Manaslu

Manaslu is the eighth highest mountain in the world, standing at 8,163 metres (26,781 ft) above sea level. It is located in the Mansiri Himal, part of the Nepalese Himalayas, in the west-central part of Nepal. Its name, which means "Mountain of the Spirit", comes from the Sanskrit word manasa meaning "intellect" or "soul".

Geography:

Manaslu is the highest peak in the Gorkha District, Nepal. It is surrounded by numerous other peaks, including Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli. The region surrounding Manaslu is part of the Manaslu Conservation Area, established in 1998 to protect the unique flora and fauna of the region. The area boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, from subtropical to alpine.

Climbing History:

The first ascent of Manaslu was achieved on May 9, 1956, by Toshio Imanishi and Gyaltsen Norbu, members of a Japanese expedition. Prior to this successful ascent, several Japanese expeditions had attempted to climb the mountain. Since then, Manaslu has become a popular, though still challenging, climbing destination for mountaineers from around the world. The mountain has a relatively high fatality rate compared to some other 8,000-meter peaks.

Trekking:

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route that circumnavigates the Manaslu massif. It offers stunning views of the mountain and surrounding landscapes, and provides a unique cultural experience as it passes through remote villages inhabited by various ethnic groups, including the Gurung and Tamang people. The trek typically takes around 12-18 days to complete, and reaches a maximum altitude of 5,106 metres (16,752 ft) at the Larkya La pass.

Conservation Area:

The Manaslu Conservation Area is home to a variety of endangered species, including the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan musk deer. The conservation area aims to balance conservation efforts with the needs of the local communities, promoting sustainable tourism and resource management.