 The
area to the east of the Annapurna area the peaks of
Manaslu group. Few visitors trek to this area, which
makes a visit here all the more unique and unspoiled.
The area is bordered by River Budhi Gandaki and to the
west by River Marshyangdi. This area is marked by two
cultural highlights: Gorkha, Which is the ancestral
seat of the reigning Shah dynasty and the temple of
Manakamana. Since the treks in the Manaslu region originate
at around 1000 meters and reach as high as 5200 meters,
the trekkers will see a wide range of flora typical
of the middle hills and alpine regions of Nepal. Plants
to be seen around here are pine, rhododendron, wildlife
included barking deer, pika and Himalayan marmots. Birds
to be sighed in the region are pheasant, raven and chough.
People of Tibetan origin inhabit several villages. Other
groups found here are Gurungs and Tamangs. The best
time to trek here is between September and May. A few
teahouses area seen in the Manaslu Conservation Area,
however, teahouse trekking is not a suggested option.
Government regulations require the entire group trekking
to the Manaslu circuits to be fully sufficient.
Getting There:
The main hub for treks in Manaslu region is the town
of Gorkha, which can be reached from Kathmandu in about
four hour drive by bus or car. The alternative starting
point is Dhading Besi, from where it can be reached
by bus in about five hours.
Permits and Fees:
The major trekking route in the Manaslu region, the
Manaslu circuit, requires a special trekking permit
which can be acquired through a registered trekking
agency.
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