Manaslu Circuit Trek Altitude Profile

Manaslu Circuit Trek begins in the lush, green foothills of Machakhola, nestled at a comfortable 700 meters (or about 2,296 feet) above sea level. From there, you’ll gradually make your way up to the lively village of Dharapani, perched at 1,860 meters (or around 6,102 feet).

Unlike the Everest Base Camp trek, where you’d start at a dizzying 2,860 meters (9,383 feet) in Lukla, the Manaslu trek offers a gentler introduction to high-altitude hiking.

Each day, you’ll climb an average of 500-700 meters (that’s about 1,640-2,296 feet), with the toughest day involving a climb of roughly 1,000 meters (3,280 feet). This gradual ascent, combined with plenty of rest days, makes the Manaslu Circuit a great option for all age group but you should be fit.

And while the Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you to a breathtaking 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) at Thorong La Pass, the Manaslu trek’s highest point, Larkya La Pass, is a bit lower at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). This makes the Manaslu trek a slightly more approachable high-altitude adventure, perfect for celebrating your graduation with an unforgettable experience.

What is the elevation gain of Manaslu Circuit trek?

The total elevation gain of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is approximately 41,870 feet (or about 12,760 meters). Here is a detail breakdown of the cost.

What is the highest point of Manaslu Circuit trek?

The highest point you’ll conquer on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the awe-inspiring Larkya La Pass, standing tall at a remarkable 5,106 meters (or about 16,752 feet). Reaching this pass is a major accomplishment, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan giants, including Manaslu itself.

During your two acclimatization days, you’ll have the opportunity to reach other significant high points:

• Samagaun Acclimatization Day: You’ll trek to the majestic Manaslu Base Camp, situated at an impressive 4,800 meters (15,748 feet). This side trip allows you to experience the raw beauty of the mountain up close and personal.
• Samdo Acclimatization Day: You’ll venture to the Tibetan border, reaching a remarkable 5,030 meters (16,503 feet). This excursion offers a glimpse into a different culture and landscape, with stunning views of the Himalayas.

These side trips to higher altitudes are crucial for acclimatization. By gradually exposing your body to thinner air, you give it time to adjust and produce more red blood cells, which carry oxygen. This reduces the risk of altitude sickness and ensures you’re well-prepared for the challenging climb to Larkya La Pass. Importantly, you’ll return to lower elevations for overnight stays, allowing your body crucial time to rest and recover.

Is Manaslu harder than Annapurna?

While both the Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit treks offer stunning Himalayan experiences, the Manaslu Circuit is generally considered slightly more challenging than the Annapurna Circuit, primarily due to the following factors:

Altitude: Although the highest point on the Manaslu Circuit, Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters/16,752 feet), is lower than Thorong La Pass on the Annapurna Circuit (5,416 meters/17,769 feet), the overall altitude profile of the Manaslu trek involves more significant daily elevation gains and descents, demanding greater physical exertion and careful acclimatization.

Mountain Passes: Larkya La Pass on the Manaslu Circuit is known for its challenging terrain and steep ascents and descents, particularly in the days leading up to the pass. This can make it more demanding than crossing Thorong La Pass on the Annapurna Circuit, which generally has a more gradual approach.

Length of the Trek: Both treks typically take around 12-14 days to complete, covering similar distances. However, the Manaslu Circuit often involves longer trekking days and more strenuous sections, requiring a higher level of fitness and endurance.

Restricted vs. Non-Restricted Trek: The Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area trek, meaning you must trek with a licensed guide and at least one other trekker. This adds a layer of complexity and cost to the trek compared to the Annapurna Circuit, which is a non-restricted trek and can be done independently.

In summary, while both treks are achievable for fit and prepared trekkers, the Manaslu Circuit presents a slightly greater challenge due to its steeper ascents and descents, higher average altitude, and the requirement for a guided trek.

What is the elevation of manaslu Base Camp?

The Manaslu Base Camp is situated at an elevation of 4,800 meters (or about 15,748 feet).

Do we stay at Manaslu Base Camp?

No, you do not stay overnight at Manaslu Base Camp during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It is a side trip you take during one of your acclimatization days, where you hike up to the base camp, enjoy the views, and then return to a lower altitude for the night to aid in acclimatization.

During your two acclimatization days, you’ll have the opportunity to reach other significant high points, but importantly, you’ll return to lower elevations for overnight stays, allowing your body crucial time to rest and recover:

• Samagaun Acclimatization Day: You have two options here:
  • Trek to the majestic Manaslu Base Camp, situated at an impressive 4,800 meters (15,748 feet). This side trip allows you to experience the raw beauty of the mountain up close and personal.
  • Hike to the serene Pungyen Gompa, a Buddhist monastery nestled amidst the mountains at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet). This offers a spiritual and cultural experience with stunning views.
  • After either excursion, you’ll descend to Samagaun (3,530 meters/11,581 feet) for the night.

What is the acclamation day in Manaslu Circuit Trek ?

How is the altitude compare to Everest Base Camp Trek ?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek reaches a higher maximum altitude than the Everest Base Camp Trek. The highest point on the Manaslu Circuit is Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet), while Everest Base Camp sits at 5,364 meters (17,598 feet).

However, it’s important to note that the starting point for the Everest Base Camp Trek is already at a high altitude – Lukla airport is at 2,860 meters (9,383 feet). This means trekkers on the Everest Base Camp Trek face a significant altitude challenge right from the start. In contrast, the Manaslu Circuit Trek starts at a much lower altitude (around 700 meters/2,296 feet), allowing for a more gradual acclimatization process.

In summary:

• Maximum Altitude: Manaslu Circuit Trek reaches a slightly lower maximum altitude than Everest Base Camp Trek.
• Starting Altitude: Manaslu Circuit Trek starts at a much lower altitude, making the initial stages easier for acclimatization.
• Overall Altitude Acclimatization: The gradual ascent of the Manaslu Circuit Trek may be considered more manageable for acclimatization compared to the Everest Base Camp Trek’s abrupt start at high altitude.

How is the altitude compare to Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Altitude Comparison

The Annapurna Circuit boasts the higher peak, with Thorong La Pass reaching a breathtaking 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) compared to the Manaslu Circuit’s Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet).

Starting Point

The Manaslu Circuit offers a gentler start, beginning at around 700 meters (2,296 feet) in Machakhola. In contrast, the Annapurna Circuit can kick off at a higher altitude, sometimes even at 2,670 meters (8,760 feet) in Chame, demanding quicker acclimatization.

Ascent Profile

The Manaslu Circuit is characterized by a more consistent and gradual ascent, incorporating acclimatization days into the itinerary. The Annapurna Circuit, while featuring a higher overall elevation gain, presents a more varied profile with steeper sections interspersed throughout.

Acclimatization

Both treks necessitate careful acclimatization to mitigate the risk of altitude sickness. The Manaslu Circuit’s gentler start and built-in rest days may facilitate a smoother adjustment to the increasing altitude, particularly for those less experienced with high-altitude trekking.

How hard is Larke Pass?

Crossing Larkya La Pass is undeniably the most challenging day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Here’s a breakdown of the difficulties you might encounter:

Altitude: At 5,106 meters (16,752 feet), the high altitude poses a significant challenge. The air is thin, making breathing and exertion more difficult. It’s crucial to be well acclimatized before attempting this pass to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

Terrain: The trail leading up to and down from the pass is steep and demanding. You’ll navigate rocky moraines, potentially cross snowfields or glaciers (depending on the season), and traverse exposed sections. Trekking poles and crampons (if necessary) can be helpful for maintaining balance and traction.

Weather: The weather in the high mountains can be unpredictable and change rapidly. You might experience strong winds, snow, or even whiteout conditions, making the crossing even more challenging and potentially dangerous. It’s essential to start early and be prepared for all types of weather.

Physical Exertion: The day involves a long and strenuous climb, typically starting before dawn and lasting several hours. You’ll need a good level of fitness and endurance to tackle the steep ascent and subsequent descent.

Mental Challenge: The combination of high altitude, challenging terrain, and unpredictable weather can also take a toll mentally. It’s important to stay positive, focused, and motivated throughout the day.

Despite these challenges, crossing Larkya La Pass is an incredibly rewarding experience. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top, coupled with the breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, makes it a highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. With proper preparation, acclimatization, and a positive mindset, you can conquer this formidable pass and create unforgettable memories.

What is the risk of getting Altitude Sickness in Manaslu Circuit Trek ?

Altitude sickness, a concern on any high-altitude trek, poses a relatively lower risk on the Manaslu Circuit Trek compared to its counterparts. This is largely attributed to the trek’s commencement at a modest 700 meters (approximately 2,296 feet) in Machakhola. This lower starting point facilitates a gentler acclimatization process, allowing your body to gradually adjust to the decreasing oxygen levels as you ascend.

Mitigating the Risk

The trek’s itinerary further bolsters your acclimatization by incorporating two well-placed rest days in Samagaun and Samdo. These pauses in your journey are crucial for your body to catch up with the altitude, minimizing the likelihood of experiencing altitude sickness symptoms. Additionally, maintaining proper hydration, consuming a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, and paying close attention to your body’s signals are vital components of a safe and enjoyable trek. If any symptoms of altitude sickness arise, such as headache, nausea, or shortness of breath, it’s imperative to communicate with your guide and consider descending to a lower altitude.

Embracing the Adventure Safely

By proactively embracing these preventive measures and staying informed about altitude sickness, you can embark on the Manaslu Circuit Trek with confidence. Remember, while the risk of altitude sickness exists, a combination of gradual ascent, proper acclimatization, and self-awareness significantly reduces the likelihood of encountering any major issues. This empowers you to fully immerse yourself in the trek’s awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural encounters, and the sheer thrill of conquering challenging terrain, all while ensuring a safe and memorable experience in the heart of the Himalayas.