The Manaslu circuit trek is a stunning experience that takes you closer to Mount Manaslu. The trek offers a fantastic opportunity to adventure in the mountains and also get close to knowing and learning about new cultures, people, festivals, and rituals. This blog will explain the best reasons to experience the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Manaslu Region is not as famous as other trekking destinations in Nepal, such as Annapurna and Everest. It is among the less exploited regions, which is why there are fewer crowds compared to other trekking destinations. Furthermore, the Manaslu region also falls in the restrictive region of Nepal, so you need to issue a restriction permit to experience the trek. Since it is a restrictive region, you must have at least two trekkers and one guide to trek the region.
So, if you are still deciding whether to trek the Manaslu circuit, we will provide eight reasons why you should. Let’s get into it.
8 Reasons to Experience Manaslu Circuit Trek
1. Explore Untouched Natural Beauty
One of the most common reasons for experiencing the Manaslu Circuit Trek is that many trekkers do not experience it. Unlike the Everest Base Camp Trek, few trekkers know about this stunning destination, so it has remained relatively untouched. Hence, you can experience the natural and raw beauty of the Himalayas and explore through lush green forests, terraced fields, alpine lakes, glacial valleys, and snow-capped mountains. The trek in the Manaslu region will become mesmerizing and last a lifetime in your memory.
2. Cultural Immersion:
Manaslu region is the home of some of the ancient Buddhist monasteries, Gumbas, and nunnaries. When you explore the region, you will come across several ancient meditation caves and spots for Buddhist monks and pilgrims for their prayers. The people around the region are inhabited by Tibetans, Gurungs, and Magars, who live unique lifestyles and traditions. Those who want to know more about the culture can visit the Upper Manaslu region to explore the Beyuls, a hidden paradise created by respected Guru Rinpoche.
3. Manaslu Conservation Area:
The Manaslu Trek passes through the protected Manaslu Conservation Area, which is home to a wide variety of Himalayan plants and animals. The conservation park covers an area of 1663 square kilometers. It is home to rare animals such as the Himalayan Musk Deer, Snow leopard, Blue Sheep, Himalayan Tahr, Himalayan Black bear, lynx, and Himalayan Marmot. The area also boasts over a hundred species of birds and two thousand species of plants. It features eleven types of forests and six climatic zones, including tropical, sub-tropical, temperate, alpine, sub-alpine, and arctic. This diverse climate makes the region one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in the Himalayas.
4. Safe Adventure
Manaslu Circuit Trek is in a restricted region of Nepal, so you must trek with at least one more trekker, and guides are compulsory. These new rules make the treks even safer. With a guide alongside you, your treks become safer, and it will be easier for you to navigate throughout the region safely. Make no mistake that trek in the Manaslu region is very challenging as you have to pass through Larkya La Pass at an elevation of 5,160 meters (16,930 feet). Hence, making your trek safer is a wise move so that you will return home in a safe condition.
5. Breathtaking Panoramas
The trek takes you closer to Mt. Manaslu, at an altitude of 8,163 meters. It is the eighth tallest mountain in the world and one of the fifteen mountains, about 8,000 m. Many more mountains are visible during your Manaslu Circuit Trek, including Himlung Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna II. The locals consider the mountain as their guardian deity and strictly prohibit killing or harming any living beings, including animals, birds, and insects, in the settlements near the mountain.
6. Larkya La Pass
Larkya Pass is the way to reach the region’s most minor peak, Larkya Peak. At an altitude of over 5000m, Larkya La Pass is more challenging and fun, but as you cross it, you will feel a sense of accomplishment.
7. Preserving Local Communities:
Choosing the Manaslu Circuit Hike contributes to the well-being of local communities. The region has benefited from responsible tourism initiatives that empower locals economically and socially. By trekking here, you directly support these initiatives, ensuring that the region’s beauty and culture remain intact for future generations.
8. A Journey of Self-Discovery:
Lastly, the Manaslu Trek is not just an external journey; it’s a journey of self-discovery. The mountains’ solitude and the trail’s challenges provide ample time for introspection and personal growth. Many trekkers find a deep sense of inner peace and clarity as they navigate the stunning landscapes and immerse themselves in the rhythms of the Himalayas.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an incredible experience in the stunning Manaslu region. It allows you to get up close to the unique beauty of the mountains and takes you through different terrain variations, such as lush forests, green grasslands, vibrant valleys, and snow-peak mountains.
So, if you are still wondering whether you want to trek the Manaslu region, we hope our eight reasons compel you to try it. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an unforgettable adventure, and you will indeed create long-lasting memories.
