Manaslu is 8,163 m high and is the eighth highest mountain in the world. It stands in the Gorkha and Manang area of central Nepal. It was first climbed on 9 May 1956 by Toshio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu, as part of a Japanese expedition.
Height and name
Manaslu is also called Kutang. The name is usually linked to a Sanskrit word for spirit or intellect. The mountain rises above a long ridge, and its summit looks like a wide, rounded peak.
First ascent
Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu made the first ascent. Japan has had a close relationship with Manaslu ever since, and Japanese expeditions often returned in later years.
The Manaslu Circuit
The Manaslu Circuit is a restricted-area trek that goes round the mountain over the Larkya La, at about 5,106 m. It takes about 12 to 16 days. It passes through Buddhist villages near the Tibetan border. A special permit is required. See the Manaslu Circuit guides.
How hard it is
The route is demanding because of its length and the pass crossing. See how hard the Manaslu Circuit is.
Permits and costs
Restricted-area permits and guide rules apply. See Manaslu Circuit prices.
When to go
The best seasons are spring and autumn. See the best time to go.
Permits in brief
The Manaslu region needs a restricted-area permit, a Manaslu conservation area permit and an Annapurna conservation area permit near the end. A licensed guide is required and a minimum group size usually applies.
The villages
The route passes Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages such as Samagaon and Samdo, with monasteries, mani walls and yak pastures. The culture is as much of a draw as the mountain.
Altitude and acclimatisation
Samagaon, at about 3,500 m, is the usual acclimatisation stop, with a day walk to Manaslu Base Camp at about 4,800 m or to Pungyen Gompa. The Larkya La day is long and starts before dawn. See altitude on the Manaslu Circuit.
Common questions
Is Manaslu harder than Everest Base Camp? The Circuit is longer and has a higher pass. Can I go alone? No, a guide is required. Is it crowded? Much less than Everest, though more than before.
Plan it
