Manaslu Expedition 8,163m (26,763ft) fixed departure for Autumn

1st Apr, 2024

Manaslu climbing season

The climbing season for Manaslu typically aligns with the broader Himalayan climbing season, which primarily encompasses the spring and autumn months. However, Manaslu's climbing season can be somewhat more flexible compared to other peaks due to its relatively stable weather patterns and lower crowds. Here's a breakdown of the climbing season for Manaslu:

Spring Season (March to May):

Spring is considered the primary climbing season for Manaslu, with March to May being the optimal months for summit attempts.
During this time, the weather conditions are generally more stable, with clear skies and lower wind speeds.
Climbers can expect milder temperatures, especially at lower elevations, which aids in acclimatization and makes for more comfortable climbing conditions. The spring season also coincides with the post-monsoon period, resulting in less precipitation and reduced avalanche risk compared to the autumn season.

Autumn Season (September to November):

The autumn season is another popular period for climbing Manaslu, offering favorable weather conditions and excellent visibility.
September to November sees the end of the monsoon season, resulting in clearer skies and reduced precipitation.
Although temperatures may be colder compared to the spring season, climbers can still expect relatively stable weather patterns conducive to summit attempts The autumn season also attracts fewer climbers compared to the spring season, offering a quieter and more serene climbing experience

Winter Season (December to February):

The winter season, spanning from December to February, is generally not recommended for climbing Manaslu due to harsh weather conditions and increased avalanche risk.Extremely cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and high winds make climbing during this period extremely challenging and dangerous. Most expedition operators and climbers avoid attempting Manaslu during the winter season due to safety concerns and logistical challenges.

Monsoon Season (June to August):

The monsoon season, which lasts from June to August, brings heavy rainfall, frequent cloud cover, and unstable weather conditions to the region.Climbing Manaslu during the monsoon season is highly discouraged due to the heightened risk of avalanches, rockfall, landslides, and poor visibility The majority of climbing expeditions are not conducted during this period, and access to the mountain may be restricted due to adverse weather conditions.

Overall, the spring and autumn seasons offer the best opportunities for climbing Manaslu, with favorable weather conditions, lower avalanche risk, and greater chances of summit success. Climbers should carefully plan their expeditions to coincide with these optimal climbing seasons while considering factors such as weather forecasts, route conditions, and personal fitness levels. Additionally, it's essential to adhere to safety protocols, obtain necessary permits, and work with experienced guides and support staff to ensure a safe and successful climb.

Trip Facts

Highest access: 8,163m (26,763ft)
First Ascent: Toshio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu (Japan), May 9, 1956
Duration: 51 (typically) Days
Group Size: 01-10 persons per Group.
Co-ordinates: 28°32’58”N, 84°33’43”E
Location: Nepal/Manaslu Region/Lamjung District
Country: Nepal
Airport: Kathmandu
Departure From: Kathmandu (KTM)
Grade: Low technical difficulty
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
Transportation: Car, Jeep, Mini Bus
Best season: Spring (April, May) and autumn (October, November)
Major Activity: trekking/climbing
Culture: Tamang, Sherpa
Mode of Travel: Tea House/Camping
Climbing route: Northeast ridge
Himalayan sights: Buddha Himal, Annapurna, Ganesh Himal

The Manaslu Expedition is one of the most sought-after mountaineering adventures in the world. Standing at 8,163 meters (26,763 feet), Mount Manaslu is the eighth highest mountain in the world and offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for climbers.

If you're interested in participating in a fixed departure expedition for Autumn 2024, it's essential to do thorough research and choose a reputable expedition company or guide service that offers such expeditions. These expeditions typically include experienced guides, porters, logistical support, and necessary equipment to ensure the safety and success of climbers.

Here are some steps you might consider:

Check Itinerary and Services: Review the expedition itinerary to ensure it aligns with your preferences and abilities. Confirm what services are included in the expedition package, such as accommodation, meals, transportation, permits, and guide services.

Training and Preparation: Prepare physically and mentally for the challenges of high-altitude mountaineering. Consider undertaking specific training regimes, including cardiovascular fitness, strength training, and altitude acclimatization.

Gear and Equipment: Make sure you have all the necessary gear and equipment for the expedition. This includes proper clothing, mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet, sleeping bag, and other personal items. Some items may be available for rent from the expedition company.

Permits and Logistics: Ensure you have obtained all the required permits for climbing Manaslu and arrange transportation to the expedition starting point. The expedition company should assist you with these logistics, but it's essential to double-check and confirm everything in advance.

Safety Considerations: Understand the risks associated with high-altitude mountaineering and familiarize yourself with safety protocols. Follow the guidance of your expedition leader and be prepared to make decisions that prioritize safety over summit objectives.

Environmental Awareness: Practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural environment during your expedition. Minimize your impact on the mountain and adhere to local regulations and customs.

Participating in a Manaslu Expedition is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning, preparation, and respect for the mountain environment. By choosing a reputable expedition company like Actual Adventure  and approaching the climb with the right mindset, you can have a memorable and rewarding experience reaching the summit of this majestic peak.

Below is a sample itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

    Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
    Transfer to the hotel.
    Briefing on the expedition.
    Rest and preparation for the journey ahead.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Preparation

    Guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
    Last-minute gear check and preparation for the expedition.
    Final briefing with expedition leaders and team members.
    Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (700m)

    Early morning drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat.
    Enjoy scenic views of rural Nepal along the way.
    Overnight stay in Soti Khola.

Day 4: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (930m)

    Begin trekking along the Buri Gandaki River.
    Pass through picturesque villages and terraced fields.
    Cross suspension bridges and enjoy views of waterfalls.
    Overnight stay in Machha Khola.

Day 5: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410m)

    Continue trekking along the Buri Gandaki River.
    Pass through lush forests and quaint villages.
    Cross the Tharo Khola and reach Jagat village.
    Overnight stay in Jagat.

Day 6: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,804m)

    Trek through terraced fields and bamboo forests.
    Cross the suspension bridge over the Deng River.
    Ascend through rhododendron forests to reach Deng.
    Overnight stay in Deng.

Day 7: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630m)

    Trek through dense forests of pine and fir.
    Enjoy views of Manaslu and Ganesh Himal.
    Pass through villages inhabited by Gurung and Tibetan people.
    Overnight stay in Namrung.

Day 8: Trek from Namrung to Samagaon (3,530m)

    Trek through lush forests and picturesque landscapes.
    Cross several streams and enjoy panoramic mountain views.
    Arrive in the traditional village of Samagaon.
    Overnight stay in Samagaon.

Day 9: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon

    Rest and acclimatization day in Samagaon.
    Explore the village and interact with locals.
    Optional hike to Pungyen Gompa for acclimatization.
    Overnight stay in Samagaon.

Day 10: Trek from Samagaon to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m)

    Trek from Samagaon to Manaslu Base Camp.
    Enjoy stunning views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks.
    Settle in at Base Camp and prepare for the climb.
    Overnight stay at Manaslu Base Camp.

Days 11-32: Climbing Period

    Acclimatization climbs to Camps 1, 2, and 3.
    Rest and rotation cycles to adjust to altitude.
    Summit push and descent back to Base Camp.
    Multiple days allotted for weather contingencies.
    Camp setup, route fixing, and logistical support provided by expedition team.

Day 33: Descend to Samagaon

    Pack up Base Camp and descend to Samagaon.
    Enjoy a well-deserved rest and celebration.
    Overnight stay in Samagaon.

Day 34: Trek from Samagaon to Soti Khola

    Trek back along the same route to Soti Khola.
    Enjoy the final views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks.
    Overnight stay in Soti Khola.

Day 35: Drive from Soti Khola to Kathmandu

    Early morning drive from Soti Khola to Kathmandu.
    Check into the hotel and rest.
    Farewell dinner with the expedition team.
    Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 36: Departure from Kathmandu

    Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for departure.
    End of the Manaslu Expedition adventure.

Please note that this itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions, team preferences, and other factors. It's essential to have flexibility and adaptability during high-altitude expeditions like the Manaslu Expedition.

Fixed and Guaranteed itinerary for the Manaslu Expedition in Autumn 2024/2025

01 Sept/Day 01:Arrival in Kathmandu Airport and transfer to hotel  in Kathmandu (1350M/4430ft).

02 Sep/Day 02:Preparation, briefings, last minute shopping and permit formalities.

03Sep /Day 03:Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat (950m/3117ft) 7hrs. Tea house/camping

04 Sep/Day 04:Trek from Arughat to Sotikhola (1165m/3822ft) 5hrs. Tea house/camping

05 Sep/Day 05:Trek from Sotikhola to Machhakhola(1330m/4364ft) 6hrs. Tea house/camping

06 Sep/Day 06:Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat(1350m/4430ft) 4hrs. Tea house/camping

07 Sep/Day 07:Trek from Jagat to Dang(2300m/7546ft) 6-7hrs. Tea house/camping

08 Sep/Day 08:Trek from Dang to Namrung(2550m/8366ft) 6hrs. Tea house/camping

09 Sep/Day 09:Trek from Namrung to Lho (3150m/10334ft) 5hrs. Tea house/camping.

10 Sep /Day 10:Trek from Lho to Sama Gaun(3780m/12401ft) 4hrs. Tea house/camping

11 Sep/Day 11:Rest and acclimatization day at Sama Gaun (3780m/12401ft) Tea house/camping

12 Sep/Day 12:Trek from Sama Village to Manaslu Base Camp (4700m/15420ft) 4hrs. Camping at base camp

13-1Oct/Day13-31:Climbing period. (8163m/26781ft.) Camping.

02 Oct/Day 32:Preparation to return to Kathmandu. Clean base camp (4700m/15420ft)

03 Oct/Day 33:Trek from Base Camp to Sama Gaun (3780m/12401ft) 3hrs. Tea house.

04 Oct/Day 34:Trek from Sama Gaun to Namrung(2550m/8366ft) 6hrs. Tea house/camping.

05 Oct/Day 35:Trek from Namrung to Philim village (2300m/7546ft-06hrs) Tea house/camping.

06 Oct/Day 36:Trek from Philim Village to Machakhola(1330m/4664ft) 6hrs. Tea house/ camping

07 Oct/Day 37:Trek from Machakhola to Arughat (950m3117ft) 8hrs. Tea house/camping.

08 Oct/Day 38:Drive from Arughat to Kathmandu (1350/4429ft) 7 hrs. Transportation provided by tourist mini bus.Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu.

09 Oct/Day 39:Free day, Relax and shop in Kathmandu. Farewell celebration dinner with cultural program in the evening.

10 Oct/Day 40:Transfer to Kathmandu airport for final departure.