The Physical Challenges (Difficulty) during the Manaslu Circuit Hike
The Manaslu Circuit hike has several physical challenges. Here are some of the Key challenges that you might face during trekking into this landscape:
Steep Climbs and Drops
The steep climbs and drops during the trek are one of the main factors making the Manaslu Circuit Trek difficult. The path involves ascents and descents through subtropical forests and terraced fields. The trekking paths are rocky and narrow. As you trek from Deng to Namrung the trail starts becoming more challenging with steep ascents and descents. The path from samagoun to Samdo is a steep climb out and gradual ascent to Samdo. The trail through the trek involves major altitude increases and losses. It includes steep ascents and descents which can be tough on the knees and legs.
Rocky Path
Rocky Paths One of the integral part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is rocky paths. It has added adventure and challenge to the journey. The rocky paths are uneven and unstable which makes walking on these path for long time tiring and hard to the joints. You may face problems like slipping or twisting an ankle. It is riskier if you face rainfall or snowfall during your journey as it makes trail more slippery and dangerous.
Long Walking Days
Long days You will face longer trekking days while in Manaslu Circuit Trek. Walking for longer days might be exhausting mainly at higher altitudes. You will have to walk for 8-10 hours a day which demands endurance and mental reliance. The reduced oxygen level at higher altitude will make long walking hours one of the main challenges during your trek.
High Altitude
High altitude You will have to trek to an altitude of 5,106 meters which is the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. While trekking at the higher altitude you might feel out of breath or lack of oxygen. It will be exhausting trekking to higher altitude. The temperature at higher altitude is very cold especially during the night time.
Altitude Sickness
As the Manaslu circuit trekking goes up more than 5000 meters there is a high chance of facing altitude sickness. You might feel like vomiting, dizziness, nausea, fever, and many other discomforts as you climb to higher altitudes. It is one of the major problems while trekking to higher evaluations. You will see symptoms like chest tightness, disorientation, difficulty walking, hallucinations, etc. If these symptoms are seen be quick to consult with your guide and prepare safety instructions.
Cold Weather
The weather conditions during the trek to Manaslu Circuit can be very cold, especially at higher altitudes. The temperature during early morning and night are nearly to the point of freezing. This type of cold weather makes the trek challenging which might affect your energy. As you climb higher the air becomes thinner and high winds with cold weather make it very hard to keep going. It is cold even during the day as the sun warms the slopes but coldness remains the same.
Remote Trekking: A journey to Untouched Area
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit in Nepal takes you far away from busy towns and modern facilities to isolated areas in Nepal. You will trek through the quiet villages, and high mountain passes where modern facilities like mobile phones and the internet are rare. This adventurous journey offers a chance to explore the untouched and remote landscapes in Nepal.
Limited Medical Help
Medical help during the Manaslu Circuit Trek is Limited. Very few clinics can be found with basic care but they cannot handle major issues. Even if you find clinics equipment for serious injuries or illness is not available. You might have to wait for a long time to reach medical help and even emergency helicopter evacuation. Tea houses might provide first aid kits but medical staff are rare.
Basic Lodges
You will be accommodated at the basic tea houses and Lodges run by locals during the Manaslu Circuit journey. The facilities and services are very rare. You will find basic tea houses with simple rooms and no heating available even on colder nights. Rooms with an attached bathroom are rare and expensive with limited water facilities. You might have shared rooms with thin bedsheets and blankets which might not be sufficient for the colder nights.
Communication Issues
As you climb higher you will rarely find Wi-Fi and internet. Even finding electricity might be very rare. You will have to pay extra to charge your electronics which might be expensive. If you find Wi-Fi with extra cost it might not be reliable. The lack of these facilities might make you feel isolated and you might not be able to communicate with your family and friends. Even finding help during emergencies might be very difficult due to electricity and internet issues.
Mental Challenges
The journey to the Manaslu region demands a high endurance level and mental preparation. You will have to prepare yourself mentally for the challenges and adventure in advance rather than regretting later. You might feel distressed due to exhaustion and tiredness. You will have to face more challenges while trekking in this region as it is less known and facilities are rare. You cannot enjoy luxury while trekking to this landscape due to its remoteness.
Feeling Alone
You will be away from modern facilities and luxury. Even if you are in group you might still feel alone. This region is less popular compared to other trekking regions so, you will see few people with empty landscapes making you feel alone. You might feel distinct and far away from your everyday lifestyle.
Tough Days
You will have lots of tough days as this trek tests your stamina and endurance capacity. You might feel trail long and steep where every step takes extra effort. The cold wind and endless path will make your days tough and challenging. You might feel worn out from the walk of the day before.
Getting Ready
Trekking to the Manaslu Circuit in Nepal needs a lot of careful preparation. Getting ready for the Manaslu Circuit is a multi- step process. Trekkers must be in good physical condition, pack smartly, mental preparation, etc in order to have a safe and enjoyable Manaslu Trek.
Physical Training
One of the most important thing while trekking to the Manaslu Circuit is preparing physically. You should do cardiovascular exercises and practice various activities like cycling, hiking, running, swimming etc in order to help you build physical endurance and stretch muscle power.
Altitude preparation
Before going for the Manaslu Circuit adventure do a short hike at high altitude in advance to let your body get used to higher altitude walking. Prepare medicine by your doctor’s consultation for emergencies at higher altitude. Drink lots of water and keep your body hydrated in order to avoid any sign of altitude sickness.
Right Gear: Pack Smartly
While trekking through unpaved paths, it might be difficult to keep going. You should pack every essential gear and belongings needed in order to have a comfortable journey. Bring a good pair of trekking poles, warm sleeping bags, first aid kit, water bottle, water purification tablets, etc while you trek to higher altitudes as these can be lifesaving.
Mental strength: Be Ready
You should be mentally strong while doing one of the most adventurous journeys to the Himalayan region of Nepal, especially the Manaslu area. Even if you feel totally exhausted and don’t want to continue any longer keep going after having a short break for 10/15 minutes. Stay calm and focused even in difficult situations in order to reduce stress. Have faith in yourself and enjoy every thrill, excitement and challenges of trek in a positive way.
Choosing an Agency: Pick Wisely
Choosing/hiring a reliable trekking agency ensures your safety first with a licensed and experienced guide, proper emergency plans and, necessary equipment. You should know about the terms, conditions, their requirements, service in detail before hiring them for your adventurous journey. check their online reviews, ratings, and recommendations on platforms like google, TripAdvisor, and other trekking forums.
Staying Safe: Tips for the Trail
Go Slow: Acclimatize Well
You should not be in hurry while trekking the Manaslu Circuit as you will have to trek to higher altitude. Take time to acclimatize for some days rather than walking continuously. You should let your body rest and get used to walking in higher altitude.
Eat and Drink: Stay Fueled
Being careful to what you eat and drink during the trekking journey is most crucial factor. You should eat healthy foods properly and drink plenty of water in order to nurture your body. Avoid eating meat products as it might not be fresh and cause upset stomach while trekking. You should not drink alcoholic beverage while trekking to avoid any types of complications.
Pace Yourself: Steady Wins
Always remember to keep going but not in a hurry. You should keep your pace slow but continuous while trekking. Don’t try to speed yourself when you are tired. You should walk slowly to avoid various accidents during trekking. If you walk slowly you will surely reach your destination but if you do hurry you might face consequences.
Respect the Area: Be Responsible
As Manaslu region is home to ethnic Gurung communities and Tibetan influenced communities they follow Tibetan Buddhist tradition and culture deeply. You can see prayer flags, stupas and monasteries while trekking. Be sure to clean up the mess caused by you before leaving. Help locals protect their cultures and heritages by respecting them.
Plan for Problems: Be Prepared
Always think of future and plan for all possible problems and challenges before starting trek. Prepare yourself for longer walking days, limited food options, basic accommodations, unstable weather conditions. You should be able to face any kind of challenges in order to complete your trekking voyage to Manaslu area.
The Rewards: Why It’s Worth It?
Amazing Views
The Manaslu region is rich in natural beauty. You will see beautiful rhododendron forests all along the way. Various small streams and rivers flowing nearby adds extra level of peace and amazing scenery to the trek. Beautiful Himalayan views can be seen while trekking in this region.
Local Culture
The Manaslu region is heavily influenced by the Tibetan culture and tradition. You will get a chance to explore the beauty of Tibetan culture and ethnic Gurung community. You can observe various Tibetan influenced architecture, ghatu and sorati dance by Gurung community, and festivals like Lhosar during the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal.
Personal Victory
Completing the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a personal victory as you will pass through various challenging points like Larky La Pass. Crossing this pass provide a sense of accomplishment in one’s life. This trek challenges you physically and mentally. Coping with these demands accomplishing this trek is a victory over oneself.
Peace and Quiet
This trekking route is remote and less crowed compared to other famous treks like the Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Base Camp trek. You can enjoy quality time soaking into the nature in peaceful ad quite environment. This place also has monasteries adding spiritual presence to the trek.
Nature Connection
Manaslu Circuit Hike in Nepal offers a chance to enjoy the rawness of Nature. You will get a chance to take a closer look to untouched and unharmed natural beauty. Walking past the Rhododendron forests and Manaslu conservation area you will be able to see natural habitat of various wild animals and plants. It makes your soul closer to the Nature.
Adventure Time
The trekking expedition to Manaslu Circuit is an adventurous journey to the far-off Manaslu region. The trekking trail falls through various dense forests which is habitat to many wild animals which is risky journey in itself. You will walk through narrow and uneven path. The track might be slippery due to snow which rises high chances of falling causing serious injuries. and other major accidents. So Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is adventurous excursion.
Conclusion
Trip to the Manaslu Circuit is a rewarding journey combining the adventure, challenges, thrill, and risk. The high altitude, steep trails, unpredictable weather conditions, beautiful Himalayan views, cultural experiences, etc are the main highlight of the Manaslu Circuit trekking difficulty in Nepal. With proper preparation, acclimatization, and positive mindset it can be done with beginner as well as an experienced trekker.
