Five facts of Mount Manaslu
The World’s Eighth Highest Mountain
Mount Manaslu, which is at an impressive elevation of 8,163 meters/26,781 feet, is the eighth tallest peak on the planet. This peak is located in the Gorkha district in west-central Nepal, which is a part of the Masiri Himal subrange of the Himalayas in the Manaslu region. The Manaslu region is one of the most popular Himalayan destinations for adventurous trekking and mountaineering. Numerous trekkers and climbers from all around the world come to visit this place annually with anticipation and ambitions of reaching new heights and exploring the core of the mountains. Among several trekking and climbing options in the Manaslu region, the Manaslu Circuit trek and Manaslu Expedition are two prominent choices that attract worldwide adventurers.
The Restricted Himalayan Region and Permits
The Manaslu region has been made open for trekking since 1991. Before this, access to this pristine Himalayan region was not granted in order to protect its fragile natural and cultural heritages. Ever since it was made open for trekking, the Manaslu Circuit Trek has gained immense popularity among worldwide trekkers. It has become the best alternative route to explore the untouched Himalayan landscapes compared to more frequented Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks.
The government of Nepal has declared the Manaslu region as a restricted zone and is controlled by the Nepal Tourism Board as a restricted trekking trail. To reach the base camp of the majestic Mount Manaslu, a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required. Mount Manaslu is within the protected area of the Manaslu Conservation Area. The trek also passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area. You need to get these Conservation Area Entry Permits to access this designated spot for trekking. These conservation efforts promote the preservation of the raw biodiversity of this untouched Himalayan region as well as sustainable tourism practices. Additionally, Manalsu climbing permits are required to scale the challenging Manaslu Mountain.
The First Ascent to Mount Manaslu
Manaslu was first climbed on May 9, 1956, by a Japanese expedition team led by Toshio Imanishi. The expedition leader, Toshio Imanishi, and another member, Gyalzen Norbu, achieved victory over this challenging mountain. This ascent made history as the initial successful summit of the eighth-highest mountain in the world. It opened the door for avid and enthusiast climbers from all around the world to reach and experience the height of Mount Manaslu.
The ascent marked a significant achievement in mountaineering history as several previous attempts were failed by different expeditors. Now, the peak has earned a reputation for being both challenging and rewarding for climbers.
The Mountain of the Spirit
Manaslu got its name from the Sanskrit word “Manasa,” which refers to intellect/soul. Mount Manaslu is also known as the Mountain of the Spirit. This distinctive nickname symbolizes the spiritual significance of the mountain and its revered status in local communities and cultures. The Himalayan people take mountains more than geographical landmarks. They consider the Himalayas as spiritual bodies that seek both reverence and admiration.
Larkya La Pass
Larkya La Pass/Larke Pass is a high Himalayan pass at an altitude of 5,135 meters/16,847 feet. The pass lies between the Annapurna and Manaslu Himalayan ranges. It is the highest point reached during the trek to Mount Manaslu Base Camp on the Manaslu Circuit Trek route. During the pass crossing, the trekkers and climbers are treated to the rewarding panoramic vistas of the entire Manaslu region landscapes and the majestic Himalayas. The enthralling views of the deep valleys, surrounding mountains, and glaciers will enrich your trekking or the Manaslu Peak climbing journey immensely.