Into the Heart of the Himalayas: My 15-Day Manaslu Trek Story
Into the Heart of the Himalayas: My 15-Day Manaslu Trek Story
Blog Article
The Manaslu Base Camp Trek is an adventure unlike any other, offering a perfect mix of rugged landscapes, rich cultural encounters, and breathtaking mountain views. Nestled in the remote regions of Nepal, this trek is a hidden gem that rivals the popular Annapurna and Everest circuits while remaining less crowded and more serene.
Join me as I take you through my 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek, sharing my experiences, challenges, and useful tips, including insights into the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost and logistics.
Day 1-2: Kathmandu to Soti Khola – The Journey Begins
My adventure began in Kathmandu, where I obtained my Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and stocked up on last-minute gear. The 8-hour drive to Soti Khola was an experience in itself—bumpy roads, lush hills, and my first glimpses of the snow-capped peaks that awaited me.
On reaching Soti Khola (710m), the excitement kicked in. This small riverside village marked the beginning of my Manaslu Base Camp Trek. The first day of trekking was relatively easy, with a mix of suspension bridges, dense forests, and terraced fields.
Day 3-6: Trekking Through Remote Villages
The next few days took me through stunning villages like Machha Khola, Jagat, and Deng. Each stop presented an opportunity to interact with the Tibetan-influenced Gurung communities, experience their warm hospitality, and enjoy traditional meals like Dal Bhat.
As I ascended higher, the landscapes transformed from lush greenery to more barren, rocky terrain. The sight of Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, growing larger with every step was simply breathtaking.
Day 7-9: Samagaun & Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m)
One of the biggest highlights was reaching Samagaun (3,530m), a beautiful village with a backdrop of towering peaks. I took an acclimatization day here before the big push to Manaslu Base Camp.
The trek to the base camp was challenging, with steep ascents and freezing winds, but every step was worth it. Standing at 4,800m, I was face-to-face with the majestic Manaslu Glacier. The silence, the panoramic Himalayan views, and the sheer sense of accomplishment made it one of the most memorable moments of my trek.
Day 10-12: Conquering Larke Pass (5,160m)
The toughest part of the trek awaited me—crossing Larke Pass (5,160m). Waking up before dawn, I set off with my headlamp lighting the way. The thin air made every step exhausting, but the feeling of reaching the top was surreal. From the pass, the views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II stretched as far as the eye could see.
The descent towards Bimthang was long and tiring, but the lush forests and yak pastures welcomed me back into lower altitudes.
Day 13-15: The Final Stretch to Dharapani & Kathmandu
The last few days were easier on my legs as I walked through rhododendron forests and picturesque villages, finally reaching Dharapani. From here, I took a jeep back to Besisahar and eventually returned to Kathmandu, carrying unforgettable memories of my journey into the heart of the Himalayas.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost & Essential Tips
One of the most common questions about this trek is “How much does the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost?” Here’s a breakdown:
1. Trekking Permits
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit: $100 for the first week + $15 per extra day (Sept-Nov)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): $30
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $30
- TIMS Card (if exiting via Annapurna Circuit): $20
2. Guide & Porter Costs
- Guide: $25–$35 per day
- Porter: $15–$25 per day
3. Accommodation & Food
- Teahouses/Lodges: $5–$15 per night
- Meals: $5–$10 per meal
- Total food & accommodation cost: $15–$35 per day
4. Transportation
- Kathmandu to Soti Khola (Jeep/Bus): $15–$30
- Dharapani to Kathmandu (Jeep/Bus): $20–$40
5. Miscellaneous Expenses
- Snacks, WiFi, charging: $5–$10 per day
- Hot showers: $3–$5 per shower
Total Estimated Cost:
A budget trek with basic amenities can cost $800–$1,200, while a comfortable trek with extra services may go up to $1,500+.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Do the Manaslu Base Camp Trek
The 15-day Manaslu Trek is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about immersing yourself in Nepal’s untouched beauty, challenging yourself in high-altitude terrain, and discovering a side of the Himalayas that few have explored.
Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-timer looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Manaslu Base Camp Trek offers an unforgettable experience worth every step.
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