Review Detail

Katrin Krause

Germany Published: November 01, 2015

Manaslu Circuit Trek (2015)

Manaslu Circuit Trek 2015: A Journey from "Namaste" to "Tashidelek" and Beyond!

As first-time trekkers in Nepal, we set out to explore the Manaslu Circuit in October 2015—geared up with a deep appreciation for local culture and a commitment to eco-friendly travel. However, the devastating earthquakes earlier that year left us uncertain: Were the trails safe? Was it ethical to visit so soon, or would our presence feel like crisis tourism? Safety was also a major concern—not just for us, but for our guide and porter. We nearly postponed the trip—until we met Pradip Tamang from Wilderness Excursions Pvt. Ltd., a turning point that transformed our entire experience.

Pradip wasn’t just a guide; he was a walking encyclopedia of the Manaslu region. His expertise covered everything from altitude sickness and trail conditions to local customs, flora, and fauna. What set him apart was his honesty—he gave us clear, realistic expectations while remaining flexible to adapt to the post-earthquake landscape. His deep connections in the area meant we had reliable, up-to-date information at every step.

We wanted an authentic, low-impact journey—no tourist traps, just real encounters with local life. Pradip made it happen: staying in homestays, cooking dal bhat together, learning to make momos, and warming up with dudh chiya (milk tea) by the fire after long trekking days. Thanks to him, we didn’t just see Nepal—we experienced it, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s challenges and resilience.

Beyond the incredible landscapes, what made this trip unforgettable was Pradip himself—along with his assistant, Rahul. Their professionalism, warmth, and dedication turned a simple trek into an adventure we’ll always cherish. Now, we’re already dreaming of our next trek—perhaps Dolpa?