Manaslu Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek are both thrilling adventures in the Himalayas of Nepal. However, they offer different experiences and have their own uniqueness. Comparison between Everest base camp and Manaslu circuit trek.
Hardness level:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is generally considered to be more challenging than the Everest Base Camp Trek. It involves crossing the Larke Pass at 5,160 meters (16,930 feet) and requires a good level of fitness and adaptability. The Everest Base Camp trek, although demanding, does involve traversing higher passes and is more accessible to more hikers.
Countryside:
Both hikes feature breathtaking mountain scenery, but they stand out in their own right. The Manaslu circuit tour will take you through remote valleys, lush forests and pristine landscapes. You will witness breathtaking views of Manaslu (8,163 meters), the eighth highest mountain in the world. On the other hand, Everest Base Camp Trek offers spectacular views of Mount Everest (8,848 meters) and surrounding peaks, as well as the famous Khumbu Glacier.
Crowd:
Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular climbing routes in the world, attracting a significant number of hikers throughout the year. As a result, the trail can get quite crowded during peak season. On the other hand, the Manaslu Circuit Trek has fewer hikers and offers a more remote and terrain experience.
Cultural experience:
The Manaslu Round Trip offers a rich cultural experience by taking you through various traditional villages inhabited by ethnic groups such as the Gurung and Tamang. You’ll have the chance to interact with the locals, learn about their culture, and see ancient monasteries along the way. Everest Base Camp Trek also offers cultural encounters, especially in the Sherpa villages of the Khumbu region.
Permits:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires a special permit, known as the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, when it passes through the restricted area. Also, walking in this area requires a licensed guide. The Everest Base Camp trek requires a permit to enter Sagarmatha National Park and a TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) card, but a licensed guide is not required.
Ultimately, the choice between Manaslu Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek comes down to your preference, fitness level, and the type of experience you’re looking for. Both hikes offer stunning natural beauty, unique cultural encounters, and a sense of accomplishment. You should do more research, consider difficulty levels, and consult experienced hikers or tour operators to make an informed decision based on personal preferences and abilities.
Best time for EBC trek and Manaslu circuit trek
Both of these trekking are difficult to do during winter and summer.
Best time for Everest Base Camp Trek:
The best times to trek Everest Base Camp are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
Spring (March to May):
This time of year is characterized by mild temperatures, clear skies, and stunning mountain views. The trail is lined with flowers and offers a beautiful hike. However, this time of year is also a popular time and the trails can get crowded.
Autumn (September to November):
Autumn is considered the peak season for trekking in Nepal, with consistent weather, good visibility and moderate temperatures. Crowds are still expected, especially in October, but the experience is worth it.
Best time for Manaslu circuit trek:
Spring (March to May):
This season has pleasant temperatures and azalea forests bloom along the trail. The weather is generally stable and the views are spectacular. However, the Manaslu region has fewer hikers than the Everest region.
Fall (September to November):
Similar to the EBC trekking, fall is a great time to get around Manaslu. The weather is stable, the sky is clear and the scenery is beautiful. The trails can get a little busier than in spring, but it’s still a good time to start hiking.
Conclusion:
It’s important to note that both of these trekking involve high altitudes and challenging terrain, so good preparation, including acclimatization and fitness, is crucial. No matter what time of year you choose to go. Also, you should check with local climbing agencies or guides for the most up-to-date information on weather, trail conditions, and permit requirements.
