Experience the Manaslu Circuit trek: The “Mountain of the Spirit”
Discover the raw beauty of Manaslu Circuit trek, a journey around Mt Manaslu, world’s eighth-highest peak. Known as the “Mountain of the Spirit,” Manaslu offers everything you want in a trek: untouched Tibetan culture, dramatic river gorges, and the challenge of the high Larke La Pass.
The Manaslu region remained a hidden sanctuary until 1991. Today, it remains a restricted trekking area, preserving the quiet and pristine scenery and culture. It requires a special restricted area permit, obtained from the Department of Immigration of Nepal to step onto the Manaslu Circuit trek, the Himalayas’ best-kept secret.
Why the Manaslu Circuit trek is a Must-Do:
- The Larke La Pass: Challenge yourself on one of the most scenic mountain passes in Nepal, reaching an altitude of 5,106 meters.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Enjoy a teahouse trek experience that feels truly wild and untouched.
- Tibetan Culture: Walk through ancient villages and Buddhist monasteries that mirror the traditions of the Tibetan plateau.
- Breathtaking Views: Get up close with the dramatic peaks of the Manaslu massif and the surrounding Ganesh Himal.
Overview
Mt. Manaslu: The Mountain of Sprits
Rising majestically to 8,163 meters, Mount Manaslu is the eighth-highest peak in the world and the crown jewel of the west-central Nepalese Himalayas. Its name, derived from the Sanskrit word Manasa, meaning “intellect” or “soul,” has earned it the revered title of the “Mountain of the Spirit.” For the people of the Mansiri Himal, the mountain is more than a peak; it is a spiritual guardian that has watched over their ancient traditions for centuries.
Mt Manaslu was first summited in 1956 by a Japanese expedition. For decades, its surrounding valleys remained a hidden sanctuary, untouched by the modern world. It wasn’t until 1991 that the Nepalese government opened the Manaslu Circuit to trekkers. Today, it remains a Restricted Area, accessible only with a special permit from the Department of Immigration—a regulation that has preserved its pristine environment and authentic Tibetan-influenced culture.
The Manaslu Circuit trek is graded D, which means a challenging trek. Read more about our grading system.
Highlights
- Trekking along the Great Himalayan Trail through an ancient trade route to Tibet.
- Restricted area, which means away from the insanely busy tourist highways.
- Sanctuary to many highly endangered animals, including Snow leopards and Pandas
- Rich in flora and fauna
- Breath taking views of mountains, lovely forest sheltering remote hamlets and their little fields, and high country
- Larkye la - 5140 m
