Manaslu Trek is one of Nepal's exotic expedition that takes you to the restricted and mysterious region around Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world. Starting at Machha Khola, the route falls under the strictly regulated region of Nepal. Your journey will begin with a 12-hour drive from Kathmandu. However, if natural circumstances influence road conditions, you might have to spend the night in Soti Khola and hike the next day. Besides, it is a journey for experienced travelers who want a unique experience with striking scenery and authentic cultural immersion. The expedition features almost everything a trekking enthusiast seeks in the majestic Himalayan regions of Nepal. Therefore, it is renowned among travelers because the trekking trails take you to remote and untouched landscapes.
But that's not all; the expedition includes the spectacular Larkya La Pass. This offers you an impressive opportunity to explore the untouched beauty of the Manaslu region and experience local culture and tradition. Remember that you will require several permits to explore the restricted region. It includes the MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit) and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit). Both can be obtained from either Kathmandu or Pokhara. Moreover, as the off-beaten trekking trail leads you through dense forests and rugged landscapes, you will need an experienced navigation guide to assist you in your adventure.
The Enchanting Larkya La Pass
Sitting at 5106m, the Larke La Pass is one of the majotrek's significant highlights. It is among the most thrilling and challenging high passes in the mountain region of Nepal. It is the highest point of the expedition and lies between Bimtang and Dharamsala. After reaching Larky La, you can explore the surrounding area and witness the fantastic scenarios of Samdo Peak, Manaslu Larke Peak, Cheo Himal, and Naike Peak. The top of the pass is lovely, but sadly, you cannot cross it during the winter as the trail is blocked by heavy snowfall.
What Makes the Manaslu Trek Unique?
The Manaslu region has created a unique identity among other trekking areas in Nepal because of its blend of wildlife, nature, and cultural values. This offers travelers a chance to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience of the high Himalayan regions of Nepal. The isolated path of the Manaslu trek traverses through alpine, subtropical, and coniferous forests, providing excellent photographic opportunities. Further, along the trek, the route will pass through lowlands and rice-terraced fields towards the magnificent Budo Gandako gorges, where you will witness spectacular waterfalls and streams.
Besides, contrary to the city areas, the local people in the region dress themselves in traditional Nepalese attire when raising livestock, farming, or working in tourism-related fields. So, you can experience authentic conventional communities during the journey, which will take you back in time. This also allows you to immerse yourself in the local people's daily livelihood and social customs.
Why trek to the Manaslu?
The Manaslu trek is comparatively less crowded and features untouched landscapes of Nepal than the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp. As a result, it has been growing in popularity in recent years due to its off-the-beat path and remote nature. Regardless, you will find several teahouses along the trail where you'll be resting during the journey. The accommodation establishments feature rooms with access to showers and great authentic Nepealse meals. Further, during your expedition, the trail will lead the transition through rugged to snowy landscapes. So, you can enjoy hiking surrounded by snowy mountains on both sides of the trail. Moreover, the scenery around you will constantly change, which allows you to experience the Subtropical jungle as you make your way to the Himalayan foothills.
Therefore, most trek enthusiasts consider it one of Nepal's best treks. Here are some top highlights of the journey to provide a brief outlook on what's to come.
Manaslu Trek Highlights:
- Annapurna and Manaslu are two of the best tourist regions of Nepal.
- Experience local culture and tradition in multiethnic villages.
- Witness glorious mountain peaks and explore Mane walls, Chhortens, and Monasteries.
- Rich vegetation, waterfalls, rivers, and suspension bridges.
- You will hike through the beautiful subtropical forest towards the thrilling Larkya La pass at 5,100 meters / 17,000 feet.
- It is less crowded than other best trek destinations in Nepal.
- The trekking trail features several tea houses and shops, making it easy for travelers to access food and other essentials.
Manaslu Trek Length and Terrain
The walking terrain on the expedition is well-trodden, but it might get uneven and rocky in some parts. Further, you will be hiking through rugged landscapes, and there won't be any mountaineering or rock climbing throughout the trek. So, you won't need any special equipment for the expedition. Besides, you will cover approximately 180km, which is roughly 110 miles, and along the trek, you will meet several local people and their pack animals, especially yaks. In high-altitude regions of Nepal, the local people use them to carry equipment and food supplies to higher elevations. So, if you come across them, we recommend you leave a path for them to enable them to pass through conveniently.
We also suggest you follow the guidance of the trek leader and use essential equipment such as trekking poles. This will allow you to climb steep terrain without putting too much pressure on your legs and knees. As you make a gradual ascent, you may experience specific changes in the surrounding atmosphere, which also influence you physically. Therefore, to avoid any complications with your health, we will rest periodically and acclimatize to prevent altitude sickness. Eventually, you will be able to adapt to the challenges of the trek and enjoy the memorable experience.
10 Days Manaslu Trek Difficulty
The Manaslu trek is pretty strenuous; your physical condition and fitness level will also determine the difficulty level. This expedition in the Himalayan region can be challenging for travelers with no previous experience. During the trek, you must walk at least 6-8 hours daily, ascending and descending through several terrains, slippery stones, and stairs. However, it is not a forced march, and you will be hiking at a slower pace, carrying 5 kg of your belongings in your bag. Therefore, the trek will require average physical fitness to prevent injury or health complications. On the other hand, your efforts will also be rewarded; during the trek, you will be exercising regularly. As a result, in the end, your body will become lighter, healthy, toned, and detoxed.
How To Prepare And Be Fit For The Manaslu Trek
Embarking on the Manaslu trek is inevitably tiring, requiring you to work on several parts of your body before you start the exciting journey. If you are looking forward to joining the gym, you must concentrate on treadmills and step machines to focus on your calf and thigh muscles. Exercises like aerobics, pilates, body pump, and cardio activity are also excellent preparation to develop your core stability, balance, and strength. Besides, we at OutFitter Nepal highly recommend lightweight, high-ankle hiking boots. It is comparatively more convenient and comfortable than heavy boots and serves you well during the trek.
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