Introduction
Manaslu Circuit Trek is an established trekking route across the Manaslu Conservation Area in the Himalayas. It is home to a wide variety of endangered plants and animals. The trek traverses a number of traditional settlements including Soti Khola, Maccha Khola, and Jagat alongside the Budhi Gandaki river. The Himalayan peaks including Mount Manaslu(26,781 feet) are visible from many spots along the path. The trek is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, diverse culture and rich biodiversity. While the main trek is an unparalleled experience, there are several side trips that you can take to add more charm to your journey. Below is a list of 10 best side trips that will undoubtedly make the trek worthy.
Best Side Trips of Manaslu Circuit Trek
Tsum Valley
Tsum Valley is a little-known treasure tucked away in Nepal’s Manaslu region.
It is a remote area with beautiful landscapes of the Himalayan range and a long history of Tibetan Buddhism. Before being made accessible to trekkers in 2008, it was off-limits to foreigners. Tsum Valley is frequently referred to as “The Shangri-La” because of its tranquil and remote setting, numerous Buddhist monasteries, and traditional stone houses.
Mu Gompa, one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the area, is the main attraction in Tsum Valley. Trekkers can enjoy breathtaking views of the nearby mountains from this location, which is located on a hill above the valley. For its distinctive architecture and artwork, other monasteries including Rachen Gompa, Yalbang Gompa, and Chhule Namgyal Gompa are also worthwhile.
The Manaslu Range, Ganesh Himal, and Shringi Himal can all be seen from the trail leading to Tsum Valley, and they are all breathtaking. On the trek, hikers will also pass lovely alpine meadows and streams. Depending on pace, the walk can be completed in as little as three days or as long as seven days. Tsum Valley is a must-visit location for anyone taking the Manaslu Circuit Trek in general. It will undoubtedly leave you with some priceless memories because of its vibrant culture, breathtaking mountain views and unspoiled natural beauty.
Dharamsala
Dharamsala, which is in the Annapurna region, is a fantastic side excursion for anyone doing the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It is a small community surrounded by the stunning Himalayas. Here, you can learn about the local customs and culture while also touring the various Hindu temples and monasteries.
Moreover, you can engage in a variety of activities, including paragliding and mountain biking. You can also participate in religious celebrations and even volunteer in your neighborhood. Whatever you decide to do, you will undoubtedly have a unique experience in Dharamsala.
Larkya La Pass
The Larkya La Pass is the ideal spot for your Manaslu Circuit trek if you’re seeking a challenge. It is the highest point of the trip and at 5,213 meters (17,102 feet), it offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks in the region.
As you make your way up the pass, you pass past Gurung settlements, beautiful woods, and alpine meadows. Additionally, you can go to historic locations like Samagaon Bazaar and Pung Gyen Gompa.
You will have many chances to discover local culture and way of life while traveling to Larkya La Pass. A stunning view of the mountains will reward you for navigating the difficult trails. It is essential to bring your camera and some extra batteries so that you can capture the once-in-a-lifetime experience in the Larkya La Pass region.
You will be able to witness amazing views of Himlung, Annapurna II, Manaslu, and numerous more peaks once you have ascended to the summit of Larkya La Pass.
It’s important to note that a trek to Larkya La Pass requires excellent physical condition.
Make sure you are organized, have a lot of supplies on board and are dressed warmly.
Pung Gyen Gompa
Pung Gyen Gompa is also called “the old Manslu base camp”. One can reach this monastery from either Samagaon or Syala and it takes around 5 – 6 hours to pay a visit to the oldest Tibetan-style monastery in the area. It was made in 1848 and is located at a height of 3,330 meters. Unique cultural history and beautiful architecture are the major highlights of this monument. Various mountains, including Nadi Chuli, Himalchuli, Manaslu and Kutang Himal can be seen along the route.
Just outside the main temple, two substantial prayer wheels greet visitors to the area.
Beautiful old statues can be seen inside the Gompa in addition to the spectacular views of neighboring valleys. The main shrine chamber, a library, a guest house, and a dining hall are among the various structures that make up the monastery.
The location of Gompa is its best feature as it is situated at the top of a hill that features breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and green vegetation.
Additionally, there are some fantastic treks in the region that lead you through forests, waterfalls and even to the surrounding communities. Visitors can also participate in a variety of spiritual activities like chanting, meditation, and blessing ceremonies.
Manaslu Base Camp
The Manaslu Circuit Trek’s final endpoint is Manaslu Base Camp. The spectacular Manaslu mountain range is breathtakingly visible from this lonely and picturesque location.Your journey ends in Samagaon, where you can camp out for the night before starting the rigorous ascent to Manaslu Base Camp.
You will travel over high passes, such as the Larkya La Pass, on your journey to the Base Camp. You will be able to admire the stunning views of Mt. Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, and its surrounding peaks as you walk Additionally, You will explore the glaciers and ice falls that are close by.
After delighting in the breathtaking sights, you can go back to Samagaon and then continue on to Kathmandu.
Birendra Lake
Birendra Tal is located at an elevation of 4,570 meters and is situated in the northern side of Mount Manaslu. It is a glacier lake that is surrounded by Mt. Manaslu and the Ganesh Himal range.
The crystal clear blue water of Birendra lake is sourced by slowly melting glaciers. Because it is so close to huge green meadows and ancient villages, you get the perfect opportunity to learn about traditional Nepalese culture.
The trek to Birendra Lake is challenging but it’s worth the walk. If you want to visit the lake, you can either explore it during the day or stay overnight at a lodge. There are a lot of tea houses, guesthouses, and lodges in the area that will provide you the much-needed rest to accomplish the trek.
Samagaon
In Manaslu region sits the lovely Tibetan village of Samagaon. One of the most renowned side treks of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is this unique settlement which is located at a height of 3500 meters.
Samagaon is known for having a distinctive culture because it is primarily populated by Buddhist Tibetans. You will get to see and learn about the unique Tibetan way of life while you are here. Locals in this area still use primitive techniques for farming, managing their animals and wool weaving.
Beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, including Manaslu and the magnificent Annapurna range, can be seen from the settlement.You can also visit its stunning stupas and monasteries, some of which are from the fifteenth century.
Samagaon also offers fantastic opportunities for bird viewing and is home to numerous varieties of flora and fauna. Additionally, you can participate in activities like a yak safari or eat authentic Tibetan food.
Sambha Gompa
Sambha Gompa, one of the most stunning and iconic locations on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, is situated high up in the Annapurna Conservation Area. A small group of Buddhist monks have lived in this tiny Tibetan town for centuries. It is located at an elevation of about 3500 meters.
Visitors to Sambha Gompa can tour the region’s historic monasteries and soak in breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. In Sambha Gompa, visitors can see how the locals still live their traditional lives and see yaks, blue sheep, and wildflowers.
Although Sambha Gompa’s accommodations are quite basic, you can find multiple adorable tea houses with wood-burning stoves and helpful people. Candles and oil lamps are used to brighten the rooms at night in the village because of lack of electricity.
Samdo
Samdo is a village in Nepal’s Gorkha District that is close to the Tibetan border.
It is located in the Himalayas at a height of about 3,780 meters (12,401 feet).
The village can only be reached on foot or by helicopter due to its location in an isolated and remote area.
Locals who speak Tibetan and have lived in the area for many generations reside there.
A tiny group of residents live in and the majority of them engage in agriculture and animal husbandry. The settlement is situated just beneath Mount Manaslu.
The tiny gompa in Samdo is the main appeal for tourists, who come there to pray and meditate. The inhabitants are warm and inviting, and they will show you around their community and provide you with food, tea, and lodging if needed.
Lho La Pass
One of the highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the magnificent Lho La Pass, which towers at a gigantic 5,106 meters. Incredibly scenic sights of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Ngadi Chuli Peak, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru are part of the route to this pass.
A big grassy meadow surrounded by gorgeous woodlands offers a nice relief from the climb.
The pass is marked by a number of exquisite prayer flags and offers stunning views of both the Tibetan Plateau and the Annapurna Range. When you reach the summit of Lho La Pass after a strenuous but rewarding walk, you will feel extremely delighted.
After admiring the panorama from the summit, your route will lead you downhill to Samagaon. You will see beautiful valleys, waterfalls, and rivers along the way, which will make for a fantastic trekking experience.
Conclusion
All in all, there are numerous side trips one can explore during the Manaslu Circuit trek. All these trips have their own set of features and uniqueness.
Nonetheless, you must remember that these side trips may add additional time and difficulty to your trek. So, plan accordingly and make sure you have the necessary permits and a guide. It’s also a good idea to acclimatize properly and be prepared for the physical demands of the trek. Last but not the least, hiring a potter can be a life saver.
