8 Reasons to Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most adventurous trails and one best-kept secret. The trek offers trekkers an unparalleled blend of adventure, rich culture, breathtaking scenery, and a sense of remoteness rarely found on other popular trails.

It is situated around Mt. Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world in Nepal’s Gorkha district. The trek is an outstanding alternative to the crowded Everest and Annapurna routes. Here are the compelling 8 reasons to choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

The Manaslu Circuit is a great option if you want an off-the-beaten path experience with beautiful scenery, high Himalayan passes, and authentic interactions with Tibetan-influenced culture.

Everything You Need to Know Before the Manaslu Circuit Trek

8 Reasons to Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek

1. Crossing Larkya La Pass – A Thrilling Challenge

One of the highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the thrill of crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,160m), which is among one of the most long and striking passes in the Himalayas. Before dropping into the lovely Manang Valley, this high-altitude crossing offers a demanding but gratifying experience where you will negotiate glacial moraines, sharp ascents, and a windswept ridge. 

You will get to witness the panoramic views of mountains like Himlung Himal, Kang Guru, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II, that makes your ascent worthwhile. Many trekkers often say that this is the most exciting and unforgettable part of the trip.

2. Less Crowded and Peaceful Trails

Where paths can be swarming with hundreds of trekkers and hikers, as on the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, the Manaslu Circuit Trek remains fairly quiet. And it provides a more serene and immersive experience. 

The restricted nature of this area guarantees that each season only few hikers venture here, enabling you really to get close to nature and appreciate the quietness of the mountains. So, Manaslu is ideal for you if you seek solitude, less commercial exposure, and a more intimate hiking experience.

3. Trek Through the Manaslu Conservation Area

During the Manaslu Circuit trek, you pass through the Manaslu Conservation Area, a sanctuary that protects the vast biodiversity of the Himalayas. Covering over 1,663 square kilometers, the conservation area is home to endangered animals including snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, red pandas, and musk deer. 

You will also witness magnificent waterfalls, glacial rivers, and alpine meadows while trekking across verdant rhododendron, pine, and oak forests. Perfect for nature aficionados, the ecological variety of the journey contributes an enlightening dimension to the experience.

If you want to find out why Manaslu is called the “Killer Mountain,” read our blog.

4. Unique Cultural Experiences

Deeply shaped by Tibetan Buddhist culture, the Manaslu area allows for an opportunity to encounter real Himalayan customs. While passing through the scenic settlements like Samagaon, Samdo, and Lho, you will see the prayer flags flapping in the breeze, ancient mani walls etched with Buddhist mantra, and exquisitely decorated monasteries. 

Mostly of Tibetan descent, the people of the region still observe ancient traditions, so this trip is as much a cultural experience as a physical one. Trekking to the Pungyen Gompa, a remote monastery with magnificent views of Manaslu, is a must-see sight for those who want historical and spiritual elements of the Himalayas.

5. Majestic Landscapes & Breathtaking Mountain Views

Beginning to end, the Manaslu Circuit boasts stunning scenery. From glacial valleys and high-altitude deserts to deep river gorges and subtropical forests, the trek varies greatly and offers ever-changing views that keeps trekking fresh every day. 

Among the best mountain views are Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli. At every point along the path, one can gaze in awe at the pristine and unspoiled beauty of Nepal, so it is one of the 8 reasons to choose the Manaslu Circuit trek.

6. Exceptional Side Trips

The Manaslu circuit is not just about the main trail, it also features some wonderful side outings; they contribute a higher level of excitement and discovery to the trip. From Samagaon, hikers can take a difficult climb to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m), which offers trekkers amazing panoramic perspectives of enormous mountains.

And the hypnotizing Manaslu Glacier, one of the most satisfying detours. Pungyen Gompa, a quiet monastery perched under the glaciated mountainside, provides unparalleled views and a relaxing getaway—a second absolutely must-visit site. 

Birendra Lake, a beautiful glacial lake close Samagaon, offers an ideal setting for reflection and acclimatization for those seeking a more leisurely outing. The path to Rui La Pass in Samdo provides a window into the great, undisturbed wilderness beyond Nepal, where you may see the unaltered, high-altitude scenery close to the Tibetan border. 

Not only do these side trips enrich the whole trek, but they also give more knowledge of the natural beauty, cultural history, and high-altitude leisure of the area, thus making the Manaslu Circuit even more satisfying.

7. Challenging Yet Rewarding Trek

Though it is somewhat difficult and calls for decent physical condition, the benefits of the Manaslu Circuit far surpass any obstacles. The trekkers have to navigate steep climbs, rough trails, and high-altitude stretches, but the satisfaction of reaching every milestone is really unparalleled. 

Your body gets to acclimatize the altitude through the gentle adjustment schedule, thus making the trip pleasurable and safe. Manaslu is a fantastic option if you are in search of a difficult hike that offers magnificent views and a deep feeling of accomplishment.

8. Affordable and Great Value for Money

Although a faraway and restricted hike, the Manaslu Circuit is less expensive than other well-known Himalayan treks such Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit. The expense of permits, housing, and food is still affordable and since it demands a special permit, you would experience a pure and exclusive trek free of over-commercialization. 

Several teahouses offer comfortable accommodations and hot dinners at inexpensive costs along the way. This journey is an excellent choice if you want an adventure with the most economical value.

Permits Required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you need to get three permits:

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

You can get these permits from the Nepal tourism board after you arrive. Similarly, you can also get the permits with the help of travel partners like Awesome Holidays Nepal

Embark on Manaslu Circuit Trek

One of Nepal’s most satisfying trekking experiences, the Manaslu Circuit Trek combines adventure, nature, tradition, and seclusion. For every trekker, this journey offers something: the beauty of the landscapes, the cultural richness, or the tranquility of less traffic routes. We hope that this list of 8 reasons to choose the Manaslu circuit trek will be helpful for you. 

Right at the head of your trekking list should be the Manaslu Circuit if you still long for gorgeous Himalayan scenery and a genuine experience but are seeking an alternative to the more popular trekking itineraries. 

Embark on this remarkable journey and discover one of Nepal’s hidden gems!