Embark trekking to the Circuit of the World’s eighth highest Peak “Manaslu Circuit Trek” over the challenging high Passes Larkya La Pass 5106 meters is a lifetime travel experience. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a Classic Trek starting from Barpak Village and ending at Dharapani, total trip length covers approximately 170 kilometers. Manaslu Treks provides an excellent opportunity to visit the Base Camp of Mt Manaslu from here, Climbers attempt to summit Mount Manaslu during September, October, and April May which is a great time to trek and Climb in Nepal.
Visit Himalaya Treks offers 18 days Manaslu Circuit Trek, following the remote trail through beautiful forests, traditional local villages, and high mountain passes. During our trekking journey trekkers can experience the unique Hindu and Buddhist cultures and traditions of the local peoples who have been living for centuries in the region. Trekkers can interact with the friendly locals, taste the local cuisine, and learn about the ancient customs and traditions of the Nepalese people.
Mt. Manaslu and Ribung Gompa from Lho Village
Side Trips during Manaslu Treks in Nepal
Apart from the designed itinerary with pre-defined stopovers, you can choose for a side trip adding a day or two. Also, you can take a day tour during your acclimatization day to take such side trips. Here discussed are some of the side trips you can take during the Manaslu base camp Trek:
Kaal Taal - Starting Point: Prok Village
Locally called Kalchumaan Tal which literally translates to death lake, sits as a popular vantage point to gaze at the Manaslu vista. This spot is nestled at an elevation of 3574 meters and is favored as one of the best side trips in the Manaslu Circuit trekking route. You begin your day trip to this lake from Prok village, which resides right before your reach Namrung. It's about 3-hours easy-going walk from Prok to the lake. This side trip justifies only if you are an early because the views are usually obstructed by misty clouds during the day.
View from Pung Gyen Gompa side trip.
Pungyen Gompa- Starting Point: In between Shyala and Samagaon
Pugyen Gompa is amongst the sacred monastery situated in the Manaslu region. It bears centuries-old artifacts and various Buddhist scripture. The northern face of the monastery overlooks the Manaslu range providing an up-close view of the surrounding mountains. It is a day hike of 4-6 hours with occasional ascents and descents between Shyala and Samagaon.
Birendra Taal- Starting Point: Samagaon
A day trip to Birandra Tal has become another favored day trip during the acclimatization day at Samagaon. Birendra Lake has been named after the second last Shah dynasty king, Birendra Bir Bikram Sahadev. This lake portrays turquoise water that pours down from the mighty massifs of the Manaslu mountains located right above it. It's about 1-hour walk from Samagaon till you reach the tranquil waters of Birendra Tal.
Mt. Manaslu and Birendra Tal
Manaslu Base Camp: - Starting Point: Samagaon
If you are looking for a lengthy side trip on your trek to the Manaslu region, Manaslu Base Camp is a not to miss destination. Spanning about 4 hours from Samagaon, Manaslu Base Camp is the initial point for climbers looking to conquer Mt. Manaslu. The trail to the base camp first traverses through thin forest which leads to a steep slope thereafter. You pass through numerous glacial moraines and rock boulder sections before reaching the base camp. Its breathtaking scenery awaits at the base camp for you and achieves your dream to stand Base of the world's eight-highest Peak's base camp.
Mt. Manaslu, Manaslu Glacier, and Expedition Camp, View from Base Camp.
Samdu Ri and Laiyung Pass- Starting Point: Samdo
Another perfect side trip during Manaslu Treks is from Samdu Village. It is the last civilization village which is connecting with Nepal - Tibet trade route. From Samdo a trail leads the classic Nepal -Tibet trade route towards Samdu Ri traversing via Laiyung Pass(5098m). The trail however is a bit sketchy with not much human foot trail left. Only yaks travel through this trail nowadays. Samdu Ri sits atop 4998 meters and provides a connection point for Tibet and Nepal. The round trip takes about 5 -6 hours from Samdo and there are no stopover teahouses in between.
Ponkar Lake- Starting Point - Bimthang
Ponkar Lake sits in Bimthang, a popular stopover of the Manaslu circuit trek. This lake is a popular vantage point for picturesque views of Mt. Manaslu, Ponkar Himal, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and several other peaks. Situated at 3965 meters, from Bimthang it takes 2 hours to reach the lake which is sublime, and tranquil with turquoise water reflecting lofty white mountains.
Our Camp at Larkya Peak Base Camp
Adding 3 to 4 days Climbing course to Larkya Peak.
Another enthralling add-on to your Manaslu Circuit Trek would be the climb to Larkya Peak which stands at 6249 meters. For aspiring climbers looking to hone their climbing skills, a climb to Larkya Peak would be a great opportunity. Larkya Peak is a popular climbing peak with two pinnacles: Big Peak(6249m) and Small Peak(5807m).
From Samagaon, you will take a day tour to Manaslu Base Camp to acclimatize to the elevated areas. To begin with the climb, you will first take on a traverse to Larkya Peak Base Camp (5170m). From the base camp, you will take a day to climb up to the High Camp(5650m). The first stretch of the climb takes on a small peak which is low in altitude but is technical relative to the big peak. Followingly, you will climb up to the final pinnacle of the Big Peak and descend down to Bhimthang.
This Climb to Larkya Peak demands an additional 3-4 days of trekking days to your Manaslu Circuit Trek. However, the views from the peak are worthwhile. The top of the Larkya Peak offers stunning views of Mt. Manaslu, Himlung, Kangguru, and Annapurna II. Let your trekking company know in advance if you are willing to take on this adventure.
What a Breathtaking view from the Larkya Peak Climbing route.
Tsum Nubri Valley Side Trip
This Tsum Valley in the eastern borders of the Manaslu region is considered the hidden gem of the area. Tsum Valley is one rain shadow area of Nepal that lurks behind the mighty Himalayas. Your trip to Tsum Valley can be added alongside your usual Manaslu circuit trek. We diverge eastward from Lokpa towards the villages of Chumling, Chokkangparo, and Mu Gompa to reach Tsum Valley.
This valley is home to several old Buddhist monasteries. Such as Pango Gumba, Mani Dhungyr, and Gurwa Gumba which bears prominent significance for the Indo-Tibetan people residing in the area. Also, the geography of the area is semi-arid with enigmatic landscape formation. An additional 7 - 8 days are required for extending your trip to Tsum Valley on your usual Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Conclusion to things you don't want to miss on Manaslu Treks
These are the must-see highlights that you wouldn't want to overlook. Being aware of these aspects beforehand is advantageous as prior information always proves beneficial. Furthermore, you have the option to personalize your trekking route. Manaslu Treks alone is an exhilarating adventure, and now picture adding these captivating experiences on top of that—it becomes truly enchanting. Not all travel agencies accommodate these additional side trips, but at Visit Himalaya Treks, we take great pleasure in offering guidance to interested travelers.
Trekking to Manaslu is an unforgettable trekking holiday that combines stunning natural beauty, rich culture, friendly people and their unique traditions, and a sense of Adventure. Manaslu treks is a must-do for any trekking and hiking enthusiast looking for a combination of unique and Best Treks in Nepal.
If you are considering Manasalu Treks then, Visit Himalaya Treks offers 18 days Manaslu Circuit Trek arriving in Nepal to departure from Nepal, at a very affordable price, best itinerary fitting for every individual, group joining, and private journey. Our expert team is ready to lead your dream trips over the Himalayas of Nepal.
