Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty mainly caters to experienced trekkers. Beginners with a moderate level of fitness cannot complete this trek. Located in the Manaslu region of Nepal, the trek encircles the 8th-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163 m). This adventurous journey will take you off the beaten path. Popularly known for remote and less crowded trails, this trekking route offers you more authentic beauty of Nepal compared to popular treks like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Trek.

The major highlight of this trek is the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters. Upon reaching there, you will witness the panoramic views of snow-capped mountains such as Mount Manaslu, Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and other peaks. The starting point of the Manaslu Circuit trek is Soti Khola, which Gurung and Tibetan people inhabit. Throughout the trek, you can witness many monasteries and experience the unique Buddhist culture people follow.

You cannot expect to get well-marked trails, better amenities, and meal options on the Manaslu circuit like other popular routes. However, you will get to see nature’s unspoiled beauty. To complete this trek, you need to get special restricted area permits. You should make proper preparations and, if possible, hire a guide to complete the Manaslu Region Trek, as we recommend. Overall, the trek combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and a thrilling route, making it ideal for trekkers seeking a more secluded and thrilling experience in Nepal.

How Difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered to be challenging. Graded to be 9 out of 10, this trekking adventure will take you to the remote destination of Nepal. The challenging factors of the trek include its rugged terrain, diverse landscapes, and steep ascends and descends. The long days of hiking in these diverse landscapes cannot be as easy as you thought.

Reaching over 5,000 meters the highest altitude you will reach is Larke La Pass at 5,106 meters. The chances of getting altitude sickness are also high, which can be risky for your life. In the Himalayas, the climate is also unpredictable. The climate can be warm, and suddenly, you can feel the clouds covering the area.

Furthermore, the off-the-beaten paths and remote destinations of the area limit the availability of amenities. You will get a limited number of accommodations, and a variety of food is also difficult to find. Finding ATMs, hospitals, and shops in that area is hard and not available. Although trekking can be quite challenging towards Manaslu Circuit, if you are well prepared and aware of the difficulty, you can easily complete this trek.

Breakdown of Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty Level

Long Trek Distance

The Manaslu Circuit covers about 180 kilometers (110 miles). To complete this adventure, it requires 14 days, a two-week adventure with a continuous hike of 6 to 7 hours in the rugged terrain daily. You will walk through sloppy and steep trails, making your way through lush forests and uphill and downhill. Although most sections of the trek are moderately difficulty, the Larkhya La Pass is quite challenging for you to cover.

Also, with less popularity and remote, in many sections of the trail, it will be difficult for you to find any human beings. This can be quite a problem in this trial, as there will be little or no one for you during emergencies. For a continuous 14 days, you need to be in fear of being lost or having some emergencies. The only easy way to cover this trek in a short time is by helicopter ride, but it can not be favorable for every person. 

High Elevation And Altitude Sickness

This adventure will take you to one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal. The Larkhya La Pass, at 5,106 meters, is the most challenging section of the entire journey. To reach there, it is very important for you to have good physical fitness. You will be trekking above 3000 meters for a continuous 6 days, which not only offers you high elevation challenges but also requires strong mental endurance.

Also, reaching that altitude means you have to encounter the thinning oxygen level. Thus, there is a high chance that you will get altitude sickness. Some of the symptoms include headache, nausea, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Although many may not get it, for some, this can also be life-threatening. Some may feel suffocated much earlier, while the pro hikers are likely to suffer less from it.

How to Avoid Altitude Sickness

• You should start hydrating throughout the journey. Drinking about 3 liters of water is enough to protect you from dehydration.
• Include a proper acclimatization plan on your itinerary. For about 14 days of trek, two days of rest can be ideal.
• Avoid having coffee and alcohol on your journey, which can cause dehydration.
• Ascends gradually and do not overdo it. Take frequent breaks and let your body adjust to thinning air.
• Take it slow and listen to your body, as it can be life-threatening. If your symptoms get severe, you should descend back to a lower altitude.

Unpredictable Himalayas Weather And Climate

The weather in the Himalayas is always unpredictable. Trekking towards Manaslu Circut, you may feel the same. During the ideal trekking season, you may not encounter huge changes, but you are likely to witness sudden changes like little rainfall or snowfall in the journey. The temperature can range between 20 degrees to 0 degrees in higher latitudes. The higher the altitude you climb, the more you will witness a decrease in temperature. Make sure you put on warm clothes, no matter which season of the year you are trekking.

Also, in unfavorable seasons, it is very likely for you to encounter bad temperatures and weather to complete the trek. The storms and heavy rainfall with cold temperatures in the monsoon season, as well as the heavy snowfall and below-0 temperatures in winter, are definitely not going to make your trekking adventure fun. With sudden and unpredictable weather, from warm to cold and sunny to stormy, windy, and rainfall, the Manaslu Circuit trek will be quite a challenge for you if you are not prepared well.

Remote And Rugged Terrain

The Manaslu Circuit Trek leads through some of the most remote and rugged terrain in Nepal. The trails you will pass are often narrow, steep, and rocky. Passing through dense forests, high mountain passes, and deep gorges can be adventurous but also challenging. The ruggedness of the landscapes will add difficulty along with the paths that have been affected by landslides or snow. Experience on such terrains or the use of trekking poles for stability is highly recommended.

Due to the remoteness of the area, emergency services like hospitals or helicopter evacuations are not easily accessible. This makes your preparation and self-reliance crucial. You should be aware of the weather conditions and should make a backpack according to it. Proper gear, such as waterproof clothing, sturdy boots, and navigational tools, is necessary for safely traversing this isolated region.

Availability of Accommodation And Food

The remoteness of the area creates a difficulty in accommodations, especially in remote areas. Tea houses provide basic lodging with shared facilities, and higher-up options become even more scarce. During peak trekking seasons, securing a room can be difficult, and comfort is minimal, with little to no heating in the rooms. Also, finding accommodation in the winter season can be more difficult.

Similarly, food availability can be a challenge, as choices are limited to local staples like dal bhat, noodles, and soups. As you ascend to higher altitudes, prices increase, and variety decreases due to the difficulty of transporting supplies. Relying on basic meals, while essential, might not fully meet a trekker’s energy needs, so carrying additional snacks is advisable.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty In Different Seasons

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the most pleasant times for you to visit the Manaslu Circuit Trek. You will get clear skies and the best views of the surrounding landscapes. Also, the pleasant and warm temperature is something that makes your trek safe. However, the warm temperature can melt the frozen lakes and glaciers, making the trail slippery and muddy. Thus, navigating the trail can be quite a challenge.

Also, spring can bring some occasional rainfall. You can also spot some insects and animals; thus, if you are the one who can easily get scared of them, this can be quite a hassle for you. Furthermore, the season’s popularity can cause problems in finding the right accommodations. Also, the trail can be crowded and may not be suitable for people looking for a quiet atmosphere.

Summer (June to August)

Not a popular season for trekking, navigating the trail in the summer season increases your challenges. Summer brings monsoon together. Although the temperature can be quite warmer in this season, the heavy rainfall can be a huge problem. This can make the trail slippery, and the risk of landslides is also high during winter. The chance of falling off the trail is also high, asking for your life.

In addition to that, the clouds are also seen, which decreases the visibility of the snow-capped mountains. Walking alongside the huge lush forests, you will have a higher chance of getting leeches and other insects in your body. This can be uncomfortable for you and can increase the overall difficulty of your journey.

Aumtun (Spetember to November)

Another perfect season after the spring season is autumn. Like spring, during this season, you will also get a stable temperature and clear skills. Also, this is the festival season. The two major festivals of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar, are celebrated. Thus, it will give you an opportunity to discover the unique culture and traditions of Western Nepal. The reddish color forests also add beauty to the journey.

However, compared to the spring season, the temperature in autumn can be low, ranging to 0 degrees. This can be a disturbing factor for you. Furthermore, the crowded trails and the limited accommodations available can add more challenges to the overall journey. Make sure you book accommodation earlier and carry a supplementary camping bag with you.

Winter (December to February)

The Manaslu region, during the winter season, is covered with snow. It will be difficult for you to navigate the paths, and the decreased temperature below -10 degrees cannot be favorable for you to trek. Although the temperature can be freezing cold, you will have a great chance to witness the white snow-covered mountain all along the trekking route.

Most of the teahouses during this season at higher altitudes are closed. Thus, finding accommodation can be more difficult than during the peak season. You are required to carry a sleeping bag and camping equipment with you, which further adds weight to your trekking equipment. Thus, it is not so perfect. It is only recommended that you travel if you have prior experience trekking towards the Himalayas.

A 14-Day Itinerary With Difficulty

Physical & Mental Fitness Required For Manaslu Trek Difficulty in Manaslu Region

Trekking towards the Manaslu Circuit Trek demands a good level of physical fitness and mental resilience. To make yourself physically ready, you can take part in regular exercise prior to 4 months of your journey. Your training should include cardiovascular exercises such as hiking, jogging, and cycling to improve your stamina. For strength improvement, you can opt for squats, lunges, and planks.

In addition to that, you should also incorporate balancing and flexibility training like yoga and stretching in your preparation. Similarly, having proper mental resilience is also essential. The challenges like remote locations and limited facilities may frustrate you. For this, you should practice mindfulness or meditation. With the involvement of these two techniques, you can stay focused and calm during difficult sections of the trail.

Tips for successful Manaslu Circuit Trek

Acclimatization

Trekking to Manaslu Circuit Trek means you are crossing an altitude of over 5,000 meters. Thus, it is very important for you to include a proper acclimatization plan in your journey. The inclusion of acclimatization in your trek will help you adjust to thinning air at higher altitudes. A day off means you can either rest the whole day and prepare for upcoming days or you can explore the nearby location of your staycation place. So, it is generally recommended for you to plan an itinerary based on your health, fitness, and walking pace.

But you may be wondering what the perfect resting spot for Manaslu Circuit Trek is. The proper acclimatization for a 14-day trip should include two resting days. They are:

• Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Samagaun
• Day 9: Acclimatization Day in Samdo

Selecting The Right Time For Trek

As important as acclimatization, it is also essential for you to select the right time to trek towards the Manaslu Region. The right time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is spring and autumn. Exploring the area during this season helps you reduce the risk and difficulty level. You will get clear skies, mild temperatures, and stable weather. This can ease your trekking journey. Also, the long days help you make walking even easier. The right time not only enhances your safety on the journey but also offers you the best chance to witness the beauty of surrounding landscapes and snow-capped mountains.

Besides these two seasons, it is generally not recommended that you make a journey during winter and summer. The reason for this has already been discussed, but make sure you do not forget it when planning your trips towards the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Choosing Professional Guides and Porters

If you are planning to trek towards the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it is better for you to hire a guide and porter, especially if you are a beginner. Make sure the guide and porter you choose are experienced enough to help you throughout the journey. To make a booking, you are generally recommended to look for certified guides. You can also look at their reviews and ratings. When you are booking with a travel agency, make sure you do not just look for their reputation and itinerary but also look for the guides and porter they are offering you.

The professional guide will enhance your safety while also helping you navigate and deal with emergencies. They also know the place well, thus helping you provide insights into the local area and local people throughout the journey.

Proper Hydration & Nutritious Food Intake

Make sure you are hydrated properly and eat nutritious food for your journey towards the Manaslu Circuit. This helps to enhance your safety throughout the trek. To stay hydrated, you should drink about 3 to 4 liters of water every day. This helps protect you from dehydration and also helps prevent altitude sickness. Similarly, avoiding caffeine and alcohol is very important for dehydration. The food you take should include the proper amount of protein to it. This provides you with the energy you need to hike for the next 6 to 7 hours of the day.

Also, make sure the water you drink on the journey is clean. You can use chlorine tablets for water filtration. Boiling water, which you can get from the teahouse, is also best for you. But for ease of consumption, you can opt for the water filtration technique.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not compulsory for your adventure. However, getting one will free you from financial worries, so it is generally recommended. Travel insurance helps you cover your expenses during unexpected events. From medical emergencies and trip cancellations to lost luggage or flight delays, it covers everything. For trekking adventures in remote locations like Manaslu Circuit Trek, travel insurance ensures you get timely medical care or emergency evacuation.

This coverage gives you peace of mind, knowing you’re protected from unforeseen risks. When getting travel insurance, you should properly look for its plan and coverage. Make sure your insurance has emergency evacuation if you are opting for the Manaslu trek.

Essential Packing List

If you are trekking towards the Manaslu Circuit trek, you should make a proper list of essentials you may need on the journey. To make your trek a little easier, it is also recommended that you carry about 8 to 9 kgs of bags. This packing weight will make you walk even easier compared to heavier ones. Also, if you are hiring a porter, make sure you properly pack it in a duffle bag, as he will be carrying bags of other fellow trekkers, too.

But you may be wondering how you can limit the weight of the backpack and what essentials should be included with it. Here is the perfect packing list which can be helpful for you.

Clothing:

• Base layers (thermal tops and bottoms)
• Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down jacket)
• Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and pants
• Trekking pants and shirts (light and quick-dry)
• Warm hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
• Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (high SPF)
• Sturdy trekking boots and extra woolen socks
• Camp shoes or sandals for the evenings

Trekking Gear:

• Backpack (50-70L) with a rain cover
• Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C or colder)
• Trekking poles for stability on rugged terrain
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Reusable water bottles and water purification tablets or filter

Personal Essentials:

• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap)
• Quick-dry towel and wet wipes
• Basic first aid kit (bandages, blister treatment, painkillers)
• Altitude sickness medication (Diamox), if needed
• Snacks (energy bars, trail mix)

Miscellaneous:

• Camera, spare batteries, and memory cards
• Power bank and charging cables
• Trekking permits and copies of your passport
• Cash (ATMs are unavailable on the trek)

Conclusion

Although trekking to the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be a hassle for you, with proper planning and preparation, you can complete this trek. With a much more physically demanding section, it is generally recommended that you do some physical training 3 to 4 months prior to your trek. Furthermore, being mentally ready for the remote nature of the trek is also equally important. With this adventure, you will not just witness the stunning landscapes and mountain views but can also immerse yourself in its cultural diversity. This trek is generally referred to as experienced trekkers, but if you are a beginner, be sure you are ready and have a guide with you.