How to prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Many trekkers are curious to know how you can prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek as the trek is one of the most remote treks in Nepal, and it needs to be explored more. More than thousands of trekkers trek to the Manaslu region every year.

Manaslu Circuit Trek recently has been a trek that everyone has got their eyes on. So, in this article, we will help you prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal.

Preparing for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu circuit shines as one of the best treks in Nepal. To prepare for the trek, you must look at many things during the trek. From altitude-to-altitude sickness to weather, physical strength and all. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a demanding trek that requires thorough preparation. Here’s a detailed guide to help you get ready.

Know the Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty is moderately challenging. It covers around 177 kilometres in 13–16 days. The trek’s highest point is the Larkya La Pass, at 5,106 meters, with breathtaking mountain views. Further, the trail goes through dense forests, suspension bridges, picturesque villages, and diverse landscapes. It is a teahouse trek, meaning basic accommodation is available, but the region’s remoteness requires careful planning and preparation.

Choose the Right Time

Picking the right season is very important for a trek. The best times to visit Manaslu are spring, March to May, autumn, and September to November. During these months, the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the landscapes are in their most beautiful phase.

In spring, rhododendrons will bloom, while mountain views will be crystal clear in autumn. Avoid the monsoon season, from June to August, for heavy rains and the risk of landslides; likewise, winter from December to February because snow may block the Larkya La Pass.

Get the Necessary Permits

Trekking in the Manaslu region requires several permits. It would help if you had the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and even the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit because some parts of the trail come under the Annapurna region.

These Manaslu permits must be arranged through a trekking agency, and you cannot trek solo-you need a licensed guide and at least one other person in your group. It’s important to have all permits in place before starting the trek.

Building Physical Fitness

Begin training at least two months in advance of the trek. This way, your body will be able to acclimate to the physical demands of the trek. Manaslu Circuit Trek distance is 177 km long, so you must be walking at least 10-15 km each day.

To trek this much, you must be fit and physically strong. Also, the trek has many ascents and descents, so please prepare yourself for those activities.

Find Manaslu Guides

Always trek with an experienced Manaslu guide or porter; they have local knowledge and help manage the risks of altitude sickness. Because the Manaslu Circuit Trek is in a remote region of Nepal, the trails and routes are less well-marked than those of Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp treks.

Also, a guide is compulsory due to the remote and restricted nature of the trek. So please talk freely to your guide about every minor inconvenience or problem.

Note: Also, find a porter for Manaslu Circuit Trek if you do not want to go via a trekking agency. 

Plan Your Packing

Packing the right Manaslu gear is important for a comfortable and successful trek—clothing: Lightweight trekking shirts, warm layers, a down jacket, and waterproof outerwear. Comfy hiking boots with a good grip are highly essential.

Pack necessary equipment like trekking poles, a cold-weather sleeping bag, and a dependable backpack. Remember personal items such as a water purification system, a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and snacks that provide energy. Remember to pack light, but ensure you have all you need.

Prepare for Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness on such treks to high, elevated regions of the Manaslu Circuit may be a big problem. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and dizziness; these could all begin above 3,000 meters. To reduce the risk, ascend gradually and take acclimatization days as directed. Drink enough water, avoid alcohol, and eat light meals.

If your doctor has prescribed the altitude sickness medication Diamox, carry some. If the symptoms are severe, inform your guide; neglecting symptoms will result in serious complications.

Book Accommodation and Guide

Basic rooms and meals are available in lodges and teahouses along the trail but are often fully booked during peak seasons. Booking through a trekking agency can ensure your accommodation and food are pre-arranged.

A licensed guide is compulsory for this trek, and it is greatly recommended that you find your way around trails and manage permits. You could also hire a porter, adding to the experience by lightening your load as you trek.

Budget Your Trek

The cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek depends on which services you take and in what season. With Himalayan Masters, the cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek is $995 per person. The Manaslu permits cost alone can cost 100-200 dollars, depending on the time of year. A guide and a porter charge around 25-30 dollars daily.

 The cost of your accommodation and food is around 25-40 dollars every day. Transportation from Kathmandu to the trailhead may cost you approximately 20-30 dollars. 

Dietary Plan

The meals are simple yet filling during the trek. Rice with lentils, noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread are also available in teahouses. Dal Bhat is a trekker’s favourite because of the long hikes that require high energy.

Bring high-energy snacks like nuts, energy bars, and chocolates to keep going. Drink boiled or purified water to prevent stomach issues since safe drinking water is unavailable along the trail.

Stay Connected and Safe

Basic internet or phone services are available in some of the villages in the Manaslu region. Bring a local SIM card with data, but only depend on it for part of the trek. Satellite phones are only used in case of emergencies.

Always let someone know your trekking itinerary and check weather updates often. A guide is important to guarantee safety in remote areas, especially with bad or difficult weather or health problems.

Know the Culture

The Manaslu Circuit Trek passes through the villages that are Tibetan and Gurung-inhabited. Respect their traditions, visit monasteries with respect, and learn their unique way of living.

A simple Namaste greeting them or taking an interest in their culture goes a long way in building connections.

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a must for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Ensure your insurance covers high-altitude trekking, emergency helicopter evacuation, accidents, and trip delays. Medical emergencies in remote areas can be expensive, and insurance provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events. Always carry a copy of your insurance policy and contact information for your provider.

Prepare for Unexpected Challenges

During the trek, you might encounter some unexpected challenges you must prepare for. You might find some far-flung routes or even some landslides on the road. Monsoons might obstruct the Jagat and Machha Khola route, so you must be prepared.