Manaslu circuit trek
November 8th, 2009 | Comments: none
The complete circuit of Manaslu (8163m) over the the Larke Pass (Larkya La) is one of Nepal’s best kept secrets, following remote trails which see relatively few trekkers (though getting more popular, especially in October).
The Manaslu trek begins in either the town of Arughat Bazaar or Gorkha Bazaar – it is not actually a complete circuit and the trek ends in Besi Sahar which is also the starting point for the Annapurna circuit.
Heading northwards the valley opens up to reveal the delightful alpine meadows and small Tibetan-style villages which cluster beneath Manaslu’s sweeping North Face. The trek passes Jagat, Ghap, Pu and Sho, typical Tibetan villages with rows of prayer wheels and mani stones. Eventually the trail reaches Samagaon, the largest and most important village in the region. From here head west and cross the Larke Pass (~5100m), a classic and tough route linking the Buri Gandaki with the Marsyangdi valley. The descent passes through the beautiful alpine meadows at Bimtang before joining the main Annapurna Circuit route and heading to the trailhead at Besi Sahar.
Days: 12-18 depending on itinery
Difficulty: 4 – moderately difficult
Maximum altitude: ~5100m
Seasons: October > May
Accommodation: Tea house trek, though camping always possible.
Permits: Restricted area – you must go with a registered trekking company in a group of 2 or more (at least 2 permits should be purchased). See permit fees page for more info. ACAP permit also required.
Maps: Manaslu map and see also this website for the Manaslu hike.
Click to download (40KB PDF)
Howard Dengate has written a great guide to the trek, including Tsum Valley. Click the image to the right to download it.
Commercial responsible tourism companies offering this trek:
If you can recommend another company, or want to recommend this trek, please add a comment below and we will amend this page.
More treks in Manaslu & Ganesh Himal here.
