Manaslu Conservation Area : Ultimate Guide to Routes, Wildlife, and Must-See Attractions

Geography and Landscape: Where is Manaslu Conservation Area Located?

Spanning over 1663 square kilometers, located within the popular territory and heart of Nepal, Gorkha district, this Manaslu Conservation Area is connected to the Nepal-Tibet border as it is also used ancient trade route to Tibet. Starting at 600 meters, the altitude covers the dramatic altitudinal variation, from sub-tropical, lush greenery forests to the highlands of giant Mount Manaslu, 8162 meters.

Being known as the third conservation protected area of Nepal, the Manaslu region is categorized by six climatic zones, beginning from tropical, sub-tropical, alpine valleys, to rugged mountain passes and high sparkling glaciers. From the very start, the wetland of the fast-flowing Budhi Gandaki and Marshyangdi River sways its way, formed by the deep valleys, showing the varied ecosystems. As deeper, as this Manaslu Conservation area goes in elevation, the dramatic terrains start to change, where the notable Pungen Glacier and Larkya Glacier start to reveal it's formation after crossing almost 3000 meters. 

Unlike not being considered as one of the UNESCO heritage sites, in the globe, Manaslu Conservation Area ought to be the treasure land, where the thundering peaks like Samdo Peak, Simrung Himal, Larke Peak, Dhaulagiri, Peak 29, Nilgiri, and not to forget! The iconic Mt Manalsu resides peacefully. That is why it has become one of the popular spots for adventure seekers, who crave to unveil the majestic preserved beauty, and amongst all, the Manaslu Circuit Trek has been gaining a lot of attention from the wild explorers, who seek remote trail experiences, as there are some special criterias must followed to step here, initiated to preserve the land, from mass number of visitors.

Rich Biodiversity of Flora and Fauna

Manaslu Conservation Area is home to a variety of wildlife, ranging from rare mammals to diverse flora, distributed according to altitudinal variation, boasting over 30 iconic elusive mammals and over 3000 varieties of Himalayan flora, 120 birds, and five other 5 species of reptiles. Hence, it is no wonder that why National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) has been constantly monitoring this territory to protect rich biodiversity and promote eco-friendly and sustainable tourism practices. The fact that these conservation efforts have been rapidly promoting sustainability at its finest and also encourage visitors to visit this territory has made a huge positive impact. 

Diverse wildlife in the Manaslu Region

As you ascend higher, or go closer to the highland of the Manaslu Conservation Area, one can witness the iconic "Snow Leopard", as more than 13 snow leopards have been recorded in 2025. Not only that, but it also tends to be the home of elusive red panda, Himalayan tahr, and blue sheep while entering or strolling around the local villages, named as "Chyangra" in Nepalese slang, and musk deer or spotted deer. Whereas, at the forest section, at the lower section before crossing 3000 meters, the langur monkeys, barking deers, and black bears reside deep inside.

Besides, Manaslu region also ought to be a paradise for bird watchers, as the rare Himalayan monal, which is also considered Nepal's national bird, - Danfe, is found here in its colorful form. Apart from that, other birds like the Amur falcon, blood pheasant, bearded vulture, and Satyr tragopan chirp around the whole region, from 600 meters altitude to the highest over 5000 meters. 

Wide Variety of Himalayan Flora

In the case of flora within Manaslu, it highlights the variety of blooming flora from altitude to altitude variations, starting from lush green vegetation to the alpine valley in the highland area. The lower trailhead below 2800 meters is adorned by the blooming red rhododendrons and pines, and oaks, which are usually colorful in the shade of red and pink. Whereas, in the middle terrain, the route is highly encompassed by the dwarf rhododendrons, junipers, and even can find the iconic expensive, valuable - Yarshagumba if luck is in your favour. Meanwhile, at the high elevations, above 4500 meters, has a thin line consisting of sparse vegetation, barely surviving the cold altitude.

Indigenous Locals and Lifestyles

While mentioning the rich biodiversity and ecosystems, Manaslu is a home to diverse cultural communities dominated by the ethnic groups, including Gurung, Sherpa, Magar, and other communities in the lower Manaslu region. But, the main highlighted thing that connects the Tibetan traditions is the Nubri, Tsumba, and Bhotia communities that have been preserving their cultures, traditions, languages and customs even lifestyles from generation to generation, being highly influenced by the Tibetan Buddhism spirituality. 

Amongst all ethnic groups, Tsum and Nubri locals set themselves apart for their distinct way of livelihood and other practices like the "Syangya" cultural tradition, which prohibits and goes against animal killing. While Tsum people reside within the Tsum Valley, which also stands out as one of the hidden corners of this territory, Nubri locals reside in Nubri Valley. Their livelihood is distinct from others, highly dependent on animal husbandry and agricultural activities, or just wool carvings or thangka paintings, whereas the Magar, Gurung, and Sherpa locals host the tea houses, and provide warm hospitality to every visitor, blending perfectly with the heritance culture and also influencing the tourism activities.

Cultural Heritage and Significance

The rich culture and tradition in Manaslu are explained by the every alley is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhist culture, as the route is adorned with red shrines, mani walls, chortens, colorful prayer flags, and the ancient style made hamlets with slatted roofs and traditional block stones. Vibrant festivals are celebrated and hosted here, including the Sonam Lhosar, Dumje Ceremony, and the legendary Dhachyang Horse Festival on the basis of the Tibetan Lunar Calendar. 

Monasteries and ancient gompas, including Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, and Serang Monastery, play a huge crucial role in preserving the heritance cultures and traditions where the monks meditate spiritually and nuns pray eco throughout the region. Whereas, Tsum Valley hosts five Hidden Treasure Spiritual monasteries dating back more than 500 years.

The visual feast blends perfectly with the Tibetan Buddhist culture, signifying the historic and generational heritage.

Popular Trekking Routes in Manaslu

Being considered as one of the wild and isolated protected areas, Manaslu Conservation Area has been emerging among enthusiastic seekers, who crave to look out for wilderness and pristineness, which popular expeditions like Annapurna Base Camp Trek do not offer. Even though it lies within off-beaten trails, when it comes to adventure, it has been gaining mass attention, and lots of coverage in the past few years, as many trekking routes have been developed, or you can say have come to the limelight, as it demonstrates and gives an authentic tea house experience like 90's, with an exploration of ancient Tibetan buddhist culture. However, unlike other world almighty popular regional areas, it still lacks many trekking trails, but that's an authentic essence that this territory usually holds, offering an unpolished experience.

One of the hidden jewels is surely the Manaslu Circuit Trek, which covers a distance of approximately, at most 182 kilometers, which takes around 8 to 16 days, which highly depends on the routes and acclimatization days. It is also known as one of the popular treks in Nepal, as it reaches the iconic world's highest pass of Larke La - 5160 meters, and also tends to circumvent the world's eighth highest peak of Mount Manaslu. Starting from the Macche Khola, it passes several villages in between like Namrung, Samdo, Sama Gaon, Lho, following the Budhi Gandaki and Marshyangdi River, giving a raw, untouched experience to hikers. These days, this trek can be completed within 10 days starting from Kathmandu - that is why the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is recently blooming in a rocket form.

Besides, for the rugged and more intense Tibetan cultural immersion, one undertakes the Tsum Valley Trek, which explores the hidden valley at its finest and also tends to visit the "FIVE HISTORICAL MONASTERIES", that sets itself apart from the standrad Manaslu Circuit Trekking as it doesn't cross the Larke La and the route doesn't naviagate the villages as same, as the other one. In comparison, this expedition is more mentally demanding as it traverses through the old tea houses and unmaintained lodges.

However, it doesn't set back the adventure seekers; instead, the combination of both expeditions of Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is rapidly emerging, that do the excursion of the Tsum and also crosses the Larke La at the same time. Whereas, if someone is still wondering whether it visits the Manaslu Base Camp or not - the lap of the world's 8th tallest peak, then it does when acclimatizing at Samagaon, visiting the Nepal-Tibet Border crossing over Rui La Pass from Samdo. In total, this trek gets completed just within 22 days, covering both expeditions.

If one doesn't have an urge to reach the Larke Pass, then one shall consider venturing out on the Rui La Pass Trek and the Manaslu Base Camp Trek in a distinct way, which only demands like 8 to 12 days. 

Another popular expedition, the combination trip of Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek, is intensely trending, as it crosses the two thrilling passes of Thorung La and Larke La at one go, visiting the Mustang territory at the same time with excursions to Manang and Muktinath Temple. In total, it covers the distance of over 400 kilometers spanning 23 days in total, so if someone has a long holiday duration and has a prior high altitude experience, shall for sure, consider this duo journey.

Major Attractions of Manaslu Conservation Area

Mount Manaslu - 8163 meters

Mt. Manaslu itself stands out being the crown jewel of Manaslu Conservation Area, which sits within the major district of Nepal, west of Gorkha, covering almost 38 kilometers of distance. Standing at 8163 meters tall, on the eastern side of Annapurna, the name Manaslu is formed from "Manasa," which means "intellect" in the Sanskrit language, as it is considered as "mountain of the spirit". It is also referred to as a revered cultural significance, or god, for locals, and one of the popular summit points for climbers who seek to conquer the new heights, creating records and a bucket list for wanderer hikers, seeking to explore the surrounding landscape of the Manaslu region.  Surrounded by other iconic peaks, including Peak 29, Shringi Himal, and Himalchuli, Mount Manaslu stands tall within one of the most isolated and restricted territories of Nepal.

Birendra Lake

The Birendra Lake can be reached through a hike from Samagaun, which is approximately 2 hours and 4 km away from this village during the trek to the Manaslu circuit. It sets itself apart, being not just a normal lake in the highlands, but Birendra Lake also tends to be one of the pristine Himalayan freshwater lakes that soars at such a high elevation of 3600 meters, which is fed by glaciers of Manaslu and Pungen Glacier, both at the same time. The name is created after the late King of Nepal, Birendra Shah, who ruled this country till 2001 AD. In the present day, Birendra Lake stands out to be a tourism hub, and one of the most highlighted aspects that falls under the protection of the Manaslu Conservation Area Project. 

Larkya La Pass - 5160 meters

Larkya La Pass marks its name, being one of the longest passes in the Himalayas, with an elevation of 5016 meters, and also tends to be one of the major bucket list expeditions among adventure seekers, that is looking forward to always acing the new heights. Being renowned as the challenging pass, it offers panoramic views of several mountains, like Himal Chuli, Cheo Himal, Sringi Himal, Larke Peak, Samdo Peak, and Mt. Manaslu, with the vista of Larke Glacier at the same time. Crossing this pass offers 360-degree views from its pinnacle, offering a sense of accomplishment after hardship and the rewarding view after marking its name at great heights.

Rupina La Pass

Standing at an elevation of 4820 meters (15685 ft), Rupina La Pass resides within Gorkha, the western side of Nepal, being regarded as a high mountain pass, which can be attained through several trekking routes passing remote villages. The major highlighted aspect stands out to be the Jherang Caves, which the Rupina La Pass Trek visits, featuring 108 natural water taps, which emerged from the formation of rocks, but this is truly not the end yet! The best panoramic view of iconic peaks like Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, and other highlands of Mount Manaslu makes this pass iconic and legendary at the same time.

Tsum Valley

Situated in the Gorkha District of western Nepal, Tsum Valley is truly a hidden gem, which lies within the Manaslu Conservation Area with a thin population of locals, yet culturally rich 33 villages in total. Being diversely surrounded by the Boudha Himal and Ganesh Himal ranges, it sits and shares a close border with the Nepal-Tibet border. Starting from an elevation of 2000 to at most 3500 meters, this major pilgrimage site is widely covered by the Tsumbas locals who follow the ancient Bon Buddhism culture, an old hereditary Tibetan culture (oldest)

This valley boasts historical significance and circulates myths and historical Tibetan beliefs, covered with the varied monasteries, red shrines, gompas, mani walls, chortens, and shares a wide variety of topography and biodiversity, which is why Tsum Valley serves as a famous trekking route. Initiated just in 2008, in present days, the pristineness, and the authenticity of the valley of Tsum is still preserved just like ancient days, in the form of ancient style tea houses, or the gompas dotted in the valley, thanks to the conservation effort made by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC). 

Budhi Gandaki Valley

Formed by the glacier coming from Mount Manaslu, which gets interlinked with the Trishuli River at Beni Ghat and finally contributes to the huge Narayani River, Budhi Gandaki River covers approximately 150 kilometers of distance in total within Manaslu Conservation Area, carving out the Budhi Gandaki Valley. This valley sits as a central section for many other popular trekking routes within the Manaslu region, having a steep section from 300 - 750 meters. The valley of Budhi Gandaki plays a huge role in creating an intense landscape with deep gorges, alongside forest areas, enhancing tourism, supporting diverse ecosystems, and also local residential areas on the banks side by side. 

Hence, there are ample reasons that highlight the key aspects of the Manaslu region, which are too numerous to describe as this area itself tends to be the most iconic route and trailhead to the iconic expeditions. 

Permits required to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area

Types of Permits

To get access to the Manaslu Conservation Area, there are simply three necessary special permits that are required, firstly, tends to be the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), which is quite obvious and intended. Secondly, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) also interlinks (touches) the Annapurna region. Lastly, but not least, and the essential one is Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which is hard to obtain on their own by the hikers, as some rules must be followed to enter the restricted territory. 

These permits play a huge role in maintaining the pristine nature of the landmark, as the fees directly go to maintain the local lifestyle by preserving the monument, monasteries, and villages, with other Buddhist and Tibetan historical sites, that is why Manaslu Conservation Area Project exists to preserve the landmark and the heritance culture of locals, along with the home of diverse landscapes, and bio diversity.

Here is the list of required permits:

1. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
2. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
3. Special Restricted Area Permit

Rules to get the Special Restricted Area Permit

As a famous line goes by, nothing comes with beauty for free of cost and with ease. To get access to the Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP), certain rules and regulations must be followed, that was initiated by the "Government of Nepal"; however, the requirements are only to enter the restricted area, and not for others. 

Here are the rules to acquire the restricted area permit.

1. The first and foremost vital rule is that, while grabbing the special restricted area permit, it must be applied from a registered local-based company.
2. Secondly, solo trekking within the Manaslu region isn't allowed; having said that, you must have at least 2 pax of hikers in your group, and that doesn't count the guide and porter hired for the trip.
3. Lastly, 1 experienced guide must be hired who is licensed and carries ample knowledge of the safe route far away from dangers that circulate here.

Required Permits Cost on Seasonal Variations

The costing of the permits (paperwork) varies according to the seasonal conditions, differentiating between peak season and off-season for the Restricted Area Special Permit. While the Annapurna Conservation Area and Manaslu Conservation Area permit costs remain the same at all four seasons, the Restricted Area Permit cost changes seasonally. Here is the costing for the required permits:

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit - ACAP cost: USD 30 (NPR 3200) and remains the same in all seasons
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit - MCAP cost: Same cost as ACAP, costing around USD 30 - NPR 3200
3. Restricted Area Permit cost: While the peak season is Spring and Autumn, the permit cost is around USD 100 per person for a week, and takes USD 18 additional every single day afterwards. Whereas, the off-season is a bit cheaper, costing around USD 75 per person for the first week, and USD 10 per day after a week.

As these permit acquisitions require a licensed guide and must be attained through a local registered agency, we at Destination Himalaya Treks arrange permits and make all the paperwork easy, by taking care of the experienced licensed guide, ensuring that your journey becomes a hassle-free adventure.

Best Seasons to Visit the Manaslu Conservation Area

Simply noting down, Manaslu Conservation Area can be visited all year round, highly considering the fact that every season has its distinct features and unique exploration to unveil. Every four seasons offers something rewarding and astonishing; however, if it is for the treks or other expeditions, then the best time to trek in Manaslu is Spring and Autumn, as expected. This span of the year brings the best out of nature, blending the climatic conditions perfectly with favourable temperature conditions for the long hours of exploration that trekking usually demands.

Between March to May, the humidity doesn't exceed 16 degrees Celsius and falls below -5 degrees Celsius, offering a mild temperature, without being too sunny during the day and with a cool chill night without being too freezing like Alaska. The dense forested area is highly covered with blooming red rhododendrons and pines in the lower mid sections, whereas, at the upper parts, the wild flowers thrive in a thinning pattern, adding some colors to the landscapes, making Spring one of the ideal seasons to explore Manaslu.

Meanwhile, another ideal season tends to be Autumn, from mid-September to October, as it comes right after the conclusion of the monsoon, the possibility of rainfall and snowfall is zero, offering constant favourable weather conditions without sudden changes. What makes this season even more enchanting is that the major Dashain and Tihar also fall in between these months, so the whole area thrives in festive mode.

Likewise, the most unfavourable and challenging seasons are monsoon and winter, as these seasons bring a high level of rainfall and snowfall at elevations over 4000 meters, basically after crossing Samdo. Due to the heavy precipitation, several challenges and hazardous situations arose, such as landslides, road blockage near Rupina La and Larke Pass, making the expedition incomplete. Besides, the temperature falls below -5 degrees Celsius, making the climatic conditions too freezing and also unbearable to handle without proper gear. Nonetheless, for snowy, frosty peaks, and also to push their limits high, one can venture out in the winter season as well.

To conclude, while making on the way to the Manaslu Conservation Area, one shall do proper research and also plan accordingly with proper gear. Despite all challenges, one shall keep in mind that every span of the year is rewarded with unbeatable views.

Environmental and Socioeconomic Challenges in Manaslu

Even though the pristineness, of this region is being highly protected and monitored by the Manaslu Conservation Area Project, there are still some backlashes and also wide challenges faced. Despite all the efforts, and the economy that has been contributed just to preserve the authenticity of wildlife and culture, by none other than the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), still it holds complexity and facing some critics that are hampering both in the environmental aspect and, ofcourse! in the economic factors.

Habitat Loss Due to Infrastructure Expansion

Since the rapid growth, or you can say due to highly developed infrastructure, and the future projects to facilitate the Manaslu area, many wildlife has directly loss their home due to the destruction of forests, exploitation of woods, and the road maintainence, creating a blockage to migrate the birds and animals back and forth. While the modernization is a great initiative to facilitate the tea houses and lodging in Manaslu, it is indirectly hampering the culture and ancient lifestyle of Tibetan locals at the same time.

Huge Conflict between Wildlife and Locals

Considering the major aspect that the major tea houses and built and new lodges are being built, it has created a huge chaos to the home of animals, as forests are being destroyed and the accommodations are made near forest areas, posing challenges to human lives at the same time. However, since the 90s till date, 2025, no animal attacks have been recorded, but it still doesn't change the fact that the possibility of endangered species like snow leopards, tigers, and wild elephants is high.

Wildlife Poaching and Threat to Biodiversity

As is well known to the reality that Manaslu Conservation Area boasts a wide biodiversity of 2000 species of mammals, 110 species of birds, 11 species of butterflies, and 3 species of reptiles, the biodiversity is at risk as many wildlife traders, just visit this restricted area to trade animals. Even though it sounds like a common issue, it shall not be considered a minor issue, but rather come to every individual's voice and animal activist, to conserve wild lives and stop the crimes associated with wildlife trading and degradation of ecosystems and biodiversity.

Protection and Conservation Efforts 

Despite all those challenges, ups and downs, Manaslu has been highly active in protecting the landmark for many years and rapidly engaging in initiatives for eco-friendly practices and tourism sustainability in many ways:

Local Community Involvement

1. Locals are highly engaged in preserving the natural resources sustainably through the monitoring of small local Conservation Area Management Committees that track and contribute highly in decision-making roles to protect the bio and eco systems.
2. While for many years, locals used to depend on the agricultural activities and animal husbandry, which limited their income, or even one could with zero income. In past years, the government of Nepal has been providing financial help for building lodges (tea houses), so it boosts tourism and also preserves and highlights the culture to the world, automatically pressuring down the agricultural activities that could damage the environment on a harsh level.
3. The region itself celebrates and follows the tradition of prohibiting animal cruelty, and it is being transferred to informed, enlightened through the lamas (monks) to the locals, and visitors, supporting wild animal sustainability in a positive way.
4. Different programs are being held, and awareness programs are spread throughout the villages by the international organization, demonstrating the effect of degrading the environment.

Wildlife Monitoring with Yearly Surveys

1. The MCA has been actively involved in the tracking of wild species through camera traps or even field visit surveys or any way possible via technology to keep the count of the species done every year, including reptiles, and flora.
2. MCA also highly engages in detecting and recording any unfortunate changes in the flora and fauna after sudden climatic changes, and provides aid immediately.

Restoration: New Beginning

1. Small Initiatives like aforestation are made by planting trees, by organizing several conservation programs, which highly contribute to preventing landslides, and also provide a home to diverse species and birds.
2. Huge initiatives are made by rehabilitating the Budhi Gandaki River and the Marshyangdi River to improve the water quality, avoiding and making it free from dumping and wastage, and maintaining the pristine aquatic wild mammals.

Tips for Sustainable Tourism Practices

1. Please be respectful to the cultures, customs, and traditions of the locals and show a high amount of understanding if otherwise, avoid disturbing their traditions and way of living.
2. While visiting the monasteries or any historical sites, dress modestly and click pictures of monks with permission, and communicate with them after getting permission only.
3. Always follow the rule "Leave No Trace Behind", and do not throw waste on the route and trailhead; instead, throw or store it in the dump site located in the tea houses. Try carrying reusable water bottles and a daypack to fit in the waste while on the trailhead.
4. Obtain the necessary permits, follow all the rules while attaining it, do not make your way without having the permission and the paper, and travel documents that are mandatory.
5. Always maintain a safe distance from the wild animals and do not engage in feeding them or disturbing them if you encounter any on the route.
6. If possible, try buying souvenirs, like thangka paintings or even the non-expensive ones like wool carvings, sweaters, small statues, or caps to support the local economy.
7. If you are thinking about trekking here within the Manaslu Conservation Area (MCA), then it is suggested to hire a registered local guide and hike through the local licensed company to boost the local economic activity, for a safe expedition, and foster economic growth. However, as solo treks aren't allowed, it is also a legal way to enter the restricted area, following proper rules.

Other Additional Tips to Safely Visit Manaslu Conservation Area

1. If you are planning about expedition, then proper planning is crucial through a registered experienced company, as it has several confusing trailheads with no signal marks, with fewer no. of visitors, so make sure to book through one.
2. Proper acclimatization days must be set. Firstly, know your pace level, especially if you are a beginner, and try to craft the itineraries accordingly.
3. Sudden weather changes and unfortunate climatic conditions are expected at such highlands, so no matter what season is plan your gear, gear up for the cold temperature and snowfall at the same time, even if you are venturing out in peak seasons.
4. Follow the navigation of the trekking guide and do not forget to follow his pathway, and please do not rush and just meander by his side, as there are several danger routes like landslide-prone areas and high passes with deep gorges at the same time.
5. Make sure to carry hiking boots that have a nice grip and aren't slippery, also bring 1 slippers to wear while accommodating in the tea houses.

Conclusion: Final Say

As there is a famous line that is widely circulated, some arts are never meant to be expressed but only felt, well! The untamed beauty of Manaslu Conservation Area carries its grace by preserving the heritage cultures, wildlife, and biodiversity that can only be experienced when visited. Something unique and distinct, the Himalayan adventure in the Manaslu protected area, is surely once in a lifetime experience to shower you with unexplored traditions and the heart-warming hospitality located far away from city bustling life and hidden by highly towering peaks. 

With every challenge it brings in each stride comes an unveiling of the unchanged and pristine wilderness of the Manaslu Conservation Area, where each step becomes worth it after long hours of expedition. The perfect blend of culture, adventure, wilderness, local lifestyles, and the giant mountains are all set to welcome all the adventure lovers across the globe, now it's you take to dust off the boots and venture out on the Manaslu adventure today, right now!