The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a trek in the western part of Nepal, which reaches an altitude of 5100m at Larke La Pass. It lies in the base of Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain in the world with a height of 8163m from above sea level. The entire circuit is a mix of raw Himalayan nature and ancient Buddhist culture. It is among the least crowded treks in the western region of Gorkha Nepal. The trek offers a lot of side trips than any other base camp, although most of the trekkers only explore the Manaslu Circuit.
What to expect?
Manaslu Circuit is 20 days long trek with a mystical view of the Himalayas, an amusing scenario of nature, and full of adventure. The journey begins from Kathmandu (1300m). About an 8-9 hours drive from Kathmandu to Arkhet Bazaar for the very first day will give you the feeling of entering into the Wild West of Nepal. Small local hotels lie next to a rushing river with the wonderful sound that will give you the best feeling.
The first few days of the trek are the most dramatic and picturesque days for the visitor. The alpine green valley below 2000m makes the visitor feels paradise. The entire route is encompassed with both Hindu and Buddhist cultures. The hike passes through green terraces, several suspension bridges, the roar of Mountain Rivers and waterfalls. To reach the end destination we have to follow the river valley. The entire time you walk, the beautiful Mountain View and the sound of the running river make the trek more exciting.
After heading towards the northern part we can observe the groups of Tibetan-Nepalese live in an area known as Tsum Valley. They follow their own ancient form of art, culture, and religion. The valley is plain and uniquely rich in wildlife, especially Himalayan Thar and Blue Sheep. The valley is surrounded by Ganesh Himal and unique historic monasteries.
After crossing Tsum valley, it starts to feel the altitude with thin air and freezing temperatures at night. The villager in this area is dependent on annual harvest, growing only buckwheat, potatoes, wheat and beans.
Dharamshala which is situated at around 4460m altitudes, is the highest point where trekkers sleep before the final push to Larke La Pass. This place is surrounded by snowcapped peaks. The beautiful scenario really melts every one heart easily.
The early sunrise hike from above the clouds leads you to the final destination Larke La PAss situated at an altitude of 5100m. It took about 4 hours to get to the pass from Dharamshala. It’s gradual uphill from Dharamshala to Larke La Pass where we have to gain altitude from 4400m to 5100m. After reaching Larke La Pass, you can experience the majestic mountain decorated with snow which is just amusing.
On the way back from the trek, you can also take the experience of a beautiful lake namely Pongkar Lake. It is a little glacier lake down in the valley It is one of the beautiful spots throughout the journey. The reflection of the mountain in the water of Pongkar Lake adds more beauty to the lake.
What to Eat?
You can taste the typical Nepali thali containing daalbhaatachartarkari, dhedo, sisnu and buffalo sukuti. All this food will help you to gain energy for every day trek. You can also experience the warm rakshi a strong drink made from millet which keeps you warm in cold temperature.
-Article Written by: Anita Khatri for Land Nepal
