The Manaslu circuit trek is one of the off beaten trekking route located in Manaslu conservation area in Nepal. This trek surrounds the 8th highest mountain of the world Mt Manaslu. Trekkers trekking in this region are fascinated by the breathtaking mountain views, dense green forests, waterfalls and rivers. Trekkers can experience the lifestyles of people living in villages and Tibetan cultures and traditions. The trek passes through various restricted areas which makes the need of guide and porter while trek more important. If you are wondering about doing the Manaslu circuit trek in Nepal with guide and porters, then you have come to the right place. We will provide you a detailed information on need of guide and porter during the Manaslu Circuit Trekking.
Is Guide obligatory for trekking in the Manaslu region?
Yes, while trekking in Manaslu region, a knowledgeable and licensed guide is compulsory as it is one of the restricted area listed by the government of Nepal. The trekking route falls through the Manaslu conservation Area, Manaslu restricted area and some parts of Annapurna conservation area. So, you must have a knowledgeable guide who is familiar with each and every trekking route of this region and is reliable. Trekking with a guide was made unavoidable by the government in order to protect environment, increase local economy, and to ensure the safety of trekkers. You must contact with a registered trekking agency which provides licensed guide in order to get the Manaslu restricted area Permit.
Why should you hire a guide?
Hiring a guide while trekking to Manaslu region provides you with following listed services making your trek safe and comfortable.
Safety
As the Manaslu circuit trekking route falls through the habitat of various flora and fauna, trekkers might face dangerous situation while trekking. In order to avoid any type of consequences of danger from wild animals. An experienced and licensed guide will be a great help during emergencies so, hiring a guide is beneficial and worth every single penny you spend.
Navigation
While trekking to new area you might get lost even with map, but if you hire a guide you can enjoy your journey with ease. Trekking through various restricted area you might be out of track and face many challenges as you are not familiar with the area. To arrange good accommodations, transportation, directing the trekking route and ensuring a safe journey hiring a guide is useful.
Familiarity
Guides are well informed and familiar with locals and their traditions along your trekking trail. You can know more about local customs and traditions while enjoying the breathtaking Himalayan views. If you trek with an expert guide who is very much familiar with the areas, you will be provided with good services at lodges as the guides can barging more to provide you with enough facilities. With reliable facts and information about Tibetan culture and locality it can make your trek even more fascinating and enjoyable.
Handling the Permits
Permits are compulsory during trekking to Himalayan region in Nepal and Manaslu Circuit Trek is no exception. As trek trails falls through restricted areas you must have permits to continue your trek. Handling the Permits during trek is complicated but your guide can handle those hassle letting you enjoy you a hassle free trip. A guide will take care of permits and documents at every check posts along the way.
What is a role of Porter?
While trekking for days you will need various daily and trekking belongings which can be heavy to carry. You will have long day trekking along with carrying heavy bags but if you hire a porter, they can carry your bags and you can enjoy your trekking journey without the burden of heavy bags. Their role is to relieve the loads of 10-15 kg, so that you can enjoy the trekking journey more.
Benefits of hiring a Porter?
Hiring a porter during your trekking journey is one of the best choice to make as you can trek comfortably without heavy bags. Here are the following benefits of hiring a porter during the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Reduce physical challenges
Trekking for long hours you might feel exhausted but hiring a porter they will carry heavy bags for you and you can walk freely. You will not have to spend so much energy while walking free and it will help avoid physical pain.
Support local economy
You can support local economy indirectly by hiring porters. Working as a porter is a part of their livelihood and they rely on tourism to support their family and provide them with good facilities.
Do you need both a Guide and a Porter?
While trekking to Manaslu region trekking with a guide is mandatory whereas hiring a porter is your own choice. You can choose not to bring a Porter to your trek if you don’t have a heavy bag and an experienced trekker. But being a beginner hiring a guide a porter both can be extremely helpful to trek. If you have a good physical strength and like to carry your belongings yourself then you can only trek with guide.
How much does a Guide and Porter cost?
The cost for hiring a guide and porter may be different according to agency, service, and season. For an experienced guide including the basics like food, accommodations and insurance it will range from $30-$40 per day. As per porter including the given basics it will range from $20-$25 per day. If you are budget conscious trekker you can hire a guide-porter who will be serving as both guide and porter which will cost $ 25-30 per day.
How to choose a reliable Guide and Porter?
Choosing a reliable trekking agency is a way to choosing a reliable Guide and Porter. During your trek to ensure your own safety you should book through the registered and licensed company you should check reviews and recommendations online before making any type of decision. Make sure they are experienced and had got license. You should try to meet your guide and porters and check their communication skill and strengths.
Can you Trek without a Porter?
Yes, trekking without a porter is possible if you have a great physical stamina and less heavy bag during your hike towards high altitude. Carrying your own backpack can be very tiring and you might not find trekking enjoyable anymore. If you don’t have many things to carry and you believe your bags wont hamper your enjoyment, you can carry your own bag saving the cost of a porter if you are budget conscious.
Why choose a guide and Porter for the Manaslu Trek?
Trekking in the Manaslu region comes with challenges and difficulties. While facing these difficulties it will be easier to complete this adventurous journey with an experienced Guide and Porter. You will have to trek to high altitude which can be physically and mentally challenging to you but with a companion to carry your things and share information will add an interesting and memorable insight to your journey. You will not have to worry about any kinds of things like foods, accommodations, and safety while trekking with guide and porters. Choosing the Manaslu circuit trek with guide and porters will provide you with an amazing and memorable trekking experience.
