Manang district is located at an elevation of 3519 m above sea level. The magnificent fusion of numerous mountain peaks, glaciers, passes, valleys and human settlement make it a wonderful place. Manang Valley is the major tourist destination of Nepal where the travelers can experience the many thrilling and adventurous activities. Similarly, the natural attractions of Manang are much unique in itself. It is surrounded and back grounded by many barren and snow-covered peaks. it’s amazing to observe the valleys there. The valleys, Long and short passes, human settlement and lifestyle, narrow and gravel paving are the main attractions of Manang region. It feels like heaven to be here, the astounding sceneries and local lifestyle consolidate more beauty to this rural land. 

About the Manag

The magnificent fusion of numerous mountain peaks, glaciers, passes, valleys and human settlement make it a wonderful place. Manang is surrounded by Gorkha and Lamjung in the east. Mustang and Lamjung in the west, Mustang, Gorkha and Tibet in the north and Parbat, Kaski, Lamjung and Mustang in the south. It is known as the land beyond the mountains. Manang village is a hidden treasure of Nepal. The high peaks around Mustang halt. The rainy clouds to enter the territory of Manang that causes the low rainfall in this region. This is the barren land of Nepal, also known as Desert of Nepal. The influence of ancient Tibetan Buddhism practices and devotion can be seen in this place. Manang is the real heaven of Nepal. The local settlement, mountains and glaciers, the surrounding makes an unforgettable experience in this wonderland. 

Compared to other nearby regions, Manang is more wealthy. Due to the incredible natural resources, artifacts, herbs and gems, culture and traditions. There are many monasteries in the Manang region.  A dwindling, treacherous road leads into the Manang settlement, which is one of the largest villages along the Annapurna Circuit. In the past, it only travelled on foot or a horse’s back, but, these days, jeeps, bikes, and few ambitious buses make the trip. Here we have listed reasons to visit Manang trek for your next trip

1. Nyeshang

The upper valley of Manang district, known locally as Nyesang, extends 20 km from Pisang (3,200 m) to Khangsar (3,730 m). It lies at an average elevation of 3,500 m. The inhabitants known as Nyesangpa or more popularly Manangi are said to have migrated from Tengur in Tibet. They have settled the area for some hundreds of years. The population of Nyesang also includes Ghale, Gurung and immigrant Tibetan people. Although the culture and traditions of the area are strongly motivated by Lama Buddhist practices, evidenced by the streaming prayer flags and Mani walls as well as the many Gompa of the area (the oldest of which predate the 14th century). 

Traditionally the people of the region have been great traders. A fact certified by royal warrant in 1984 during the region of Gorkha King. Since that time Manang people have been involved in trading herbs, animal products and other local commodities on the national and international stage. With the decline in urban opportunity and local development of the tourism industry, many Manangi families have moved their enterprises back to Nyeshang with particular hotels, restaurants and shops catering to the tourist trade. Although tourism has become increasingly important to the prosperity of the region, agriculture remains the basic of the local economy and way of life. Barley, Wheat, Buckwheat and Potato are the main crops, which are harvested once a year (March-November). The Nyeshang valley also forms important pasture land for grazing yaks, cows, goats, sheep and horses.

2. Lesser Trekked

Treks to Mustang, Annapurna Base Camp, and Poon Hill receive thousands of trekkers every season. However, despite being in close proximity to all these regions, Manang receives a significantly lesser number of tourists. If you decide to trek here, you won’t have to pass through crowded trails, encounter flocks of trekkers heading towards the same destination, and jam-packed viewpoints. Sometimes, these factors might hamper the kind of serenity and isolation a trekker is looking for. But, manang trek, despite being one of the finest trekking options in Western Nepal, receives a significantly lesser number of tourists. For instance, Nar and Phu trek in Manang is an excellent choice for trekkers who are looking for a very remote and isolated Himalayan destination. Here, you could be the only customer a diner will receive all day, and you will be greatly appreciated and thanked for that.

3. Gyalsomdo

Gyalsomdo is the southern part of Manang district, extending from Tal to Chame, situated in Marshyangdi gorge. The people of the region are mostly Gurung, followers of pre- Buddhist Bonpo religious tradition. However, Ghale, Lama, Gurung, Ghotiya, Kami and immigrant Tibetan people have made home in Gyalsomdo. In the past, Gyalsomdo was an important center for the salt trade crossing Larke Pass.  Today, the local economy is dependent on agriculture, livestock, wage labor and tourism. 

4. Unique Culture and Tradition

Although very remote and far-flung, Manang is a very old settlement with an illustrious past. One may wonder, how on earth is it possible to even live in such trying conditions, let alone build a civilization. But, the several monasteries that are still standing tall and sturdy are the testament of Manang’s glory. Here, you can visit numerous monasteries that are more than a century old. All of these monasteries are intricately built and architecturally magnificent. On top of that, these monasteries house several important artifacts, paintings, and statues that depict Gautam Buddha’s life. Here, you can also seek blessings from Gurus, Lamas, and spend some spiritual time with monks and nuns. Sher Gompa, Satek Gon, and Braga monasteries are few of them to name. 

5. Tilicho Lake

Tilicho Lake is a breathtakingly beautiful lake that’s situated at an elevation of 4,919 meters. The lake is believed to be the highest lake for its size in the world. For many people, the lake itself is the main highlight of the whole trip to Manang. The view of the stunning emerald lake and the Annapurna range guarding it is beyond a person’s imagination. On a clear day, the mountains perfectly reflect on the lake, elevating the experience even further. The good news is that trekkers no longer need to camp when trekking to the lake as there is now accommodation available between Manang and the Lake.

However, you have to be extra careful as the trail leading to the lake is challenging and landslide-prone. But, once you reach the lake amidst glaciers and hear the ice crackle on its surface, you will forget about all the hardship taken to reach the lake.

6. Thorong La Pass

At an elevation of 5,416 meters, the Thorong La Pass is the highest in Nepalese Himalayas. This nerve wrecking and exciting pass connects the Manang to Mustang. Crossing this enthralling pass is only suitable for the best of trekkers as it takes a lot of effort, energy, and willpower. But, the views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range that you get from the top of the pass is worth every bit of hassle that it took to reach there. 

7. Nar Phu 

The Nar Phoo region is the northernmost area of Manang district bordering China (Tibet) and comprising the very important in this physically isolated region, and like the Nyesang the people of Nar Phoo are strong adherents to Lamaist Buddhist.

Likewise, the alpine scenery and alpine off the beaten path, natural habitat, glaciers, canyons, forests and wonderful formation of rocks makes an everlasting experience in the Manang region. The scenic views of Manang and Mustang valley, Kaligandaki and Marsyangdi river. Similarly, the majestic views of the Himalayas in the rural settlement are major attractions of this trek.