Trekking the Manaslu Circuit

Manaslu and gompa at Lho village



Just back from a couple of months in Nepal, updating the Lonely Planet guide to Nepal. The highlight of this trip was a two week trek around Manaslu, the world's eighth highest mountain and Nepal's latest teahouse trek. Also did a quick blast around the little-trekked Tamang Heritage Trail trek near Langtang and had a wonderful overnight at Nuwakot at the lovely Famous Farm, possibly central Nepal's best-kept secret. Highly recommended!

As with the Annapurna Circuit trek, the best spots on the Manaslu trek are actually side trips from the main trail. If you are contemplating doing the trek, I'd strongly suggest adding three or so extra days to include the following detours.



Kal Tal, a tough day hike (3 1/2 hours climb) from the charming village of Prok, just off the main Manaslu Circuit near Ghap.



Views of Manaslu and Ngadi Chuli from Pungyen valley and glacier, the best day trip from Sama



Manslu reflected in pool, Pungyen valley



Looking down the Pungyen Glacier from the ridge above Pungyen Monastery



Views of Manaslu and Birendra Tal from near Milarepa's Cave, a ridge west of Sama village



Views east down valley from deserted village of Mimi, a short hike from Sama village



Heading to Tibet via the Gya-La, a great day hike from Samdo in upper Nupri



Upper valley below the Gya-La, near Fukang Glacier



Porter resting on the approaches to Dharamsala, the last stop before the pass



Crossing the Larkye La



Pongkar Tal & Phingi Himal, a great half day hike from Bimthang




Looking twards Pongkar Tal & the Cheo Himal, near Bimthang

Afghanistan

Here are a few photos from the Afghanistan leg of the Marco Polo trip. Click on them for bigger images. Brad.