Is Manaslu Harder Than Everest Trek

Bimal Dahal
Updated on September 10, 2024
Is Manaslu Harder Than Everest Trek

Well, you’re asking if is Manaslu harder than Everest trek. Nepal is often referred to as the “Land of the Himalayas”. It is a paradise for trekkers and mountaineers. It has many famous trekking destinations. Among them are the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Both offer breathtaking scenery, cultural experiences, and adventure. It draws travelers from around the world. We considered various factors. The factors include altitude, terrain, weather, permits, and trekking experience.     

Table of Contents

  1. Altitude: The Altitude Challenge compares Everest vs. Manaslu Trek
  2. Terrain compare Manaslu and Everest
  3. Compare Weather: Manaslu Trek and Everest Trekking
  4. Permits and Regulations: EBC Trek and Manaslu 
  5. Cultural Experience in Manaslu and Everest Region Trek
  6. Crowds: Solitude vs. Social Trekking
  7. Manaslu Circuit trek
  8. Conclusion about Manaslu and Everest Trek   

Altitude: The Altitude Challenge compares Everest vs. Manaslu Trek

One of the challenging factors in the Himalayas is the altitude. The Everest Base Camp trek takes you to an altitude of about 5,364 meters (17,598 ft). It is at the base camp. Also, for those venturing higher, it can go up to 5,643 meters (18,514 ft). It is at Kala Patthar. On the other hand, the Manaslu Circuit trek leads to the Larkya La Pass. It is at an altitude of 5,160 meters (16,930 ft).

At first glance, Everest seems to have the edge in terms of altitude. However, it’s essential to consider the trek’s duration and acclimatization. The Everest Base Camp trek is short in comparison. Most trekkers take around 12-14 days for the round trip from Lukla. Manaslu, on the other hand, spans around 15-18 days.  

The longer duration of the Manaslu trek allows for better acclimatization. It reduces the risk of  Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). The gradual ascent of Manaslu and the time spent at various altitude levels can make it less daunting. It has less altitude challenge compared to Everest.

Terrain compare Manaslu and Everest

Another critical aspect that influences the difficulty of these treks is the terrain. Both Manaslu and Everest present trekkers with their unique challenges. So your questions is Manaslu harder than Everest trek, This both trek pretty similar and the altitude as well.

The Everest Base Camp trek follows tea house trails. It makes it comfortable for lodging.
However, the path can be steep and rocky. Especially as you approach Namche Bazaar and Tengboche. There are also several suspension bridges along the way.

Manaslu, on the other hand, offers a mix of well-trodden trails and rugged terrain. Much of the Manaslu Circuit is remote, with fewer tea houses. This means you may need to be more self-sufficient. You may carry extra supplies and camping gear. In addition, there are some steep ascents and descents, making it difficult.

The overall terrain of the Manaslu Circuit can be more demanding. This is in terms of trekking skills and navigation. However, it also offers a more pristine natural experience.

Compare Weather: Manaslu Trek and Everest Trekking

Weather plays a significant role in determining the treks’ difficulty. The Himalayas are notorious for their fickle weather patterns. It can change rapidly, even during the best trekking seasons.

The primary trekking seasons for both Manaslu and Everest:

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
During these times, the weather is generally stable, and the skies are clear. However, trekkers should still be prepared for rain or snowfall. Especially at higher altitudes.

Both treks can experience freezing temperatures, especially at night. Everest Base Camp is at a higher altitude. So, it can be colder than the Manaslu Circuit. Trekkers on either trail must carry suitable clothing and gear.

Weather conditions can be challenging on both treks. Manaslu may have a slight advantage due to its lower altitude. However, it’s important to note that weather can vary from year to year. So, trekkers should always be prepared for unexpected changes.

Permits and Regulations: EBC Trek and Manaslu 

Trekkers must obtain the necessary permits and follow regulations. Both the Manaslu and Everest treks require permits. Only the processes and costs differ.

The Manaslu Circuit also requires a special restricted area permit. These permits come at a higher cost compared to the Everest permits. Moreover, Trekkers should be in a group of at least two people. They should also have a registered guide. It can add to the overall expenses.

The Everest Base Camp trekking also requires permits. But they are more readily available and less expensive. Solo trekkers are allowed on the Everest route. But, Travelling with a guide or in a group is wise. It is for safety reasons.

The bureaucratic aspects of the Manaslu trek can make it a bit more challenging. It is in terms of logistics and expenses. However, some trekkers appreciate the restricted access. It maintains a quieter and less crowded trail.

Cultural Experience in Manaslu and Everest Region Trek

Both the Manaslu and Everest treks offer an incredible moment. You can immerse in the rich culture of the Himalayan people. Yet, the cultural experience can vary.

The Everest Base Camp trek takes you through the heart of Sherpa villages. Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Khumjung. Trekkers can interact with the Sherpa people and visit monasteries. We can interact with the local communities in the tea house lodging too.

Manaslu takes you through a mix of Tibetan and Nepali villages. The cultural experience here is enriching. We can visit Buddhist monasteries and interact with locals. Manaslu Circuit’s nature is remote. So, you may encounter fewer trekkers. It can enhance your cultural experience.

Crowds: Solitude vs. Social Trekking

The level of solitude you desire can impact your perception. Everest Base Camp is the most popular trekking destination in the world. So, it can get crowded during peak seasons. You’ll encounter many other trekkers along the trail and in tea houses.

Manaslu, on the other hand, sees far fewer trekkers, even during peak seasons. If you’re looking for a more solitary and remote trekking experience, Manaslu might be the one for you. However, some trekkers enjoy meeting fellow travelers on the route.

Manaslu Circuit trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a moderate to challenging trek. It is in the Manaslu region of Nepal in the heart of the Himalayas. It takes you around the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Manaslu (8,163m). The trek is 13-14 days long and covers a distance of approximately 180 kilometers.

The trail begins in Soti Khola, a small village in the Gorkha district of Nepal. The trail passes through a variety of landscapes, including forests, meadows, and snow-capped mountains.

It takes you to the home of a unique culture and way of life. It is a challenging but rewarding trek. It also offers stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek is a great way to experience the Nepali culture and see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

The trek offers stunning views of the Manaslu massif, which includes Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. You can experience the stunning beauty of the Himalayas.  The trek also passes through several traditional villages, where you can learn about the culture of the local people. You can learn about their culture and traditions.

The trek offers stunning mountain scenery, diverse landscapes, and a unique cultural experience as it passes through traditional villages.

The trek is challenging, but it is not as difficult as some other high-altitude treks in Nepal. The trail is well-maintained, and there are plenty of teahouses and lodges along the way. It is not only a trek but also a great opportunity to experience the rich culture of the region.

It is a great way to create memories as the trek rewards you with a lifetime of memories in the Himalayas.

Conclusion about Manaslu and Everest Trek   

So, is Manaslu harder than the Everest trek? The answer depends on your preferences and trekking experience. Also, on what you’re looking to gain from your adventure. In terms of altitude, Everest Base Camp is higher. But Manaslu allows for better acclimatization. This is due to its longer duration. Terrain-wise, Manaslu is more remote, requiring better trekking skills.

Weather conditions can be challenging on both treks. Everest is colder at higher altitudes. Permit regulations and costs differ. Manaslu has stricter requirements and higher permit fees.

The cultural experience is enriching on both treks. But the Everest Base Camp trek takes you through Sherpa villages. While Manaslu offers a mix of Tibetan and Nepali cultures. Also, the level of solitude or social interaction varies. Everest is more crowded. And Manaslu offers a more remote experience.

The difficulty varies on your perspectives. Both of the treks are very famous. But, you can consider the aforementioned points for your trek.  All the questions are answered above. But if u have any questions. You can mail us. We will answer you as soon as possible.

Both of the treks are amazing and will surely provide a lot of fun. While trekking, you should not think about difficulty. Think about the rewards that the trek provides. You can find something new in every trek. You can learn. There are lots of new things that you can explore. So, just go for it. Traveling is a very worthy thing to do. You can create many memories.

Whether the trek is hard or not. You should experience it all. Traveling is something you must do. You can see the new part of the world. New life of people to explore. You should just go there and experience it for yourself.