Overview
The Manaslu Bhimthang Trek is one of the lesser-known rewarding treks in Nepal in the remote and secluded Manalasu region. It actually allows you to see the virgin landscapes and cultural varieties of the people over here. This trek is named after its endpoint: Bhimthang, which is a charming hamlet with an enthralling view of the mountain Manaslu (8,163 meters), the 8th loftiest peak on Earth.
The Manaslu Bhimthang Trek Nepal takes you into the depth of the Manaslu Conservation Area with a rich biodiversity and varied landscapes ranging from dense forests and lush hills to alpine meadows and glacier fields. Moreover, the trek partially goes into the Annapurna Conservation Area, especially when the route reaches Dharapani village, situated on the border of the two regions. Thus, the journey allows you to see the beauty of both the Manaslu and Annapurna regions.
The richness of the ecosystem inside the boundaries of these two Conservation Areas is immense. They are the home for snow leopards, Himalayan tahr and red pandas, amongst many other birds and species of flora. The diverse flora and fauna make the trek an ideal adventure for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The Manaslu Bhimthang Trek winds its way through various traditional villages of Gurung, Magar and Sherpa with evidence of Tibetan influence in their architecture, customs and daily life. You will also come across Buddhist monasteries, mani walls, chortens, prayer wheels and prayer flags that form an essential part of the culture here.
As you venture further into the mountains, the landscape transforms into a different form and hue. The wide alpine meadows and rugged terrain in the high areas greet you with an ethereal panorama of the towering Himalayas in the backdrop. This also shows views of Larkya La Pass which is the highest point on the Manaslu Circuit at 5,106 meters.
The Manaslu Bhimthang Trek is one of the little known versions of the Manaslu Treks. It is much less crowded than other renowned Himalayan treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit. This trek is ideal for those seeking quiet time and deep immersion into the unspoiled wilderness of the restricted Manaslu region. The Bhimthang villages towards the end of the trek offer a quiet atmosphere along with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. It has a perfect setting to rest and reflect on the journey.
The Manaslu Bhimthang Trek can be the best choice for those who would love to enjoy the beauty and culture of the Manaslu region but don’t have sufficient time or would not want to invest in the longer, more challenging Manaslu Circuit Trek. It bypasses the difficult Larkya La Pass, making it easier to complete and more accessible. Still, this version offers an equally excellent trekking experience.
Key Highlights of Manaslu Bhimthang Trek
- Gratifying vistas of Mt. Manaslu and its surrounding peaks such as Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Siringi Himal, Baudha Himal, etc, provide an imposing backdrop for most parts of the journey.
- Passing several villages influenced by traditional Tibetan culture and insights into the unique culture and customs of the locals.
- Traversing varied landscapes from lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and rugged high altitude terrain.
- Walking past ancient Buddhist monasteries, shrines and mani walls adorned with prayer flags. This heritage will provide you with a spiritual encounter and attach you more religiously to the traditions of this area.
- Walking through the vast Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation that are home to the diverse plant and animal life.
- Less crowded route to enjoy a quiet and immersive trekking experience.
Manaslu Bhimthang Trek Difficulties
Manaslu Bhimthang Trek is graded as easy to moderate in difficulty. It is a pretty short trek of about 5 to 6 days back and forth to Kathmandu. The trek has more relaxed pacing and easy trails, thus making it accessible to trekkers of several fitness levels.
The Manaslu Bhimthang Trek will be ideal for those who wish to experience the Himalayan adventure without the extreme altitude challenges of the full circuit trek. With the maximum elevation being around 3,700 meters the risks from altitude sickness are low. Still, the physical strain from trekking in thinning air with each step you take makes the trek a bit harder. While less, the risk of altitude sickness is possible, especially for those who are not properly acclimatized. Thus, trekkers should take a gradual ascent in each stage and maintain proper hydration to avoid health complications.
The track in the Manaslu area is usually rocky, uneven and narrow, with parts that are steep.
Some sections of the trail can be slippery and prone to landslides which further increases the navigation challenges. Likewise, you will walk for around 6 to 7 hours each day facing uphill and downhill grades. This can get pretty tiring yet manageable for trekkers in good health conditions and basic fitness. Being mindful while walking and proper strength to handle the physical demands of the trek is what is necessary.
Besides, the mountain regions may get unpredictable with the weather being cold and, at times, with sudden snowstorms. Hence, regular weather updates and flexibility in the schedule are important. Also, the trek can be a bit tough if it is snowing because the layers of snow over the trails make it slippery to walk on. However, the Manaslu Bhimthang Trek generally falls in the beginner friendly category and is within the reach of most trekkers.
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Attractions of Manaslu Bhimthang Trek
The Manaslu Bhimthang Trek presents both breathtaking natural beauty and cultural diversity. Visitors to the Manalsu region can explore the wide array of species of the Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area.
Likewise, while passing through diverse landscapes like lush forests, terraced fields and alpine meadows the towering peaks of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Buddha Himal, Siringi Himal, Ngadi Chuli etc continuously inspire awe and highlight the grandeur of the Himalayas.
It also takes you to Bhimthang, a faraway village with panoramic mountain views and magnificent Ponkar Lake. The quiet and picturesque setting of Bhimthang surrounded by snow capped peaks and glaciers offers a soothing respite for trekkers.
Besides natural beauty, Manaslu Bhimthang Trek is culturally rich. Your hike will take you through several villages on the way, which are highly influenced by Tibetan culture. Rich traditions and customs of the region are reflected in the local way of life. These hamlets give a peek into the vivacious Buddhist religion of the local Gurungs, Magars and Tibetan descendants with distinctive architecture, monasteries and prayer flags lying along the route.
Above all, Manaslu Bhimthang Trek is a pleasant journey for any trekkers seeking adventure and cultural enrichment and immersion into nature’s pristine landscape.
Bhimthang Trek Itinerary
Cost Include / Exclude
Service included
- Airport Transfer (Airport – Hotel – Airport)
- 2 Nights Hotel in Kathmandu with 3 star Hotel.
- Annapurna and Manaslu Trekking Permit
- A Professional Trekking Guide:
- Trekking Porter:
- Meals on the Trek– Breakfast, Lunch, dinner)
- Twin sharing Lodge Accommodation in Trekking
- Ground transportation by Private Car / Jeep
- Trekking Equipment: Sleeping bag, Down Jacket,walking poles
- Company T-Shirt, Duffel Bag
- All Government Taxes and Service charge.
Service excluded
- International flight ticket and Nepal visa fee
- Personal Travel insurance and emergency rescue evacuation.
- All bar bills , Personal Expenses
- All kinds of drinks, Hot shower, WI-Fi
- Tips