Here are 10 beautiful reasons to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek:
1) Very Rich History:
The Spiritual Manaslu region has a very rich history, which has served as a crucial trading route connecting Tibet with Nepal. The region plays a vital role during the Salt Trade Era between Tibet and Nepal, which resulted in important cultural exchange between these two countries. This is the reason why the now Manaslu Circuit Trek Route holds great historical significance and offers glimpses into the region's past.
During the Salt Trade Era, this route was used to transport goods, particularly salt and food grains. The Barter System existed then, mutually connected these two countries, where the lowland regions of Nepal exchanged foodgrains with Salt that was transported by the people of the high Tibetan plateau. It is also said that this Barter Trading played a crucial role in the economic development of the surrounding areas.
In course of time, the cultural exchange that took place in the region created a blend of different traditions, languages, and beliefs. The traders who interacted with one another then were mainly the Tibetans, Gurungs, and Tamangs. No wonder you can experience the cultural diversity in the Manaslu region today as you trek through the different settlements and valleys of the region.
Since the Manaslu region lies very close to the Tibetan border, it has strong ties to Tibetan Buddhist culture. As you walk this historic ancient route of Manaslu, you will observe many monasteries and religious sites that give you a Tibetan Buddhist influence.
Most significantly, the region has Mt. Manaslu, the 8th-highest mountain in the world, which stands at a height of 8,163 metres / 26,781 feet. The region is named after this towering mountain, which holds significant cultural and religious significance. The name MANASLU literally means 'The Mountain of the Spirit', and it is believed to be the dwelling place of powerful deities and spirits.
For the local communities, the mountain is the protector of the region, and they have been worshipping Manaslu for generations. While trekking the Manaslu Circuit, trekkers can witness the ancientness of the region through its ancient stone-carved trails, mani walls, chortens, and typical traditional stone villages that preserve the cultural heritage of the region.
2) Pristine Conservation Area:
The Manaslu Conservation Area is one of Nepal's most precious protected areas. Covering the area of 1663 sq. km. Manaslu was declared a Conservation Area in the year 1998 by the Government of Nepal. It was established with a motive to conserve the unique biodiversity and cultural heritage of the region. Now, the MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Project) works in the natural environment of the valley for future generations. This is the reason why if you are trekking in the region of Manaslu, you would require an MCAP Permit besides the Restricted Area Permit.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a great way to contribute to the conservation efforts in the area. The region is known for its pristine natural beauty, untouched wilderness, and ancient traditional settlements. The Manaslu Conservation Area is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare species that are found nowhere else in the world.
Furthermore, the pristine beauty of the region takes you to diverse valleys that are rarely seen by outsiders, which adds uniqueness to the region.
3) Spectacular Mountain Scenery:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is certainly a unique experience that offers travelers the stunning view of the Himalayas. This beautiful trek takes you through the foothills of Mt. Manalsu, the world's eighth-highest mountain. As you hike along the pristine, rugged trails and lush valleys, you will be greeted by ample snow-capped mountains that surround you.
Major Peaks Seen on the Manaslu Circuit Trek:
- Manaslu (8,163m) - The world’s 8th highest peak.
- Himalchuli (7,893m) - Stunning range of peaks near Manaslu.
- Ngadi Chuli (7,871m) - A dramatic mountain, also known as Peak 29.
- Shringi Himal (7,187m) - Beautiful peak.
- Ganesh Himal (7,422m) - A stunning range with multiple sub-peaks.
- Baudha Himal (6,672m) - Visible in the later part of the trek.
- Larkya Peak (6,249m) - Close to the Larkya (Larke) La Pass.
- Cheo Himal (6,820m) - Part of the Peri Himal range.
- Kang Guru (6,981m) - Seen from the higher sections near Samdo.
- Himlung Himal (7126m) - One of the famous Expedition Peaks in the region.
- Annapurna II (7,937m) - Visible from the Larkya La Pass on clear days.
Besides these iconic mountains and peaks, Manaslu Circuit Trek also provides you with ample nondescript peaks that create a perfect backdrop, making the overall trip memorable.
4) Pristine and Less Crowded:
If you are looking for a less crowded option besides the popular trekking destination in Nepal, then the Manaslu Circuit Trek will be a perfect choice. It allows you to experience the untouched and authentic culture of Nepal. Unlike the popular Everest Routes and Annapurna regions, the Manaslu Circuit Trek remains relatively untouched and off the beaten path. Besides offering you a genuine Himalayan trekking experience, Manaslu Circuit also connects you with nature in the tranquility of the mountains.
Until the year 2010, when Manaslu Circuit lacked sufficient infrastructure, it was primarily a camping trek destination. However, over the years, with the gradual development of basic lodges and teahouses along the route, by around 2014 Manaslu Circuit was transformed into a teahouse trek. Even now, in most of the settlements, the facilities still remain basic as compared to other popular trekking destinations.
So to say, unlike other trekking routes, Manaslu Circuit is still considered a remote trekking destination, which is less crowded. This less crowd allows travelers to enjoy the pristine beauty of the region without the hustle and bustle of large groups. This is the reason why, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a great way to appreciate the beauty of the Himalayas without the crowds. It offers you a serene atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and traditional villages, perfect trek for those looking for a peaceful and tranquil journey.
5) Beautiful Cultural Experience:
The Manaslu region is indeed known for its diverse ethnic communities and rich cultural heritage. The Ethnic communities like Gurungs, Tamangs, Tibetans, Magar, Chhetri, Newar, etc, who are prominent in this region, live side by side in utter harmony.
GURUNGS: The Gurung is one of the largest ethnic groups in the region of Manaslu. They have a rich history and are known for their bravery and contribution to the British Gurkha regiments. There are ample Gurung settlements in the Manaslu region that have their own unique language, culture, and traditions. They are not typically Buddhist or Hindu, but the mix of both with their own private cult.
TAMANGS: The Tamang is another significant ethnic group in the Manaslu region. The Tamangs are known for their craftsmanship. They are Buddhist by religion, but much like the Gurungs, they have their own cult mixed with Shamanism. During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, travelers often encounter traditional Tamang villages, beautifully decorated monasteries, and Chortens.
TIBETANS: Due to its proximity to the Tibetan border, the Manaslu region is also home to Tibetan communities. Many Tibetans migrated to Nepal over the years, and their influence is visible in the region's culture and traditions. In the highlands of Manaslu, you may encounter Tibetan-style houses, prayer walls, and monasteries.
Travelers will have the chance to observe their daily lives from traditional farming practices, try local delicacies, to staying in their local homestays.
6) Genuine Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is truly one of the more remote and less crowded trekking routes in Nepal. Though the region has gained popularity over the years, it still retains its off-the-beaten-track charm compared to more popular trekking destinations like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit.
Here are some factors that contribute to the remoteness of the Manaslu Circuit Trek:
- Restricted Area: The Manaslu region is classified as a restricted area by the Nepalese government. All trekkers are required to obtain a SPECIAL PERMIT to enter the region. Individual trekkers are not allowed, and all trekkers must be affiliated with a registered local company and be accompanied by a licensed Trek guide. These restrictions on access will help limit the number of tourists and maintain the pristine beauty of the region.
- Remoteness: Compared to other popular trekking destinations, the Manaslu Circuit Trek has limited infrastructure. The trail passes through remote villages with basic facilities for accommodation and food options. Nonetheless, the progress is quite less compared to other popular trekking routes. However, all these provide trekkers the sense of remoteness, adventure, solitude, and tranquility.
Even now, Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a less trodden and more remote trekking destination that offers an off-the-beaten-path experience.
7) Challenging yet Rewarding:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is certainly challenging, and it does require a good level of physical fitness and stamina. It is a physically demanding journey, but once it is done, the sense of accomplishment that you will realize is simply fascinating and it is worth the effort.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek will surely push you to your limits, but in the end, it rewards you with incomparable beauty. The trek offers you a unique experience that is sure to be remembered for a lifetime. As you walk the valley, you will be surrounded by the majestic Himalayan peaks, lush green valleys, and remote mountain villages. Along the journey, you will be able to explore the cultural heritage of the local people and enjoy their warm hospitality. It is achievable for anyone with sound fitness to enjoy this magical Manaslu.
Crossing Larke Pass, a high mountain pass which stands at a height of 5,160 meters / 16,930 feet, is certainly challenging. As you cruise through the rugged terrain of the pass, walking the glacier moraine trail, you will feel the challenge to your fitness. However, the mountain views and the pristine landscape that it has to offer gives you a very rewarding trekking experience.
It is certainly for those seeking a challenge and to witness the wilderness-filled beauty through the Himalayas. Larke Pass is certainly one of the most beautiful high-altitude mountain pass that offers one of a magical view of the Himalayas. The pass is very popular for its stunning panoramic views and its dramatic setting.
During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, with every step, trekkers can find themselves in the raw beauty of the Himalayas, creating unforgettable memories and telling stories.
8) Diverse Flora and Fauna:
The pristine region of Manaslu is known for its rich biodiversity, with its diverse flora and fauna thriving across varying altitudes. While doing the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will be trekking from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, gradually ascending further to the high-altitude alpine deserts. However, during this shift, there is a dramatic shift in the vegetation as well. You shall trek through lush rhododendron, oak, and pine forests to alpine shrubs like junipers, Anaphalis, Cotoneaster, Gentiana, Primula, etc.
All these lush forests and alpine shrubs in the Manaslu Conservation Area shelter rare wildlife, a variety of birds, and butterflies. Among the rare wild animals that people have encountered in the region are the snow leopard, the Himalayan Tahr, the Musk deer, the Red Panda, etc. The variety of birds that you may find in the region, which can be very intriguing for birdwatchers, includes the Himalayan Monal, Red-headed Vultures, golden eagle, snow pigeons, owl, pheasants, etc.
The region of Manaslu is considered ecologically rich, combined with its pristine beauty. The untouched landscapes, well-conserved valley with ample forests, the wildlife, the traditional villages, and the people make it a haven for travelers.
9) Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers trekkers a unique opportunity to explore ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries.
Right from the very time you enter the Manaslu Conservation Area from Jagat, you will witness the Tibetan Buddhism influence in the region. As you navigate the valley, you will encounter ample shards of evidence of Tibetan Buddhism, like Tibetan prayer walls, Mani (prayer) Wheels, colorful prayer flags, etc. After Namrung, as you enter the village of Lho, you will be amazed to see the colorful chortens and long Mani |(prayer) walls along the trail.
The villages of Shya La and Samagaon are two of the largest settlements along the Manaslu Trek. In the village of Shya La, the hike to Pungen Gomba, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery situated high up in the ridge, is really fascinating. The highlight of the Pungen Gomba is the view of the monastery against the backdrop of the panoramic mountain view. This hike can also be termed as an acclimatization hike. The village of Samagaon as well have an ancient Tibetan Buddhist monastery that offers insight into the cultural practices and beliefs of the local community.
As you walk further to the ancient town of Samdo, which is closer to the Tibetan Border also offers a beautiful opportunity to visit the most ancient Buddhist monastery. Exploring these ancient monasteries allows you to witness the spiritual side of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
10) Traditional Tea Houses and Homestays:
Traditional Tea houses is a must-include reason as it is what makes the Manaslu Circuit Trek authentic and fascinating. Along the trail, you will find charming traditional tea houses and homestays that are run by the locals. These tea houses that you will find along the Manaslu Route are nothing but an extension of the local houses. Until 2013, Manalsu Trek was actually organized as a camping trek rather than a teahouse trek. Over the years, to facilitate the trekkers for more convenience, they gradually started building teahouses.
Since constructing a new lodge would indeed be expensive in a remote region like Manaslu, the locals started converting their own private houses into lodges. They provided comfortable accommodations, warm hospitality, and delicious food. Staying in these traditional lodges allows you to experience the authenticity and the genuine local way of life.
Come and join us and create a lifelong memory trekking into the magical valley of Manaslu. Make your holiday a blend of Adventure, spirituality, and authenticity. Above are the 10 beautiful reasons to do Manaslu Circuit Trek.
