• Modified on Sep 28, 2021

Manaslu Circuit Trek is simply one long trek in Nepal with enough challenges to be surpassed. Many trekkers want to seek the high altitude passes and the lap of gigantic mountains. However, there are no easy roads into Manaslu Circuit Trek and every person seeking to view mountains from close will need to trek there. While calculating the Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty, it is regarded as one of the medium to somehow hard in some part of the trial.

Lots of adventure seekers are facing challenges while trekking in the Manaslu region because they understand that behind every difficulty there are always rewards for one precious and lifetime experience. A lifetime adventure, this trek makes you remember from captivating landscapes, unique culture, and astonishing wildlife to the tranquility of monasteries. But no need to panic! It is not that tough and anyone with basic fitness and proper preparation can do this incredible journey.

That being said, there are a number of crucial factors to consider such as climate, route, altitude, and training. These things will help you determine whether the Manaslu Circuit route is the right trek for you or not. Some of the major challenges and the difficulties of Manaslu Trekking are described below with some tips to prepare for them.

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Manaslu Circuit Trek Climate

As this is the 8th highest mountain, this peak lies at 8163 meters above sea level. This peak lies in this Mansiri Himal in the west-central part of Nepal. Compared to other treks, Manaslu Trek is more peaceful due to the less traffic in the region.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a perfect destination to embrace the trekking experience that gives you the best views of the gigantic Himalayan range and the beauty of the dense forest.

The weather at high altitudes is quite unpredictable and challenging. The ideal weather and climate of Manaslu Trek are in Autumn and Spring. You will find a suitable climate at this altitude in those seasons.

The lower region will be mild compares to the high region in the mountains. Compared to the lower parts temperature may drop to -10 to -15 degrees in higher parts. The normal temperature in winter is below 10 degrees. So, the trek will be quite challenging in winter, mainly at night and morning. So, before trekking make sure the climate is suitable to trek so that your trek will be more efficient. Summers and winters are more challenging as the trials get extra adventurous. Hence, it is quite a challenging trek in the offseason.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Route Distance

Manaslu Circuit Trek route begins with a long drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola around (137.5 km) would approximately take an 8 to 9 hours ride. Our trek from Soti Khola to Sama Gaon will be adventurous and full of surprise. Further following our destination will be more adventures which leads you to Larkya La Pass (5,106 m/16,751 ft.). Descend down the trail leading us to a large field in Bhimtang (3,720 m) then further proceeding to Dharapani. From there we ride the local transportation back to Kathmandu.

Manaslu Circuit Trek lies in the northern Himalayan range, the west-central part of the Gorkha district. This trek is widely diverse, as the terrains range from its lowest point of 228 m to 8,163 m of the world’s eighth highest Mt. Manaslu.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is about 177 kilometers in total distance. On a standard 16 days tour itinerary, you’ll be walking for 10-12 days. With an average walking distance each day of approximately 15-20 km, which can be pretty hectic for you.

The initial days on the trail become challenging as the Budhi Gandaki Gorge is harrowing steep. You will walk through gusty trails and cross suspension bridges above the Budhi Gandaki River. Crossing the Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5,213 m is a challenge. Also, trekking through the uneven terrain and rocky trail demands courage and energy.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Altitude

The most challenging element of this trek is mostly the high elevation. When you are at the start of the trek the altitude is only 700 to 850 meters from sea level which is normal. But as you ascend the altitude will gradually increase. As some may not be used to these altitudes, the trek includes adequate acclimatization days. The ascent of Manaslu Base Camp and Larkey La will occur at a much slower pace than descent to ensure safety.

Typically elevation gains will be in the range of 600 to 850 meters each day. The highest point on Manaslu Circuit Trek tends to be the Larkey La (5,106 m). During the walk, you will be blessed with the best views of the Himalayas.

Altitude Sickness in Manaslu Circuit Trek

Normally altitude sickness occurs when you travel to a high altitude too quickly. These symptoms occur when your body tries to adjust to the lower air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. Altitude sickness or mountain sickness is normally caused when you are trekking to high altitude lands with low oxygen. It is also important to keep in mind that, being young and fit don’t reduce your risk. Just because you have not experienced altitude sickness in the past doesn’t mean your immune is strong. The only sure method to prevent altitude sickness on Manaslu Circuit Trek is to take plenty of time to ascend.


Training Before Manaslu Circuit Trek

Signing up for the high-altitude trek in Manaslu Circuit can be daunting. Many trekkers who go backpacking in Nepal have never done a trek before. While I firmly believe that people with average fitness levels can manage a Manaslu Circuit Trek. You will get to enjoy more into nature if you are in good shape during the trek. So, I made a list together about the training before Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Walking 4-5 miles without a break

 

For your initial workout prepare for a walk. You can walk around the park or do some easy hiking. You do not have to start training for hiking with severe steep climbs.

Most tales of the trek in Manaslu focus on steep days at high altitudes, where one foot in front of other feels like a huge task. But frequently are very long days on mostly flat terrain that makes up some days on the trek. This is more of an endurance test than a health test and tends to leave you more sore and tired.

Cardio

Spin class will be the best cardio so that you will get sufficient training for your leg. The next step is to build some aerobic which will be applied for those long, steep climbs in the trails. So it is always great to add some higher strength cardio into your fitness routine.

You can do this whatever form of cardio works best for you. Most people will enjoy running or jocking since you can do it outside for free. Whatever you choose for cardio, make sure your routine is something that pushes you out of your comfort zone. Do not put unnecessary stress on your knees as you have to a long trek to Manaslu ahead.

Strength training

Strength training before Manaslu Circuit Trek is the essential component for a long journey to Nepal Himalaya. You may need it from getting yourself up the steep hills, to balancing on the narrow paths, to carry your personal backpack.

Focus on building strength in your legs, back, and core. Having muscular biceps is not going to help you during the trek. Adding strength training into your routine for 1 to 2 days a week should be sufficient when you are training for Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Hiking as much as you can

The best part of training before Manaslu Circuit Trek is a hike as much as possible. As you get closer to your trek, you need to build up more capacity for long days on trekking trials. This is a completely different form of exercise than jogging for an hour.

In addition to developing up your fitness, training hikes are your excellent chance to examine gear and get a touch for what you need to bring. If you can do some hikes in cold weather, in the rain, or on back-to-back days, that will be even better.

Add weight

At the ending of your practice for Manaslu Circuit Trek, add some weighted backpack training into your plan. If you wish to carry your own backpack during the trek then weighted backpack training is needed. But this training will benefit you even if you plan to carry a day pack only.

Start weighted backpack with a small volume of weight like 5 to10 pounds. Once you fell easy on those weights slowly add extra weight. Once you start to adds the weight, your pack fills like heavy on your body. Also, look for a pair of trekking poles that makes a large difference during your trek.

Conclusion

With the right training, and mental preparation you can easily complete this moderate trek. I hope this article has provided you a brief idea about Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty and the best method to prepare for it. Let us guarantee you that with precise guidance and support you can trek to Manaslu without any obstacle!

Let us know if you want further information about the Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty. We are always ready to make any necessary changes as per your request.
 

Basanta Lamsal

Basanta Lamsal

Basanta is the author who inspires and motivates his readers with enthusiasm and dedication. He works as a travel writer and editor for The Himalayan Odyssey. He covers the various topics of Nepal with his clean and visually appealing writing — rich and descriptive —he lures his readers in. Full of travel tips, and amazing writing his articles appeared sound advice and consistent content.

He is doing a Master in Tourism and Hospitality from Tribhuvwan University which also helps him to write excellent travel content. He loves to do trekking and also has a great eye for photography.

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