The Manaslu region is located in western Nepal and is protected under the Manaslu Conservation Area Project. Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, is situated in the Manaslu region. Trekking to Manaslu is an off-the-beaten-path trek in Nepal and less crowded than the more popular trek regions like Everest or Annapurna. Thus, the Manaslu region is a restricted area where a special permit is required to enter and trek in the region.
Trekking in the Manaslu region provides a majestic Himalayan panorama, diverse flora and fauna, and a rich cultural heritage. To fully experience Manaslu one should go on the Manaslu Circuit trek which is a challenging and adventurous trek that takes you around the majestic Mt. Manaslu.
To thoroughly explore the Manaslu region one can also include Tsum Valley in the Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary. The Tsum Valley is known for its stunning landscapes, towering mountains, and rich Tibetan Buddhist culture.
At present time more facilities and the availability of teahouses and lodges have improved in Manaslu but the region is still less developed compared to Everest or Annapurna giving visitors a more off-the-beaten-path trekking experience in the Himalayas.
Trekking in the Manaslu region
Trekking in the Manaslu region is a unique trekking experience in the Himalayas which offers less crowded trails and hiking to the remote corners of Nepal. Manaslu treks are an alternative to the more popular Everest and Annapurna trekking routes giving you an authentic experience of the culture and traditions, stunning landscapes of remote Nepal.
Where is it?
The region of Manaslu is located in the northern part of Nepal bordering with Tibet (China). Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth highest peak in the world, is in Manaslu region from which the region is named. The Annapurna region is towards it’s east where it is bordered by the Annapurna Conservation Area to the west and the Tibetan Plateau to the north. Through the heart of Manaslu region flows the Budhi Gandaki River carving deep valleys and gorges as it descends from the high mountains.
How to get there?
Manaslu region can reached only via overland drive since no airstrips are available. Alternatively you can fly by helicopter to Manaslu Base Camp but only as a Manaslu helicopter sightseeing tour. Overland drive from Kathmandu will take you Machha Khola which takes around 9 hours drive both on and off road. Machha Khola is the trek-start-point to the Manaslu region. Public local buses ply from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. Alternatively you can hire a private vehicle.
When to go?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons are the best time for trekking in the Manaslu region. Spring will have mild temperatures, clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons. Colorful flowers, including rhododendrons, magnolias, and orchids make the trail even more beautiful and the trek enjoyable.
Autumn offers stable weather conditions, clear mountain views, and comfortable temperatures. The skies are generally clear offering majestic Himalayan panorama including Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world.
Manaslu Trek Permit
Manaslu region is a restricted area where a special permit is required to enter and trek in the region. A special permit costs USD 100 per person during high-season (Sep-Nov) and USD 75 per person on off-season (Dec-Aug). Besides, it requires two other permits, the entry fee for Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) which costs NPR 3000 per person for each conservation areas.
Altitude Sickness
Trekking in Manaslu goes over 3,000 meters with the highest point being crossing over Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters. Altitude sickness can occur in Manaslu or you can feel mild symptoms of altitude sickness. To avoid it, you should drink plenty of water and don’t let yourself dehydrate. Walking slowly and steadily and planning enough acclimatization days will reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Accommodations
Manaslu region is not as well developed as the popular Everest or Annapurna. Accommodations in Manaslu are basic but decent places to spend the night. The facilities along the trail are also limited and as you get higher, the facilities and lodges become more basic. Manaslu region is becoming a popular trekking destination, so lodging facilities are improving, with the locals adding new tea houses each year.