Destination
Nepal
Region
Manaslu
Trip Grade
Moderate/High Pass
Highest Elevation
5150m.
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation
Tea House/Basis
Trek Duration
13 Days
Group Size Min
02 Trekker's
Best Time
Sept-December & February-June
Start/End Point
Matchhakhola to Dharapani

Trip Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a breathtaking and challenging trekking route located in the Manaslu Conservation Area of Nepal. This trek offers a unique and less crowded alternative to the popular Annapurna Circuit, showcasing stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and remarkable biodiversity. The trek typically takes around 13 days to complete, but the duration can vary depending on factors such as your pace, acclimatization stops, and side trips. Here’s a rough day-by-day description of the 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek:

How hard is the Manaslu Circuit trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered to be a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness, mental preparation, and some prior trekking experience, especially at higher altitudes. The difficulty of the trek can be attributed to several factors:

  1. High Altitude: The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,160 meters (16,930 feet) at the Larkya La pass. Altitude sickness is a potential concern, and proper acclimatization is crucial. The rapid altitude gain and the thinning air can make the trek physically demanding.
  2. Long Walking Hours: The trek involves long walking hours, often spanning 6-8 hours a day, and sometimes more during ascents and high pass crossings. Stamina and endurance are important.
  3. Varied Terrain: The trail covers a variety of terrains, including steep ascents, rocky paths, moraines, and snow-covered sections, especially around the pass. Trekking poles and sturdy footwear are recommended.
  4. Weather and Temperature: Weather conditions can be unpredictable, with temperatures varying widely between day and night, and drastic changes in weather patterns. It’s essential to be prepared for all weather scenarios.
  5. Limited Facilities: The trail passes through remote areas where accommodation and facilities can be basic. This adds an element of challenge to the trek.
  6. Remote Locations: The trek takes you through some remote and isolated regions, where medical assistance and services may be limited. Proper planning and carrying essential supplies are crucial.
  7. Larkya La Pass: Crossing the Larkya La Pass requires hiking through snowfields and challenging terrain. Weather conditions can impact the difficulty level of this section.
  8. Physical Fitness: A good level of physical fitness is necessary to manage the trek’s demands. Cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and regular hiking or walking can help prepare your body for the challenges.

When is the best time to trek Manaslu?

The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during the two main trekking seasons in Nepal: the pre-monsoon (spring) season and the post-monsoon (autumn) season. These seasons offer the most favorable weather and trekking conditions for a successful and enjoyable journey. Here’s a breakdown of these seasons:

1. Spring (Pre-Monsoon) Season (March to May):

  • Spring is one of the most popular times for trekking the Manaslu Circuit.
  • The weather is relatively stable, with clear skies and mild temperatures, especially at lower altitudes.
  • The trails are adorned with blooming rhododendron forests and other colorful flowers, creating a picturesque landscape.
  • This season also offers good visibility for mountain views.

2. Autumn (Post-Monsoon) Season (September to November):

  • Autumn is another highly recommended time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
  • The weather is dry and stable, with clear skies and excellent visibility.
  • The temperatures are moderate, making it comfortable for trekking during the day and night.
  • The post-monsoon season offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.
  • This is the peak trekking season in Nepal, so expect more trekkers on the trail.

Both of these seasons have their advantages, and the choice between them might depend on your personal preferences and schedule. Keep in mind that the Manaslu Circuit Trek is closed during the winter months (December to February) due to heavy snowfall and the risk of avalanches, so it’s not recommended to trek during this period.

If you prefer quieter trails and are prepared for cooler temperatures, the spring season might be more appealing. On the other hand, if you want to experience the bustling trekking culture and encounter fellow trekkers from around the world, the autumn season is an excellent option.

Manaslu Circuit Off-Beaten Restricted Trekking

The Manaslu Circuit is often referred to as an “off-the-beaten-path” trek, but it’s important to clarify that it falls under the category of “restricted” trekking areas in Nepal. This means that trekkers are required to obtain special permits and trek with a registered guide or as part of an organized group. The restrictions are in place to help conserve the unique culture and environment of the region. Here’s what you need to know about the Manaslu Circuit as a restricted trekking area:

Trekking Permits:

  1. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): All trekkers need to obtain an MCAP & ACAP, which allows access to the Manaslu Conservation Area. This permit is necessary to trek in the region and is available through authorized agencies.
  2. Restricted Area Permit (RAP): In addition to the MCAP, you also need an RAP, as the Manaslu Circuit passes through areas that are considered restricted. This permit is more expensive and requires you to be in a group of at least two people with a registered guide or trekking agency.

Trekking Guides:

  1. Registered Guide: To trek the Manaslu Circuit, you are required to be accompanied by a registered guide. This is to ensure your safety and to help manage the impact of tourism on the local environment and culture.
  2. Group Trekking: Solo trekkers are not allowed in the Manaslu Circuit; you must trek as part of a group with at least one other person. This is a safety measure and also helps preserve the environment and culture.

Restricted Zones: Certain sections of the Manaslu Circuit are designated as restricted zones, where specific permits and regulations apply. These areas are closely monitored to protect the unique cultural heritage and environment of the region.

Benefits of Restrictions: While these restrictions might seem limiting, they serve important purposes:

  • Cultural Preservation: The restrictions help protect the cultures and traditions of the local communities by controlling the number of visitors and ensuring respectful behavior.
  • Environmental Conservation: Limited numbers of trekkers and controlled waste management help preserve the fragile mountain ecosystems.
  • Sustainable Tourism: The permit fees contribute to local development and conservation efforts, benefiting the communities you pass through.

Organized Trekkingby Everest Trekking Routes: To embark on the Manaslu Circuit, you’ll need to book your trek through a registered trekking agency that will manage the permits, logistics, guides, and accommodation. This makes the trek a bit more organized compared to some other routes.

Details Itinerary

DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU (1,400M)

Trek time: 20 Minutes drive to hotel
Accommodation: Hotel

DAY 02: EXPLORE DAY IN KATHMANDU AND PREPARATION SPECIAL PERMIT

Trek time: Explore day & Permit Preparation
Accommodation: Hotel

DAY 03: SOTI KHOLA TO MACHHA KHOLA [1340 m /4396 ft]: 6 -7 HOURS

Trek time: 6-7 hours Trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 04: MACHHA KHOLA -JAGAT [1410M/ 4625 FT]: 6 – 7 HRS

Trek time: 6-7 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 05: JAGAT – DENG [1,804M/5917 FT]: 6 – 7 HRS

Trek time: 6-7 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 06: DENG – NAMRUNG: [2630M/8626FT]: 6 – 7 HRS

Trek time: 6-7 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 07: NAMRUNG TO LHO –(2,957 m / 9,701 ft) – 4 hrs

Trek time: 3-4 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 08: LHO – SAMAGAON [3530M/11,578 FT]: 4 HOURS

Trek time: 3-4 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 09: REST DAY SAMAGAUN

Trek time: Acclimatization day at Samagaun
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 10: SAMAGAON – SAMDO [3860M/12,660 FT]: 4 – 5 HOURS

Trek time: 4-5 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 11: SAMDO – DHARAMSALA/LARKYA B. C. [4460M/14, 628 FT]: 4 – 5 HOURS

Trek time: 4-5 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 12: DHARAMSALA – LARKYA LA [5160M] – BIMTHANG [3720M]: 8 – 9 HOURS

Trek time: 8-9 hour Manaslu Larke la pass 5150m.
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 13: BIMTHANG – GHO [2515M]: 5 – 6 HOURS

Trek time: 5-6 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 14: GHO – DHARAPNI [1940M] 5 HOURS

Trek time: 5-6 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 15: DHARPANI – BESHISAHAR – KATHMANDU EXPRESS BUS 8-9 HOURS

Trek time: 8-9 hour drive to Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hotel

DAY 16: FINAL INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURE

Trek time: Final departure
Accommodation:

Cost Include/Exclude

Cost Includes

  • Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up and Drop by private car/van/bus.
  • Kathmandu to Machhakhola and Dharapani to Besi Shahar to Kathmandu by Public bus or local Jeep-sharing
  • During the trek three times full board meals (Breakfast, lunch, and Dinner)
  • All Trekking Permit (MCA), (ACAP), Manaslu Special Permit.
  • Accommodation in Trekking: All accommodations in lodge/tea houses during the trek.
  • Trekking Guide: Government License Holder An experienced, helpful, friendly, and English-speaking Trekking Guide. His well-paid salary, meals, accommodation insurance, etc.
  • Trekking Porter: porters (1 porter for 2 people). Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation.
  • After the successful trip, Everest Trekking Routes will Provide an Adventure Certificate.
  • Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid for by your Travel insurance company.
  • Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
  • All government taxes and service charges.

Cost Excludes

  • All Meals & Hotel in Kathmandu (If you need we arrange you)
  • Private Jeep USD 440
  • Your Travel and rescue insurance.
  • Personal Expenses (Hot Shower, bar bills, beer, coke, a bottle of water, hot water, phone calls, laundry service,  Electronic device recharge such as Mobile, Camera, etc.)
  • Tips for guide, porters, and driver.

Trip Map

FAQ

Fixed Departure Booking

Departure Date Duration Availability Cost Booking
14/09/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
21/09/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
28/09/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
05/10/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
12/10/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
19/10/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
26/10/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
02/11/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
09/11/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
16/11/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
30/11/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
07/12/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
14/12/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person
21/12/2023 13 Days Available USD 850 Per Person

Recent Client Reviews

Liau Gii Hau

Malaysia

LangTang 8 days tour

I requested Mr. Rabin Gurung to have a guide/porter before starting my journey, and he sent a very experienced guide Mr. Phul to be my guide/porter. Mr. Phul has more than 25+ years of experience becoming a mountain guide. I had problems during the hike up to the mountain but Mr. Phul always gave me support all the way, he shared the newer things in the jungle with my brother along the trek.

Source by: TripAdvisor

Yap Chun Sing

Singapore

Wonderful Experience trekking in Manaslu

Had a wonderful time hiking at the Manaslu area with my tour guide Sushil Gurung and porter Madan Gurung. They helped us with our every need from last minute rental gear like sleeping bags to telling us more about Nepal and being knowledgeable about the area. Both of them are experienced and knowledgeable. Both of them are very observant about how you are coping with the pace and terrain and will change pace to suit your pace.

Source by: TripAdvisor

Deon Poh

Singapore

Manaslu Circuit Trekking

Positive experience liaising with Everest Trekking for our Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The guide made adjustments to our plans based on our comfort/fitness level and the weather so that we managed to finish the trail.
Our guide helped us secure some last-minute stuff for us like our sleeping bag rentals.
Most importantly the hike itself was great as well thanks to our guide for his hospitality and our porter’s hard work.
Appreciate the apples cut for us every night during the hike carried by the guide and to the porter for pushing through even though his eyes hurt from the sun glare from the snow.
Thank you for this great experience.
Everest Trekking liaison: Rabin Gurung
Guide: Sushil Gurung
Porter: Madan Gurung

Source by: TripAdvisor

Mook Kunnapat

Bangkok, Thailand

Annapurna Base Camp trekking

ในช่วง 5 ปีที่ผ่านมาได้มีโอกาศไปเดิน Trek ที่เนปาลกับไกด์ Rabin มา 3 ครั้งแล้ว ประทับใจทุกครั้ง ทีมงานลูกหาบดีเรียบร้อยใส่ใจ บริการดี ไว้ใจได้ ราคาสมเหตุสมผล ใครจะไปเนปาลแนะนำเลยครับ!!

I’ve trekked in Nepal with Rabin 3 times in the past 5 years, and it’s been awesome!! Great team, reliable services, and reasonable price. Highly Recommended!!

Source by: TripAdvisor

Mike Q

Austral

Manaslu basecamp and Circuit and Tsum Valley

I have just completed a trek of the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum valley with three other friends. The trip was magnificent, stunning mountain peaks, ancient forest, impressive rivers and waterfalls and interesting villages. During the trip we were very well looked after by our guide, Dhansingh Gurung who gently and efficiently took us through 21 days of trekking over diverse terrain and Sangam (Durga) our porter who was always helpful and cheerful. Both Dhansingh and Durga added considerably to the enjoyment of the experience with their friendliness and local knowledge. If I return to Nepal, I will definitely use our guide and porter again.

Sorce on: TripAdvisor

Jasmin H

Germany

Gokyo Lakes with Gokyo Ri

The trekking was an extraordinary experience. Breathtaking views of Everest and the surrounding 8000s. Rabin Gurung always made sure we have a nice accommodation, enough for eating and drinking, warm and comfortable. He is a really caring guide. I would do another trip with him right away. He organised everything so that we could totally focus on the hiking.

Source from: TripAdvisor

Tuffy Kin Leung

USA

Gokyo Lake — EBC

My wife and I had an amazing experience with both Dhansingh and Rabin Gurung. We took a 2 weeks trek with them from Lukla — Gokyo Lake — EBC . What a blessing we had them along the way , we will never forget and be grateful and thankful for the unquie, warm , genuine hospitality that we had , plus all the priceless encounters within the nature. Namaste!

Email: tuffyl@yahoo.com

Sources from: TripAdvisor

Toft Lars

Denmark

Mera Peak Climbing Guided & Trip Operation by Everest Trekking Routes

My brother and I had the pleasure of having Rabin as our guide on the trip to Mera Peak Expedition.
Everything was planned to perfection and we had a great time with Rabin, who is friendly, funny, and always helpful.
Last but not least, we reached the summit.

Source: TripAdvisor

Soren Dorfhoff

Denmark

Island Peak, Everest Base Camp and Lobuche Peak Climbing (October 2022)

I have now used Everest Trekking Routes for two trips to Nepal. I can’t put my finger on anything that needs improvement. The initial communication part is spot on. They are quick to respond and I usually my questions answered on the first reply. Both times I have been greeted at the airport by a super polite guide. I’ve felt welcome and gotten all my needs tended to.
On my second trip, we could not fly to Lukla, because of bad weather. Instead of waiting for the weather to clear up, they arranged alternative transport to the mountains, to avoid wasting precious days in Kathmandu.

The whole city experience has been an absolute pleasure. Except for the hard work, summiting a mountain 😅

Best recommendations to the guys from Everest Trekking Routes 👌

Source: Tripadvisor

Family Tour in Nepal

Alex Lim

Singapore

Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Rabin Gurung

This is my second trip with Rabin and I am already looking forward to a third trip with him soon. That shows how much I value his services, his extensive experiences with the treks, his honesty, and of course, the great supporting staff he have.

I feel safe and well taken care of with Rabin as my guide. He is a man with integrity and deal in a most honest way with us. This is unlike lots of horror stories you read about guides and tea-house owners collaborating to fleece hikers. We pay exactly what we consumed at the tea houses based on the published menu prices, no more and no less. With Rabin, there is no hidden cost.

With more than 20 years of trekking experience, he gave good advises on the route and safety measures to take. For example, he insisted that we started off early on a particular day so that we will reach a section with an ice sheet before the ice started to melt and traversing the ice-sheet becomes dangerous and difficult.

We have a large team of porters and assistant guides to take care of our team of 12 hikers and everyone on Rabin’s team have been extremely helpful and friendly. My teenage son enjoyed playing Uno and sliding down the ABC  Trek icy slope with a teenage porter, a fellow hiker who has walking difficulties was supported all the way by assistant guides and porters and our meals were all ordered in advance so the group don’t have to wait long for food to be served.

Singapore

Sources from: TripAdvisor

Family Tour in Nepal

Mark Gamboa

Vancouver, British Columbia

Everest Base Camp Trek with Suk Bahadur Gurung

Searching for the perfect company to embark on the EBC trek was not easy when doing research on who to go with. I happen to have really lucked out by choosing to go with Everest Trekking Routes, because they were great, through and through.

I did the trek in November but started inquiring with them back in February. Rabin is the CEO of the company, and he has helped me in every way possible. He was prompt in answering my questions via email and meticulously arranged the EBC trek, which felt customized to all my needs. In person, he was kind and courteous. And my guide Suk was friendly and helpful throughout the hike. He had brought all the necessary medication for me and asked every day how I was feeling. Suk is also a very good card player and was grateful for his company on the 12-day hike/ Kathmandu City Hike.

I’m sure most of you reading this have gone with some tour company elsewhere in the world, and perhaps you might agree that most of them have treated you as simply a commodity in the assembly line. By going with Everest Trekking Routes, I never felt that. Rabin and Suk took care of me from beginning to end, and I sing all their praises for getting me to Everest Base Camp, which was a major deal for me and my friends and Family. Rabin and Suk became family to me. Thank you for everything, guys!

Antonia Carol Suning

Sabah Malaysia

Everest Base Camp & Lobuche Peak with Rabin Gurung

It was such a hard fight to join this trip. Because I had to work hard to find funding for this training. It is the first summit I attended team NOBAT ( No Boundary Adventurers Association Sabah ) to the Himalayas with AMG (Adventure Mountain Guide Rabin Gurung), I gained a great experience, which Mr. Rabin Gurung was very friendly and kind as a mountain guide who experience he made this trip so enjoyable, and build a better friendship.

I would like to thank him for giving the best service to us, this is the first time I walk for 21 days hahaha. In every step, he remained faithful to accompany and not leave us, even though there are 2 people in our group who did not succeed, and he sent us back to our high camp Lobuche to support the spirit reaching the summit of Lobuche Peak Climbing.

Nice trip and good services such as tents, food, and stories you tell about your family, it is good, and I enjoyed the trip because you protected me and my team so much.

Keep up the good work you AMG! I am happy to see and to know you! Good luck! * extra bonus able to speak Bahasa Melayu! hehe

Jasen Moore & Helen Kerrandjas

Canada

Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Rabin Gurung

While Rabin is a very knowledgeable and capable guide it was his kindness, Warm smile, and Constant eagerness to help that made our trip truly memorable. Rabin Gurung quickly earned our trust and friendship and would be an excellent companion on any trek! we would very happily Recommend Rabin to anyone who is making a trip to Nepal. He is is a wonderful person and a good friend.

Email: helen.karrandjas@maclaren.com
Details Address: 191 Millwood Rd, Upper Toronto, ON M4S 1J6 Canada

Jaistin Tamin

Sabah Malaysia

Everest Base Camp, Island Peak, Lobuche Peak & Chulu West Peak with Rabin Gurung

Sewaktu saya ditugaskan oleh persatuan NOBAT untuk mendapatkan khidmat ‘trekking guide’ bagi ekspedisi NOBAT Himalaya 2013, saya telah menghubungi beberapa ‘trekking agent’ di Kathmandu melalui emel. Saya tertarik dengan laman web Rabin Gurung dan ‘testimonial’ dari beberapa individu yang penat mendapatkan khidmatnya. Rabin memberikan tawaran kos yang paling berpatutan. Dari raut wajahnya saja saya yakin dia adalah orang yang jujur dan’friendly’. Satu kelebihan lain ialah dia boleh berbahasa Malaysia.

Apabila bertemu dengan Rabin buat pertama kalinya di Kathmandu, memang sah bahawa kami telah membuat pilihan yang tepat. Sepanjang trekking, Rabin sangat professional dalam khidmatnya. Beliau flexible dan mudah diajak berunding. Kami tidak lagi menganggapnya sebagai pemandu jalan tetapi sebagai sahabat..kepada sesiapa yang ingin trekking di Himalaya, sila dapatkan khidmat Rabin. Saya percaya anda bakal membuat pilihan yang tepat.
Email: cliffhanger_08@yahoo.com

Island Peak Climbing

Jeff Tucker & Wanida Tucker

USA

Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley with Rabin Gurung

Recently my wife and I visited Nepal for the eighteenth time and enjoyed a wonderful trek, one of the best treks ever, and this was largely due to our guide, Rabin Gurung (Trekking Guide in Nepal), with whom we also trekked around Manaslu in 2010.

If you come to Nepal with the idea of doing ‘your own trek’ with a small party, I highly recommend hiring Rabin. Not only does he have many years of experience but he is very honest and humble, so much so that one woman at a very basic lodge on our recent trek, impressed by his honesty, told my wife that “this man is a very good man, honest man, all other guide-man say lie to customers, say them that price is higher than the real price, so they can get more money.”

Rabin is always in good humor and friendly and gets along well with the local people and the porters too. Furthermore, his varied experience from his earlier years as a porter and cook helped to make him a better guide. I can’t remember how many times during our treks, when we stopped at a new or very basic lodge, or even at a tea house for lunch, when the owner’s cooking skills were at most primitive, Rabin tactfully volunteered to move into the kitchen and some amazingly delicious food would come out, made from the most simple ingredients.

Three years ago, in March of 2010, the Manaslu trek was not what it is now. Along the entire trek from Arughat (where we had to start walking), until we reached to Annapurna circuit route, there was at that time only a single lodge with what could be called a ‘menu’, and that was the one and only lodge in Sama village at that time. All other villages either had nothing but dal bhat and perhaps chapatis, or nothing to eat and no lodge at all. We had to camp some places, but when we could, we stayed in the simple lodges that existed and he often improved our diet by cooking foods that the proprietor did not know how to cook, sometimes even such a basic menu item as an omelet, to be rolled up inside a chapati for breakfast.

This year, again in March, we decided to return to the same area, with the desire to explore the newly opened valley of Tsum. This is a lovely, beautiful valley populated by some 4000 Tibetan people, who have lived for nearly a thousand years in that inaccessible ‘hidden valley’, connected by easy passes to Tibet but until not so many decades ago, without any reasonable connection to Nepal through the truly stupendous canyons of the lower section of the valley. Indeed, many inhabitants could not speak any Nepali, only Tibetan, which made it difficult at times. We had a double permit, which if you ever want to see Tsum Valley thoroughly, I highly recommend. Most people try to do a quick one-week detour to Tsum Valley as a kind of bonus side trip on the way around Manaslu. They never know what they have missed. Some of the most interesting villages and friendliest people, and some truly awesome scenery, can be visited in Tsum valley if you have time. One week is too little time to see more than a quick glimpse of the Valley.

I and my wife have been trekking in Nepal for years, myself since 1981, and our trek to Manaslu was the first time we had ever used a guide (because it was required on that trek), despite having visited some very remote areas such as crossing the Trashi Labtsa Pass from Khumbu into Rolwaling with friends in 1982. I had doubts about using a guide, I had seen how so many of them control their clients and take a commission from lodge owners to fill their pockets, I have seen many guides from Kathmandu who knew less about the local people and places than I did. I say this not to boast but as a word of caution: there are all too few honest, humble, helpful, and experienced guides out there, and many of those who are have moved into the higher levels of trekking management and no longer guide. But from the first days, on our 2010 Manaslu trek, we were impressed by the level of experience Rabin has, and also his sensitivity in allowing us to make our own itinerary day by day. He never was angry, never showed irritation, always explained patiently what was going on, and was always in a good mood. We were a group of five at that time, and by the end of the first week, we all agreed that if we returned to Nepal for another trek requiring a guide, we would try to get Rabin again.

This is what we did in March 2013 on our visit to Tsum Valley. Using more porters in order to have tents and extra food, we planned to visit the highest area of the upper end of Tsum Valley and ascend to one of the high passes overlooking Tibet. This year was plagued by poor weather and too much snow in March, however, and we were unable to do that, as were all the people who had set out to trek around Manaslu this March: the deep snow at higher elevations did not allow anyone in the first weeks of March to cross the Larkya La and go around Manaslu. But we had time, and because of the tents and food we had, we also had more options. The tents and food we used in a wonderful visit to the nunnery at Gumalungdang, up a steep side valley surrounded by the huge peaks of Ganesh Himal. We camped there for two nights, as there is no accommodation yet, and enjoyed incredible sunrise views of the nearby Ganesh Himal and also the distant great Peaks of HImalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Manaslu.

Tsum Valley is developing rapidly, as is the Manaslu circuit. However, particularly if you are new to Nepal trekking, don’t believe the hype that many agencies will tell you, that the Manaslu trek is the “new Annapurna circuit”. The Annapurna trek, over a period of three decades, developed a huge infrastructure for trekkers, with scores and scores of hotels, often equipped with deluxe menus and services, hot showers, laundry service, spring mattresses, etc. I think it will be some time yet before these things appear on the Manaslu trek, and if you find them in some places, don’t expect them at the next place. Tsum Valley is one step back in development yet.

One problem to watch out for is this: Manaslu Tsum Valley’s popularity and this can be said for Manaslu too, is growing much faster than services can be built–may be large because the road around Annapurna has grown so quickly and has put people off from that once glorious trek. We were there both times in March when there are fewer trekkers than in April or especially during the high season in October and November. In Tsum, as of March 2013, there was only one real lodge with rooms, and that was just a bit beyond Lokhpa at the foot of the valley. The other ‘lodges’ were basically beds in a side room of a local house, the largest such able to sleep ten people but others only four or five. Most villages had only one such place for trekkers to sleep, some villages had no place. When we reached Mu Gompa, in March all but one of the 80 monks were away from the valley for the winter, and furthermore, there was no food available at all. Only because we had our tents and stove and food for going higher up the valley (which we were unable to do because of snow), were we able to stay there e and eat our own food, instead of returning to Nile village the same day. The same goes for Gumbalunddang, where no food was available. if you are going o visit Tsum valley, and perhaps Manaslu too, during the busiest season, think seriously about hiring at least one EXTRA porter and having a tent, stove, and food, in case of accommodation is full! It might be worth it! Also, think of the porters: we saw many groups of two or three with a guide and a single porter carrying an enormous load, who was trailing far behind the others during the day. Many of them were unhappy with the arrangement.

In conclusion, this time with four people in our group, and with several porters and with Rabin as our guide again, we once more enjoyed what all agreed was one of the best treks we’ve ever done in the Himalayas, out of a total number of over thirty now, in Nepal and India. Rabin is an excellent choice for a guide. He is honest and will help you save money instead of trying to find ways to squeeze more for himself, he is fun and funny and friendly and all along the trails, he makes new friends with the people we meet along the way. He is experienced but doesn’t try to tell the customers what to do, he asks what they want to do, and then explains the options. If you are the type of trekker who is truly interested in Nepal, in the places, the culture, and religion and people and villages, and like to understand what is happening around you, hire Rabin as your guide, you won’t be disappointed. Indeed, like us (except for one, the same group that went around Manaslu with Rabin three years earlier), perhaps you will want to return to Nepal and go on another trek with Rabin Gurung!

Email: jefftckr@s8.dion.ne.jp

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Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days

Where Is Mountain Everest ?

The History and Significance of Mount Everest Mount Everest, also known as Sagarmatha in Nepali and Chomolungma in Tibetan, holds a significant place in the hearts of both climbers and…

Everest Base Camp Trek

Where Is Mount Everest on a Map

The Geographical Location of Mount Everest Mount Everest, also known as Sagarmatha in Nepal and Chomolungma in Tibet, is situated in the Mahalangur mountain range of the Himalayas. Its precise…

Discovering the Best Trekking Company in Nepal

Unleashing the Adventure: Discovering the Best Trekking Company in Nepal for Your Next Himalayan Expedition Discovering the Best Trekking Company in Nepal, awe-inspiring landscapes, and challenging trekking routes are a…