Manaslu: A Trekker's Guide

The Manaslu trek is one of the finest and most scenically spectacular in Nepal. At 198km it is long, wilder and remoter than Everest and Annapurna treks, and needs about three weeks. Also covers Thonje to Jomosom (Manang area) via the Thorong La and exit to Pokhara via Bagnes Tal.

The Himalaya is one of the most geologically volatile regions on Earth, and changes are occurring fast in the mountains of Nepal – not least in the region covered by this guide. Readers are advised that sections of the route detailed within these pages were destroyed by the heavy monsoon rains of 1999, making some of the descriptions obsolete. As a result of such devastion new trails have been built to avoid the worst-affected areas and to deal with severe landslips, and some of the old bridges have of necessity been replaced.

In addition the dirt road mentioned on page 69 now offers an easy way to reach Arughat from Koyapani, should the prospect of a road walk appeal. Specific details are not listed here as one may expect further ongoing changes – not only in terms of the actual trekking route, but with regard to facilities along the way, and the very landscape itself.

This guide is offered as a companion to the area, and as an aid to preparation in advance of a trek in the Manaslu Himal. Experience shows that no matter how often one visits a specific region, every occasion is unique and a cause for celebration. Specific route details will no doubt be left to your Sirdar, who will gather up-to-date information as the trek progresses.

Sincere thanks to Paul Hindle for latest details on return from his Manaslu trek in autumn 2000.