Manaslu Circuit Trek Is Fast Emerging As The Destination of the Year

Winding through a protected conservation area, teeming with endangered animals, plants and birds, dotted with local villages and monasteries, the Manaslu Circuit Trek follows an ancient trade route through Nepal’s spiritual hinterland – something that hasn’t gone unnoticed by hikers keen to experience the majestic Himalayas as they have existed for millennia.

Specialist Nepal-based hiking agency, Nepal Hiking Team has identified this region in Western Nepal as one of the most in-demand destinations for adventure travellers this year, with record numbers of hikers keen to get off the beaten track on the Manaslu Circuit.

Its popularity is booming amongst those who want to experience a real slice of the fabled mountain range, rather than opting for one of the more well-travelled routes, following the opening of borders post-pandemic.

Ganga Raj Thapa, CEL of Nepal Hiking Team said, “After completing the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, many hikers look for other options and Manaslu Circuit Trek is increasingly topping the list. It is challenging, fun, and much less crowded and safe to travel. We are not surprised to have seen a real increase in the number of trekkers inquiring and booking the Manaslu Circuit Trek this year and are delighted to be able to showcase Western Nepal’s beauty as well as help hikers immerse themselves in Tibetan culture, lifestyle, and our way of life.”

With trekkers only permitted to traverse the unspoilt Manaslu region since 1991, its quieter and less congested, giving hikers a sense of what exploring the Himalayas has been like since time began. It’s a route which brings the true beauty of Nepal to live, replete with Buddhist culture and traditions; something which is tempting hikers away from the more well-travelled trails in search of a more authentic taste of this richly cultured, geographically diverse treasure which hugs the southern slopes of the Himalayan Mountain range.

The Manaslu trail winds through 1,663 sq. km, inhabited by Musk deer, blue sheep and golden eagles. Comfortable tea houses line the trail, while hikers can enjoy the spectacular vistas of the Manaslu, from a high-altitude pass of Larkya La.

The trail also includes awe-inspiring views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II, along with the villages of Amrung and Samagaon. The region’s most well-known monastery, Ribung Gompa, sits in the trailside village of Lho Gaun, and its vibrant collection of religious artworks.

Springtime visitors (March to May) can expect to see snow still carpeting the mountainous foothills, as winter slowly seeps away. Autumn (September to November) is also popular due to the favourable weather.

All-inclusive trips start from £1,182 / $1,450.

To find out more, visit: https://www.nepalhikingteam.com/package/manaslu-circuit-trek or view a video of this trek on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5NRpl4wR8s