The trekking journey in Nepal introduces you to a world of stunning mountains, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking scenery.
Among the many trekking options, two stand out: the Everest Base Camp trek and the Manaslu Circuit trek.
These two routes are beloved by adventurers worldwide for their unique experiences.
The Everest Base Camp trek is considered suitable for beginners, offering a moderate to challenging adventure.
On the other hand, the Manaslu Circuit trek is more challenging and best suited for those with prior trekking experience.
Despite their differences, both treks promise an unforgettable high-altitude adventure, attracting hundreds of adventure enthusiasts from across the globe each season.
The Everest Base Camp trek takes you through the renowned Khumbu region, where you can follow in the footsteps of legendary mountaineers while enjoying awe-inspiring views of the world’s highest peaks.
Meanwhile, the Manaslu Circuit trek leads you on a journey through remote valleys and ancient villages, providing an immersive experience in the rich culture of the Himalayas.
Along the way, you will be treated to magnificent vistas of Mount Manaslu, standing tall amidst the surrounding splendor.
If you are planning a trekking adventure to Nepal for the first time, you may be wondering which trek to take: Manaslu Circuit Trek or Everest Base Camp Trek. Here’s a breakdown of each:
Scenery and Views:
Everest Base Camp Trek-
The Everest Base Camp Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime journey that immerses you in unparalleled natural beauty and adventure.
Beginning with an exhilarating 35-minute flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, the EBC trek immediately captivates with its stunning scenery.
As the name suggests, Mount Everest base camp trek leads you to the very base of the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest, standing majestically at 8,848 meters.
Along the trails of EBC you will be treated to breathtaking views of some of the planet’s highest peaks, including Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam and ofcourse Mount Everest.
The iconic vista from Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters provides a classic and awe-inspiring perspective of the Mount Everest.
Throughout the journey to Everest base camp, the trail winds through picturesque Sherpa villages, vibrant rhododendron forests, and diverse high-altitude landscapes, creating an unforgettable experience.
Manaslu Circuit Trek-
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a unique and adventurous journey through the remote and rugged landscapes of the Himalayas.
Manaslu Circuit trek takes you off the beaten path, passing hidden valleys and isolated villages that few have the opportunity to explore.
Along the route, you will be treated to panoramic views of Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world, as well as other majestic peaks like Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli.
The Manaslu circuit trekking trail meanders through diverse terrain, from lush forests and terraced fields to high mountain passes, glaciers, and cascading waterfalls.
One of the highlights of the trek is the breathtaking landscape visible from the Larkya La pass, where the absence of vegetation and the ruggedness of the terrain create a profound sense of isolation and solitude.
Throughout the Manaslu Circuit Trek, adventurers are immersed in the raw beauty and untamed wilderness of the Himalayas, making it an unforgettable experience for those seeking true adventure and exploration.
Difficulties and Challenges:
Everest Base Camp Trek-
The Everest Base Camp Trek presents moderate difficulty levels.
Everest base camp trek demands long hours of walking, typically averaging 6-7 hours per day, across high-altitude terrain.
During your trek to Everest base camp, you will encounter steep inclines and declines, coupled with potentially challenging weather conditions.
Building physical resilience through cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and regular hiking is essential for tackling the trek’s demands.
A positive mindset and mental preparedness are equally crucial for overcoming obstacles along the way.
The EBC trek’s highest point, Kala Patthar, stands at 5,643 meters, offering awe-inspiring views but also posing challenges due to reduced oxygen levels.
Fortunately, the Everest base camp trekking trail is well-marked, with numerous teahouses providing essential amenities.
However, ascending to higher altitudes increases the risk of altitude sickness, which can bring up symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
To reduce these risks, maintaining hydration, gradual acclimatization, and consuming light meals are recommended.
Manaslu Circuit Trek-
The Manaslu Circuit trek presents a higher level of difficulty compared to the Everest Base Camp trek.
While its highest point, the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters, is slightly lower than that of EBC, the Manaslu circuit trekking trail itself can be more rugged and less developed.
Trekking through the Manaslu region entails longer days of walking and navigating challenging terrain, including steep ascents and descents.
Trekkers must be physically and mentally prepared for the demanding conditions and potential altitude-related challenges.
It is recommended to start a fitness regimen well in advance, including cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking to improve overall endurance.
During your Manaslu circuit trek it is important to be comfortable with steeper sections and possible off-trail walking.
As altitude increases, the risk of altitude sickness, with symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue, also rises.
To mitigate these risks, maintaining hydration, allowing for proper acclimatization, and consuming light meals are crucial strategies for a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience in the Manaslu region.
Cultural encounters and experience:
Everest Base Camp Trek-
The Everest Base Camp Trek provides a rich cultural experience, particularly through immersion in Sherpa culture, which is an integral part of the entire EBC journey.
Along the route, trekkers are warmly welcomed into Sherpa communities who are renowned for their hospitality and generosity.
Accommodations in teahouses operated by Sherpa families which offer opportunities for authentic interactions and insights into their way of life.
Throughout the Everest base camp trekking trail, you will encounter sacred monasteries and gompas, each holding significance in Sherpa tradition and spirituality.
Among these, Tengboche Monastery stands out, located on a hilltop with breathtaking mountain vistas.
During your journey to Everest base camp, you may have the chance to witness monks engaged in prayer rituals or participate in colorful festivals such as Mani Rimdu, if your journey coincides with these vibrant celebrations.
Manaslu Circuit Trek-
The Manaslu Circuit Trek promises an enriching cultural journey, as it winds through villages influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and inhabited by various ethnic groups.
The Manaslu region boasts a vibrant cultural tapestry, with communities such as the Gurung, Tamang, and Tibetan people contributing to its diversity.
Trekking through this area allows adventurers to immerse themselves in authentic mountain life, where they can visit ancient monasteries and engage with local villagers.
Along the way, travelers gain insights into traditional farming practices, distinctive architecture, and religious customs that shape the Manaslu region’s identity.
Villages like Samagaon offer picturesque settings with traditional stone houses and revered gompas, providing opportunities to witness the daily rhythms of local life and experience the unique cultural heritage of the Manaslu region.
Permits and Restrictions:
Everest Base Camp Trek-
For the Everest Base Camp Trek, obtaining permits is essential for trekking through the designated areas.
Trekkers must secure the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit.
These permits should be always carried during the trek and presented at checkpoints along the route.
Foreign nationals are required to pay a fee of NPR 3,000 per person for entry into Sagarmatha National Park, with SAARC nationals charged NPR 1,500 and Nepalis NPR 100.
Additionally, 13% VAT is applicable, while children under 10 years old are exempt from fees.
Furthermore, foreign nationals, including SAARC citizens, can obtain the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit for NPR 2,000 per person for the first four weeks, increasing to NPR 2,500 thereafter.
It is important to have your passport with you when obtaining these permits.
Manaslu Circuit Trek-
For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, special permits are necessary to access the restricted area, comprising the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
Additionally, it is mandatory for trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed guide or trekking agency, as per regulations aimed at preserving the Manaslu region’s environment and culture.
Throughout the Manaslu circuit trek, entry permits must be carried and presented at checkpoints.
The cost of permits for the Manaslu region varies depending on the time of year:
From September to November (Autumn), the permit fee is USD 100 for the first seven days, with an additional USD 15 for each subsequent day.
From December to August (Winter, Spring, and Summer), the permit fee is USD 75 for the initial seven days, followed by USD 10 for each extra day.
Moreover, for entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area, there are separate entry fees:
For SAARC nationals, the MCAP Entry Fee is NRs. 1000 per person. For other nationals, the MCAP Entry Fee is NRs. 3000 per person.
Crowds/ trail popularity:
Everest Base Camp Trek-
The Everest Base Camp Trek stands as one of Nepal’s most sought-after trekking routes, drawing a significant number of trekkers, particularly during the peak seasons of spring and autumn.
Because of its popularity, the trails along the route, particularly within the Everest region, can become congested, with teahouses often bustling with fellow adventurers.
Manaslu Circuit Trek-
While the Manaslu Circuit trek is steadily gaining popularity, it still sees fewer trekkers compared to the Everest region.
As a result, trekkers can expect a more remote and less crowded experience, especially during the early and late trekking seasons.
This allows for a more tranquil and immersive journey amidst the stunning landscapes of the Manaslu region.