20/04/2023
At 8163 meters (26, 775'),Manaslu is the 8th highest peak in the world. Also known as ‘Kutang’Manaslu is located in the Mansiri Himal, part of the Nepalese Himalayas, in the west-central part of Nepal. It’s name which means "Mountain of the Spirit", comes from the Sanskrit word Manasa, meaning "intellect" or "soul". Only open to tourists since 1991, The Masalu trekking trail via Larkya La follows an ancient salt-trading route along the Budhi Gandaki river. Along the trek you can experience rich cultural heritage, biological diversity and pristine mountain views, including 10 peaks over 6,500 metres and a few over 7,000 metres. The trek ascends following the BuriGandaki River to Larkya La Pass 5113m which offers spectacular views of Himalchuli (7893m.), Manaslu 8163m, Ganesh Himal, NgadiChuli (7879m.) and more.
The Mansalu adventure starts with a 7 hour drive from Kathmandu to Arughat. From Arughat, the trek begins to climb to the pine-forested Syala village, which has the backdrop of many giant breathtaking peaks. Continuing along, through green countryside, the valley opens up to reveal delightful alpine meadows and small Tibetan-style villages before reaching the village of Samagaon (Sama) at the foot of Manaslu. Samagaon is the largest and most important village in the region, with a Buddhist monastery where many monks and nuns reside. After half a day’s trek from Samagaon, we reach the village of Samdo. Samdo is the highest village in the BudhiGandaki valley and is inhabited by Bhatia’s. This village hosts a view of the valley Pang Phuchi with a backdrop view of the Tibetan border. The trek continues on a classic and tough route along The Buri Gandaki River to Larkya La Pass 5113m. Larkya La is a secondary major valleyin Langtang which offers spectacular views of Himalchuli (7893m.), Manaslu 8163m, Ganesh Himal, NgadiChuli (7879m.) and occasional views of The Annapurna Massif.From here, the meadowland of Bimtang (Bimdakhoti) at elevation 1,500 metres is reached, from where Manaslu is undoubtedly visible. From Manaslu, the trip passes through DudhKhola, crosses TheMarsyangdi River before reaching Bhulbule, TarukhaGhat, crosses the ChepeKhola and DorandiKhola before returning to Gorkha at the beginning of the Annapurna Circuit trail.