Changes in Manaslu
Since the inflow of trekkers trekking in Manaslu, there has been a significant change in the faces of Manaslu. The development of logistics, hospitality, and amenities was slow initially. However, the gradual rise of trekkers and climbers encouraged service providers to upgrade comfortable facilities like modern-design attached bathrooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, Coffee machines, cafes, and bakeries to ensure satisfied accommodation.
Likewise, the motorable track is projected to touch the border of China and it is in the making. Trekking to Manaslu before the road is now or never. Currently, jeeps and buses Transport local people, tourists, and guides to Macha Khola in Dharche municipality. However, bikes and Jeeps can drive up to Phangsing (A hillock village above Jagat). Only in autumn and winter, when the river gets smaller. It is no wonder the Trekking days will decrease as the motorable road extends. The blasting of big rocky mountains with drilling is in progress. However, it is mostly rock cliffs up to Deng. Which might consume the most time and effort.
The Trekking trails will be impacted by road construction and there can be an alternative trail for the trekkers. The hidden gems of Manaslu will be accessible for tours and holidays for domestic tourists and foreigners shortly like Upper Mustang and Manang.
Permits for Manaslu Trekking
Tsum Nubri Rural municipality is the guardian of Manaslu with the key role of the National Trust for nature conservation. The area is categorized as a restricted area by the government of Nepal. Trekkers and expedition climbers are required to apply for a special permit to enter in Manaslu region from the Department of Immigration and a Manaslu conservation area permit from the Nepal Tourism Board. Unlike other trek destinations, the specialized area permission can be obtained only from government-registered Trekking agencies. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit, Annapurna Conservation Area permit (ACAP), and Tsum Nubri Rural Municipality permit should be obtained as permission and contribution to the designated area.
After passing Yaku village of Dharche municipality, you will step into the Tsum Nubri rural municipality.
Jagat village has about 6 lodges and the permit has to be verified and data entry is done by the police checkpost. It is officially a restricted zone.
The Trekking trails are on a motorable road until crossing the bridge to the Philim village. Here, the Manaslu Conservation Area office is established to process the map permits and to regulate the rules of the committee. A 100-dollar permit is valid for 7-day periods starting from Jagat and Ending at Dharmasala. After 7 days it is 15 dollars per day during the stay in a restricted area.
Normally, seven days is enough to pass through Larke La to the Annapurna conservation area. In total, the Trekking duration starting and ending in Kathmandu for Manaslu Circuit is 14 days.
What to expect during Manaslu Trekking
It is a full-service tea house trek with basic facilities. Some places provide comfortable inside bathrooms but maximum offers a common room with sharing toilets of squad type. The trail’s distance is comparatively longer and demands good physical form. My opinion on the difficulty level is medium.
Every village entrance is marked by a multi-roofed stupa gate with Buddha eye art. Entering in, there are Thanka art of various Buddhist deities.
Normally, the village houses are built with stones. Even the roof is of flat stone. The colorful flags can be seen on the house roof and courtyard. It is an auspicious symbol for the locals. The village people rely on agriculture, animal husbandry, and herbs for living except a few depend on tourism.
The development is a continuous process in terms of house design, and materials. Even, packed foods are consumed more and wifi access made entertainment handy.
Larke Pass in Manalsu Trekking
Larke Pass marks the highest elevation for the trip, 5160 meters. It is the last phase of the Nubri Valley trek. Crossing over Larke-La is the most challenging yet beautiful experience. The total hike can take a minimum of 8 hours at a steady pace and a Maximum of 12 hours at a slow pace. The total ascend for Larke La is approximately, 655 meters and about 1450 meters descend.
Side trips in Manaslu Trekking route
The side trip including Layung La or Tibetan border is recommended for pro trekkers having good endurance and stamina. This day trip can be done from Samdo. It takes about 8 to 10 hours. The maximum elevation gain is 5000 meters. Likewise, Manaslu base camp day hike starts from Samaghau and ends at the same place and takes about 10 hours with approx. one thousand meter ascend. The Pungen Ghomba hike is more relaxing in terms of landscape. It is not as steep a hike as others but takes about 6 hours in total from Samaghau roundtrip. Anyway, it is worth the effort. You will love the side trips.
Happy and Safe trekking.
