Having trekked the Annapurna circuit last year, I wondered if the Manaslu Route would be able to surpass the joy of last year, I need not have worried.

The circuit is a beauty; challenging but rewarding. The long 20km days to begin with, followed by shorter days at higher altitude, helped to ensure that everyone made it over the pass. From walking through tropical forests in narrow valleys, to seeing the majestic Manaslu and Samdu Peaks, the whole circuit is a natural wonder. Even the last day from Bintang to Dharapani, would surely classify as one of ‘top 10’ day walks in the world!

This is the second trip with Ecoadventure and I am very glad to have used them once again. Travelling with 2 other chaps who had not trekked before, the opportunity to borrow key kit was very helpful. I requested Anil Rai as my guide and I would wholeheartedly recommend him to any group. Yes, there maybe other guides with slightly better English, but if you want the consummate professional, look no further. From his evening briefings to carrying bags when we were struggling, the whole group were delighted with my choice.

Given the changeable weather, we decided to combine with a couple of other groups for the majority of the circuit (indeed, one of the joys of trekking is meeting likeminded people). It was noticeable to see that even around other guides, Anil was the one who others looked to and fellow trekkers commented on how professional and caring he was.

A huge ‘shout out’ and word of thanks must also go to Dipesh, a guide in the making who acted as a porter and unofficial number two. Credit and thanks to Gokhana, who was acting a porter for his first Manaslu Trek, he worked hard and enjoyed the landscape and laughs as much as we did. If you unsure about using a porter, I would say to use them but don’t overpack your bag for them to carry. They help to make the walking easier for you and also provide work for the locals, which is very much needed.

I would thoroughly recommend the Manaslu Circuit and if you have lots of time, why not look to undertake the ultimate circuit, combining it with Tsum Valley and the Annapurna Circuit? Just be sure to add in rest days!

Finally, a big thank you to the ever efficient Chhatra and his ability to handle last minute requests. I look forward to planning my next adventure to Nepal already!

For me, at first Kathmandu was a very chaotic place and it was nice to have an airport pickup included. Also I had a private whole day tour of Kathmandu and it was awesome! I learned about the culture, arhitecture and history. The guide was very knowledgeable and a great photographer! Also I send home aproximately 40 postcards and the he kindly helped me with all the stamps and sending them (it is hard to get around Kathmandu main post office).

After 2 days in Kathmandu we finally got on the bus to Arkhet Bazar where we would start our trek. We drove with the local bus and it was a great insight on how the lives goes on in the rural parts of Nepal. We were a trekking group of 3 and our guide was Ram Karki “Ramu”. He was not only the best guide ever, but also a great motivator and friend. He never pushed us, but was very supportive, advised us on what food to eat to stay healthy and get enough energy. When we got higher and trekking became more difficult, he was telling us to go “slowly, slowly”, to enjoy the nature and the views. It was a true pleasure having you as a guide!

I ended up the trip with Everest mountain flight, which was ok, but definitely not worth the price.

I would one day like to return to Nepal, it is truly an amazing country. And would again choose to go trekking and ask for Ram Karki “Ramu” to be my guide.

In March my best friend and I attempted the Manaslu circuit with the brilliant guidance of Jiba Sherpa and wonderful organisation from Nepal Eco Adventure!

The trek was amazing but was made all the more incredible thanks to our guide. He was extremely friendly and clever and with him we always felt safe in a circuit that has many dangers.

Unfortunately when we got to 3000m high it snowed around 40cm in 24 hours and we had to turn around as all the camps higher up were closed. However Jiba managed to organize for us to get down the circuit quickly and get a keep to the Annapurna region to complete a short 5 day trek around Poon Hill. As a result we could trek for all the 17 days that we had booked!

Also my friend and I were already in Nepal and were staying in different places and Nepal Eco Adventure were brilliant in accommodating this since we didn’t need their transport and other things offered in the trek.