The Manasalu Circuit Trek and Island Peak Climbing are adventurous journeys that explore two distinct yet equally rewarding regions of the Himalayas. The serene trekking experience through the wilderness trails of the Manaslu Circuit takes you across diverse remote landscapes, such as the traditional villages of Gurung, terraced fields, ancient monasteries, lush rhododendron forests, deep valleys, enchanting waterfalls, alpine meadows, frozen lakes, and glaciers, etc., allowing you to discover the natural and cultural richness of the region. On the other side, the thrilling climb of Island Peak presents the physical and mental resilience required for mountaineering. It also allows you to experience the profound feeling of achievement of reaching the summit.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek is an exhilarating, adventurous, and remote trekking in the Manaslu region of Gorkha district. The trails of the Manaslu Circuit are less trodden and less crowded than those of the other popular trekking destinations like the Everest and Annapurna regions. So, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the best adventures in the Himalayas, with pristine wilderness and off-the-beaten journey experience. The captivating trails of the Manaslu Circuit circumnavigate the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Manaslu (8,163 meters/26,781 feet), presenting a challenge and reward like no other.
This trek usually starts from Maccha Khola, which is accessed by the roads from Kathmandu. Gradually, you will pass through the remote mountainside villages like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Samagaun, etc., and finally end the trek in Dharapani. En route, you will encounter the traditional settlements of the Gurung and Sherpa communities and gain insights into the deep-rooted Buddhism in the area through several Buddhist landmarks, such as Monasteries, Main Walls, and Chortens. Through the different points of the trek, you can enjoy the magnificent views of Manaslu, Annapurna, Kang Guru, Himlung Himal, Gyaji Kang, etc. Another highlight of this trek is crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,135 meters/16,847 feet.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek falls under the restricted zones of Nepal, and you need to acquire a special trekking permit (Restricted Area Permit – RAP) to access this controlled region for trekking. Besides RAP, you also need to obtain the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), as the Manalsu Circuit Trek traverses these two conserved regions. More importantly, you cannot solo travel the Manaslu region, and you need to trek with a licensed guide and at least two people in a group.
Island Peak Climbing
Island Peak, with an incredible height of 6,189 meters/20,305 feet, is a beautiful trekking peak in the Everest region. This mountain is also known by the other name, Imja Tse, in the local language.
Island Peak is suitable for climbers of diverse skill and experience levels, from beginner to intermediate and experienced. Island Peak climbing is considered a preparatory climb to gain knowledge, skills, and experiences for summiting other challenging mountains in the Himalayas. This peak serves as a practice ground for attempting the mountains above 7,000 meters. Though the climb of Island Peak is physically demanding, it is technically not so difficult. You need to be physically fit and have moderate technical climbing knowledge to conquer this mountain.
Trekkers will make their way to the base camp of the Island Peak by traversing the picturesque, well-trodden Everest Base Camp trails. The journey begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. From Lukla, trekking starts and goes through villages like Phakding, Namche, Tengboche, and Dingboche before ascending to the Island Peak Base Camp to prepare for the climb.
Navigating the crevassed glacier and a few sections of steep ice and snow slopes, using basic climbing equipment like ladders, ropes, harnesses, ice axes, crampons, etc., you will reach the top of Island Peak. Standing on the summit rewards you with surreal views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Nuptse, Baruntse, and other towering Himalayas.
