Honestly speaking, I never thought I'd choose such a daring journey here in Nepal; however, after completing some short treks to the nearby Himalayas, with elevations over 4000 meters, I finally decided to venture out on a more adventurous altitude odyssey.
With the eagerness to push the challenges and attain new heights beyond my limit, I started my research that suits my overall preferences, considering three major aspects: firstly, the daily elevation gain and safe navigation, secondly, the unique cultural exploration, daily lifestyle insights, and lastly, the views of mountains and landscapes, of course! Considering all these highlights, I decided to trek the famous Manaslu Circuit Trekking in Nepal.
My mind was completely flooded with numerous questions and voices echoing in my mind. Will I be able to complete this journey? Can I make it to the tip of one of the darling passes in the Himalayas? What if I have to disrupt my trip in the middle of nowhere? I knew that this wasn't just a few-day trek for me; this was a lifetime opportunity to delve into the untamed, restricted trekking route of Nepal, and also, at the same time, encircle the world's eighth-highest peak - Mount Manaslu (8163 m), and reach the tip of the Larkya La Pass at 5160 meters.
With many doubts, what kept me motivated was the mere idea of experiencing the remote lifestyle of the locals, observing, and celebrating their cultures and traditions, encountering the wild species, and gazing at the thriving, colorful alleys, against the backdrop of the views of the Himalayan peaks.
After I ventured out on this thrilling adventure to the Manaslu region, it was, of course! Not an easy task for me, bypassing many terrains hassles, climatic changes, and keeping up with long hikes; however, at last, with great resilience with my friend groups, I finally conquered the Larke Pass just in early September 2025. In this article, entitled Female Trekker’s Guide to Manaslu Circuit, I will share some of the dos and don'ts, and a detailed overview on how to plan and prepare for your adventure, with a beginner perspective, so you can also ace the new odyssey in ease and tick off your bucket list, finally, with being self-confident in preparedness.
Why I Chose to Trek the Manaslu Circuit as a Female Adventurer?
The Manaslu Trek is one of the wildest adventures, which is marked as the best off-beaten trekking route in Nepal, with varied rugged terrains and diverse landscapes. Located in the heart of Gorkha, and bordered by the Nepal-Tibet (China) Border, it explores the almighty Mt. Manaslu, along with Tibetan-influenced sites, such as monasteries, villages of Nubri, Gurung, Tsum communities, whitely washed chortens, mani walls, prayer wheels, and navigates along the glacier-fed Budhi Gandaki River side by side.
One of the major attractions of this trip is that it showcases the transition of the six climatic zones of the Himalayas, while meandering through the lush green valley with thriving rhododendrons, rich settlements of locals, terraced fields, and alpine valleys and glaciers with surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Starting the journey from an elevation of 930 meters at Macche Khola, to the highest point of Larkya La Pass at 5160 meters, the walking trail demands 6 to 7 hours of daily hiking, with a coverage of 9-12 kilometers per day, through varied trailheads, which is surely a challenging journey that cannot be conquered without prior preparedness. Throughout the 13-day trip, the great views of snow-capped mountains, including Ganesh Himal, Cheo Himal, Peak 29, Himlung Himal, and the panoramic vista of Manaslu, Annapurna I, and Dhaulagiri massif, will keep you engaged.
While many people head out for this round trek to the Manaslu Circuit, for the unparalleled views of the Himalayas, the smiles of the children and locals with beautiful attire and warm hospitality will leave you speechless. Settling at the major villages such as Jagat, Namrung, Samdo, Sama gaon, and Shyala unveils the new perspective of the Nepalese people or the locals that reside in the mountain areas.
My main motive to visit the Manaslu region was to prove my inner strength, clear self-doubts, and mark a new successful trip in my travel diaries; however, the heart-warming gesture of indigenous communities, their simple lifestyle, and the vista in each stride, that I get to experience, left me speechless, that make me wanna promise, that I will come back soon, to wave hello to the mountains again, and visit the kids, with chocolates and toys.
My Personal Experience on Manaslu Circuit as a Female Beginner Trekker: Complete Day-to-Day Insights
Now, let's see how my adventure went recently; I would like to give you a quick glimpse of my experience on the Manaslu Circuit Trail, as a beginner and female traveler, with my friends.
As the journey cannot commence alone in this restricted region of Manaslu, you will require 1 experienced licensed guide and other fellow hiking partners. I grouped with my colleagues (4 other hikers) and hired an experienced guide from Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition, a locally based trekking company. Wanna hear what I went through? Then keep on reading, this personal story. If you do not have enough time, then you can take a glance at the guidance and preparedness, with tips and tricks especially suggested for beginners like me.
On the way to making our dream adventure to Manaslu Circuit true
The Journey: How did the First Day start?
Waking up early in the morning with my friends' call, and their panicked voices, my first alarm was the iPhone ringtone buzzing. With quick packing, my 4 friends and I met at the Naya Buspark - Balaju, to get a local bus to Aarughat. As I got into the bus, the local Nepalese folk song was playing in the background, and the roadway views were just amazing, with many roaring rivers, bustling towns, and terraced farms, and crossing through many bridges over the Trishuli River, Daraudi Khola, and a quick refreshment, breakfast, and lunch time in between.
Finally, after 7-8 hours of continuous driving, we reached Aarughat, where we still had to take a jeep ride to Maccha Khola - the starting point of the trip. As the private jeep was way beyond our budget, we grabbed a shared jeep with other fellow hikers and passed through the bumpy rides. As soon as we reached Machhakhola, I checked in the permits at the checking points, and got access to the restricted area at 4 PM, and were welcomed with the cute smiley gesture of the Gurung family in the tea house.
Driving Hour: 7-8 hours
Journey: From Kathmandu to Maccha Khola
Highest Point: 930 meters
Distance Coverage: 62 kms
Second Day: The First Steps to Manaslu Circuit
Today marks our first start on the trekking trail within the Manaslu region, so with the excitement of a new adventure, there was some sort of anxiety about what to expect in such a remote, isolated place. After having a quick breakfast, we began our hike at 7:30 AM, following the roaring Budhi Gandaki River, with an ascent to Khorla Besi, and reached the famous Tato Pani, known as a hot spring, where we stopped by and dipped our legs, for a quick refreshment and a sip of tea as well. As we were completely aware of the fact that on the first day of hiking, our calf muscles would surely tense us up, we stayed here for 20 minutes, enjoying the view and soaking up in the hot spring.
Continuing the journey further, we passed through some of the notable villages such as Dovan, crossing over our first long suspension bridge over Budhi Gandaki River, then over Yaru Kharka in the second half, and finally attained Jagat - the entry point of the Manaslu Conservation Area, where we checked in our permits and entered the restricted area, officially.
First Step to my dream destination manaslu circuit
Today, our first hiking experience on this trekking trail was a roller coaster ride, where we faced diverse changes in the landscapes via several ascents. Nonetheless, the beautiful first encounter with Tibetan communities, and the beautiful scenery of the thriving rhododendrons covering landscapes, and views of several mountains such as Ganesh Himal, Cheo Himal, kept us persistent.
Starting Point: Maccha Khola
Trip Status: Moderate
Stopping Point: Jagat at 1340 meters
Distance Coverage: 19 kms (06 hours)
Third Day: Exploring Phillim and Deng
When I started to venture out on the journey from Jagat, toward Deng, the first village that I passed through stands out as Salleri, and then, Sirdibas, and the small village of Primo, which was hugely affected by the landslide back then. As we were crossing these sections, my mind was totally blown out, with the steep terrains, in this certain area, then, we got to see a long suspension bridge with the Himalayan mules transporting the goods to a higher elevation, which was quite surprising for us, and unlike city areas. When we asked locals, they said that it is because of the zero accessibility of transportation modes from Maccha Khola.
After crossing a large bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River, the first view that drew our attention was the ancient settlements, just like the 90s, with slatted roofs, in the village of Phillim, where we took a quick 15-minute nap and had a short lunch break of 30 minutes. Persisting in our journey further, with the glimpse of the Tibetan-influenced culture of Manaslu mani walls, chortens, with the flagging of the prayer flags, in the high winds, we reached another settlement of Ekle Bhatti, where we clicked some beautiful pictures, and even got to see the yaks grazing on the terraced farms. From here, the terrain got even more challenging with steep and rugged pathways, with a final ascent crossing over the Deng Khola. We finally got into Deng, our destination for today, and quickly had our dinner after getting a good hour of rest.
Starting Point: Jagat
Trip Status: Moderately Challenging
Stopping Point: Deng village (1804 m)
Distance Coverage: 21 kms (6-7 hours)
Fourth Day: Entering the Famous Namrung Village
Waking up with the first glimpse of Mount Manaslu from our rooms, we had a quick breakfast before we began our hiking toward Namrung village, where the Gurung ethnic group resides. Being a Gurung myself, I was totally excited to encounter my own culture and show my friends the unchanged culture and traditions that we've been celebrating for generations. With the eyes twinkling and the heart filled with joy, we crossed over the thrilling suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. So far, till here, we've crossed 4 or 5 of them; however, the experience keeps on changing with a distinct view of mountains and landscapes side by side.
The further route was marked by some of the notable villages such as Bihi, Prok, Ghap, and several others, where we got to interact with the locals and try some of their local food. After approximately 6 hours of continuous hiking, we finally reached the village of Namrung, and were greeted by some kids, with a wave of hello and namaste by the Gurung communities. Soon after entering the tea house, we grabbed ourselves a cup of coffee as it was cold, enjoying the local and fellow hikers gossiping with the enchanting view of the Sringi Himal (6240 meters).
Starting Point: Deng
Trip Status: Comparatively Easy
Stopping Point: Namrung (2630 m)
Distance Coverage: 12 kms (approx. 5 hours)
Fifth Day: Ascending toward Shyala over 3000 meters
Today, we know that the journey is not going to be easy, as we'll reach a new height and an altitude of over 3000 meters, with a higher elevation gain of more than 500 meters. The first thing we did was check our pulse rate, through an oximeter, after having breakfast, so we can track the significant changes in the body, after we reach a high altitude. Leaving the village of Namrung behind, we entered the forested woodland just like yesterday, and reached the famous notavle village of Sho. From here, the trailhead, was fully dotted with prayer wheels, whitely washed chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags, with some Tibetan stones engraved with mantras, which we were completely unaware of. Walking along the beautiful view of Simnang Himal, we reached the Lho village.
The Lho village is one of the popular spots for overnight stay for trekkers, famous for the ancient villages, and the famous Nyingma Rimjung Gompa, while Many hikers stopped here to call it off a day, but we were full of energy and wanted to ascend further. After visiting the monastery, with the glimpse of 1000-year-old sculptures, architectures, arts, and fascinating paintings, we ascend toward Shyala village, and covered almost 5-6 kms more distance, so that the further trek becomes easier, with less walking hours.
Starting Point: Namrung
Trip Status: Hard (with rough terrains)
Stopping Point: Shyala village (3572 m)
Distance Coverage: 12 kms (approx. 5-6 hours)
Sixth Day: Discovering Pungyen Gompa and Sama Gaon
When we ventured out on the trip from Shyala, we were very optimistic, with our trip, so far so good, with a spirit of anticipation, we began our hike toward Sama Gaon, with the captivating view of the Himal Chuli, Peak 29, and the most prominent view of Mount Manaslu till now. The route today was more peaceful, however, a bit challenging and rugged, steep with continuous ascent, than before. Personally, for me, it was a bit strenous and mentally frustrating, as I had a very light breakfast today, so dear hikers, I highly recommend you fill your tummy beforehand. Continuing the trailhead forward, we came over the challenging side moraine of Pungyen Glacier, aghhhhh, very frustrating for a few minutes.
After a few hours of hiking, we visited the famous monastery of Pungyen Gompa, which is also considered one of the oldest, almost 500 years old, gompas in Nepal. Many hikers were meditating, and taking photos was strictly prohibited; however, we got a chance to interact with monks and learned many historical Tibetan insights, myths, and religious beliefs. Passing by another notable spot, Yak Kharka, we finally checked in at the tea house and had a quick dinner, witnessing the night serenity with mountain views. We settled in at Samagaon for the night.
Starting Point: Shyala village
Trip Status: Strenous
Stopping Point: Sama Gaon
Distance Coverage: 9 kms (4 to 5 hrs)
Seventh Day: 1st Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon, Reaching the Pristine Birendra Lake
So far, we've gained massive altitude gain, so we've planned our first acclimatization or rest day, whatever you call it, here at Sama Gaon. We had two options, either we head to Manaslu Base Camp - the foothill of the world's tallest peak, or just reach the Birendra Lake, which is one of the high altitude lakes glacier-fed by the Himalayan peak itself. As we do not want to strain our legs and save our journey for further days, we decided to just venture out to the lake of Birendra, which can be reached in 3 to 4 hours of walking. The journey to the Birendra Lake at 3620 meters was a bit strenuous, with remote and rugged sections and some slippery sections for sure. As we hiked during early autumn, there was mere snowfall, which made the trail beautiful yet challenging with the snowy route.
Pristine Birendra Lake - fed by the almighty Mount Manaslu
Birendra Lake rewarded us with the gigantic 360 panoramic view of the Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), with the surrounding Himalayan peaks, standing here gazing at the reflection of the mountains, I opened my arms, as if the pristine peaks and landscapes called me and my best friends.
After the excursion, we returned to our tea houses, played some UNO cards, and stretched our leg muscles for the further journey ahead.
Starting Point: Sama Gaon
Trip Status: Moderately Easy
Side Trip: Birendra Lake at 3620 meters
Distance Coverage: 12 kms (4 to 5 hrs)
Eighth Day: Journey to Samdo Village
After departing from Samagaon, after two freaking amazing insight days, the pathway today leads us to the last settlement (village), within the Manaslu region - Samdo, before we reach the Larke Pass. The 1st half was fully covered with lush valleys. As we hiked further, the landscapes changed marvelously, to the alpine valley insights and rugged rough terrains, with dry landscapes, with the clear views of Mt. Manaslu, Annapurna I, Ganesh Himal, which kept us motivated, with the open vista of Peak 29 and Himal Chuli as well, as we navigated to Samagaon.
Ancient Tea house of Samdo village
The night was a bit colder than before; however, the pulse rate was normal. To keep us warm, we stayed at the dining area till 10 P.M., as the kitchen is heated with continuous water boiling, which made us warm and cozy.
Starting Point: Sama Gaon
Trip Status: Moderately Easy
Ending Point: Samdo
Distance Coverage: 14 kms (5-6 hrs)
Ninth Day: Short yet Challenging Ascend to Dharamsala
The air feels a bit different today, with a cold mist atmosphere and a soothing sound of the winds. As we had to ascend over 4000 meters today, we were completely nervous; however, thinking about one final push, and then we will reach our ultimate destination, for sure tomorrow, kept us motivated since the morning.
The trailhead, today, began with a challenging ascent to some of the steep, rugged terrains. The route itself was completely different today, as we've made it to some other world. There were no settlements along the trekking route.
As we'd packed our lunch beforehand, we were kinda okay, and also energized, throughout the journey. Then came the downhill walk, and may cross overs via a wooden bridge and rough rocky sections, as we passed our way through the Athahra Saya River, the view of Ngadi Chuli, Pangboche Peak, Peak 29, with other peaks, were so prominent along with the closer glimpse of the Larke Glacier. After 4 to 5 hours of several uphill and downhill walks, we finally reached Larke Phedi - also known as Dharamsala - the base camp of the Larke Pass.
Dharamsala, last stopping point to Larkya La Pass
In the evening, we made sure to stretch our legs, keeping ourselves warm with ginger soups, and again checked our pulse rate with an oximeter, as tomorrow was the biggest day for us, and one of the challenging hikes to date, we set off for a quick nap.
Starting Point: Samdo
Trip Status: Challenging
Ending Point: Dharmsala - the base camp of the Larke Pass
Distance Coverage: 12 kms (4-5 hrs)
Tenth Day: Conquering the almighty Larkya La Pass at 5160 meters
Are you ready to hear the daring experience we had while making our way to the almighty Larkya La Pass, yepppp! Today was the day when we conquered; I made it to the top of one of the iconic high mountain passes. The journey today was the most challenging journey I've ever encountered, not only in the Manaslu Circuit Trek, but to date, compared to other treks that I've ventured out on before. Today, we set off on the hike at 4 AM, yes, that's true, to avoid the high winds, a problematic situation which usually happens after 3 PM, we must reach the top point before anyone, to get rewarding views and also get a quick descent, soon after.
A final summit to Larke Pass
Passing through the rough and slippery terrains, we had a continuous ascent, for almost an hour, after covering the third half of the trail, with the aluring views of several Himalayan ranges and glaciers. Reaching the top, the 360-degree panoramic views of Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna I, along with the best rewarding view of Mt. Manaslu, surrounded the top point of the Larkya La Pass. Reaching here was a dream-come-true adventure, where I personally marked a new height, feeling the sense of accomplishment.
Spending some good time here, we head to a downhill walk to Bhimthang, which is challenging with steep moraine, glacier, sections, and continuous descent. Reaching the tea house, we celebrated conquering the high pass by playing music, dancing, and mingling with other hikers.
Starting Point: Dharamsala
Trip Status: Most Challenging Day
Ending Point: Bhimthang
Distance Coverage: 22 kms (8 - 10 hrs)
Returning to Kathmandu: How the Journey Ended after crossing the Larke Pass?
Soon after crossing the Larkya La Pass, we descend to Bhimthang, which was our overnight stay (destination), on the very day of crossing the ultimate high mountain pass. As there were no settlements around the pass, even though our trekking guide suggested we descend soon after, as there are no lodges nearby, we still searched for an hour, which I personally do not recommend. Do not ignore their guidance and follow their navigation, and trust their instinct.
After we stayed at Bhimthang, we headed toward Dharapani on the very next day, on the 11th day, covering the walking distance of approximately. 8 hours, and 14 km of distance. The route demanded continuous downhill walking through varied terrains, which was surely a bit challenging. On the final 12th day of my journey to Manaslu, I ended up with a local bus ride to Kathmandu, with a once-in-a-lifetime experience and with lots of memories with my amazing team and experienced guide.
Suggested Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary for Beginners
Even though I ventured for a straight 12 days to the Manaslu Circuit, with only 1 acclimatization day, the trip went by smoothly; many people do not even set acclimatization days (rest/leisure days). However, if you are a beginner like me, then I strongly suggest setting a 13-day trip, starting from Kathmandu and ending in Kathmandu, so you get to explore some of the best side trips nearby, and also navigate safely with a slow ascent. Here is an outline for the trek to Manaslu Circuit for first-time trekkers in 2025/26.
Day 01: Take a Drive to Aarughat via local bus and then private jeep to Maccha Khola
Day 02: Trek to Jagat
Day 03: Hike from Jagat to Deng village
Day 04: Trek from Deng to Namrung village
Day 05: Hike to Shyala village via Lho
Day 06: Shyala to Samagaon
Day 07: Acclimatization / Rest or Excursion Day: Ascend to Birendra Lake or Manaslu Base Camp
Day 08: Trek to Samdo
Day 09: Rest Day - Hike to Rui La Pass (Nepal-Tibet Border)
Day 10: Ascend to Dharamsala - Larke Phedi
Day 11: Final Ascent to Larkya La Pass (5160 meters), the highest point, and reach Bhimthang
Day 12: Descend toward Dharapani
Day 13: Take a local bus or jeep back to Kathmandu
Cultural Encounters: My Manaslu Trek Stories from a Female Perspective
One of the main motives for me to trek the Manaslu Circuit as a female trekker is to unveil the unchanged culture of the locals, witness their lifestyle through distinct perspectives, and immerse myself in the warm hospitality of the locals. Soon after I entered the Manaslu region, I was warmly welcomed by the Brahmin and Chettri communities, which highly follow the Hindu spirituality, and consider mountains as the gods, and the lush green valley, as a form of deity, which wasn't new to me, being a Nepalese myself. While I moved forward from Jagat to the upper sections, officially entering the Manaslu Restricted Area, from Deng village, the whole landscape changed into Tibetan-influenced scenarios, with mani walls, chortens, monasteries, en route.
While settling at many tea houses, in the villages, such as Shyala, Namrung, Samdo, Sama Gaon, Lho, and several other notable ancient hamlets, I get to meet many women who run their lifestyle fully depending on agricultural farming and animal husbandry, etc. Surprisingly, women out there are so talented that, along with the household work, they also boost their economy through running tea houses, creating handmade souvenirs, wool carvings, and thangka paintings, etc. While husbands usually serve as a porter (supporting crew to carry backpacks) and a guide (who leads the overall trip navigation), in every corner of the Himalayas.
Almost 90% of the locals in the Manaslu follow the Tibetan Buddhism culture, being highly influenced by the Bon religion, where you can see many ethnic groups such as Rai, Sherpa, Nubri, Tsum, Gurung, and many others. These innocent locals are still far away from the modern world, and still tend to preserve their ancestral cultures proudly, and the proof you get to see is right after entering the trailhead, with the hamlets just like ancient days, with their houses still standing tall with slatted roofs, bricks, stones, and Tibetan-style designs and architectures. Along with the monks, meditating in the monasteries, engaging in daily prayers, and with the boasting festival celebrations.
To enrich my experience, I even tried their local attire, tried learning their languages, and even delved into their freshly cooked meals such as Thukpa, Khapse, Sukuti, and ultimate dal bhat with a traditional and loving touch.
Besides, what left a deep mark on my heart is the cute and respectful children, their greetings with two hands, folded in a namaste position, saying "Tashi Delek," which means hello, welcome in the best respectful manner. I was happily surprised when they spoke English to me. Many children go to school nearby, even though the facilities are surely not like those in city areas. As I packed in chocolates, some pencils, geometry materials, and even small souvenirs, they were grateful, even at such small gestures. I am possibly thinking of venturing out toward the Tsum Valley Trek for next time, maybe in 2026, springtime, to explore more deeply regarding the Tibetan communities that have resided here for decades.
How to Prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trek as a Female Hiker: What you must consider
Before you venture out to the pristine, isolated area of the Manaslu restricted area, there are a few things that you must consider that, for now, you might definitely be unaware of. These things are a must-do checklist that you must check thoroughly and ensure that certain essentials are considered beforehand. So, I suggest you please take a quick overview of the following requirements.
Search for a Local Trekking Agency or Hire a Guide
The tourism in Nepal has issued some laws where some of the treks in Nepal alone cannot proceed forward without the assistance of the local trekking guide, who must be hired through a locally based agency. Let's take an example of Upper Mustang and Kanchenjunga Circuit, these are the treks that you cannot make alone, where the permits must be attained via a guide and a local-based agency, to enter the restricted territory. Hence, one must find a trustworthy, experienced trekking agency, just like I did.
My friends and I were accompanied by Destination Himalaya Treks, who ensured to craft our budget and itineraries that matched our estimated budget. The guides were medically expert; hence, we did not have any challenges with the preventive guidelines followed beforehand. If you want their assistance as well, then you can contact them right away. They are experienced and registered, a locally based company that has been running for 15+ years.
Consider Right Trekking Seasons
Honestly speaking, 50% of the trek becomes successful only if you choose the correct timing to venture out, which is why I've chosen the ultimate season of Spring and Autumn. With my experiences beforehand, I knew that the best seasons for Manaslu are those that span the year. During this time, the weather and climatic conditions remain stable, with a moderate temperature ranging from 5 to 12 degrees, with no heavy precipitation as well. As I've already mentioned, I did hike before to some low altitude treks, and the weather aghhhh! It was awesome. While the spring presents the blooming red rhododendron scenery with the unparalleled view of mountains, you will love the mild mist of the clear wind.
And the Autumn? Expect the unexpected here in a surprisingly good way, traveling in Nepal, especially, high altitude treks, as a beginner, you will get the distinct perspective of the local lifestyle, their culture, and their boasting traditions. During this time, several festivals, such as Dashain, Tihar, and Chatth, fall between Aug and Oct, so if you are thinking about considering this trip, then venture out during these ideal seasons.
First Timers: Avoid the Monsoon and Winter Seasons
Beginners should definitely avoid venturing out on this trip during the off-season in Nepal, which is the monsoon and winter. During this time, there is a high level of precipitation, with rapid fluctuations of the weather as well, which creates the blockage to the Larke pass, and even shuts down the tea houses and accessibility, disrupting the trip. While I highly suggest ignoring this trek during the monsoon, with proper planning and an itinerary, if you have some experience beforehand, then you can head on this trip; however, it requires proper gear and an itinerary.
Grab Travel Insurance with Helicopter Evacuation Covered
No matter whether you are a beginner or an experienced trekker, I recommend you to grab a good travel insurance policy that covers all the requirements, such as theft, luggage bag/lost, trip being delayed or canceled, and most importantly, a helicopter evacuation over 3000 meters. Having trip insurance covered lets you hike with ease of mind and saves a lot of money, as the policy covers all your medical expenses. At the same time, please, grab the insurance from your own homeland (country) and ensure to check the policies in a detailed way.
Pack Smartly and Intelligently
While packing, make sure to consider all the seasonal packing variations, as the climate can change significantly. For instance, even if you are hiking during spring and winter, pack winter down jackets, thermal wear, dry-fit t-shirts, and breathable hiking pants. Do not miss out packing light snacks such as protein bars, dry fruit, nuts, or dry noodles, to quickly munch on, along the trailhead.
Estimate Daily Personal Expenses
Even though the guided trekking package covers every requirement, your personal spending, such as beverages, laundry, hot showers, or extra meals, except standard meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, won't be covered at the trailhead. With my personal experience, I spend around USD 5 to USD 6 daily, for extra meals, quick snacks, or bottled water as well, hence, it is necessary to get a comprehensive overview of the trek to Manaslu circuit cost, so make sure to check the detailed outline, regarding how the pricing works, in such an area.
Gradual Pace and Meaningful Acclimatization Days
As the Manaslu is a high-altitude trek, exceeding 5,000 meters, it is crucial to ascend slowly at your own pace. Make sure to at least set two acclimatization days either in Samdo or Sama Gaon, so that your body gets used to the rising elevation, without any risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). If you are a beginner female trekker, then, considering the combined trip to the Manaslu circuit and Tsum valley Trip is also an intelligent way to make your body adapt to the rising high elevation, as long as a comfortable itinerary, it is an effective way to avoid the possibility of altitude sickness, especially when you are physically fit.
Essential Gear for Female Trekkers in the Manaslu Region
Here are some of the packing list considerations I did, enlisting every essential gear and clothing, which is highly suggested for you as a female trekker for the Manaslu circuit, that you must consider beforehand, for a smooth journey.
Female Must-Haves: Skin Care essentials, like moisturizer, sunscreen with SPF 40+, eye cream, and personal care belongings, such as inner wear, sports bras, adjustable ones, sanitary pads (even if it's not your period month), doctor precautionary medicines, especially painkillers.
Personal Safety Alarm: Lightweight, pocket-friendly ones, in case, emergency occurs, you can ring the bell for quick assistance
Upper Inner Layer: Consider bringing lightweight clothing, such as Dry Fitted Moisture Wicking T-shirt, Breathable Sweatshirts, Sport bras (stretchable and comfortable ones, avoid wearing cotton t-shirt, padded hiking t-shirt (light ones)
Upper Outer Layer: Consider all seasonal variations, such as a light jacket (waterproof and windproof ones), down or puffer jackets for higher altitude, face protection, scarf (light ones), or woolen, adjustable caps, masks, Sun goggles with heat-protected
Lower Layers: Breathable Hiking Pants, long and short (consider both), trousers (which can be worn at the tea house, during the trek as well), inners (which are comfortable, like silicone ones)
Personal Hygiene: Toiletries items such as Toilet rolls, toilet towels, tooth brushes, toothpaste, biodegradable soaps, and shampoos
Foot Warmers and Shoes Disposable: heat packs, hot bags, to stay warm at a cold, low altitude, lightweight footwear (sports shoes), hiking boots (with strong grip)
What to Avoid: Lessons that I Learnt as a Female Trekker
Avoid Skipping Acclimatization Days:
Please set a good acclimatization day at least once, even if you are short on time, as I had, one 1 acclimatization day in Samagaon, and ignore another rest in Samdo, it was quite hard for me to cross over the pass. As a beginner who had rooted for the first high mountain pass over 5000 meters, after crossing over 4000 meters, my body was feeling completely drained out; however, thanks to the rest day that I had, even for one, that played a huge role in avoiding the risk of altitude sickness.
Do not overpack gear:
As I've already mentioned, during packing, make sure to stuff in only the essentials required; the maximum limit should be 12-14 kgs for easy ascent. Overstuffing the backpack makes the shoulders sore due to the heavy load and makes the uphill walk even more difficult. As I haven't hired any trekking porter, and carried my own backpacks, the one mistake I made was overpacking the unnecessary items, like extra t-shirts, hair dryer, down jackets (3-4 extras), and 2-3 boots. Please, do not carry such unnecessary clothing, just consider 1-1 jackets (down ones), and other items, without going overboard.w
Avoid Ignoring the Early Symptoms:
Do not avoid the early symptoms, even if you feel mere symptoms of AMS (acute mountain sickness), such as headache, cough, vomiting, or even difficulty in breathing or sleeping, inform the guide immediately. I had such a minor issue, and then I informed the guide immediately. Then, we had a slow ascent, at a slow speed without rushing, and changed my diet plan to a pure vegan diet. which made the trip pass by smoothly. Please remember one thing, that the guides are always intellectual and experienced in certain places, no matter how experienced we are, their navigation always leads the journey to pass by comfortably and smoothly.
Safety Tips for Female Trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit
No matter how pro your friends (group), ensure to hire one experienced guide, and opt for the guided trekking package, to avoid the unnecessary hassle of arranging logistics, and hike along safely.
As a female, I suggest you bring all the necessities, such as skin care essentials, medicines, or sanitary pads, even though your period is not starting, or it's not your time of the month. While many tea houses sell the pads, they run out of stock, and not so good quality which might cause, allergic reaction in your body.
If you are hiking along with a male hiker, typically a boy, lol, then make sure that your itinerary is set, matching your pace level of the hike, not the guy's, and ensure to follow the slow pace of the hike, and adopt the rising elevation, slowly, remember, one step at a time.
You can already be here, in Nepal, Kathmandu, then, you can consider a short Manaslu trek in 10 days, which doesn't include the arrival and departure dates, suits perfectly, for those who want a quick, budget trip, with a moderate pace of hiking.
If you are a beginner, then consider hiring a porter to carry your backpack, which also helps you ascend with ease, without hassling about the long ascent.
Always, choose your gut feeling, if anything doesn't seem right, or if in case, you feel unsafe, then seek the help of guides, or choose the easier alternative route instead.
Always consider wearing loose clothing and warm layers. For the inners, try to wear sports bras that are easily adjustable, easy to use, and avoid discomfort due to excessive sweating while trekking.
Inform your agency or family about your daily itinerary; carry a satellite phone or SIM card for emergencies.
Always keep your belongings with you, as the guides you are hiking with don't bear the accountability of your personal gear, follow their navigation route, and ensure to keep essentials safe.
Conclusion: Do I recommend this trip to you?
So, the experience I had along the Manaslu Circuit Trek as a female beginner trekker was mind-blowing, which left a lasting impression on me, even though I was a first timer, at the high elevation, and it was my first ever adventure, which led me to cross the elevation of over 5000 meters. Overall, it was great. With many things, I gain insight, such as unmatched mountain views, landscapes, experience new cultures, and meet new people.
I also came to know that, without being well prepared, the trip cannot run smoothly. That is why I created this article, with my personal experience on the Manaslu circuit, with some tips and tricks to consider, and follow, along with the things to avoid for a hassle-free adventure. If you want to know, regarding the in-depth overview of the trip, with expert guidance, and fascinating routes, I suggest you contact here; Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition, either by emailing them at info@destinationhimalayatreks.com, or just WhatsApp or direct call at +977 9851016814.
