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!

We were very well cared for on this trek starting with our communication with Chhatra, before and during our time in Nepal; our time trekking with our guide and we were blown away by our porters incredible work! Our porter Dihl was remarkable. The accommodations along the way were fine and the food was very good.

I have no regrets or disappointments about choosing the Manaslu Circuit and using Nepal Eco Adventures for our trek. Be aware though that it is a rather challenging hike and is not for any who are afraid of heights. My brother chose not to do this trek with us because of that and for him it was definitely the right choice.

Booking with Nepal eco adventures was straightforward and they were happy to answer any questions we had prior to the trip.

Bijay (our guide) and Dil (our porter) were absolutely fantastic from day 1. Anything that could have caused potential stress for us was immediately sorted, from arranging local transport to sorting the best places to stay and eat.

Bijay was incredibly knowledgeable about everything on the circuit from bird and wildlife to local culture and religious practices. He was always keen to teach us and able to answer any questions that we had. He also managed to keep us going with a smile even on the tougher days.

Dil was a pleasure to have on the trip, he met every day with with a smile and was always keen to have a laugh with us.

I cannot recommend trekking with Bijay, Dil and Nepal eco adventures enough. Thank you for a fantastic trip!