The beginner guide for the Manaslu Circuit trek contains all the information, including the itinerary, the best time to visit, challenges, preparation tips, permit details, and others that are necessary for first-time travelers. Manaslu Circuit is located in the Manaslu Conservation Area on the northern side of the Gorkha District of Nepal. The trek is less discovered and less traveled, and it has great adventure, which is a great alternative for popular treks like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit trek.
It is an excellent choice for beginners to trek the Manaslu Circuit because it will take you to the base of the 8th highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163m). Furthermore, the less crowded trails, rich cultural heritage, beautiful scenery, highest mountain vistas, and many more make the Manaslu trek a must-visit trek for Beginners. Continue reading this guide about the Manaslu Circuit trek for beginners to learn more about the trek.
Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Suitable for Beginners?
Yes, the Manaslu Circuit trek is suitable for beginners with the proper preparation beforehand. Though the trek is considered a moderately difficult trek, it does not require technical climbing and prior experience. The trek takes you to varied terrain, suspension bridges, a river crossing, steep ascents, and an uneven path descent. Thus, you need proper leg strength and stamina to walk for longer days in difficult terrain.
With the proper preparation, physical fitness, and mental resilience, first-time travelers can complete the Manaslu Circuit trek. The Manaslu trek will reward beginners with less crowded trails, vibrant landscapes, dense forests, rich Tibetan-influenced culture, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. Therefore, it can be said that the Manaslu Circuit trek is suitable for beginners despite its challenges with adequate preparedness.
Detailed Itinerary of Manaslu Circuit Trek for Beginners
Even strong winds and freezing temperatures exist, especially at the Larkey La Pass. Thus, you need to trek with layered clothing, and there can be the risk of frostbite in the higher altitude area. For beginners, you can choose to trek in seasons like Spring and Autumn, with pleasant and warm weather conditions.
Required Permits For Manaslu Circuit Trek
You need to get three permits to trek in the Manaslu Circuit. These permits are the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit(MRAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit(MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP). These permits are required in specific places like Jagat before crossing Samagaun, Philim, and beyond Bhimthang and Dharapani. Getting the permits will cost a certain amount; the cost varies among foreigners and SAARC nationals besides MRAP. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit cost depends on the number of days you spend and the season you are trekking.
Let’s have the breakdown for the permit cost needed for the Manaslu Circuit trek.
MRAP Cost
- $75 per person in the Spring season (March, April, May) per week
- $100 per person in the Autumn season (September, October, November) per week
MCAP and ACAP Cost
Stunning Scenery
The trek to Manaslu offers stunning scenery with panoramic views of the highest mountains, including Mount Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Boudha Himalaya range, and Annapurna ranges. Further, the landscape changes throughout the trek, from subtropical forests to valleys glaciers to desert-like high meadows. The green hills, waterfalls, rivers, and unique wildlife in the Manaslu Conservation area make nature more beautiful. Thus, beginners should choose the Manaslu Circuit trek to be rewarded with this hidden gem of the Himalayas.
Cultural Richness
Another major thing you would experience is the cultural richness of the Tibetan-influenced communities. Most of the people are Sherpa and Bhutias, known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature in the Himalayas. You can witness the rich cultural heritage of the locals through their daily rituals and the festivals they celebrate. Moreover, they are mostly rooted in their Buddhist religion, and you can find many ancient monasteries and gompas where monks are doing rituals.
Fewer Crowds
Manaslu Circuit is a remote trek and is a less-traveled trekking route in the Himalayas. It is a plus point for beginners to explore the untouched beauty in the serene environment. You can witness the unobstructed surrounding views of the landscapes and the Mountain vistas with fewer crowds. Also, you can enjoy the journey in tranquility and peace.
Tips for a Successful Manaslu Circuit Trek
Trekking to Manaslu Circuit requires proper preparation for beginners. Following are some tips for a successful Manaslu Circuit trek that first-time travelers should follow.
- Choose the favorable trekking season for a comfortable journey.
- Get necessary permits like the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area permit.
- Get physical fitness training, and be mentally prepared.
- Acclimatization properly and get rest days whenever needed.
- Carry layered clothing, gear, equipment, and necessary medication required for this trek.
- Eat a balanced diet food and drink plenty of water to maintain your energy level for trekking.
- Respect local cultures and learn basic etiquette before visiting religious and historical places like monasteries and gompas.
- Carry enough cash because you cannot find the ATMs in the higher region of the trek.
- Keep updated about the weather conditions before planning your trip.
- Hiring a guide is mandatory, and hiring a porter for comfortable trekking is also important.
Packing List for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Necessary Documents
- Passport
- Visa
- Trekking permits
- ID card issued by the Government agency
Clothing and Footwear
- Thermal shirt and pant
- Rain and windproof jackets
- Down jacket and fleece jacket
- Trekking pants and short
- Hiking socks, gloves, and hat
- Trekking boots
- Sandals
Trekking Gear and Equipment
- Rain cover bag
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bag
- Backpack
- Sunglasses
- Trekking bag
- Headlight
Personal items
- Sunscreen
- First-aid kit
- Toiletries
- Hand sanitizers and hand washes
- Toothpaste, toothbrush, and towels
- Powerbanks and charger
- Water bottles
