Why Manaslu Is Also Known as Killer Mountain?

Do you Want to know why Manaslu is also known as Killer Mountain? Mount Manaslu is known as a killer mountain because of its high fatality rate compared to other similar high peaks. Climbing Manaslu is full of challenges, even sometimes life-threatening. This peak has recorded more than 80 deaths to date.

The 8,163-meter high peak is also recorded as the 8th highest mountain in the world and called the Mountain of the Spirit. Manaslu is derived from the Sanskrit word, ‘Manasa,’ which refers to ‘intellect’ or ‘soul.’ It has some dangerous slopes with a high number of accidents. Thus, only the experienced ones opt for this trek for a tough adventure.

With the help of this blog, you will get comprehensive information about the Manaslu Peak. From its facts and difficulties to safety measures, we offer every detail you need. Delve into this article and find your concern related to the eighth-highest peak in the world.

Major Highlights of the Manaslu Mountain

• Standing at the peak, you will see stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Annapurna, Ganesh, and many more.
• This thrilling and challenging journey is perfect for experienced trekkers looking for a demanding adventure in Nepal.
• Located at an altitude of 8,163 meters (26,781 feet), Mount Manaslu is the 8th highest mountain in the world.
• You need technical skills to face steep, icy slopes, crevasses, and tricky ridge crossings.
• You will pass through traditional Tibetan villages like Samagaon. It offers you a perfect chance to immerse yourself in culture and traditions. 
• Compared to Everest and other popular peaks, Manaslu has fewer climbers. Thus, you will get a more peaceful and less crowded expedition.

Why Manaslu is Also Known as Killer Mountain of the World?

Mt Manaslu is called the Killer mountain of the world because of its high death rates. More than 80 people have lost their lives in this adventure, and only 2,172 summits up to 2022, which equals four deaths from every 100 successful ascents. With a success rate of about 60%, to complete this journey, one should have great preparation.

Even though this peak is not the highest in the world, its challenging attitude makes it more difficult to conquer. Its hazardous nature and other factors such as high altitude, avalanches, snowfall, unpredictable weather, and lower oxygen levels have worked together to name this peak a killer mountain. 

Mr. Yuko Maki was the first person to make an ascent of Mt. Manaslu in 1956. Yet, its name, Killer Mountain, was kept in 1972 when the avalanche struck a Korean camp and killed around 15 people. 10 Nepalese, along with Korean expedition leader Kim Ho-sup and the Japanese climber Kazunari Yasuhisa, lost their lives. This event highlights its risk and showcases how deadly Manaslu can be, naming it as one of the killer mountains in the world.

Dangerous Involved In Mount Manaslu Climbing

Unpredictable Weather Conditions in the Himalayas

The weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable, and Mount Manaslu is no exception. You will face sudden changes in temperature with strong winds or unexpected snowfall. The temperature can go below -30°C (-22°F), and storms can generate wind speeds exceeding 100 km/h (62 mph). This harsh weather creates difficulty in navigating the paths, creating delays or abandonment in your journey.

Avalanche Risks

It is considered to be an avalanche-prone area. More than 30 people have lost their lives due to this factor in Manaslu’s climb. In 1972, about 15 people lost their lives due to avalanches. Similarly, in 2012, another major avalanche near Camp 3 killed 11 climbers. Avalanches are more likely in unstable snow conditions and on the steep slopes leading to the summit, particularly after heavy snowfall. The high risk of avalanches makes the Manaslu climb a dangerous climbing peak.

Hit By Falling Seracs

Seracs is a massive block of glacial ice. The fall of Seracs can pose some threats to climbers. These towering ice falls are without any warnings. In 2021, the falling seracs have led to multiple accidents. It is more dangerous in steeper sections of trails, where one will have little time to react to it. Sometimes, being hit by a big fatal ice can cause serious injuries or even deaths. You must assess the stability of the ice and move quickly through high-risk areas.

Altitude Sickness

Reaching above 8,000 meters, the Manaslu climb is an altitude sickness-prone area. Extreme altitude gain can increase the risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS), high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), and high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). More than 40% of the climbers have suffered from altitude sickness to date. The symptoms include shortness of breath, headache, nausea, and dizziness. It can also lead to life-threatening situations if not taken seriously.

Fall

Falls are among the most common causes of death in high-altitude climbs like Manaslu. Steep, icy slopes and narrow ridgelines make the climb technically demanding. A single misstep or a slip on an icy surface can lead to a fatal fall. In 2017, a climber lost his life after falling 300 meters from the summit ridge. Using fixed ropes, proper crampons, and climbing harnesses is essential to minimize fall risks.

Where Is Manaslu Mountain Located?

The Mount Manaslu is located in the Ghorka District of Nepal. Nested in the Mansiri Himal range, you will get to climb this trek if you go to the west-central region of Nepal. It is about 64 kilometers east of Annapurna, the 10th-highest mountain in the world.

It is approximately 120 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu if covered by aerial travel. From the Manaslu base camp to the summit, you must cover a total vertical distance of around 3,363 meters (11,037 feet). Researchers have found that due to two peaks on Manaslu, many climbers who claim to have summited may have only reached a false summit rather than the true peak.

Facts About The Eighth-Highest Mountain In The World

High-Altitude

Mount Manaslu stands at an altitude of 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). It is the 8th tallest mountain in the world. With high-altitude climbing to Manaslu, one can experience a significant drop in oxygen level. You will get only 40% of the oxygen available at sea level. Thus, the risk of altitude sickness is high, making it difficult for the climber to survive without supplemental oxygen.

Ways To Reach It (Routes)

There are two major summits of Manaslu, both starting from Samagaon. The most common route is the Northeast Ridge. This standard path route has several camps. Camp 4, at 7,450 meters, is the final summit push point. Another point is that the Southeast Face is less traveled because of its more technically demanding sections. Both routes take you to remote areas that require technical skills and physical endurance.

Success Rate

With a success rate of 60%, this peak climb is considered one of Nepal’s most challenging climbs, ranging over 8,000 meters. It is reported that over 2000 climbers have summited Mount Manaslu, out of which over 300 had made the summit in 2022. The factors affecting its success include altitude sickness, avalanches, and sudden weather changes. With fewer people climbing each year, it is perfect for thrilling adventurers seekers.

Manaslu Deaths Rate

The death rate of the Manaslu Climb is recorded to be above 9%. Between 1956 and 2022, over 80 climbers lost their lives on the mountain, primarily due to avalanches, falls, and altitude-related complications. The deadly avalanche of 2012, which claimed 11 lives, remains a stark reminder of the dangers of this peak. Since then, many other climbers have also been reported dead in the Manaslu peak climb.

Manaslu Mountain Equpiments Checklist

Clothing:

• Base layers (thermal)
• Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
• Hardshell jacket and pants (windproof, waterproof)
• Gloves (insulated) and mittens
• Warm hat and balaclava

Head & Eye Protection:

• Sunglasses (UV protection)
• Ski goggles (for summit push)

Sleep System:

• Sleeping bag (-30°C/-22°F rated)
• Sleeping pad (insulated)

Backpacks:

• Large expedition backpack (70-80 liters)

Hydration & Nutrition:

• Water bottles (insulated)
• High-energy snacks

Other Essentials:

• First-aid kit (medications, blister care)
• Headlamp (with extra batteries)
• Trekking poles

Note: Climbing gears like crampons, ice axes, helmets, and ropes will be mentioned below.

Things To Consider Before Climbing Manaslu

Take Necessary Permits

Climbing to any peak in Nepal demands permits; the same goes with the Manaslu Peak. It would be best to get all the required permits to climb this dangerous peak. The essential permits needed include Manaslu Climbing Permits, Restricted Area Permits, Annapurna Conservation Area Permits, and the Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit.

Note: Your trekking agency will help you get all the required permits before your adventure.

Appropriate Climbing Gears

Planning for conquering this dangerous journey is not possible if you do not plan for appropriate gear. The gears and other essentials needed play an important role in your safety and success of the journey. Always make sure anything you purchase is of good quality and durable.

But you may be wondering what gears you might require. Here is the essential list of gears you should take with you if you are taking the Manaslu climb:

• Mountaineering boots (insulated, high-altitude specific)
• Crampons (compatible with your boots)
• Ice axe (for self-arrest and stability)
• Climbing harness (lightweight, comfortable)
• Helmet (for protection from falling debris)
• Ascender (Jumar for fixed ropes)
• Carabiners (locking and non-locking)
• Climbing rope (dynamic, high-altitude rated)

First Aid Kit

Taking this dangerous adventure will come with some physical challenges. The chances of getting minor scratches or other minor health-related issues are also high. Even though your expedition will have a doctor, it is also essential for you to get a small preparation in case of emergencies. Thus, you should carry first aid kits with essentials such as:

• Altitude sickness medication (Diamox/Acetazolamide)
• Pain relievers (Ibuprofen or Paracetamol)
• Blister treatment (Compeed or moleskin)
• Sterile gauze pads and adhesive bandages
• Antiseptic wipes or solution
• Elastic bandage (for sprains)
• Oral rehydration salts (ORS)
• Antibiotics (prescribed by a doctor for infections)
• Oxi-meters (to check your oxygen level and pulse)

Expert Guidance

It is not even possible for you to climb Manaslu without any expert guidance. The guides are the Sherpa people from the Himalayas. An adventurous journey with them means an increase in your safety. The guide will help you navigate the trail. Their training will also work best during emergencies. They will also help you boost your confidence, which is important to completing the climb successfully.

Note: Ensure your guide is certified and has some climbing success rate in the Himalayas.

Physical And Mental Preparation

To complete this climb, you need to be physically and mentally prepared. For physical preparedness, you can indulge in cardiovascular training. Similarly, having experience in trekking toward higher altitudes can also work. For mental preparedness, you can opt for meditation and yoga. Also, consider training in some technical equipment you may require on your journey.

Note: Involving in training 4 to 5 months before your adventure will have you prepare more for the upcoming challenges. 

Acclimatization

Climbing to a higher altitude means the journey is impossible without a proper acclimatization plan. As Manaslu peak climbing requires months of expansion and climbing over 8,000 meters, it is very common for you to get altitude sickness. Thus, having a proper resting day in your itinerary according to your fitness level can help you adjust to thinking and help you complete this journey. 

Conclusion

Overall, Mount Manaslu is listed as one of the killer mountains in the world. It is because of the involvement of challenging steep climbs, avalanches, and unpredictable weather conditions. With the completion of the Manaslu climb, you will not only have an adventurous experience but also a sense of accomplishment. To conquer this journey successfully, you should follow some guidelines and properly plan. Having the right gear is also essential; an experienced guide can help enhance your safety.

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