Climbing Manaslu
Nepal
Manaslu, standing at an impressive 8,163 meters, is the eighth highest mountain in the world. Located in the Mansiri Himal range of the Nepalese Himalayas, it offers a challenging ascent that many seasoned climbers find rewarding. Manaslu is renowned for its dramatic ridges and faces, demanding technical climbing skills and acclimatization to its high altitude. The mountain is often regarded as a more remote and less commercialized alternative to Everest, attracting those who prefer a quieter, more isolated experience.
The climb to the summit of Manaslu requires navigating through a variety of terrain, including snow-covered slopes, deep crevasses, and potentially treacherous icefalls. The standard route, the Northeast face, is the most popular and considered to be the least technical, though it requires proficiency in high-altitude mountaineering techniques. The route features a series of camps that climbers establish progressively higher on the mountain, where weather conditions can change rapidly, demanding flexibility and readiness for all climbers.
Weather conditions on Manaslu can be unpredictable, with fierce winds and heavy snowfall posing significant challenges. The mountain’s remoteness adds to the difficulty, requiring climbers to be self-sufficient and well-prepared for extended periods in harsh conditions. Despite these challenges, the breathtaking views from the summit, overlooking the surrounding peaks and valleys, make the effort worthwhile. As of now, 14 guides offer expeditions to climb Manaslu, providing opportunities for those ready to take on this formidable mountain.
Difficulty
- PD: Not very hard (alpine grade 2)
These are pictures taken while climbing Manaslu. They're shown here to give you an idea of what the route is like. You're welcome to share your own pictures of climbing Manaslu, to help the community of climbers. Picture here are either uploaded by members (their own, or creative commons pictures), or guides.
Guide links
Manaslu History
Climbing history of Manaslu
The history of Manaslu's summit attempts is as challenging and fascinating as the mountain itself. The first serious attempt to climb Manaslu took place in 1953 by a Japanese expedition, though they were forced to turn back due to harsh weather conditions. In 1956, another Japanese team, led by Toshio Imanishi alongside Gyalzen Norbu, successfully summited Manaslu, marking it as the first ascent. This success established a longstanding association of Japanese climbers with Manaslu, earning it the nickname "Japanese Mountain."
Efforts to reach the summit continued throughout the years, with various teams from different countries attempting the climb. Each expedition faced its own set of challenges, from unpredictable weather to the technical difficulties posed by the mountain's terrain. Despite these hurdles, Manaslu has attracted climbers from all over the world, each drawn to its remote and rugged beauty.
The region surrounding Manaslu is also home to the indigenous Gurung and Tibetan communities, who have lived in harmony with the mountain for centuries. Their culture and traditions are deeply intertwined with the natural landscape, adding a rich cultural tapestry to the history of Manaslu.
These climbs are similar in length, difficulty, and elevation. Offering a similar level of challenge as the Manaslu climb.
