The Manaslu Circuit trek is a restricted region, so you will need a special permit as well as the services of a registered guide. As such, it is best to go in a group of two or more people managed by a travel agency.
Each year more guesthouses are built along the route, giving you more options to stay. In addition, trekking here means a more direct income for the local villages.
1. Altitude
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an intense trek that requires a lot of physical endurance. It has various landscapes and the altitude varies from subtropical to high-altitude terrain, which is challenging to trek in. The thin air of this region makes the trek even more difficult.
At lower altitudes, you will find temperate vegetation, typical Nepalese people following Hindu religion and average biodiversity. But as you reach higher altitudes, the culture changes and you will see Tibetan influenced Buddhist culture, Chorten, Mani walls, prayer flags, and rear cultivated fields. This is one of the reasons why you should acclimatize properly.
2. Weather
The Manaslu Circuit trek is a wonderful experience that trekkers can enjoy during all four seasons. The different seasons each bring their own unique charms to the trail that trekkers can explore and cherish.
The month of March to May comes under the season of Spring and brings satisfying weather conditions for trekkers. Tea houses also reopen at this time after being closed during winter.
June begins the Summer and brings casual rainfall along with hot temperatures. Though these factors might not deter a trek, they may cause some inconveniences like blocked pathways due to floods or landslides.
3. Culture
The Manaslu trek is one of Nepal’s most culturally rich treks. It passes through villages that have a unique blend of traditional customs and modern influences. The region also boasts a variety of ethnic groups and religions, from Hinduism to Tibetan Buddhism.
Unlike other popular treks in Nepal, such as the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit, the Manaslu Trek requires a guide. This is because it is a restricted area that was only recently opened to foreign hikers. The guides on this trek are very experienced and knowledgeable.
4. Camping
A camping trek on Manaslu Circuit offers a more immersive and intimate experience with nature. However, it also requires more preparation and equipment. During the hike, you’ll spend your nights sleeping in tents or at local teahouses, where you can enjoy a unique culture and cuisine.
Trekkers who choose this option can explore Gorkha, Nepal’s historic capital and visit the rhododendron-covered Gurung villages of Lower Manaslu. They can also take the high route to Samdo, a village on the border with Tibet.
It’s important to know that Manaslu is a restricted area trek and you can only go with an organized group of two or more and a guide. This is because a helicopter evacuation is the only way to get to civilization in case of a medical emergency on this trail.
5. Food
While trekking on the Manaslu circuit, you can enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine and refreshing drinks. You can find many restaurants and tea shops along the trail. Most of the meals served are based on local ingredients. You can also try momos, which are vegetable, chicken or pork-filled dumplings. They are often steamed or fried and come with a flavorful dipping sauce.
To avoid getting dehydrated, it is best to carry your own water. During your trek, you can refill your water bottle at guesthouses or community taps. It is also a good idea to bring a camping water filter to ensure that you have access to clean water.
6. Electricity
Manaslu trek is a challenging and enriching trekking experience that offers the world’s eighth-highest mountain panorama and ethnic culture. The trail is characterized by beautiful epic sceneries and lush forests of rhododendron, juniper, and pine.
The best time to do the Manaslu Circuit trek is autumn and spring because of their pleasant weather conditions. It is important to train before embarking on such an adventure so that you can walk for several hours a day without suffering from blisters or other injuries. You should also carry a power bank and extra batteries to recharge your devices when necessary.
7. Time
The best time to trek Manaslu is during the spring (March, April, and May) or autumn (September, October, and November). Both of these seasons offer dry trails, clear weather conditions, and stunning mountain views.
Autumn also offers warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours, and less crowded trails. Additionally, the rhododendron forests are at their most vibrant during this time. So, trekking Manaslu in the fall is a truly memorable experience.