Permits For Short Adventure In Manaslu Region
Before setting off on the Short Trek to Manaslu Circuit, one of the key steps is ensuring you have all the necessary permits to explore this restricted region. To ensure a smooth journey, you will need three major permits; Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).
Here, MRAP is essential for trekking between Jagat and Bhimthang and you can obtain it from the Nepal Immigration offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara with the help of local authorized trekking agencies only. For those trekking from September to November, considered peak season, the MRAP costs USD 100 for the first seven days, with an additional USD 15 for each day thereafter. If you are planning to trek from December to August, the permit fee drops to USD 75 for the first seven days and USD 10 for each extra day.
Besides, both the MCAP and ACAP will cost you NRs 3,000 which covers the conservation areas. Well, you can get these from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu. Together, these permits ensure that the Manaslu Circuit Trek remains a sustainable and cherished experience for all. To obtain these, you will need a valid passport with visa and passport-size pictures of yours.
Meals During The Manaslu Express Trek
Meals along the 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek are not only essential for energy but also offer an exciting culinary journey that immerses you in local culture. After long days of trekking along the trails of the Himalayas, these savoring traditional Nepali flavors will offer a heavenly moment.
During the trek, you will come in major close contact with classic dishes, like the beloved dal bhat – a comforting meal of lentil soup, steamed rice, and vegetable curries, served with a generous portion of pickles and sometimes a surprise side of crispy papad. This particular dish is refillable as much as you want and as much as you can. Additionally, there is a famous saying that goes with the dish, “Dal bhat power, 24 hours.”
Besides, do not miss out on trying Momo, which is inspired by Tibetan dumplings. They are bite-sized dishes filled with vegetables or minced meat and served with spicy dipping sauces. Additionally, do not forget about traditional Tibetan dishes such as Thukpa and Thenduk. Moving on, you will also get to enjoy a variety of dishes on the menu such as noodles and soups with additional Western dishes like pasta, pancakes, and even apple pie.
As you climb higher, you will also get to enjoy unique local treats that are rare to find elsewhere, like yak cheese. All these local dishes are rich, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. As for drinks, you will also find multiple varieties of tea, juice, and beverages.
However, during the trek, we do not recommend you to take caffeinated and alcoholic drinks as it will cause dehydration. Instead, try a unique drink such as yak butter tea to keep you warm. This tea is made from tea leaves, salt, and yak butter, and is much thicker than regular tea with a surprisingly rich, savory flavor.
Here, you can also get bottled water and warm water along the way. However, since the price of water gets higher, the higher you ascend, you should take the water from a local source and also a reusable water bottle to fill it in. Also, do not forget to carry water purification tablets.
Accommodation During The Manaslu Express Trek
Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an experience in itself, giving you a glimpse into the simplicity and warmth of Himalayan living. Along the trail, you will primarily stay in tea houses which are run by the local families themselves. Unlike other popular trails, the tea houses on this trek are only available inside the village area offering you the true essence of rural lifestyle. Nowadays, alongside tea houses, homestays are also quite popular.
While the accommodation facilities in this region may not be fancy, they provide everything a trekker needs: a cozy bed, hearty meals, and a sense of community. Generally, rooms are simple with twin beds, thick blankets, and a shared bathroom. However, as you ascend higher, the facilities get more basic and the tea houses are often unheated. Although your rooms will not have heating facilities, the communal hall is generally heated with a fireplace or a heater.
Moving on, every tea house has a communal dining hall where trekkers gather to warm up by the fire, share stories from the day, and enjoy meals together. Hence, having a shared meal at the end of every day feels like a mini celebration. Furthermore, if you choose to stay in homestays, you will get to understand the way of life and forge genuine connections with the locals.
Apart from your personal experience, the beauty of staying in tea houses and homestays is that you are part of a sustainable approach to tourism. Each tea house you stay in contributes to the local economy, ensuring that trekking continues to benefit the communities along the trail.
Transportation (Bus Vs. Private Jeep)
Before you even start trekking on the trail, you will need to reach the gateway, Machha Khola, and also return back to Kathmandu from Dharapani once the journey ends. Here, transportation has two options; via bus or via a private jeep.
While the journey via bus is a much cheaper option and offers you the chance to experience the local life, it might be a discomfort, especially if you have never experienced it before. To head to Machha Khola, you will need to catch the bus way early in the morning at 6 or 7 am from the Gongabu Bus Park in Kathmandu. This particular ride will only cost you around 12 USD however, be prepared for a bit of a squeeze.
Generally, the bus seats are small, and you won’t have much legroom. So as you travel for several hours, you will feel cramped. Additionally, most of the time, your bags are kept on the rooftop so you should also be careful about your luggage, especially during bumpy rides. Moving on, the bus will follow designated stops along the route, which means you won’t have much flexibility on where to get off or how often you can stretch your legs.
Now, if this does not feel like your ideal ride, you can always opt for a private jeep which will cost you around USD 200 from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and Dharapani to Kathmandu. Though the price may seem much higher than that of the bus ride, the benefit is that you get ample legroom, more space for your luggage, and a much smoother experience. Also, you can always share the ride with fellow trekkers if and when available and also break the cost accordingly. The best part? Private jeep offers you the flexibility to make stops along the way, allowing you to take in the scenery or grab a snack when needed.
Altogether, both the starting and returning journey on the road can be bumpy at times, however, that’s all part of the experience when you are headed to the heart of the Himalayas.
Internet, Telephone, And Battery Charging In Manaslu Region
As you trek through the remote areas of the Himalayas, you will find that staying digitally connected during the journey is quite tough. That being said, you can get a connection however, it may not be as reliable as you expect.
In lower sections such as Machha Khola and Jagat, you will be able to access the internet, though the connection can be a bit spotty and unreliable. However, if you are wishing for a more internet connection, you should buy an NTC SIM card as they give better reception up till Samdo. Likewise, the wi-fi available in most villages can face issues due to bad weather. If you are hoping to stay in touch with loved ones or share your epic trekking moments on social media, be prepared for slower speeds, occasional outages, and maybe even a complete digital detox.
Now, you can also buy data packages if you have local SIM cards - NCELL or NTC. Before embarking on the journey, you can buy one from the local store. These SIM cards help you stay connected all throughout the lower region however, as you climb higher into the trek, the reception starts to dwindle. Here, for better reception, you should consider buying an NTC SIM card as they have better coverage and provide better deals in data packages.
Lastly, let’s talk about keeping your devices charged. The need for power on a long trek is real, and charging your phone or camera battery can be a bit tricky at higher altitudes. At lower sections and villages, you can get charging points in the tea houses, even in your own room, and for free! But as you climb higher, the charging ports are usually in the communal hall and you will need to pay a small fee for it.
Additionally, the higher you ascend, you will find solar-powered chargers which are a great option, especially if it is a sunny day. However, charging your device also highly depends on the weather conditions you face. Yet, you will not have to struggle with charging your device as except for in Dharamsala.
Shortened Manaslu Trekking Difficulty
This Short Manaslu Trek is often considered a moderate to challenging trek, which makes it a perfect choice for trekkers looking for an adventure with a bit more of a test. If you have prior trekking experience, a standard level of fitness, and are completely prepared for the challenging terrain, you will find this journey incredibly rewarding. So, how far would you go to push yourself physically to enjoy the raw and wild beauty of the Himalayas?
Also, this particular trek takes you to a maximum altitude level of 5,106 meters / 16,751 feet at Larkya La Pass. Additionally, you will spend most of your days above 2,000 meters, where altitude sickness is a major problem if you do not acclimate properly. Therefore, to adapt to such thin air conditions, you will need to listen to your body and rest, especially around areas like Samagaun.
On top of altitude, the trekking trails also include steep ascents, rugged paths, and rocky terrain, all of which can be demanding on your legs and stamina. You will be navigating through diverse landscapes such as alpine forests, riverbeds, and high-altitude meadows, all of which will keep you on your toes.
Moving on, during this journey, you will spend 5 to 8 hours every day on the trail which may even be longer on certain days. Especially while you cross the Larkya La Pass, the journey can be extra tiring due to which you will require built-in rest days for acclimatization. However, all these long trekking days offer you a sense of accomplishment once you complete it.
Now, if you have ample time in Nepal and would like to spend more time on the Himalayas, you must incorporate extra acclimatization days into the itinerary. Adding an additional rest day at Namrung allows trekkers to explore nearby villages and enjoy majestic mountain views, providing an opportunity for gradual altitude adjustment. Similarly, extending the acclimatization day in Samagaun to explore the Pungen Gompa and surrounding trails thoroughly enriches the cultural and scenic aspects of the journey, while also preparing the body for the higher altitudes ahead.
All these extra days on your schedule not only lets you spend higher time in the Himalayas but also prepare for reviving your energy. Additionally, it also allows for a deeper connection with the local culture, offering time to interact with the residents of charming villages like Lho and Samagaun.
So, while the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a great challenge for trekkers, it is a trek that’s totally doable with preparation and the right mindset.
Travel Insurance
Even during the Short Manaslu Trek, travel insurance is not optional as you will need a safety net while trekking through such remote and wild trails of the Himalayas. Since the Himalayas are always unpredictable, unforeseen circumstances may occur every now and then.
Hence, you will need travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and you will want to confirm that your insurance covers medical emergencies, including altitude sickness treatment, and evacuation from remote areas. In addition to medical coverage, another crucial aspect is the evacuation coverage. During this journey, you will move to a remote location far away from the medical reach, hence, if you get ill, evacuation can be costly. So, make sure it also covers helicopter evacuation when you need it.
Also, there may be various factors that may at times cut your trek short. Hence, if you buy travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage then, you can recover part of your expenses if you need to cancel or cut your trek short.
However, remember that the travel insurance is only for the possible “what ifs,” so, do not forget to savor each moment along the trail.
Guide And Porter
One important thing to note about the Short Manaslu Trek is that you are not allowed to trek solo in this restricted region and as per the Nepal Government you will require at least one trekking partner and or a guide to accompany you on this journey. While this might seem like a constraint, it actually adds to the experience and safety of your journey.
Here, a guide is more than just a person who knows the trail. From ensuring your safety on the rugged terrain to navigating the intricacies of high-altitude trekking, guides will do all the work for you. Additionally, they are also packed with invaluable insights into the culture, tradition, and history of the region. Not to mention, guides will also help with all the logistics arrangements along the way.
Similarly, porters are also important when you navigate the challenging and remote locations of the trek. They will help you carry your heavy bags, allowing you to focus on the trek itself and reduce the physical strain. Moving on, they are also well-equipped with local insights becoming a strong companion along the trail, sharing stories and laughs.
Hiring a guide and or a porter is a special addition to your trek but do you know what the best part is? In the remote areas of Manaslu, guides, and porters are often the primary means of livelihood for the local people, and your choice to hire them directly benefits their families and communities. A win-win situation!
Packing List For 12-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek
Here is the comprehensive packing list for the Shortened Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Clothing
- Moisture-wicking long-sleeve tops and bottoms
- Fleece or down jacket
- Lightweight down vest
- Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
- Trekking pants and shorts
- Lightweight trekking pants
- Convertible pants
- Thermal Layer (Leggings or Tights)
- Thermal underwear
Accessories
- Gloves
- Warm woolen hats
- Buff or neck gaiter
Footwear
- Moisture-wicking, warm trekking socks
- Waterproof trekking boots (sturdy with good ankle support)
- Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
Gear & Equipment
- 40-50L trekking backpack (with good ventilation and waist straps)
- Sleeping Bag (rated to at least -10°C (14°F) for high-altitude comfort)
- Lightweight inflatable or foam sleeping pad
- Adjustable trekking poles
Personal Items
- Water bottle
- Water purification tablets or portable water filters
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- UV-protected sunglasses
- Camera with portable charger
- A solar-powered or standard power bank
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, wet wipes, toilet paper (carry in a zip-lock bag)
- Quick-dry towel and hand sanitizer
- Lip balm with SPF
- First-aid kit (with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister plasters, gauze, and prescription medications)
- Painkillers
- Toiletries
- Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
- Nail clippers
- Ear plugs
- Snacks (like energy bars, nuts, and chocolate)
Best Time For Short Adventure In Manaslu Region
While the Compact Manaslu Circuit Trek is a spectacular journey through diverse landscapes, the time of year you choose to embark on the adventure can significantly shape your experience. Typically, Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best time to embark on this trek due to their stable weather conditions, dry trails, and spectacular visibility.
Spring ranging from March to May brings moderate temperatures and spectacular visibility of the towering peaks, including Manaslu, Hiunchuli, and Ganesh Himal. On top of it, the lower sections of this region is filled with lush greenery as well as the vibrant hues of the rhododendron blooms that paint the hill in red, pink, and white.
Additionally, it is also a great time to spot wildlife like red pandas and langur monkeys. In fact, if you plan your trek right, you might even catch glimpses of local Tibetan Buddhist festivals like Saga Dawa in May, celebrated with prayers and rituals in villages like Shyala and Samagaun.
Likewise, Autumn is another prime season with the perfect blend of ideal weather and spectacular views. The temperature is also manageable with a cool breeze in the air, providing crisp visibility of the snow-capped peaks. Also, fauna is active, with sightings of animals like Himalayan marmots and wild yaks.his season is also when many of the local festivals like Tiji (in Samdo) and Mani Rimdu (in Shyala) are celebrated.
Apart from these peak seasons, you can also trek during the off-season though Nepal Trekking Experts do not recommend it unless you are a seasoned trekker with years of experience. During Winter (December to November), the trek gets magical and yet challenging as the temperature drops below freezing.
Snow is common in the higher sections of the trail, and Larkya La Pass can be particularly challenging due to the icy conditions. Additionally, the heavy snowfall blocks the higher sections which may end your trek sooner than you might have expected.
On a similar note, the Monsoon season (June to August) is yet another challenging time due to constant rain and thunderstorms, especially at lower sections. On top of making the trail slippery and muddy, the rainfall also brings the potential risk of landslide and flood. At this time, the forests are lush and green but you will have little to no visibility.
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