5 Best Side Trips Along Manaslu Circuit Trekking Routes
Here are some of the most rewarding side trips to consider while trekking the Manaslu Circuit, each offering its own unique blend of solitude, culture, and natural splendor.
Serang Gumba
This gumba is located at an altitude of 3,100 meters in the serene Kyimoloung Valley. Serang Gompa is a historic Buddhist monastery founded by Chokyi Gyaltsen to preserve and teach Buddhist philosophy. Originally named Sancen Rabten Norbuling Monastery, it is more commonly referred to as Serang Gompa or Nubri Monastery.
This 500-year-old spiritual center is an affiliate of H.H. Chabjay Dodrupchen Rinpoche’s monastery in Gangtok, Sikkim. Over the years, it has housed more than 100 monks and nuns, serving as a vital hub for Buddhist education and practice. Young monks here study Tibetan, Nepali, and English while immersing themselves in Buddhist scriptures, many of which were translated from Sanskrit to Tibetan.
Following a long-standing tradition, children from nearby villages like Bihi and Khimoloung begin their early education at Serang Gompa, ensuring the continuity of Buddhist teachings and cultural heritage in the region. The monastery remains a beacon of wisdom, meditation, and spiritual growth in the heart of the Himalayas.
Kal Tal
Among the many lakes scattered across northern Gorkha, Kal Tal stands out as a unique natural wonder. This pristine lake mirrors the majestic Manaslu to the west, while the Shringi and Ganesh ranges dominate the eastern horizon. Surrounding mountains frame the lake on all sides, creating a breathtaking panorama. Kal Tal lies in Tsum-Nubri Rural Municipality, spanning 22.3 hectares. This lake is encircled by lush forests of rhododendron, Himalayan birch, and cypress.
Known as Kalpa Chho in the local Bhote language, where Kalpa means "for ages" and Chho means "lake”, this tranquil body of water holds deep spiritual significance. Nearby communities, including the village of Prok (2,380m), revere Kal Tal as a sacred embodiment of the goddess of power, adding a mystical allure to its natural beauty.
Pungen Gumba
Pungen Gompa is a revered Buddhist monastery nestled in the shadow of Mount Manaslu. Located at an elevation of 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), this spiritual retreat offers awe-inspiring panoramas of rugged Himalayan landscapes, deep valleys, and untouched alpine forests. The monastery sits atop a serene hill, granting visitors sweeping views of snow-draped peaks, including the majestic Manaslu itself.
Steeped in history, Pungen Gompa traces its origins back centuries, founded by Tibetan Buddhist masters who sought solitude and enlightenment in these remote mountains. Over time, it has evolved into a vital center for meditation, religious study, and cultural preservation, maintaining the ancient traditions of Himalayan Buddhism. Its tranquil setting and spiritual significance make it a hidden gem for trekkers and pilgrims alike.
Manaslu Base Camp
There’s nothing quite like the tranquil solitude of the mountains, and Nepal’s Manaslu region offers one of the most peaceful and diverse trekking experiences in the world. This remarkable hike takes you to the base of the mighty Manaslu and lets you see the Birendra Lake from above. The Manaslu region remained a restricted zone, preserving its pristine landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
This exhilarating high-altitude traverse rewards adventurers with sweeping Himalayan vistas and a profound sense of accomplishment. With its mix of dramatic scenery and off-the-beaten-path tranquility, the hike promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas.
Birendra Lake
Birendra Lake is a stunning freshwater glacial lake formed by the melting ice of the Manaslu glaciers. This serene alpine oasis, named in honor of Nepal’s late King Birendra. It lies within the pristine landscapes of the Manaslu Conservation Area, close to the Punhyen Glacier.
Encircled by towering snow-capped peaks, verdant forests, and crystal-clear streams, the lake radiates an almost mystical tranquility. On calm, sunny days, its mirror-like surface perfectly reflects the surrounding Himalayan giants, creating a scene of breathtaking beauty. For trekkers seeking both adventure and solitude, Birendra Lake offers an unforgettable journey into one of Nepal’s most captivating high-altitude wonders.
Ganesh Himal Base Camp
The Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek is a hidden treasure for adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path camping experience in Nepal. Named after the elephant-headed Hindu deity, Lord Ganesh, the mountain’s serpentine southern ridge resembles the god’s iconic form. This remote trek offers stunning views of the four Ganesh Himal peaks (Ganesh I-IV), along with breathtaking panoramas of Manaslu, Langtang, Annapurna, and even distant Tibetan summits.
Unlike Nepal’s more frequented trails, this route remains wonderfully untouched, providing trekkers with a rare sense of solitude and discovery. With its pristine landscapes, tranquil trails, and awe-inspiring Himalayan vistas, the Ganesh Himal trek is a true delight for those looking to explore beyond the usual tourist paths.
Mu Gumba
Mu Gumba is at an elevation of 3,700 meters (12,100 feet) in Nepal’s remote Gorkha District near the Tibetan border. It is a secluded Buddhist monastery that offers a profound spiritual retreat amidst the rugged Himalayan landscape. Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, this sacred sanctuary provides a tranquil setting for meditation, prayer, and deep contemplation.
As an important center for Tibetan Buddhist practice, Mu Gompa attracts monks, pilgrims, and seekers of wisdom. Its isolated location enhances its mystical aura, making it an ideal escape for those looking to disconnect from worldly distractions and reconnect with inner peace. The monastery’s serene atmosphere, combined with breathtaking mountain vistas, creates a truly transformative experience for visitors.
Ponkar Lake
The Ponkar Lake is a breathtaking short trek in the Annapurna region, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventure. Located north of the Annapurna massif, this lake initially flows to Dharapani before branching off toward the Marsyangdi River.
This journey takes you through stunning landscapes, including the mesmerizing Ponkar Lake, massive glaciers, and dramatic mountain vistas. Along the way, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of towering peaks like Manaslu (8,163m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871m), Himalchuli (7,893m), Buddha Himal (6,672m), Larkya Peak (6,250m), Himlung Himal (7,125m), and Annapurna II (7,937m).
