Manaslu Circuit Trek is the great choice for adventure seekers. This is a moderately difficult hike. The trekker’s physical condition has a lot to do with the difficulty of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Manaslu Trek is a difficult trek in Nepal that takes you through remote Himalayan villages. It is one of Nepal’s off-the-beaten-path treks. This trek passes Mt. Manaslu, the world’s eighth highest mountain at 8,163m (26,780 ft). And is gaining more popularity as the new jewel in the crown of Himalayan trekking.
The Manaslu Circuit trek is also a pretty great tea house trek. Some even consider it the best all-year-round trek in Nepal. It is unquestionably a superior alternative to the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
It is much less crowded than other classic treks in Nepal like Annapurna or Everest regions. The breathtaking suspension bridge crossings and a Himalayan pass at 1500m (17,000 ft) are mesmerizing.
Things to consider the Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty
Allow us to discuss a few factors that lead to the Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty.
Trekking Distance
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is situated in the northern Himalayas, in the west-central part of the Gorkha district. This trek has a wide range of terrains, ranging from 228 meters at its lowest point to 8,163 meters at the world’s eighth highest peak, Mt. Manaslu.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is approximately 177 kilometers in distance. On a classic 14-day trek itinerary, you’ll be walking for 12- 14 days, covering an average distance of 12-18 km per day, which can be exhausting.
The first few days on the trail are difficult because the Budhi Gandaki Gorge is incredibly steep. You will walk along winding trails and cross suspension bridges above the Budhi Gandaki River. Crossing the Larke La Pass at an elevation of 5,213 meters is a challenge. Trekking through the uneven terrain and rocky trail also requires endurance and strength.
Manaslu Region Weather
The weather is an important factor in determining the Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty. The Manaslu trail takes you through six climatic zones: tropical and subtropical, temperate, subalpine, alpine, and arctic.
During your journey, you may encounter heavy rain, freezing nights, blazing sun, and a chill wind. The days are generally warm and dry, but the nights are cold. It is important to pack clothing appropriate for the season in which you intend to travel.
Trekking in the winter can be especially challenging. The days are warm, but the temperature drops significantly at night, reaching -15 to -20 degrees Celsius.
During the winter, due to the heavy snowfall, the Larke La Pass and many guesthouses remain closed. During the summer/monsoon seasons, there is a lot of rainfall. Due to the heavy heavy rainfall, the trail is slippery, wet, and full of leeches.
The spring season is ideal for trekking because of the clear weather and breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains. It is also perfect time to see rhododendron blossoms.
Autumn is another great season to go Manaslu area. It is also the busiest season for trekking. The weather is pleasant, and the scenery is stunning.
So, if you plan your trek during the spring and autumn seasons, you can reduce the difficulty of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Altitude Sickness During the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness makes a hiking difficult especially during high altitude treks.
Manaslu Trek has good variations in terms of altitude. As a result, one of the most difficult aspects of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is adjusting to high altitudes.
The trek begins at a lower elevation of 700 meters and ascends to a higher elevation of 5213 meters at the Larke La Pass. E veryone is at risk of altitude sickness, so being well informed about it can help to reduce the risk.
You should take the following precautions to prevent altitude sickness:
- Climb slowly. Your body will needs a couple of days of slowly going higher in order to adjust to the changes.
- At higher altitudes, your body needs more calories. So, pack plenty of healthy snacks containing carbohydrates.
- Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and medications such as sleeping pills, which can worsen altitude sickness.
- Staying hydrated is important for avoiding altitude sickness.
- If you get a headache or feel sick, stop and rest where you are, take appropriate medicines, and tell your guide immediately.
How to Prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
It is best to train your body several months in advance of any trip. This minimizes the risk of any health-related issues or will prepare you in increasing your stamina. This will make your journeys much more comfortable.
How Do I Prepare for the Manaslu Trek?
It is best to prepare your body several months in advance of any adventure. This reduces the chance of any health concerns or will train you in boosting your stamina. This will make your journeys much more comfortable.
Endurance and Strength Training
When it comes to determining your fitness level for hiking, strength and endurance training are the most important.
During the journey, you will have to trek for a few hours with your backpack every day, so it is important that you build your strength.
Leg strength is also important for your trip, so include workouts to improve your leg muscles in your preparation.
Another major factor to keep in mind is your diet. Drink plenty of water and eat foods are rich in carbohydrates, protein, and fiber while training.
Cardio Fitness
Manaslu Circuit Trek requires good cardiovascular fitness. It improves your heart and lungs’ ability to supply oxygen-rich blood to your muscles during the trek.
As altitude ascents, air pressure lowers, resulting in less oxygen to breathe. To cope with less oxygen, you must improve your cardiovascular fitness.
Swimming, cycling, running, jogging, and walking are all best exercises for developing cardiovascular fitness.
Mentally Prepare
You can only imagine how the trek will be until you start the trek. So, to get a feel of how your body reacts to long hours of walking, try a few one-day hikes.
There are other short treks in Kathmandu that you can do before starting on the Manaslu circuit. Doing this will help you prepare yourself mentally for Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Permit and Guide
Yes, permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Learn more about the permits here.
The Manaslu Circuit trek is very near to the Tibetan region. So, no one is permitted to trek alone for individual safety or to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
All trekkers must obtain a permit and a registered trek guide before trekking in the Manaslu region.
Conclusion
Regardless of its reputation as a difficult trip, this is only a moderate trek. And with the right fitness, mental preparation, and attitude, this trek will be one of the best of your life.
Are you are considering for a journey to Manaslu Circuit but putting it off because of the rumors of it being difficult? Let us promise you that with good guideance and help you can trek to Manaslu without any difficulties!
March to May and September to November are the ideal months for trekking in Manaslu.
Please contact us if you have any further questions or queries. We would be delighted to assist and guide you on your journey.
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