If you have been looking for less crowded trekking area and at the same time aspiring to have life long memorable adventure, Manaslu is the best choice. Manaslu region, although opened for trekkers in 1991, was otherwise less prefered option due to its being in restricted list, extra cost and procedures for special permit, until it got limelight after getting hit by 2015 earthquake. Now, Manaslu Circuit Trek is a treasured trekking route that offers pristine mountain views, unique culture and thrilling adventure.It has preserved its distinctiveness and offers a great combination of exclusive culture, unmatched natural beauty and rich bio-diversity. The eighth tallest mountain in the world, Manaslu (8163), stands tall in the very center of the Nepalese Himalayas.
However, in compare to other popular trekking area like Everest and Annapurna, Mansalu still seeks better recognition as its camps are notoriously remote. For being situated at geographicaly challenging site, the local population is thin. Most sherpa people still rely on handful of agricultural product and animal husbandry. More and more Sherpa people are looking for better job and business opportunity through possible tourim boom in this area.
The trek starts from Aarughat, a small village in Gorkha district, and follows the ancient salt-trading route with Tibet along the Budhi Gandaki River. The trek takes you to off the beaten ways passing through colorful villages filled with prayer flags, Mani walls, splendor of pine, bamboo and rhododendron forests and monasteries along the dramatic landscape of the Manaslu Circuit. The trek gives a wonderful opportunity to get an insight into the local culture and lifestyle. The people of the Upper Budi Gandaki region are known as Nupri (the Western Mountains) who are direct descendants of Tibetan Immigrants and still retain the strong Tibetan culture.
Hence, the trek is an excellent opportunity to explore exclusive lifestyle in surreal sherpa villages.