FAQs - Mt. Manaslu Expedtion Himalayan Diamond Adventure

01. How Difficult Is To Climb Mount Manaslu?

Climbing Manaslu is considered a challenging climb due to its elevation of 8,163 meters (26,781 feet) and the many subjective and objective factors involved. The ascent involves navigating steep terrain including icefalls, crevasses, and unpredictable weather conditions, which requires climbers to have a high level of physical and mental endurance, technical climbing skills, and experience in high-altitude mountaineering. The use of specialized equipment and techniques, such as ice axes, crampons, Jumars, ATC guide and fixed ropes, is necessary for a safe ascent. In addition, participants must be properly acclimatized to the altitude to make the climb both safe and enjoyable.

02. What Is The Best Time Of Year To Climb Manaslu?

The Nepal weather forecast is looking good for both the spring and autumn climbing seasons. During these peak seasons, the weather is generally warmer, with fewer chances of snowfall and more stable weather patterns, making it easier to navigate through the challenging terrain. The temperatures at the base camp and higher camps are also more moderate.

However, to ensure a safe and successful climb of Mount Manaslu, it is recommended to climb during the month of September. Mount Manaslu is located in a relatively dry area close to Tibet, so September is often considered the best time to climb as the weather is generally mild and stable, with clear skies and excellent visibility. Climbing during this time can provide optimal conditions for climbers, making it a popular choice for those looking to summit Manaslu.

03. How Long Does It Take To Climb?

The length of time it takes to climb Manaslu can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the route taken, the weather conditions, the climber's experience and fitness level, and the amount of time taken for acclimatization.

Typically, it takes around four to six weeks to climb Manaslu. The climb involves establishing several camps at higher elevations, and the climbers will typically spend several days at each camp to acclimatize to the altitude. The climb itself typically takes around 3 to 4 weeks, with an additional week or so for the trek to and from the mountain.

04. What are the main requirements for a successful climbing?

Climbing at high altitudes requires climbers to be in good physical condition with a strong cardiovascular system, endurance, and strength, as well as possessing technical climbing skills and experience in high-altitude climbing. Proper gear and equipment, including clothing suitable for extreme weather conditions and high-altitude sleeping equipment, is also essential. Adequate time must be given for acclimatization to high altitudes, and climbers should have a skilled support team, including guides, porters, and other climbers, to assist with equipment, emergencies, and essential supplies. Additionally, climbers should possess knowledge of local geography, weather patterns, and cultural customs to ensure a safe and successful climb.

05. How Much Does It Cost For The Expedition?

The cost of a Manaslu expedition can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the number of climbers in the group, the type of expedition package, and the level of services provided by the operator.

Generally, the cost of a Manaslu expedition can range from around $ 7,000,000 to $35,000 USD per person. This cost typically includes the climbing permit fee, accommodation and meals during the trek and climb, transportation to and from the mountain, the services of a guide and support staff, climbing equipment and logistics, and other related expenses.

However, it's important to note that there may be additional expenses not included in the standard package, such as international airfare, personal equipment, travel insurance, visa fees, and extra nights in Kathmandu or other cities.

06. How Is The Bace Camp Services Like?

We have set up a permanent and luxurious base camp for the long run expedition. Each member will be provided a Nepali-made box tent, a waterproof compact mat, and a comfortable mattress for a luxurious stay. In addition, we offer a carpeted and heated dining hall with luxurious armchairs and a clean, fascinating table, as well as solar lighting and internet facilities. We also have a separate communication hall, storage tent, shower tent, and toilet tent, all in perfectly hygienic condition.

All Nepalese climbing guides have their own separate tent, dining hall, and storage tent, while the rest of the base camp staff share two-person tents. We have a well-trained expedition chef who prepares delicious and hygienic meals during the expedition, and our expedition team manager handles all necessary logistics and climbing requirements for a successful climb.

At Himalayan Diamond Adventure, we are very conscious of food service, and we serve fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, and baked goods, as well as a variety of hot and cold drinks, including Coke, juice, beer, wine, and hard drinks. If any climbers are interested in preparing their own meals, they are welcome to join the kitchen.

07. What Are The Higher Camps Services Like?

We have set up our higher camps as a temporary service due to the risk of avalanches. If the weather conditions deteriorate, all climbers will move to a safe site at the same time. However, we cannot take off all of our gear at once, so we prefer to use temporary camps rather than permanent ones. In order to minimize risks, we believe that Camp-3, which is located at an elevation of 6,800 meters (22,309 ft), is a safer location than Camp-1 and Camp-2. We will make Camp-3 our base camp on the way to the summit push, and we will take care to ensure safe climbing practices. Even if we will provide you with high-quality climbing gear and meals during your stay in the higher camps to ensure that you are comfortable and well-nourished during the climb.

80. Can I Learn Mountaineering Skills Before Pushing The Summit?

Whether you are a professional or a beginner climber, our team of guides provides training in various mountaineering skills during your stay at Base Camps before starting the climb. These skills include walking on vertical and horizontal ladders on the treacherous terrains, climbing on blue ice using crampons, ice axe and jumar (ascender device), actively rappelling (descending), and properly applying gear and equipment while climbing, such as how to use oxygen and mask regulators

09. What Kind Of Travel Insurance Will Require To Climb Manaslu?

It is essential for foreign travelers to secure insurance coverage while trekking or climbing in Nepal. Although trekking in Nepal is generally safe, but if you're going to mountaineering in Nepal then the travel insurance is compulsory. During trip it can be posed physical challenges and hazards, especially at high altitudes, where altitude sickness is prevalent among trekkers, especially foreign travelers who may not have acclimatized properly. Physical injuries can also occur on mountain trails, and in emergency situations, foreign trekkers may need to be rescued by helicopter and transported to hospitals in Kathmandu, which can be costly if the traveler does not have insurance coverage.

We strongly recommend purchasing a travel insurance package that covers high altitudes up to 6,500 meters, potential medical issues, natural disasters, personal accidents, emergency helicopter evacuation, loss or damage of personal belongings, and trip cancellations. The minimum recommended coverage amount is USD 100,000. There are many insurance companies that offer travel insurance services online.it plan look like

10. What Happens If There Is An Emergency?

We prioritize safety and security during adventure trips. If you experience an emergency, become sick, or lose your belongings while trekking or climbing in the mountains, it is important to inform your trekking guide or accompanying agency immediately. They will arrange for a helicopter to rescue you and provide medical attention, or report the incident to the nearest police station to recover your lost belongings. Rest assured that we will take proper steps to ensure your safety and well-being in a timely manner.

11. What Essential Documents Do I Need To Bring With Me On The Trip?

❖ Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and at least 2 blank visa pages

❖ Travel insurance policy document

❖ Photocopies of your passport's personal information page

❖ One or more recent passport-sized photos with a white background (1.5 inch x 1.5 inch)

❖ Completed and signed Nepal visa application form

❖ Proof of accommodation in Nepal (such as a hotel reservation or address)

❖ Valid return flight or travel ticket

❖ Proof of sufficient financial means, such as recent bank statements

❖ Mastercard, Visa, and some cash in USD

❖ Proof of payment of the Nepal visa fee

❖ To obtain a visa for Nepal, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the travel date and you must present either a completed COVID-19 vaccination certificate with QR code or a valid PCR test negative result taken within 72 hours prior to boarding

12. How Do You Stay Healthy During A Trek In Nepal?

To maintain good health during a trek in Nepal, it's important to balance your diet and water intake. Avoid junk, stale, heavily spiced, and fried foods, as well as meat, fish, eggs, and samosas. Opt for fresh, locally prepared meals and ask your guide for recommendations. Drink only boiled, filtered, or bottled water, and check the expiration date of bottled drinks like Coca Cola and Sprite. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or tea. Walk at a pace that's comfortable for you to prevent acute mountain sickness.

13. What Happens If I Cancel The Trip?

If you need to cancel your trip, please note that the following refund amounts will apply based on the timing of the cancellation:

❖ Cancellations made at least one month prior to the departure date will receive a full refund.

❖ Cancellations made between 2 to 3 weeks prior to the departure date will receive a 50% refund.

❖ Cancellations made within 2 weeks of the departure date will receive a 25% refund.

❖ Unfortunately, cancellations made less than one week prior to the departure date will not beeligible for any refund.

14. What Does The Summit Plan Look Like?

To ensure a safe and successful climb, we will begin with a Puja ceremony to the goddess mother Manaslu at the base camp. The following day, our guides will provide training on essential skills, including crossing vertical and horizontal ladders on rugged terrain, using crampons and ice axes to climb ice slopes, and using jumars (ascender devices) and self-rappelling techniques. After a few days of rest at Base Camp to recover, we will prepare for Camp 2, located at an elevation of 6,300 meters (20,669 ft), and stay there for 1 to 2 nights before returning to Base Camp. Before the final push to the summit, we will touch Camp 3, located at 6,800 meters (22,309 ft), and spend 1 to 2 nights or more there depending on the weather conditions.

After completing the climbing rotation, we will descend to Base Camp to rest and check the weather window before continuing to Camp 2 and Camp 3, where we will rest for one day if the weather is favorable before the final summit push. Once we reach the summit, we will return to Camp 3, then to Base Camp, and either fly back to Kathmandu or trek down to Jagat or Machhikhola to catch a jeep for the return to Kathmandu.

The entire climb typically takes 4 to 6 weeks for a successful ascent of Mount Manaslu. Before climbing Mount Manaslu, the Himalayan Diamond Adventure team will organize other trekking and peak climbing activities, such as the Everest Three Passes Trek, Lobuche Peak climbing, Amphulapcha Pass, and Mera Peak climbing, to ensure good acclimatization and physical fitness.