The Manaslu trekking region encompasses a majestic stretch of land in the shadows of the Mansiri Himal range. It is an underrated and unspoiled trekking destination in Nepal. Home to the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), trekking in the Manaslu region offers a bizarre mix of natural beauty and ancient cultural heritage.
Manaslu region is still a restricted part east of the Annapurna region, bordering Tibet on the north. It offers an incredible mountain vista and Tibetan Buddhism with large monasteries en route. The Manaslu region treks are still unspoiled and less trodden; only a handful are trekking on these trails. Due to its incredible Himalayan vista and fewer crowds than in other regions, thus this Manaslu hiking journey becomes famous every year. There are newly built tea houses in all the places to stay, which was an entire camping trek only a few years back. The tea houses damaged by the April 2015 earthquake in Nepal have been renovated and are fully operational.
Manaslu Conservation Area covers most of the Manaslu region and offers an insane abundance of wildlife and natural vegetation while you are on a Manaslu trekking adventure. As such, the part is home to over 33 mammals, 110 species of birds, and a staggering 1500-2000 species of flowering plants. Apart from this, the region is also prosperous in terms of ethnic groups and their culture. While Magar and Chhetri inhabit the lower altitude regions, the northern parts are dominated by Tsumba and Nubri communities.
Finally, the Himalayas are the major attractions of this region. Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), Himalchuli (7863 m), Shringi Himal (7161 m), Peak 29 (7871 m), Rani Peak (6693 m), Larkya Peak (6249 m), Cheo (6812 m), and Himlung (7126 m) are some of the notable Himalayas one can notice on Manaslu region treks.
As a starting point for one of the most famous expeditions in the country, Manaslu Base Camp is an equally popular trekking destination. Thus, the Around Manaslu Trek is a glorious adventure that reaches the heart of the Manaslu region with Larke L pass over 5100 meters, one of the highest passes in the Manaslu region. Rupina La Pass Trek is a lesser-known trekking trail that explores the Manaslu trekking trails to the southern section of the Manaslu region. This trek crosses the Rupina La Pass (4720 m) and enjoys a lavish display of Himalayan vistas in the Manaslu and Buddha Himal ranges. Manaslu region houses a secluded valley that requires a Restricted Area Permit to trek and explore. This valley is known as the Tsum Valley and houses ancient Tibetan culture and traditions. The monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa are the flag-bearers of the preserved culture and lifestyle in the Tsum Valley.
Like most trekking regions in Nepal, the Manaslu region majesty favors the spring and autumn seasons the most. The spring from March to May offers the finest display of biodiversity, whereas the autumn from September to November is perfect for staring at the gorgeous Himalayas. Unfortunately, the winter and summer/monsoon seasons significantly threaten adverse weather conditions and can even hamper the Manaslu trekking experience.
