Manaslu Conservation Area

Manaslu Conservation Area is a protected area in Nepal. Established in 1998 it covers 1,663 km² in the Mansiri Himal range of the Himalayas in the Gorkha District. A pristine trekking circuit that allows you to circle Mt. Manaslu, the world’s 8th highest peak.

With the successful experience of Integrated Conservation and Development Programme (ICDP) in ACAP, NTNC started working in the Manaslu region from the beginning of 1997 as the Manaslu Ecotourism Development Project

The Manaslu region is also called the Manaslu Conservation Area. It comprises sub-tropical Himalayan foothills to Trans-Himalayan high pastures bordering Tibet. From Arughat to Larkhe La Pass the area covers six climatic zones. There are many zones. The tropical zone varies from 1,000 to 2,000mtrs, temperate zone 2,000 to 3,000mtrs, sub-alpine zone 3,000 to 4,000mtrs, alpine zone 4,000 to 5,000 meters and arctic zone more than 4500mtrs.

Manaslu shares much of its culture and history with its neighboring territory, Tibet. Buddhism is a major religion here as showcased by the Buddhist monasteries, the architecture, and traditions all the way.

Manaslu Conservation Area is the third and the newest conservation area in Nepal. Bordering the Annapurna Conservation Area to the west and Tibetan Plateau on the north.

Flora and Fauna of Manaslu Conservation Area

The region is home to 33 species of mammals including snow leopard, musk deer, and Himalayan tahr. There are over 110 species of birds and three species of reptiles and over 1500-2000 species of flowering plants.

Things to do in Manaslu Conservation Nepal

Manaslu Region Trek, a popular trekking destination in recent years holds unique natural and cultural heritage. Introduced as one of the best trekking destinations in the world, Manaslu region presents countless trekking routes like Manaslu circuit, Tsum valley and more.

Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit)

This Manaslu trek permit is required from Philim, where the Manaslu Conversation Area starts. The price is the same throughout the year: USD 30 per person. Also, there is no restriction or change in price with a change in the number of days you spend inside MCAP.

Exploration of Multi-ethnic community

Manaslu region is occupied by a range of ethnic groups speckled around. There are different settlements occupied by ethnic groups of Chhetri, Brahmin, Tamang, Tibetan, Magar, and Gurung. The villages are bedecked with prayer flags, unique Buddhist art, and monasteries. Walking from side to side with the trails of the Manaslu region is a wonderful way of understanding the different ethnic groups of Nepal.

Manaslu Conservation Travel Season

Trekking is a pleasure here, Manaslu trekking region one of the best destination for trekking in Nepal. The best months are March, April, May and the last week in September to mid-December. The busiest season in October.

Getting to the Manaslu Conservation Area

The trailhead of the Manaslu Circuit trek is the closest to Kathmandu of the major Nepalese treks. That said, it’s still an adventurous 126 km (80 miles) drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, which takes about 6 hours by jeep (recommended) or 8+ hours by public bus. If road conditions are challenging (which is often the case at the tail end of the monsoon in September) you may have to start walking in Arughat, which adds an extra day.

Manaslu Conservation Area Map