Top 7 reasons to choose Manaslu Circuit Trek

by Suman Aryal Travel/Tourism

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a spectacular, adventurous journey in the heart of the Himalayas in Nepal. This trek traverses diverse landscapes, from lush forests and alpine meadows to arid high-altitude terrains, offering breathtaking views of the eighth highest mountain in the world, Manaslu. As you journey through remote villages, you will immerse yourself in rich and authentic Nepalese and Tibetan cultures. Despite its immense beauty, the trail is less crowded than other popular treks, offering a peaceful and intimate experience with nature. The trek is a haven for biodiversity, giving you a chance to witness a range of wildlife and plant species. While the trek poses physical challenges, especially when crossing the Larkya La Pass, it's a rewarding adventure that tests your stamina and resilience. You'll have the unique opportunity to stay in family-run teahouses, experiencing local hospitality, traditional food, and gaining insight into local customs and lifestyle. With a focus on physical and mental wellness, the trek serves as a journey of self-improvement and wellness. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a rewarding, enriching, and life-changing experience. Here are the top 7 reasons to choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Stunning Scenery: The Manaslu Circuit Trek unravels the untouched beauty of the Himalayan region. The trail starts from the lush forests of Soti Khola, marked by a rich variety of flora and fauna. As you ascend, the scenery transforms from vibrant rhododendron and pine forests to serene alpine pastures. The highest point of the trek, Larkya La Pass, offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Manaslu range, Annapurna range, and other snow-capped peaks. Alongside mountains, the trail also provides views of beautiful rivers, waterfalls, and glaciers, making every step of your journey scenic.

Rich Cultural Heritage: The trek takes you through remote villages where ancient Buddhist and Tibetan culture thrives. Visiting these places provides insights into local customs, traditions, and lifestyles that have been preserved for centuries. Ancient Buddhist monasteries, such as the Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa in the Tsum Valley, are spiritual landmarks. Moreover, the Mani walls, adorned with intricate carvings and prayer wheels, add to the region's rich cultural tapestry.

A Less-Crowded Route: Despite its captivating allure, the Manaslu Circuit Trek remains relatively undiscovered, overshadowed by its more renowned siblings, the Annapurna Circuit and the Everest Base Camp trek. This under-the-radar status means you'll have more solitude and peace on your journey. Instead of jostling with crowds at viewpoints, you'll have the space to appreciate the grandeur at your own pace. As you walk the trails, often, the only sounds you'll hear will be the wind whistling through the mountains, the gushing rivers, and your own footsteps. This relative solitude allows you to establish a deep connection with nature and experience a sense of tranquillity that is often elusive in our busy lives.

Biodiversity: The Manaslu Circuit Trek is more than just an opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas. It's also a window into the rich biodiversity that thrives in the Manaslu Conservation Area. As you traverse the altitude gradient from subtropical jungles to high-altitude landscapes, you'll encounter a wide array of flora and fauna. Along the lower regions, you may spot grey langurs playfully swinging from the branches, while higher up, you could spot the elusive snow leopard or the majestic Himalayan Thar navigating the rocky cliffs. Also, the region is a haven for bird watchers, as it is home to numerous species, including the Himalayan griffon, lammergeyer, and snow pigeon. Moreover, the trek will introduce you to a wide variety of plant species, some of which have medicinal properties used by the locals for centuries.

Challenging Adventure: The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not for the faint-hearted. It demands physical endurance, acclimatization to high altitudes, and trekking skills to navigate rough terrains. However, these challenges make the trek even more rewarding. Each step you take is an accomplishment, as you push your physical boundaries and confront any fears you may have. One of the most challenging parts of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass, which, at an altitude of 5160 meters, is one of the highest trekking passes in the world. This section of the trek will challenge your endurance and determination, but the exhilaration of standing on top of the pass, surrounded by the grandeur of the Himalayas, makes it all worthwhile. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a testament to the human spirit of adventure and resilience. It is a journey that will challenge you, change you, and leave you with a sense of achievement that lasts a lifetime.

Teahouse Trekking: The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers the fascinating experience of teahouse trekking, where you can live and eat in family-run establishments along the route. These teahouses provide basic yet comfortable accommodation, giving you a place to rest, rejuvenate, and socialize with fellow trekkers. The food in these teahouses, while simple, is hearty and fulfilling. You can enjoy local dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup served with rice and vegetables), momo (dumplings), and Tibetan bread, providing you with the much-needed energy for the trek.

These teahouses also provide a unique opportunity to interact with local families and gain insights into their lives, their culture, and their customs. The hospitality you'll receive is unparalleled, making your trek a home-away-from-home experience. Staying in teahouses, you'll find warmth not just in the meals and the beds, but also in the hearts of the local people, making your journey even more rewarding.

Moreover, teahouse trekking takes the burden of carrying camping gear off your shoulders. Without heavy backpacks, you can focus on the trek and enjoy the stunning landscapes more freely. The convenience and the cultural immersion provided by teahouse trekking significantly enhance the overall experience of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Physical and Mental Wellness: Trekking in the Manaslu Circuit is not just about exploring the natural beauty and cultural diversity, it is also a journey towards self-improvement and wellness. Physically, the trek pushes you to your limits and helps improve your stamina, cardiovascular fitness, and overall physical health. The challenging terrains and high altitude will test your physical endurance, making you stronger and fitter.

On the other hand, being in the heart of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, also offers mental wellness. The calm and peaceful environment gives you the space to introspect, meditate and clear your mind, reducing stress levels and improving mental health. The accomplishment of completing the trek can also provide a significant boost to your self-esteem and self-confidence. Thus, the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be an excellent choice for individuals looking to promote both their physical and mental wellbeing.

In conclusion, the Manaslu Short Trek offers an unparalleled combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, adventure, and a sense of peace. It's a rewarding journey that will leave you with a lifetime of unforgettable memories.