Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley, Nepal

The trek combines dramatic high-altitude Himalayan landscapes with the exploration of a remote, culturally rich Tibetan Buddhist valley, without the crowds of the Everest and Annapurna treks. It offers impressive mountain views of Manaslu (world’s 8th highest mountain) and the Ganesh Himal, as well as waterfall-lined gorges and beautiful glacial lakes. Outdoor magazine has rated the Manaslu Circuit as Nepal’s ‘best tea-house trek’. We will engage a local trekking agency to assist us with logistics and to provide us with a guide (obligatory) and porters. The itinerary will incorporate opportunities to assist with altitude acclimatization ahead of crossing our highest point (Larkye Pass, 5106m), and will include visits to Manaslu Base Camp and Garnesh Himal Base Camp. The duration will be 21 days, being 19 days on the trek and two days for transport between Kathmandu and the trek start/finish. Participants should also allow at least one full ‘buffer’ day before the start and after the finish of the trek. The given start date of 10 April is indicative; the exact timing will be confirmed later and can take account of the preferences/requirements of participants. Cost will be around USD1600 (~AUD2500). Given the ascents and descents, the crossing of a 5000+ metre pass and trails that are sometime rough, participants require a good level of fitness and endurance. They should have previous experience in doing multi-day walks. (Note: The leader of this activity will be hiking in remote areas during September and there may be delays in responses to applications to participate or inquiries.)