The Manaslu Circuit Trek with Trek Pathways is considered a moderate to challenging trek, but it can definitely be done by beginners with the right preparation, mindset, and guidance. If you're new to trekking or have limited experience, the key to success on the Manaslu Circuit Trek lies in proper acclimatization, physical preparation, and choosing the right itinerary.
Here's how a beginner can take on the Manaslu Circuit Trek:
1. Understanding the Trek's Difficulty for Beginners
While the Manaslu Circuit is one of Nepal's more challenging treks due to its altitude, rugged terrain, and high passes (like Larkya La Pass at 5,160m), it's manageable for beginners with the right approach. However, it’s essential to understand the following factors:
Altitude: Altitude sickness can be a major concern. The trek takes you up to 5,160 meters, and acclimatization is critical to avoid high-altitude sickness. The slower, more gradual ascent of Manaslu helps reduce the risk, but rest days are necessary.
Trekking Duration: The trek usually lasts around 14-18 days, which is relatively long compared to shorter treks. It requires stamina and patience.
Terrain: Expect a variety of landscapes, from lush green forests to rocky paths, river crossings, and steep ascents/descents. The trails are not as maintained as those in popular routes like Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, so it's important to be comfortable with rocky and uneven terrain.
Weather: The weather can change rapidly, with snow and cold temperatures in the higher elevations, especially around Larkya La Pass. Being prepared with the right gear is essential.
2. Key Tips for Beginner Trekkers
Choose the Right Time
Best Time for Beginners: The best seasons for beginners are during Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May). These seasons offer clear skies, stable weather, and moderate temperatures. Avoid the Monsoon (June to August), as trails can be slippery and muddy, and Winter (December to February) due to extreme cold and snow.
Start with Fitness Training
Physical Preparation: While you don’t need to be an elite athlete, you should build stamina and endurance before attempting the trek. Focus on:
Cardio workouts: Running, cycling, or swimming to improve your aerobic capacity.
Strength training: Exercises targeting legs, core, and upper body.
Hiking practice: Try hiking on local trails with a loaded backpack to mimic the conditions you'll face.
Start at least 3 months before the trek to ensure your body is prepared for long days of walking and climbing.
Hire a Guide and Porter
Guides: A licensed guide is a must, especially for beginners. The guide will help with navigation, safety, and provide valuable information about the local culture, making the trek more enriching.
Porters: Hiring a porter is also advisable to carry your heavy backpack, so you can focus on walking and acclimatizing, rather than worrying about the weight.
Trekking Pace
Slow and Steady: Trekking at a slower pace is vital for beginners. The Manaslu Circuit requires a gradual ascent, so give yourself time to adjust to the altitude. Do not rush. Rest days for acclimatization are crucial.
Take Frequent Breaks: Allow your body to recover by stopping often for water and snacks.
3. Choose an Ideal Itinerary for Beginners
The Manaslu Circuit Trek usually takes 14 to 18 days, but beginners should opt for an itinerary that emphasizes acclimatization and avoids excessive strain on the body. Here’s an adjusted itinerary that might work well for beginners:
Day 1-2: Arrive in Kathmandu
Explore Kathmandu: Take a day or two to adjust to the city’s altitude (1,350m) and visit iconic landmarks like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or Patan Durbar Square.
Day 3: Drive to Soti Khola (710m)
Drive to the start point: The drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola takes around 8-9 hours and provides the perfect opportunity to ease into the trek.
Day 4: Soti Khola to Machha Khola (900m)
Moderate Trek: Start your trek gently with a 6-7 hour hike. It’s a mix of forested trails and streams, offering an easy start for beginners.
Day 5: Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m)
Scenic Walk: The trek from Machha Khola to Jagat is about 6-7 hours with steady elevation gain, allowing your body to adjust gradually.
Day 6: Jagat to Deng (1,860m)
Slow and Steady: This leg is 6-7 hours, climbing through forests and small villages. The gradual ascent keeps it manageable.
Day 7: Deng to Namrung (2,630m)
More Views: Trek for 6-7 hours, passing through increasingly higher altitudes. You’ll start to see more stunning mountain views, including the Manaslu Range.
Day 8: Namrung to Samagaon (3,530m)
More Acclimatization: At Samagaon, take an extra day to rest and acclimatize, allowing your body to adapt to the higher altitude. You can take a short hike to Manaslu Base Camp (if you feel up for it) or Pungyen Gompa.
Day 9-10: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon
Resting and acclimatizing in Samagaon will help prepare you for the tougher days ahead.
Day 11: Samagaon to Samdo (3,875m)
Shorter Trek: A relatively 4-5 hour trek to Samdo, which allows your body to continue adapting to higher altitudes.
Day 12: Acclimatization Day in Samdo
Another rest day in Samdo helps you avoid altitude sickness. You can take short hikes to nearby ridges for better views of Manaslu and Tibetan peaks.
Day 13: Samdo to Dharmashala (4,460m)
Tougher Day: The trek to Dharmashala is 4-5 hours, but this is an important step in the acclimatization process.
Day 14: Dharmashala to Bimthang (3,720m) via Larkya La Pass (5,160m)
Long Day, High Pass: The ascent to Larkya La Pass is challenging, but the early start gives you time to summit and descend to Bimthang. This can be a 9-11 hour day, so it’s vital to be prepared both mentally and physically.
Bimthang offers a well-earned rest at the end of the day.
Day 15-16: Bimthang to Tilije (2,300m)
Easier Descent: The final descent is more relaxed and will take you through scenic villages to Tilije. This is a 5-6 hour trek.
Day 17-18: Tilije to Kathmandu
Drive back to Kathmandu: A jeep or bus ride from Tilije to Besisahar and then back to Kathmandu. The drive is 7-8 hours and a relaxing way to end your trek.
4. Essential Gear for Beginners
Since the Manaslu Circuit involves high altitudes and varied terrain, it’s important to pack the right gear:
Trekking Boots: Comfortable, waterproof boots with good ankle support.
Layers: Layering is key. A lightweight fleece, a down jacket, and a waterproof jacket are essential.
Sleeping Bag: Rated for sub-zero temperatures, especially in higher altitudes.
Trekking Poles: Essential for balance on uneven terrain.
Water Purification: Bring a water filter or purification tablets to stay hydrated.
5. Conclusion
While the Manaslu Circuit Trek is challenging, it can definitely be a fulfilling adventure for beginners if approached properly. The key is to:
Take plenty of rest days to acclimatize.
Trek slowly, allowing your body time to adjust to the altitude.
Hire a guide and porter to make the trek more enjoyable and manageable.
Prepare physically by doing cardio, strength training, and practicing with a backpack.
By following these tips, you'll be able to enjoy the incredible beauty, culture, and adventure of the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Trek Pathways safely, even as a beginner!