need inside your duffel bag:

• Lightweight clothing: Down jackets, puffy trekking pants, lightweight sleeping clothes, thermal clothes, cotton undergarments, beanies, sunhats
• Footwear: Trekking boots, an extra pair of footwear, slippers, sneakers
• First aid kit: Bandages, plasters, ibuprofen, prescribed medication, and additional personal medical items
• Gloves: Single-layered gloves for warmer seasons, double-layered water-insulated gloves for colder conditions
• Toiletries: Sanitary pads, menstrual cups, tissue paper, toilet paper, wet wipes, oral hygiene products, soap, shampoo
• Gear and equipment: Trekking pole, crampons (for winter/snow), headlamp, torchlight
• Miscellaneous: Books, journals, camera, extra cash for souvenirs

Why choose the Manaslu region to trek?

Manaslu Trek takes you on the best adventure from beginning to end. Why does this trek stand out among all the other treks in Nepal? No wonder! The following are all you need to know to know why you should choose the Manaslu trek:

• Safer high-altitude trek: Although the Manaslu region is high altitude and trekkers must cross at least 5000m, it is safer than most treks. Since the area is restricted, you won’t find a trekker without a licensed guide, making journeys safer than in any location. However, it is just as necessary for you to take care of yourself by acclimatizing on time and training beforehand.
• Terrific view of the Himalayas: You can get the most splendid view of the mountains, especially the eight-thousander Manaslu at 8,163m above sea level. Trekkers can enjoy the view of Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, Himalchuli, Annapurna II, and Ngadi Chuli during the trek as well.
• Diverse culture: You can also experience diverse cultures like Gurung, Sherpa, Tamang, Chhetri, and Brahmin communities. Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism dominate the area. Therefore, you will get to experience a mix of multiple cultures, traditions, and religions. Trekkers can further enjoy the remote lifestyle of most Manaslu locals. Banana and rice plantations are familiar sights in the habitats.
• Less crowd, more peace: The Manaslu region has fewer crowds. A little more than 20 years ago, it remained isolated and restricted for trekking and tourism. The location is very popular, but the crowd is much smaller than in other destinations. If you enjoy a peaceful trekking experience, then any Manaslu trek would be perfect!
• Larkya La Pass Adventure: Going to Larkya La Pass is adventurous. You can pass through the pass at pre-dawn to avoid strong winds and soft snow later in the day. With the right equipment, passing the pass is not challenging and very rewarding for the journeyers.
• No flight required: Unlike major trekking destinations that require you to take a flight to the remotest parts of Nepal, the Manaslu Trek is all about safe road vehicles. You will get to explore a maximum number of elements even by the road without having to face anxiety related to flying.
• Abundance of natural beauty: Trekkers can enjoy the natural beauty of Manaslu just as much as they enjoy its rich biodiversity. Some rare wildlife species are the Blue Sheep, the Himalayan Black Bear, the Lynx, the Himalayan Marmot, the Himalayan Musk Deer, and the Himalayan Tahr. Similarly, it has six climatic zones: Arctic, alpine, sub-alpine, temperate, tropical, and sub-tropical.
• Spiritual and religious journey: Manaslu is rich in Buddhist monasteries, so you can peacefully visit many religious and spiritual landmarks here. Your journey will not only be a trekking journey but also a pilgrimage. Some such locations are Milarepa Cave, Gompa Naktsal, Pungyen Gompa, Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, Serang Gompa, and Hinang Gompa. You can also get insights about religion and spirituality from the Lamas and nuns who have devoted their lives to Buddhism.
• Extravagant festivals: Losar is a festival celebrated according to the Tibetan Lunar calendar every year as the new year. Moreover, you can also experience other festivals like Dachyang, the horse racing festival, Saka Dawa, Nara, and the festival of Faning. The locals go on a fast, wear traditional masks for dances, sing songs, and rejoice in exceptional Tibetan and Nepalese food. Hindu locals celebrate festivals like Dashain and Tihar with great merriment.
• Rural quiet trails: The lower valley in Jagat and near the exit toward Tilche or Dharapani now has road access. But beyond the lower villages, the route has quieter footpaths with far less traffic, reducing road walking and avoiding dust when possible.