Sightseeing · Nepal
Manaslu
The eighth-highest peak at 8,163 metres, the mountain of the spirit rising above Gorkha in west-central Nepal.
Manaslu, at 8,163 metres, is the world's eighth-highest mountain. Its name means the mountain of the spirit, and it crowns the Gorkha massif in west-central Nepal, a quieter alternative to the better-known Annapurna and Everest regions.
Overview
Manaslu is one of Nepal's eight eight-thousanders and the high point of the Manaslu Conservation Area. The region around it preserves traditional, strongly Tibetan-influenced villages, ancient monasteries and a way of life little changed for generations, especially in the upper Nubri valley near the Tibetan border. The area was opened to trekkers only relatively recently and is still managed as a restricted region, which keeps its trails far less crowded than those near Annapurna I or Everest. For many walkers this combination of high mountains and living culture is the chief reason to come.
Height and location
At 8,163 metres (26,781 feet), Manaslu ranks eighth in the world. It stands at roughly 28.55° N, 84.56° E in the Gorkha district of west-central Nepal, entirely within the country. The mountain dominates a wild upland of glaciers, ridges and steep gorges drained by the Budhi Gandaki river, whose deep valley forms the natural approach. The standard route to the peak and the trekking circuit both begin from the road head and climb steadily through forest and farmland into the high alpine zone.
First ascent and climbing
The first ascent was made on 9 May 1956 by Toshio Imanishi and the Sherpa Gyalzen Norbu of a Japanese expedition, after earlier Japanese attempts. The mountain has since been so closely linked with Japanese mountaineering that it is sometimes affectionately called a Japanese mountain, in the way Everest is associated with Britain and Annapurna with France. Manaslu remains a serious objective, and its avalanche-prone slopes have caused several major accidents over the years. Despite this it has become one of the more frequently climbed eight-thousanders, partly as preparation for Everest.
How to see it
The classic way to experience Manaslu is the Manaslu Circuit trek, which encircles the peak through the conservation area and crosses the high Larkya La pass at over 5,100 metres. It is a restricted-area route requiring a special permit and a registered guide, but it rewards trekkers with intimate close-up views of the mountain, dramatic valley scenery and a strong sense of remoteness. Many consider it the finest alternative to the busier Annapurna and Everest circuits. For the giants further west, see Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I.
Fast facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | 8,163 m (26,781 ft) |
| Rank | 8th highest in the world |
| Location | Gorkha district, west-central Nepal |
| First ascent | 9 May 1956, Japanese expedition |
| Meaning | Mountain of the spirit |
| Best access | Manaslu Circuit trek |
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Frequently asked questions
How tall is Manaslu?+
Manaslu stands 8,163 metres (26,781 feet) high, making it the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
Where is Manaslu located?+
Manaslu rises in the Gorkha district of west-central Nepal, within the Manaslu Conservation Area. It is the highest peak in the Gorkha massif.
Who first climbed Manaslu?+
A Japanese expedition made the first ascent on 9 May 1956, when Toshio Imanishi and the Sherpa Gyalzen Norbu reached the summit. Manaslu has a long association with Japanese mountaineering.
What does the name Manaslu mean?+
The name derives from the Sanskrit word manasa, meaning intellect or soul, so Manaslu is often translated as the mountain of the spirit.
How can I see Manaslu?+
The Manaslu Circuit trek loops around the peak through the Manaslu Conservation Area, offering close views from valleys and the high Larkya La pass. It is a restricted-area route that requires a permit and a registered guide.
