Food, Drinks and Accommodation on Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is renowned for its raw beauty, remoteness, and cultural richness, providing a unique and less crowded alternative to the more popular trekking routes in Nepal such as Everest Trek, Langtang Trek, Annapurna Trek & Kanchenjunga Trek. One of the key concerns for many trekkers venturing into the Manaslu Trek region is the availability and quality of food, drinks, and accommodation. Given the trek’s remoteness and relatively developing infrastructure compared to other trails like Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Everest Base Camp Trek, it is important to understand what you will encounter in terms of sustenance and lodging.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about food, drinks, and accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, including what types of meals are offered, how to stay hydrated, and what kind of accommodation to expect at different stages of the trek. Proper preparation will help you have a more enjoyable, safe, and comfortable journey on this magnificent trek in Nepal.

The Manaslu Trek region is more remote than other popular trekking areas in Nepal, and the availability of food can be more limited. That being said, trekkers can still find a variety of meals, ranging from local Nepalese staples to some Western-inspired dishes, especially at lower elevations. However, as you ascend, the variety decreases, and the cost of food increases due to the difficulty in transporting supplies to higher-altitude tea houses.

Meals Overview

Most meals are provided by tea houses (local lodges) along the trail. They offer basic but hearty meals that are intended to provide energy for long days of trekking. The food is generally fresh, though limited in variety, especially as you ascend to higher altitudes. The menu in most tea houses is quite similar, regardless of the altitude, but there are some important variations to note.

Breakfast

A solid breakfast is crucial to fuel your trek each day, and tea houses offer a variety of options, though the choices are simpler as you get higher up the trail. Some common breakfast options include:

Porridge: Usually made from oats or rice, porridge is a staple breakfast choice. It is filling, provides long-lasting energy, and is easy to digest. You can often find variations such as apple porridge or honey porridge.

Tibetan Bread: A thick, fried bread served with butter, jam, or honey. It is very popular among trekkers who visit Nepal for trekking and is often eaten with eggs or vegetables.

Pancakes: Available in several flavors (plain, honey, apple, or chocolate), pancakes are another common breakfast choice. They are thick and more akin to flatbreads than fluffy pancakes.

Eggs: You can order boiled, scrambled, or fried eggs, often served with bread or rice. This is a good option if you are looking to get more protein.

Chapati with Honey or Jam: A simple but common breakfast option, especially at higher altitudes where other ingredients may not be available.

Lunch and Dinner

Lunch and dinner are typically served as heavier meals, and many trekkers will have a similar meal for both. The main dishes are carbohydrate-heavy, designed to provide energy for long trekking days. Some of the common lunch and dinner options include:

Dal Bhat: The most iconic meal in Nepal, and one you will likely eat frequently on the Manaslu Circuit. Dal Bhat is a combination of rice, lentil soup (dal), vegetable curry (tarkari), and sometimes pickles (achar). It is loved by trekkers because most tea houses offer unlimited refills, meaning you can load up on calories. It is also nutritious, with a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables.

Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup originating from Tibet, often served with vegetables or eggs. It is warming, filling, and a good source of energy, especially in colder, higher-altitude areas.

Sherpa Stew: A thick soup made from potatoes, vegetables, dumplings, and sometimes meat or eggs. This dish is particularly filling and provides good sustenance after a long day of trekking.

Momos: Nepalese dumplings stuffed with vegetables, meat, or cheese, and either steamed or fried. Momos are a favorite among trekkers, though they are less common at higher altitudes due to the difficulty of preparing them.

Fried Rice or Noodles: Available with vegetables, eggs, or meat (though meat is not recommended at higher altitudes due to the lack of refrigeration). These are common and easily prepared meals that provide the necessary carbohydrates for trekking.

Pizza and Pasta: In some lower-altitude tea houses, you may find Western-inspired dishes like pizza or pasta, though these tend to be more basic and expensive compared to local dishes. These options are less frequent in remote areas due to limited ingredients.

Snacks and Light Meals

While the main meals are important, many trekkers carry snacks to keep their energy levels up during long days on the trail. You can buy snacks from tea houses or shops along the way, but they tend to get more expensive and limited in variety at higher altitudes. Common snacks include:

Energy Bars: While energy bars are not as readily available, some tea houses do sell them at a higher cost. It is recommended to bring your own supply from Kathmandu.

Chocolates and Biscuits: Available in lower regions, though increasingly expensive as you ascend.

Roasted Corn or Peanuts: Simple and energy-dense, these are occasionally available as light snacks.

Boiled Potatoes: Served at higher altitudes as a side or snack, boiled potatoes are a local staple and provide good energy.

Staying hydrated is essential, especially when trekking at high altitudes. Tea houses offer a variety of drinks, but it's important to be cautious with what you consume, especially when it comes to water and alcohol. The higher you go, the more expensive and limited your drink options will become.

Water

Water is available at every tea house, but it is generally not safe to drink directly from the tap. Most trekkers use one of the following options to ensure their drinking water is safe:

Boiled Water: The most common option is to request boiled water from the tea houses. It is available at a small cost and is the safest way to avoid waterborne illnesses. At higher altitudes, the cost increases as boiling water becomes more labor-intensive.

Water Purification Tablets: Many trekkers carry purification tablets or drops (such as iodine) to treat tap water or water from streams. This is an affordable and lightweight solution, though the taste can be unpleasant.

Water Filtration Systems: A portable water filter (like a Sawyer or LifeStraw) is another great option. These systems remove bacteria and other contaminants without altering the taste of the water.

Bottled Water: Bottled water is available at lower altitudes, but it becomes prohibitively expensive as you ascend. Additionally, it is not an eco-friendly option, as waste disposal in these remote regions is difficult.

Tea

Tea is the most commonly available drink in tea houses, and there are many varieties to choose from. It is a great way to stay hydrated while warming up, especially at higher altitudes. Popular options include:

Black Tea: The most basic and commonly available tea.

Green Tea: Another standard tea option.

Masala Tea: A spiced tea made with a mixture of black tea, milk, sugar, and spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger. It is warming and delicious.

Ginger Tea: A popular option to soothe altitude sickness and keep you warm.

Tibetan Butter Tea: Made from black tea, yak butter, and salt, this traditional Tibetan drink is rich and filling, though it may be an acquired taste for some.

Coffee

Instant coffee is widely available in tea houses, though do not expect high-quality brews. Some tea houses offer fresh brewed coffee, though this is less common, especially at higher altitudes.

Soft Drinks and Juices

Soft drinks like Coca-Cola and Fanta can be found in the lower-altitude villages, but like bottled water, they become increasingly expensive as you trek higher. Fruit juices (typically boxed or powdered) are sometimes available, though they are not as common.

Alcohol

While alcohol is available in some tea houses, especially at lower altitudes, it is generally not recommended for trekkers, particularly at higher altitudes. Alcohol can exacerbate the effects of altitude sickness and dehydrate the body. If you do want to try a local beverage, rakshi (a traditional Nepalese rice liquor) is available in some villages.

Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is provided by tea houses, which are simple lodges run by local families. While basic, these tea houses offer enough comfort for trekkers, including beds, meals, and communal spaces to relax after a long day of trekking. The quality of the tea houses varies significantly depending on the altitude and remoteness of the area.

Types of Accommodation

Tea Houses

Tea houses are the backbone of accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. These are small, family-run lodges that offer basic rooms and meals for trekkers. Here’s what you can typically expect from a tea house.

Rooms: Rooms are usually simple, with two single beds, a mattress, a pillow, and a blanket. At lower altitudes, some tea houses offer slightly better amenities, such as attached bathrooms, but these are rare. At higher altitudes, rooms become more basic and often smaller.

Shared Bathrooms: Most tea houses have shared bathrooms, often with squat toilets. Hot showers are sometimes available, but they come at an extra cost and become less frequent the higher you go.

Dining Area: The tea house’s dining area is often the heart of the building. These communal spaces are heated by a wood or yak-dung stove in the center of the room, where trekkers gather for meals and to warm up. This is where most of the socializing happens, and it’s a great place to share stories with other trekkers.

Electricity: Tea houses often provide electricity, but it’s usually solar-powered and limited. At higher altitudes, charging your devices will cost extra. Bringing a power bank or solar charger is a good idea to ensure you have enough battery for your camera and other electronics.

Wi-Fi: Some tea houses offer Wi-Fi, though it is often slow, unreliable, and costly. The higher you go, the less likely it is that you will find Wi-Fi.

Camping (Less Common)

While the majority of trekkers stay in tea houses, some guided treks offer the option of camping. This is less common on the Manaslu Circuit, but for those looking for a more remote and adventurous experience, camping is an option. This typically requires more logistical support, including porters, guides, and additional gear.

Cost of Accommodation

The cost of accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is relatively low compared to Western standards, but it increases as you ascend in altitude. In the lower villages, you can expect to pay around $5-$10 per night for a room, while at higher altitudes; the cost can rise to around $10-$15. However, tea houses make most of their profit from selling food and drinks, so it’s expected that you eat where you stay. This also means that rooms can sometimes be provided at a lower rate if you agree to eat all your meals at the tea house.

Hygiene and Cleanliness

The cleanliness of tea houses varies, and it is important to manage your expectations, especially in remote areas. The tea houses at lower altitudes are generally cleaner and better maintained, while those higher up tend to be more basic. To maintain personal hygiene, consider bringing the following:

Wet Wipes: Showers may not always be available, so wet wipes can be a good alternative to keep clean.

Hand Sanitizer: Not all tea houses will have running water or soap, so carrying hand sanitizer is essential.

Toilet Paper: Toilet paper is rarely provided, so it is wise to carry your own. You can also buy it along the way, but it becomes more expensive the higher you go.

Know more about Top Attractions of Manaslu Region Trekking Area.

• Carry enough cash for snacks and other beverages, as ATMs are rare or non-existent on the trail.
• If you have specific dietary restrictions or preferences, inform your guide, so they can notify the teahouse staff in advance.
• Most teahouses are accommodating and can prepare meals that meet your needs, but advance notice helps them plan accordingly.
• While food safety standards are generally good, it is essential to take some precautions. Carry hand sanitizer and use it before meals.
• Stick to cooked foods and avoid raw vegetables or unpeeled fruits to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues.
• We do recommend opting for vegetarian meals as far as possible during the trek to reduce the risk of indigestion from consuming meat products.
• Teahouses provide basic amenities, but carrying personal essentials can enhance your comfort. Bring a warm sleeping bag, travel pillow, towel, and toiletries. A headlamp is useful for navigating teahouses at night due to occasional power outages.
• While an extra pillow is not required, you can bring a pillowcase with you for hygiene purposes.
• Bring comfort items to improve your stay. Earplugs can ensure a good night’s sleep in shared accommodations, and a portable charger is handy given the limited and sometimes expensive access to electricity.
• Drinking water should be purified or purchased as bottled water.
• You can as an alternative, use water purification tablets.
• Practice Leave No Trace principles by minimizing your waste and disposing of it properly. Avoid using single-use plastics and opt for reusable water bottles and bags.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a unique and challenging experience for trekkers, but understanding the food, drink, and accommodation situation is crucial to preparing for the journey. The food is simple but nutritious; focusing on local staples like Dal Bhat and noodle soups, with tea houses providing basic accommodation that becomes more rustic as you ascend.

Staying hydrated with boiled water or purified sources is essential, and while the trek’s remoteness can present challenges, the hospitality of the local people and the stunning scenery make it a truly unforgettable adventure.

With the right expectations and preparation, you will be well-equipped to handle the rustic charm of the Manaslu Circuit Trek and fully enjoy the cultural immersion and natural beauty this trek has to offer.

If you need more information about trekking in the Manaslu region, CONTACT US or Whatsapp (+977 9841416722). We’ll try our best to help you.