Manaslu 2012
We were lucky enough to trek this in October-November 2012.
The Manaslu circuit has been open to tekkers for about 5-6 years but permits for trekking the Tsum valley were first issued 3 years ago. Walking through the Tsum valley provided mountain vista after mountain vista, but it was the chance to meet the locals who still live a very traditional Tibetan, buddhist lifestyle that made the trip really special. While lodges are rapidly being built on the Manaslu circuit, there are few facilities in the Tsum, which gave us a great opportunity to share nights with local families in their home and have some good camping experiences.
Once we were back on the Manaslu Circuit the trips up the side valleys, to Manaslu Base Camp and over Lakya La (a 5,100m pass) put us back in traditional high mountain trek country.
There is a comprehensive photo journal at Manaslu 2012 and when life is not quite so busy a fuller report will appear here.
Ganesh Himal in the Tsum
Walking down from Lakya La
Bimtang and Annapurna trek standard lodges
Langur Monkeys
One of about 5 groups of Langurs we saw on the trail
Manaslu
Manaslu Icefall
On the way to Manaslu Base Camp
Curious kids
Washing clothes and faces is never a priority in the Tsum
Our Camp and kitchen
Ploughing with ox
This is hard work for all involved.
