Manaslu Trekking

Manaslu is one of the lesser-known Himalayan sights and lies in the northern part of Nepal. Actually, the name Manaslu was named after Mt. Manaslu's eighth height peak in the world, lying on an 8,163-meter-highway that boasts pristine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and relatively virgin trekking trails. The area falls within the Manaslu Conservation Area, rich in flora and fauna, a home for the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan tahr. It is also culturally very important because of the mixed culture of Tibetans and Nepalese, reflected in old monasteries, chortens, and traditional villages lining up the landscape.

Recently, the Manaslu region treks have been in great demand for adventure-seekers who wish to avoid the hoards in the Annapurna and Everest regions. Most famous among them is the Manaslu Circuit Trek challenging yet rewarding journey through rugged terrain, high mountain passes, and lush valleys. The entire thing generally takes 14 to 18 days from Soti Khola right up to the ending at Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters with an out-of-this-world view of surrounding peaks. On their way, trekkers will be taken through a number of beautiful villages that show peculiar culture and hospitality, including Samagaon and Samdo, of the local Gurung and Tibetan communities.

Its famous treks include the Tsum Valley Trek, better known as "Hidden Valley," a trip allowing one to visit remote and sacred valleys with ancient Buddhist monasteries set amidst breathtaking landscapes. As far as good weather and crystal-clear skies are concerned, it is advisable to be in Manaslu for a spring season trek. But the Manaslu region is simply one example of majestic natural beauty amalgamated into rich culture, joined with adventure-especially for those trekkers who enjoy off-track tours into the Himalayas.