One of the most popular treks in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit trek is a stunning and rewarding adventure. It takes you around the beautiful Manaslu Conservation Area, leading to a breathtaking view of Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
The trek is also less crowded than many other popular trekking routes, making it a more peaceful and authentic experience. Plus, you’ll get to witness some of the most spectacular scenery in the country.
Difficulty
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most challenging Himalayan treks. It requires good cardiovascular fitness and strong stamina, as you ascend in altitude from 700 m to 5106 m over the course of 14 days.
To overcome the challenge of climbing the high altitude, it is important to prepare your body with the right diet and exercise program. You can do any type of cardiovascular training including swimming, cycling, and jogging to help your heart and lungs work harder and supply more oxygen to your muscles at higher altitudes.
Besides having a strong body, you should also make sure that you are well-hydrated on the trek. Drinking plenty of water and taking regular breaks are crucial to avoiding altitude sickness, which is a serious health condition that has deadly outcomes.
If you’re looking for an authentic trekking experience, the Manaslu Circuit is a great option. It offers stunning views of mountain peaks, frozen lakes, glaciers, and high mountain passes. It’s also a more remote and less crowded trail than other popular trekking routes in Nepal.
Time
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a beautiful off the beaten track adventure that circumnavigates the eighth highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu. It’s a stunning journey through lush forests, shaky suspension bridges and traditional settlements of the Gurung community.
The Manaslu Circuit is less crowded than its peers Annapurna and Everest Base Camp, making it a real treat for the senses. The route takes you past villages that are incredibly remote, and you rarely see more than a handful of people along the trail.
Most of the accommodations on this trek are tea houses, and you’ll sleep in a shared room with two single beds. Toilets are usually basic and squat style. You’ll need to bring your own toilet paper and soap, and hand sanitiser is recommended.
Altitude
Manaslu Circuit Trek and Upper Mustang Trek are challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and acclimatization to high altitudes. It also offers a chance to experience the rich culture and traditions of the local Gurung and Tibetan communities.
The trek is not as crowded as some other popular trekking routes in Nepal, and it provides a more remote and secluded experience. It also offers stunning mountain views and diverse landscapes.
Accommodation is generally similar to what you will find on other treks in Nepal, but it tends to be more basic on this route than on the Annapurna Circuit for example. It can be a little bit more expensive, too, so it’s important to plan carefully.
The Manaslu Circuit is a great option for those looking to explore a less-visited region of Nepal, with stunning mountain views and a unique cultural experience. It’s a challenging trek, but one that can be enjoyed by all experience levels.
Weather
When you decide to trek in Manaslu Circuit, you will need to be well prepared for the weather conditions. This trek covers a large area with many different climate zones. These include tropical, subtropical, temperate, sub-alpine, and alpine.
In the spring (March, April, or May), this trek is a perfect choice as it offers dry trails, stable weather conditions, and long trekking days. Moreover, the region is free of snowfall and has amazing mountain views.
However, the monsoon season in July brings heavy rainfall and slippery muddy trails that make it difficult to trek.
Despite the rain, September, October, and November are still considered optimum months for trekking the Manaslu Circuit. The weather is slightly dryer, and the teahouses are open. This is also the best time for new trekkers to try out this beautiful and challenging hike.
