Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, rises to an elevation of 8,163 meters above sea level and is located in the Mansiri Himal range of Nepal’s Gorkha District. Revered as the “Mountain of the Spirit,” Manaslu is known as Mt. Kutung in Tibet and lies approximately 64 kilometers east of Mount Annapurna.
The first successful ascent of Manaslu was achieved on 9 May 1956 by Japanese climber Toshio Imanishi and Sherpa Gyalzen Norbu. Although early exploration began decades earlier—most notably with the inaugural expedition led by H.W. Tilman—Manaslu was officially opened to international climbing expeditions only in 1991. Since then, it has gained popularity among experienced climbers seeking a serious high-altitude challenge.
The Manaslu region remains remote and relatively untouched, with limited settlements and restricted access. Due to its isolation, rescue operations can be extremely difficult, making proper planning, strong team coordination, and technical expertise essential. As a result, this expedition is recommended only for well-prepared and highly structured climbing teams.
Technically, the ascent of Manaslu is more demanding than peaks such as Cho Oyu and Shishapangma. The Manaslu Base Camp is situated at approximately 4,700 meters. The mountain features long ridges and complex terrain, allowing multiple approaches from different directions. Of the six known climbing routes, the south face is the most challenging, while the northeast face is the most frequently used and considered the standard route.
Trip Info
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Hotel/Tea houses.
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Sep-Nov & March-May
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8163m
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Fly/Car/Jeep/ Bus
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5/6 hours
Overview
Rising to an impressive height of 8,163 meters (26,781 feet), Mount Manaslu is the eighth-highest mountain in the world and one of the legendary “8000ers”—a group of fourteen peaks that soar above 8,000 meters.
Situated in Nepal’s Gorkha District, Manaslu forms part of the Mansiri Himal range within the greater Himalayan region. The mountain’s name comes from the Sanskrit word “Manasa,” meaning “intellect” or “soul,” symbolizing its profound spiritual significance and majestic presence.
Mount Manaslu was first successfully climbed on May 9, 1956, by a Japanese expedition led by Toshio Imanishi, with Sherpa Gyalzen Norbu reaching the summit. Today, Manaslu is a favored choice for climbers seeking a demanding yet less crowded alternative to Mount Everest, offering a true high-altitude Himalayan experience.
Trip Highlights
- Stand atop the eighth highest peak in the world – Manaslu (8156 m).
- Hike through a variety of landscapes – from subtropical jungle to the rugged high alpine environment.
- Few other trekkers from the moment you arrive in Soti Khola until the moment you leave.
- Observe the plentiful wildlife in the area – including the Himalayan Black Bear and Musk Deer.
- The lasting feeling of accomplishment of climbing a famous Himalayan peak.
