Important Notices:
Permits:
- September to November: USD 100 per person for the first 7 days, then USD 15 per day thereafter.
- December to August: USD 75 per person for the first 7 days, then USD 10 per day thereafter.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): Required for entering the Manaslu Conservation Area that Cost: USD 30 per person.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Annapurna Conservation Area ( from Dharapani onwards) that Cost: USD 30 per person.
Best time to trek into the Rupinala Manaslu Circuit:
Autumn (September - November): Widely considered the best time. The weather is generally stable, with clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and excellent mountain views. Trails are not dusty, and the nights are clear for stargazing. However, it's very crowded
Spring (March - May): Another excellent period. You'll witness blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers, with pleasant temperatures and good visibility. Crowds are generally slightly less than in autumn.
Winter (December - February): Possible for trekking but challenging. The higher elevations will be covered with high snow and can be extremely cold. The pass might even be closed due to heavy snowfall.
Monsoon (June-August): We do not recommend this trek due to heavy rainfall, muddy and slippery trails, flooded river streams, leeches, limited visibility, and the risk of landslides.
Drinking water: Everywhere you can get fresh running water, but we recommend using some purifier tablets or filtered water for drinking, or you can buy mineral water or filtered water.
Altitude Sickness & Prevention
Some crucial prevention tips:
*Ascend Gradually: Do not rush your ascent. Stick to a well-planned itinerary that allows for gradual altitude gain
* Acclimatization Days: The itinerary is tailored with appropriate "rest days" to incorporate proper acclimatization.
*Stay Hydrated: Drink 3-4 liters of water daily. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.
* Eat High-Calorie Meals: Your body needs more energy at higher altitudes. Focus on carbohydrate-rich foods.
* Listen to Your Body: Pay close attention to any symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue). If symptoms persist or worsen, descend to a lower altitude immediately.
* Consider Preventive Medication: Consult your doctor about taking Acetazolamide (Diamox) as a preventive measure, especially if you have a history of altitude sickness or are concerned about the altitude.
* Proper Breathing Techniques: Practice deep breathing to improve oxygen intake.
* Layer Clothing: Dress in layers to adapt to temperature fluctuations and stay warm
*Avoid rapid altitude gain, drink enough water or fluid, acclimate to adjust the body to higher altitudes, avoid alcohol, eat regular meals, get higher and sleep at lower altitudes, and avoid high altitudes if you have heart and lung disease. The main treatment for acute mountain sickness is to stop climbing to higher altitudes and descend to a lower altitude if the symptoms occur
* Take a Helicoptor rescue service if you feel terribly sich my altitude.
Clothing:
* Layered clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers (short and long-sleeved), fleece jacket/pullover, waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket.
* Warm down jacket: Essential for higher altitudes, especially during evenings and mornings.
* Trekking pants/trousers: Comfortable and quick-drying.
* Warm pants for evenings: Fleece-lined track pants.
* Underwear and sports bras.
* Warm hat, buff/neck gaiter, and gloves.
* Sun hat or cap.
Footwear:
* Worn-in hiking boots: Waterproof and ankle-supportive.
* Trekking socks: Several pairs (wool or synthetic).
* Comfortable shoes/sandals: For evenings at teahouses.
Gear and Accessories:
* Daypack: For carrying daily essentials.
* Duffel bag: For your main luggage, carried by a porter.
* Sleeping bag: (Optional, but recommended for warmth, especially in colder months)
* Trekking poles: Highly recommended for stability and reducing strain on knees.
* Headlamp with extra batteries.
* Water bottle or hydration bladder: At least 2-3 liters capacity. Consider a water filter or purification tablets.
* Sunglasses (UV protected).
* Sunscreen and lip balm with high SPF.
* Basic first-aid kit: Including pain relievers, blister treatment, antiseptic wipes, bandages, and any personal medications.
* Toiletries: Quick-drying towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer, toilet paper.
* Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit (options can be limited on the trail).
* Camera and extra batteries/power bank.
* Travel adapter.
* Small padlock: For your teahouse room.
* Book, cards, or other entertainment for evenings.
* Passport photos and Nepalese Rupeese on cash for the Trek expenses
You will begin trekking towards Mandre Village leaving Baluwa behind. You will walk on the steep trail and further go through a dense forest. You will reach a small plateau where you will take a short break to have lunch. You will then ascend towards the steep hill along with the views of massive peaks covered in snow. You will reach Barpak and walking through the big central market, you will trek toward the terraced pasture. Stay overnight in the tent.
You have to start your trek around 3:00 AM due to the wind. If you arrive late at the pass then it is very windy so most of the trekkers begin earlier. The trail is not strongly steep but gradually upwards and very long to the pass. After the pass, it descends to the Manang Valley with mind-blowing views of different mountains. It is quite an enjoyable trail to descend however takes a very long time to get to Bhimtang. The destination seems closer however it is quite long and tough walking until you arrive at the place. The hotel offers very nice and clean rooms with a very comfortable warm dining hall.
