Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty Guide: Raw Beauty Larkya La

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most captivating trekking destinations, known for its raw beauty, thrilling adventure, and status as an off-the-beaten-path route. Every trekking route and destination has its own unique identity, and Manaslu is no exception. Based on personal experience, the Manaslu trek still offers a glimpse into a genuine, remote lifestyle and unspoiled nature.

While the trek may be relatively easy for professional high-altitude trekkers and climbers, it falls into the moderate to strenuous challenge category for intermediate trekkers and beginners. Though sometimes overshadowed by the Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang routes, and despite being considered an underrated trek, the Manaslu Circuit is highly popular among Nepal's best trekking routes. It falls within a restricted area, requiring special permits from immigration and the compulsory hiring of a guide and affiliation with a registered trekking agency.

This adventurous journey, though appearing heavenly and beautiful in photos, is not easy. This blog aims to simplify these realities. Written by an experienced leader who has trekked these routes for years, it offers practical insights into the difficulties and easy parts of the Manaslu trekking experience, not merely information gleaned from books or maps in a closed room.

🏔️ The Core Challenge: Larkya La Pass

The first thing that comes to mind when mentioning the Manaslu trek is the challenging journey over Larkya La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 5106M. The trek starts easily at lower elevations but becomes progressively harder as you gain altitude. Mount Manaslu, at 8163 M, has earned the nickname of the "Killer Mountain" from expedition teams, and the long route can feel similarly daunting to inexperienced trekkers.

However, it is not as difficult as some older blogs describe, primarily because the motorable road now extends much further up, though this raises the concern that, like the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the authentic trekking route's existence may be questioned in a few years. Starting the itinerary from Machhakhola or Soti Khola means a very long walk, often along the roadside, which can be tedious and lengthy for the first few days. The daily walk can be long—around 17-18 km per day for 2 to 3 days.

The trail itself is very rugged, rocky, and steep in parts, especially the initial days spent walking along river banks and through gorges. As an off-the-beaten-path route in a remote location, facilities like medical services and supplies are limited.

💪 Physical Demands and Altitude

Physical fitness and stamina are of utmost importance. The trek demands walking long distances at lower elevations, followed by sustained uphill climbs as the elevation increases, steep descents, and crossing numerous suspension bridges. There are several spots prone to landslides, creating narrow and exposed paths.

The journey starts around 730 M (Sotikhola) or 1350 M (Jagat) and gradually climbs through villages like Deng M, Namrung (2630 M), Samagaon (3530 M), Samdo (3860 M), and Dharamsala (4460 M) before reaching the summit of Larkya La Pass. The descent continues through Bhimthang (3720 M) and Tilje (2300 M), ending in Besisahar.

While the daily elevation gain may not be drastically high, staying near the base of the Himalayas means the air is thin and very dry, leading to rapid cooling. A well-planned and acclimatized itinerary is crucial to mitigate the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which requires careful attention on this trek.

Remember to be prepared for 7 to 8 hours of walking per day. Before the trek, training with activities like cycling, running, and walking with a loaded backpack is highly recommended. Incorporating Yoga and breathing exercises can be very helpful for both physical and mental preparation.

📅 Best Time and Gear

Weather significantly impacts the trek, making the choice of season critical. Given the remoteness and difficulty in accessing immediate medical treatment or supplies, it is highly advisable to trek during the proper season.

• Best Seasons:Spring and Autumn are the most popular times for trekking in Nepal, including the Manaslu Circuit, due to stable weather.

• Avoid: It is strongly recommended to avoid the monsoon and winter seasons.

Be meticulous with your gear. Mountain weather can be warm during the day but turns very cold at night, with unpredictable changes. Do not be frugal when packing warm clothing and necessary items.

The beautiful nature comes with a harsh landscape. Since you will be trekking through rocky, landslide-prone areas, investing in sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support is essential. Break in any new boots by training in them before the trip.

While it is true that some locals, and even porters, walk these routes barefoot or in basic footwear, this is an exception rooted in their upbringing, lifestyle, and local circumstances, and is not applicable to everyone. Trekking with proper preparation is key.

🏡 Accommodation and Food

The facilities for accommodation and food have significantly improved compared to 8 to 10 years ago. Teahouses and hotels have been upgraded, with some offering attached Western-style bathrooms, although this is not possible everywhere. Be prepared to use shared bathrooms and squat toilets, which requires mental preparation.

Food is generally good in most places. However, it's not yet as diverse or fast as in the Everest or Annapurna regions. Expect simple meals like dal bhat (lentils and rice) and simple Western-style options. It's a good idea to bring your favorite snacks.

The food is quite good from the start of the trek up to Samdo. However, the one night's stay and food at Dharamsala (Larkya La Phedi) are generally limited. It has restricted facilities, shared rooms, and shared bathrooms due to the limited number of teahouses, which are often leased for limited periods. Facilities may see an upgrade in the coming years.

🧭 Planning Your Journey

It is better to plan a standard trekking itinerary with rest/acclimatization days rather than a short, rushed one. Use rest days, such as the one in Samagaon, to take a day trip to places like the Manaslu Base Camp or another nearby high-elevation point. This "climb high, sleep low" strategy greatly aids acclimatization. Trekking at the best time also ensures good views, which is what you're traveling for.

Given the long distances, it is advisable to hire a porter to carry your main luggage, allowing you to walk comfortably with just a light daypack carrying water and essentials.

This route is definitely not for complete beginners or small children with a fast and furious itinerary. However, one experienced family was able to complete the trek with a 7-year-old child using a very long, approximately 20-day, itinerary, which kept daily distances short and allowed for slow, easy acclimatization. If you are a beginner or traveling with children, plan for enough days. If you have knee problems, ankle issues, fear of heights, or difficulty with long walks, consider easier treks like Ghorepani or Mardi Himal. This trek is for travelers seeking an authentic experience, not tourists looking for luxury comforts.

🚨 Final Advisory: Safety and Insurance

While the journey is challenging, the right preparation makes everything possible. The intention of highlighting the difficulties is to provide an honest, realistic portrayal, not to demotivate you. Having the correct information for a Himalayan journey ensures you are alert and properly prepared.

Travel insurance is compulsory. In an emergency, it facilitates necessary procedures. Due to the restricted area status, quick helicopter evacuation is complicated, as it often requires an approval letter from the Home Ministry beforehand. It is wise to carry your own supply of essential, over-the-counter medication.