Manaslu Region Trek

From where the brave Gurkha people come from

Manaslu region, on the north of Gorkha district, the place of world famous brave Gurkha people, is another restricted trekking region opened for foreigners before two decades requiring special trekking permit. As it is very rich in natural resources and ethnic Gurung and Tamang heritages, the government has declared the region as Manaslu Conservation Area and promoted as an ecotourism destination. As it was not open for the foreigners until two decades ago, the culture and nature of the region have not been damaged and spoiled by the modern trends. Not to mention, tourism in Nepal has a special feature of showing the authentic cultural heritage of different ethnic communities and this feature has been an attraction for cultural tourists with some adventure interests in Manaslu. As some other trekking regions have been more accessible with roads and airports, Manaslu is also an excellent destination for semi-wilderness experience in terms of geography and connectivity. 

Following the ancient and medieval Salt Caravan route along Budhi Gandaki River, Manaslu trekking trail ultimately shows the travelers the unrivaled beauty of Mount Manaslu and leads to eastern Annapurna region across a high pass. Long extended Rhododendron forests with blue pines and bamboo bush, the background of Himalayan panorama of Mount Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and many other high mountains are the main natural attractions in the region. Larkya la Pass is one of the quite challenging but adventurous high pass at the altitude of 5100 meters that is encountered during the Manaslu circuit trekking.

Amidst the forests, very high white waterfalls and the wild lives make the landscape more lively and beautiful. Along the Tibetan styled settlements, the ancient Buddhists monasteries and stone carved walls with mantras (Mani walls), long stream of prayer wheels on the walls and stupas add the spiritual feeling in a more philosophical but less religious way. Healing and eternal peace are what the monuments and the prayer activities can offer to the travelers. In case of customized trips, on the way to Manaslu, travelers also can visit historical Gorkha palace (from where the unification of modern Nepal was started, Gorakhnath Temple and Gorakhkali temple and have a fantastic cable car ride to sacred Manakamana temple.

While camping is also an adventurous option for trekkers in this region, if all is well for you with basic food and accommodation facilities, tea house treks are much easier, friendly and best value trip in terms of logistics.