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Whenever people reminisce about Manaslu, they think of captivating panoramas, distinct landforms, and shimmering alpine peaks. While it’s true that Manaslu holds this beauty, it also offers so much more.
Between idyllic Himalayan villages, unique Tibetan culture, and incredible scenic vistas, countless marvels still await to be explored. To help you more with it, we’ve rounded up the 15 best things to do on a trek to Manaslu Circuit.
Explore Manaslu’s spiritual and cultural center Pungyen Gompa
If you only think of Pungyen as a tranquil hideout, it’s time to rethink it. To the people of Manaslu, it’s the most revered sacred site that navigates them on a journey to mindfulness and peace. It cultivates their spiritual understanding and fosters a deeper connection with god.
Located just 3 hours hike from Sama Gaon, Pungyen is a place of worship and meditation. It’s where the locals and visitors alike gather to offer prayers and seek blessings. Many of the Buddhist priests and monks also retreat to Pungyen for ritual practices and ceremonies, which imbues a sense of reverence.
Religious activities fill the daily life in Pungyen. It starts each day with a wave of religious energy, as rhythmic chants and echoing sounds infuse the air, producing a vibrant atmosphere.
The monastery also serves as a learning center for devout Buddhists, where they learn and enhance their spiritual growth. They spend most of their time meditating to disconnect from worldly concerns and focus on inner contemplation.
Savor the local delicacies
Nothing compares to the delight of enjoying a scrumptious meal after conquering an arduous hike. Whether it be devouring a mouthwatering ‘Thali’ set or nibbling on momo, every bite heightens the satisfaction.
Hence, it’s only fair to try some real Himalayan food when on a trek to the Manaslu Circuit. Although the culinary experience here isn’t fancy, it’s full of options with each dish providing a touch of flair.
Depending on where you go, you can find a general assortment of local delicacies. But we still recommend sticking to regional specialties like Thenthuk for true experience. It’s a flat hand-pulled noodle, containing mixed vegetables, some proteins, and lots of spices. The dish is traditionally served with a flavorful broth made of Himalayan herbs.
Another local favorite is Tsampa, a typical Himalayan dish prepared from roasted barley flour or wheat flour. It may be nutty in taste but Tsampa is nutritionally rich with delectable flavors. It’s often complemented by Himalayan butter tea or yak cheese.
Step into the serenity of Birendra Tal & Ponkar Lake
Plunging into a frosty lake of Manaslu may send a shiver down your spine but relaxing by the water whilst soaking in its splendor does no harm. Rather it brings a profound satisfaction, allowing you to unwind and de-stress.
So, don’t hesitate to hike Birendra Tal while you’re here, for its gorgeous lakefront and scenic landscapes will reward you with a mesmerizing view. At the sight of the glistening lake replenished by glacial runoff, the serenity of nature washes over you. Bear in mind, the trek isn’t easy, you’d still find it manageable.
A perfect and less demanding alternative to Birendra Tail would be Ponkar Lake. Nestled at 3 hours hike to Bimtang, this serene lake is a center for rejuvenation and repose. And since it’s crowd-free, you can enjoy your personal space.
Discover the unique culture and festivals of local inhabitants: Nubri
When Tibetan masters embarked on the Himalayan Kingdom, they spread Buddhism, marking a new era of cultural development. For the local inhabitant of Nubri, it prompted a change in their attitude to life, culture, and beliefs.
These people embraced their Tibetan heritage while integrating it with aspects of Nepalese culture, which is still evident in their lifestyle and speech. They communicate primarily through their native language Nubri, which is a part of the Sino-Tibetan family.
The Nubri people are also extremely devout in their faith. Their belief combines the ethics and practices of both Buddhism and animism. These people here strongly believe that every life form even plants and animals have psychic energy and should be revered.
In addition to their belief, the Nubri people also celebrate their traditions and customs. Most of them are proactively involved in observance of festivals like Dumche, where the villagers pray for prosperity and good harvest.
For an entire day, the Lamas perform prayers and rituals to appease god. Meanwhile, the locals of Nubri stay up all night, singing, dancing, and bonding on common likenesses.
Cross the highest mountain pass Larke La
Yes, Larke La Pass is the highest standpoint on the Manaslu Circuit and the up-and-up place to catch a detailed view of majestic Manaslu, however, the fanciful ideas about the trek being a fun quest aren’t entirely true.
Don’t be swayed by the marvelous views of Larke La as the trek isn’t an easy ride. The climb is rigorously challenging and requires trekkers to weave through steep valleys and moraine hills. As you head north from Larkya Glacier, the trail grows increasingly steeper and demands greater efforts from hikers.
But, once the climb is done, trekkers are rewarded with marvelous views of Himalchuli, Manaslu, Kang Guru, and Bouddha Himal. From Larkya La, you can also watch around Cho Danda and Larkya Peak.
Explore the Manaslu Base Camp
You can’t leave Manaslu or Manaslu Circuit for that matter, without visiting its iconic symbol, Manaslu Base Camp. Although the trek doesn’t receive much abuzz, it’s still worth commencing, especially if you want to catch an up-close view of Mt Manaslu.
Only a 3-hour hike from north of Sama Gaon, the Manaslu Base Camp Trek is an intriguing journey along picturesque villages and alpine meadows. It’s a mix of ascent and descent although the final stretch through the north of Manaslu Glacier is progressively steeper.
The trail connecting Birendra Tal and Manaslu Base Camp is also tough as it runs through a glacial moraine, which means getting to the base camp is a little tricky. That said, the trek is a visual delight with marvelous views of towering peaks waiting down the line.
With every step closer to the camp, the view gets clearer and more splendid. From here, you can see Ngadi Chuli, Pawar Peak, Gyaji Kunj, Himlung, and Cheo Himal.
Spot ecological diversity and wildlife
By now, you probably know that Manaslu Circuit encircles the Manaslu Conservation Area, but were you also aware of the fact that it borders the Annapurna Conservation Zone? Of course, not all but a part of it.
Given this mixed topography, witnessing varied wildlife and birds is almost guaranteed in Manaslu. As home to some of the world’s most distinctive wild species, it enables visitors to get sight of few, if not all.
On this trek, visitors can glimpse Himalayan Tahr, musk deer, and black-lipped pika amidst the breathtaking mountain scenery. You can also expect to see elusive animals like red pandas, snow leopards, and Asian Black Beer, but just make sure the time and place are right.
The same holds for the Annapurna Conservation area, whose remarkable ecological diversity includes a range of flora and fauna that is a treat for any wildlife enthusiast. You can spot many rare and migratory birds along the route to Dharapani.
Partake in Mani Puja at Hinang Thrangu Tashi Choephel Monastery
Regardless of whether you’ve experienced a Tibetan festival or performed ritual practices, don’t miss out on a chance to observe the annual Mani Dungdrup Puja. It’s a major spiritual observance, held every year in the sacred Hinang Thrangu Tashi Choephel Monastery, also known as Nubri Thrangu Monastery.
The puja usually takes place in the lunar month of April, lasting almost 10 days during which a series of religious ceremonies are performed. The senior festival organizer invites the monk from Thrangu monastery in Kathmandu to join the rituals.
Local participants also gather in the monastery to recite prayers and mani mantras of Avalokiteshvara like Om Mani Padme Hum. Throughout ceremonial activities, they engage in meditation practices to attain mental peace and purification of the soul.
Mani puja involves a spiritual practice called Sadana where participants refrain from having cynical thoughts. During the puja, they prepare Torma, a sculpture made of flour and butter to offer to deities.
So if you want to be a part of this sacred festival, give Mani Puja a try.
Go on a side quest of Tsum Valley
Want to add on the trip or complete a side mission, try Manaslu’s hidden gem Tsum Valley. Its breathtaking landscapes, ancient traditional settlements, impressive Himalayan vistas, and rich cultural heritage are like no other and sure to leave you dumbfounded.
Perched in the north of Gorkha, Tsum is a place with historical significance and distinct topography that connects Nepal and Tibet. It serves as a spiritual and cultural epicenter for Manaslu, with several ancient monasteries and chortens scattered along the trial.
Historically, Tsum was a renowned Buddhist Kingdom and a home to Himalayan clans called Tsumba. Their primary language is Tsumke, a dialect based on the Tibetan language. Life in Tsum is marked by simplicity and tradition, where the way of life is led by local values and norms.
People here have a strong spiritual belief, which influences their lives in so many aspects. Many locals even visit monasteries and gompas to perform sacred rituals and ceremonies daily.
Mu Gompa, with its long-standing history, is arguably the most significant monastery in Tsum Valley besides Rachen Gompa. Located in the quaint village of Chhokangparo, this monastery is a key center for studying and practicing Buddhism.
Enjoy a side trek of Rupina La Pass
Shrouded in the mighty Himalayas, laced with rugged valleys and glacial ice- this is Rupina La Pass. A stunning yet secluded haven, Rupina La is a picturesque alpine route that ventures high in the mountains, connecting Barpak and Sherang Kharka.
The pass climbs its way up from forest canopy to alpine meadows, traversing between Gurung and Magar villages. It weaves through scenic wooded forests and crosses a suspension bridge, offering marvelous views at every turn.
The trail takes trekkers to the vantage of Rupina La Phedi, providing them with an unobstructed view of Mt Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu. Subsequently, the route takes them through Jhiong, allowing them to witness varied wildlife like Himalayan Tharn and musk deer.
However, the entire journey to Rupina La is anything but easy. The trek is arduous, stretching over long distances through the moraines of Boudha Glacier. Moreover, the path is filled with boulders and the climb is steep. Overcoming the challenges will lead you to a reward that is both significant and fulfilling.
Witness the golden hues of a sunset at Prok
It may not be the most famous village in Manaslu and also not the least, but thanks to that, Pork managed to retain its old self, undisturbed by modern cultural shifts. For a long time, the village was hidden behind sheer clifftops and towering peaks, which restricted the tourist influx.
Not much has changed since, as Prok still feels like a time capsule. But unlike before, it’s more open to visitors now, attracting them with scenic sites and religious centers like Kalchuuman and Kal Chhokang Gumba.
Pork has also become the most preferred viewpoint to watch a sunset or sunrise over Siringi Himal. Rising to an elevation of 2,318m, the village offers the most intimate yet breathtaking view of the horizon.
As the setting sun casts the light on snow-capped peaks, it creates a magical moment that you’ll remember for a long time. Just make sure that you find the right spot to experience it better and see all the action happening.
Visit the old Tibetan village of Sama Gaon
Nothing beats the joy for trekkers like discovering a rest stop where they can relax and unwind. But as it stands, Sama Gaon isn’t just a place for rejuvenation, rather it’s a looking glass into the Nepalese Tibetan culture, traditions, and beliefs.
It’s a timeless image of classic Manaslu with centuries-old houses, beautiful chortens, and mani walls. Each step through the village is like a journey through time, where you’ll discover many of its cultural antiques much like its customs that are very much alive.
Beyond its historical shrines, Sama Gaon is also lauded for its sweeping panoramic vistas and stunningly dramatic landscapes. Visitors here are mesmerized by the sheer beauty of Manaslu and its surrounding snow-covered summits.
Explore Deng Gompa
It’s strange how no one talks enough about Deng Gompa much less visit it. Set against a picturesque backdrop of jagged hills and stunning mountains, this Tibetan monastery is truly one of its kind.
Nestled high on a hill along the Budhi Gandaki River, Deng is one of the sacred Buddhist monasteries, where locals and monks seek spiritual enlightenment. People come here to participate in daily meditation and connect with their faith.
Although not as renowned as Serang Gompa, Deng is a culturally important shrine, with many pilgrims visiting to offer prayers. It functions as a center for Buddhist teaching and practice to the people of Deng village.
Deng’s historical background reflects its continuous evolution from construction to reconstruction. While its old structure is still intact, the new Deng gompa was recently built on a short walk from Himalchuli Glacier. The monastery houses many sculptures of deities along with ancient artifacts and murals.
Yoga and Meditation
Of all the things to do in Manaslu, yoga and meditation are the last things that cross your mind. But trust me, this is the most satisfying experience you can have when you’re fatigued from trekking day in day out.
Meditative practice and exercise help foster your mental peace and reduce stress. It further speeds up the healing process, aiding in recovery and recuperation. As a result, wellness retreats have drawn significant attention from visitors, while some even host a few.
The ideal place for a meditation retreat would be Tsum Valley, as it nestles amidst the Himalayas and remains crowd-free. Visitors can find solace in the serenity of Tsum while immersing in the beauty and repose of the Himalayas.
If you think it’s overly distant or insist on not leaving Manaslu Circuit then visit Pungen Gompa. It’s another prominent spiritual center in the south of Sama Gaon where both visitors and locals come to seek solace.
Unlike Tsum, it’s more alive with daily prayers, religious chants, and festivals. It also attracts more crowds, especially during the annual Tibetan festivals and celebrations like Lhoshar.
Discover the enhancing world of Namrung
Though it’s underrated, Namrung is a village you must visit. With colorful houses, spiritual sanctuaries, and panoramic mountain vistas, the village looks like it’s right off a postcard.
Cradled by steep slopes, this marvelous beauty rightly captures the spirit of traditional Nepalese villages. More so, it encapsulates the rich history and culture of the Gurung and Magar community.
Namrung provides a deep insight into Tibetan culture, with most people sharing common roots. They communicate in their native language, which is also inspired by the Sino-Tibetan language.
The women here take great pride in their traditional attire, donning and flaunting it on almost every other occasion. The clothing typically includes a velvet blouse, a black or blue skirt, and a cloth belt with traditional jewelry.
The men, on the other hand, don’t have intricate ensembles. They just complement their casual outfit with a white cloth called bhangra and a short kilt.
Besides this, you can also discover several cultural venues and religious shrines in the village of Namrung. Milarepa Park is a new addition to its collection. Housing divine figurines of Gampopa, Milarepa, and Shakyamuni Buddha, this recreational area is a sight to see.
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