The Manaslu Circuit Trek is graded as a moderately difficult hike among the high-altitude treks of Nepal. Although this is not a very tricky and challenging trek that requires mountain climbing experience or trekking gear, you will obviously need a very good level of physical strength. Most of the trial to Manaslu Circuit Trek is used by the villagers for their day-to-day activities, so the path is a bit more comfortable and less risky in comparison to other trekking routes of Nepal. Even then, you need to hike for 6 to 7 hours each day, almost at an altitude of about 3500 m. So, this trip is obviously physically demanding but not impossible. This 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is definitely designed for beginner trekkers in Nepal. However, if you have already done some high-altitude treks and want a true cultural experience and mountain thrill, then the Manaslu Circuit Trek will be a great adventure for you.
The difficulty of Manaslu Circuit Trek lies in following the expected.
Altitude of Manaslu
Most of the villages in the Manaslu Circuit Trek are located between the altitude of 3000 to 4000 m above sea level. At this height, the oxygen level almost drops by 1/3rd, and it will become difficult to breathe. The symptoms of altitude sickness can be navigated by enough rest and medication, but it will surely add difficulty to your trek. With the right trekking guide from Manaslu Circuit Trek, it’s quite safe.
Distance of Manaslu
Hiking for about 13 to 15 km each day, i.e. almost 10 miles for about nine days, is not easy. Each day, you will be trekking for about 6 to 7 hours, with only two rest days in between them. The distance of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is higher than other treks in Nepal, so you end up walking more.
Accommodation and facility
During the trip, you will be living in the houses of local people and surviving on the minimum facilities. Do not expect to have a fancy hotel or luxurious accommodation in the trek. Even the simplest things, such as charging your phone and a hot shower, are a luxury when trekking in the high mountain’s remote landscape. If you have always lived in luxury and comfort, you might find the tea houses along the way a bit dirty and uncomfortable. For this, you need to relinquish your luxury expectations and simply enjoy the village life.
Do you need crampons for Manaslu Circuit?
No, you will not need crampons, axes, or any other gear while heading for the Manaslu circuit trek. Most of the path goes via the village, and villagers keep the route very clean and safe. However, if you are trekking off to Manaslu base camp in winter, then you might have to use some crampons for that particular day only. Unless it’s a harsh winter, you do not need any lessons about using trekking gear for Manaslu.
How long is the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek usually takes about 12 to 14 days, depending on your itinerary. You can have more rest days in Samara or Samdo to extend your trip. Otherwise, the trip can also be completed in about ten days. Including a rest day in the mountains, Himalayan Master has designed a 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary where you can enjoy the lifestyle of the people by living with the local villagers and having enough rest.
Talking about how many miles the Manaslu circuit trek is, it is usually about 105 miles. You will be completing this distance in 9 trekking days by hiking about 10 to 12 miles each day.
If you are looking for a short journey, then the Langtang Valley trek might be the best.
How to train for Manaslu Circuit?
As we had previously mentioned, you will not need any special trekking experience or training for the Manaslu circuit trek. If you want to prepare for the Manaslu circuit trek, the best way is to improve your physical strength. At least 2 to 3 months of regular exercise in the gym or activities such as cycling, swimming, or running is all you need for the trek. A few short hikes in your home country with a backpack is a great way to prepare for the trip. Further, if you are not sure if you can cope with such a higher altitude, then you might try going for a 1 to 2-day high-altitude trek before you book your flight to Nepal. This is just a simple procedure you need to follow for almost all treks in Nepal just so that you will have a comfortable time while you are here. Also, it will help you be physically fit in general.
