SEPTEMBER 28 - OCTOBER 14 - MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK, NEPAL

Join Backabush for the ultimate Himalayan trekking adventure - the Manaslu Circuit in Nepal!

The magnificent Manaslu Circuit trek circumnavigates the 8th highest peak of the world, the mighty Manaslu (8,163m). A perfect blend of remoteness and physical challenge, this circuit is one of the most beautiful treks in Nepal and a true bucket list experience not to be missed!

Full of dramatic contrasts, the scenery on the Manaslu Circuit trek is as impressive as it is diverse. It takes us from lush agricultural lowlands and rhododendron forests along the spectacular gorges of the Buri Gandaki River, with its turquoise waters and amazing waterfalls, crossing exhilarating suspension bridges.

Passing through idyllic mountain villages, where we stay in authentic Nepalese tea houses, we continue upwards to alpine meadows inhabited by remote Tibetan communities. We eventually cross the magnificent but challenging Larkya pass (5,106m) from where we have jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks, and a stream of glaciers, before we descend through subtropical forest.

Due to the serenity and pristineness of this trek, the Manaslu Circuit is often referred to as the ‘New Annapurna Circuit, signifying its growing popularity, yet it remains far less crowded than some of the better-known routes through the Himalayas, making it a real off-the-beaten track adventure!

Please click here to see a detailed day by day itinerary for the trip.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• A spectacular and peaceful off-the-beaten-track Himalayan wilderness trek, more secluded than other popular routes.
• Staying in teahouses in quaint hillside perched villages along the way
• Trek through picturesque traditional Tibetan villages.
• Crossing the remote Larkya La pass at 5106 metres.
• Visiting unique monasteries, mani walls, and stupas.
• Enjoying the rare and beautiful panorama and presence of Manaslu 8163 metres.
• The constant presence of the Budhi Gandaki and its raging torrent.
• The almost daily adventure and views of the numerous suspension bridges that have to be crossed.

DIFFICULTY:

This is a lengthy, challenging and physically demanding trek (13 days of trekking with up to 8 hours per day) requiring good fitness, stamina and the ability to endure a certain amount of hardship over a prolonged period. You are also likely to need to take 12 holiday days off work.

INCLUDED:

• Airport transfers in Kathmandu.
• Accommodation for 16 nights: 3 nights shared accommodation in Kathmandu (3 star hotel) with breakfast, 13 nights in tea houses (basic Nepalese style guesthouses).
• Welcome dinner in Kathmandu on first night.
• All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during our trekking days.
• All necessary trekking permits (Manaslu Special, Manaslu Conservation Area, Annapurna Conservation Area, TIMS card).
• Backabush trip leader.
• Professional, English-speaking, government-registered and
  first-aid-trained guide (a senior leader and an assistance
  guide).
• A porter for every 2 people (10kg each max).
• Transfers from Kathmandu to Machhakhola and Dharapani to Besisahar by jeep.
• Transfer from Besisahar to Kathmandu by private vehicle.
• If and when available, fresh fruit will be provided.
• Complimentary duffel bag, t-shirt, trekking map, and four-season sleeping bag, if needed.
• Rescue arrangements, if necessary.
• Certificate of achievement, if needed.
• Financial protection in accordance with the Package Travel Law 1992.

NOT INCLUDED:

• International airfare and Nepal visa fee.
• Any other meals not specified (lunches and two dinners in Kathmandu).
• Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft.
• Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries, etc).
• All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, WiFi.
• Tips for our Nepalese staff.

FLIGHTS:

You will need to make your own travel arrangements to arrive in Kathmandu on or before Sunday 28 September. The trip finishes on Tuesday 14 October and you can take any return flight on that day but we recommend this good deal with Turkish Airlines:

Outbound - Sat 27 September
Turkish Airlines TK1982
Gatwick to Kathmandu 10:55 - 06:00 + 1 day
Return - Tuesday 14 October
Turkish Airlines TK727
Kathmandu to Heathrow 07:25 - 16:00

HOW TO BOOK:

The trip cost is £1499. To confirm your place a £299 deposit is required.
The remainder is to be paid as follows:

£400 by 01/02/25
£400 by 01/05/25
£400 by 01/08/25

It is of course also fine to pay in one go or fewer instalments.

Please send all payments through online banking, using NEPAL as the payment reference. Your RSVP is not enough to reserve a space. The account details are:

Account Name: BACKABUSH XPLORERS
Sort Code: 090127
Account Number: 22440622

The following "terms and conditions" apply to all trip reservations:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ngc5A61k76qb6HGMeTK96AVaXn0565yPS9p42IPzIy8/

Please email backabushxplorers@yahoo.com when you send payment so that we can confirm everything with you.