In this blog we will know the Top 5 Treks in Manaslu Region. If you are planning to trek in remote Himalaya of Nepal this blow will help to know the top 5 trekking routes of Manaslu region Nepal. The Manaslu region lies inside the northern Himalayas in the conservation area of Nepal in the Gorkha district, which is a gateway to the beautiful trekking destinations like the Manaslu Circuit Trek, Manaslu Base Camp Trek, Tsum Valley Trek, Rupina La Pass Trek, and many more.
Let’s discuss Top 5 Treks in Manaslu Region in detail so that you don’t miss any information before starting your trek.
Table of Contents
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Duration:14–18 days
Max Altitude: 5,160 m (Larkya La Pass)
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is the first and well-known trekking route in the Manaslu region. The MCT trek takes you to the foothill of the giant mountain Manaslu and to one of the highest passes in Nepal, which is Larka La Pass, at an altitude of 5160 meters. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a lesser-known trekking region that gets fewer visitors compared to the Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp.
The region is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, and you will get to witness mani walls, prayer wheels, and centuries-old monasteries. This Manaslu trek is also part of a restricted area, meaning a special permit is required, and a licensed guide is mandatory, ensuring a more controlled and responsible travel experience.
Manaslu Base Camp Trek
Duration:1–2 extra days (side trip from Manaslu Circuit)
Max Altitude: 4,800 m
The Manaslu base camp trek is another trekking route in the Manaslu region, which can be accessed by the beautiful village of Sama Gaon at an altitude of 3530 meters above sea level. Manaslu base camp lies at an altitude of 4800 meters above sea level, which is the perfect place to witness the majestic views of Mount Manaslu and its glacial moraines, glacial formations, and beautiful views of Samagaun seen from above. Also, you will see the Birendra Lake, which is formed by the melting glaciers of the Manaslu ranges, which adds beauty to the trek.
Tsum Valley Trek
Duration:12–14 days
Max Altitude: 3,700 m (Mu Gompa)
The Tsum Valley trek is a beautiful village located inside the restricted area of the Manaslu ranges. The valley is known for its cultural and spiritual richness. The valley is inhabited by the Tsumbas, who follow the ancient Bon and Tibetan culture. The valley is famous for its ancient gompas like Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Gumba Lungdang, which is the spiritual site for the Buddhist followers. You will witness the mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags along the trails. Also from the Tsum Valley, beautiful Himalayan ranges can be seen, like Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal.
The Tsum Valley is less popular and not known by many like the Nar Phu Valley, due to which it still has preserved its culture, traditions, and ancient history. To reach the valley, you will be passing through beautiful villages that are ensnared by forests, terraced fields, and alpine meadows, with chances to see blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, and, if lucky, even snow leopards. The Tsum Valley trek is the perfect trekking place for you if you want to experience life in one of the last remaining Himalayan Buddhist sanctuaries.
Rupina La Pass Trek
Duration: 12–16 days
Max Altitude: 4,610 m (Rupina La Pass)
Rupina La Pass is another pass in Nepal that is known for its wild adventure, solitude, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery. It lies at an altitude of 4,610 meters (15,125 feet), due to which it is an easy trek, and you can cross the pass without much effort, but it offers breathtaking views of the mountains like Manaslu (8,163 m), Himalchuli, Boudha Himal, and Ganesh Himal. The Rupina La Pass trek is less commercialized compared to the famous trekking routes like the EBC trekor the ABC trek.
On the way, you will be passing through many beautiful places like thick forests, river valleys, traditional Gurung and Magar villages, and alpine terrains. The trek is easy compared to the other passes like Larke La Pass or Thorong La Pass, due to which you can easily cross, as its altitude is just 4600 meters, which is easy compared to other passes.
Tsum Valley + Manaslu Circuit Combo Trek
Duration: 22–26 days
Max Altitude: 5,160 m (Larkya La Pass)
If you want to explore both beautiful places on the way to the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Tsum Valley, then the Tsum Valley + Manaslu Circuit Combo Trek is perfect for you. As you will be trekking between two of the most well-known trekking regions in the Manaslu region, which is known for its scenic landscapes, peaceful places, adventure, and beautiful mountain range views. This trek will combine the spiritual depth of Tsum Valley with the grandeur of the Manaslu Circuit. The Tsum Valley + Manaslu Circuit Combo Trek can be long compared to the normal treks, as first you will cross Tsum Valley and then cross the Larke La Pass.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to trek in the Manaslu Region?
Yes, you will need permits to trek in the Manaslu region, like
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (TRP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Is a guide mandatory for these treks?
Yes, a guide is mandatory for these treks because it does not matter which treks you choose inside the Manaslu region; all the trekking destinations lie inside the restricted area, due to which solo trekking is banned, and without a guide, entry is also banned.
What is the best time to trek in the Manaslu region?
The best time to trek in the Manaslu region is during the months of March to May in spring and September to November in autumn.
Are teahouses available, or do I need to camp?
Yes, teahouses are available throughout the trek with basic twin-sharing facilities. But during the peak seasons, if no rooms are available, you may need to camp.
What is the difficulty level of these treks?
The difficulty level of these treks is:
- Manaslu Circuit: Challenging (due to high altitude and Larkya La Pass)
- Tsum Valley: Moderate (no high passes)
- Rupina La: Difficult (wild trails, steep ascents, remote and often snow-covered passes)
- Manaslu Base Camp: Moderate (steep but short side hike)
- Combo Trek: Challenging and long (requires good stamina)
What kind of physical fitness is required?
You will need a good level of physical and mental health to complete any of these treks because you will be trekking in the mountain region where AMS (acute mountain sickness, altitude mountain sickness) is common.
Can I do a combined trek like Tsum Valley + Manaslu Circuit?
Yes, you can combine a trek like the Tsum Valley + Manaslu Circuit trek, as it is one of the most rewarding treks in Nepal, but it takes 3+ weeks. Make sure to secure both Tsum Valley and Manaslu permits.
Tags: circuit trekking, Hiking, manaslu circuit trek, manaslu trek, nepal, trekking