Manaslu Region

The Manaslu Region is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and remote trekking destinations, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and a relatively less crowded alternative to the Everest and Annapurna regions. Dominated by Mt. Manaslu (8,163m)—the eighth-highest mountain in the world—the region is home to the renowned Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Tsum Valley Trek, both of which provide a mix of adventure, Tibetan-influenced culture, and stunning natural beauty.

Geography & Landscape

The Manaslu Region lies in north-central Nepal, bordering Tibet. The terrain varies from lush subtropical forests at lower altitudes to high alpine meadows and rugged, glacial landscapes above 5,000m. The region is part of the Manaslu Conservation Area, covering 1,663 square kilometers and protecting diverse flora and fauna, including snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, red pandas, and blue sheep.

The trek around Manaslu offers a dramatic transition in landscapes:

Lower sections: Lush forests, terraced farmland, and deep river valleys.
Mid-altitude: Pine, rhododendron, and bamboo forests, with villages influenced by Tibetan culture.
Higher altitudes: Barren rocky terrain, glacial moraines, and dramatic snow-covered peaks.

Best Time to Visit

Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear skies, stable weather, and great visibility. The best season for trekking.
Spring (March–May): Warm temperatures and rhododendron blooms. Also, an excellent time for trekking.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Very cold at high altitudes, but fewer trekkers. Larke La Pass can be closed due to snow.
Monsoon (June–Aug): Heavy rainfall, landslides, and leeches make trekking difficult.

Accommodation & Food

The Manaslu Region offers tea house trekking, meaning trekkers can stay in simple guesthouses along the route. Compared to Everest or Annapurna, the facilities are more basic. Food includes Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), Tibetan bread, noodles, momos (dumplings), and soups.

Permits Required

Since the Manaslu Region is a restricted area, trekkers must obtain special permits:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) (Required for all trekkers)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) (If exiting through the Annapurna Circuit)
Tsum Valley Permit (If trekking to Tsum Valley)

A minimum of two trekkers and a registered guide are required for a permit.

Getting There

The trek begins at Machha Khola, which is reached via a 7-9 hour drive from Kathmandu. After completing the trek, many people exit through Dharapani and drive to Besisahar before returning to Kathmandu.

Why Choose the Manaslu Region?

- Less crowded than Everest and Annapurna.
- Stunning high-altitude landscapes.
- Rich Tibetan Buddhist culture.
- Challenging but rewarding trekking routes.
- Opportunity to experience an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

The Manaslu Region is a perfect choice for experienced trekkers looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and raw natural beauty!

Manaslu Region Trekking Packages:

Manaslu Circuit Trekking

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an exceptional, less-crowded trekking destination in the stunning Manaslu region. Often hailed as the alternative to the popular Annapurna Circuit, the trek to Manaslu Circuit offers an unparalleled adventure for avid trekkers.

Embark on the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, a hidden gem in the Nepal Himalayas. This off-the-beaten-path trek combines the remote Tsum Valley with the breathtaking Manaslu Circuit, offering stunning mountain views, rich Tibetan culture, and diverse landscapes.

Into the wilderness and to the least tried trekking trail in the Manaslu region exist a journey known as Manaslu Rupina La Pass trekking. Rupina la pass trek is one of the most wonderful and adventurous

Manaslu Tibet panorama view trek takes a trekker to the border of Nepal and Tibet with fascinating Tibetan plateau views along with the mesmerizing view of high Himalayas. This is the

Manaslu circuit trek with heli return is an exclusive trekking package created by Nature Lovers Treks and Tours, a dedicated company in the field of Nepalese tourism. With the time restrictions,

Lower Manaslu Eco Trek is not only a trek but it is a complete package of exploring many villages, medicinal herbs, ancient caves, museums, different lifestyles, views of many mountains and palaces

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas with the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek—an efficient yet enriching adventure featuring stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and serene trails.

The Tsum Valley Trek is a captivating journey into one of Nepal's most secluded and culturally rich regions. Nestled in the northern Gorkha district, the valley was only opened to trekkers in 2008.

Embark on the ultimate Himalayan adventure with our Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit Trekking package. Explore stunning landscapes, cross high-altitude passes, and immerse yourself in Nepal's rich culture and breathtaking mountain views.

Pungyen Gompa: Where Spirituality Meets the Majestic Himalayas

Experience the Manaslu Circuit Trek with enriching side trips to Serang Gompa, Kal Tal, Pungyen Gompa, Hinang Gompa and Tibet border (Rui-La Pass). A perfect blend of adventure, Tibetan culture, and stunning Himalayan landscapes awaits!