About Manaslu Region Trek
Untouched and isolated, Manaslu Region is located in the west-central part of Nepal in the Gorkha District. The region lies in the Tibetan Plateau and is in fact bordered by Tibet on three sides. A major part of this regions also falls in Manaslu Conservation Area which is loaded with rich biodiversity. The 8th highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8163 m) and its base camp at 5416 m are the main attractions of the Manaslu Region.
The journey to the Manaslu Region starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Arughat and Soti Khola. The trail that starts from Soti Khola takes us through many natural wonders- from alpine forests to clear gushing rivers to spectacular views of the mountains. The Manaslu trail is actually an ancient salt trading route to Tibet. The route also links the Budi Gandaki Valley with the Marsayangdi Valley. This trek passes through a number of rivers including Maccha Khola, Soti Khola, Budi Gandaki, Tharo Khola, Deng Khola, Ghatta Khola, etc. Rich in biodiversity, the conservation area protects the habitat of several wild species including snow leopard, musk deer, Himalayan Thar, blue sheep, etc. Above all, the trail of this region presents you an amazing backdrop of the majestic mountains. The magnificence of Ngadi Chuli, Ganesh Himal, Shringi, Boudha Himal, Cheo Himal, Mt. Manaslu, and many other peaks will continuously pull you towards them, motivating you to move further.
The Trek to Manaslu Base Camp is one of the major destinations in Manaslu region. On reaching the base camp of the Mountain of the Spirit, you will not only enjoy a mountainous grandeur but also the calm and peacefully standing Birendra Lake. Manaslu Circuit Trek is an extended trek, where the highest point is Larkya La Pass at 5220 m. Though very challenging the views of Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Kang Guru, and other ranges from the pass will give justice to all your endeavors.
Tsum Valley trek, an extension to the Manaslu circuit trek is a Hidden Valley of Happiness. Opened for trekking only in 2008, the Tsum valley is a holy Himalayan pilgrimage. It is the place where Milarepa, a Buddhist saint had meditated. The region prohibits the killing of any wildlife, thus contributing to wildlife conservation and sustainability. The region houses several monasteries including Rachen Gumba, Mu Gumba, Gumba Lung Dang, Milarepa's Cave, Pungyen Monastery, etc.
The Manaslu region lacks behind in terms of development and infrastructure. But, on the contrary, this isolation is what has helped the region to preserve their cultures. The traditional way of life, the architecture, language, and everything has no foreign touch, making them pure and magical. This region has a strong Tibetan influence. Tibetan Butter Tea is one thing you should not miss out trying.
Overall, the trek to Manaslu region is a physical, spiritual, and natural journey, where you surrender yourself to nature. On one hand, you enjoy nature and discover your potentials, while on the other, you are promoting eco-tourism. Thus, let Manaslu region amuse you on your next vacation; book your seats for the coming spring or fall.
