Making the journey to this destination less dangerous
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Jan 19
- 5 min read
Updated: Feb 26
The expansion of the Dumre-Besisahar-Chame road is improving travel to Manang, a once-difficult-to-reach region in Nepal.
Travel to Manang, a stunning region in Nepal, has long been challenging due to its remote location and difficult road access. The journey used to involve rugged, dusty paths that made it a daunting trip for both locals and tourists.
Challenging and dangerous
The road to Manang in Nepal is indeed known for being challenging and dangerous, though it is not typically listed among the world’s most dangerous roads like some others in more extreme locations. The route to Manang, particularly along the Annapurna Circuit, involves narrow, winding paths, steep inclines, and high-altitude terrain, making it treacherous, especially for those who are not accustomed to mountain travel.
A few reasons why the road to Manang can be considered dangerous include:
Landslides and rockfalls, which are common, particularly in the monsoon season.
High-altitude risks such as altitude sickness, which can affect travelers.
Limited infrastructure and often challenging road conditions with sections that are unpaved or poorly maintained.
Remote and rugged terrain, which can make rescues or assistance difficult if anything goes wrong.
While it’s not as deadly as some of the most famous dangerous roads globally, it is still a road that demands caution and preparation. Many travelers take the route on foot or by jeep, and those who are trekking in the area should be aware of the physical challenges and risks associated with high-altitude travel.
The newspaper The Rising Nepal writes that recent infrastructure improvements have changed that.
The Dumre-Besisahar-Chame road expansion now includes a newly black-topped 8-kilometer stretch, significantly enhancing access to Manang.
Will stimulate tourism and economy
This upgrade, a part of a broader development effort, is supported by the Manang-Masryangdi hydropower project, with a budget of approximately $3.9 million USD. The improved road will make it easier for visitors to reach popular attractions, and stimulate the local tourism and economic growth.
Manang: A detailed overview
Altitude: Be aware that Manang sits at a high altitude, so altitude sickness is a risk. It’s recommended to acclimatize properly by spending a few days in Manang before continuing the trek to higher altitudes.
Weather: The best time to visit is between October and November (post-monsoon) and March to May (pre-monsoon), when the weather is generally stable and trekking conditions are optimal.
Manang is a small village located in the central part of Nepal, nestled in the Annapurna Mountain Range at an altitude of approximately 3,519 meters (11,546 feet). It is part of the Manang District and lies along the famous Annapurna Circuit trek, one of the most popular trekking routes in the world. The village sits in the Himalayan foothills, surrounded by stunning landscapes, glaciers, and high-altitude valleys. It is accessible by foot via the Annapurna Circuit or by jeep via the road from Besisahar.
History Manang has a rich cultural and historical significance. It was historically isolated due to its challenging geography, with its inhabitants living in isolation for much of the year. The people of Manang are primarily of Tibetan descent, and the area has long been known for its unique blend of Tibetan and Nepali cultures. The valley has been used as a trade route between Tibet and Nepal, and many of its structures, including monasteries and stupas, reflect Tibetan Buddhist influences.
In the early 20th century, Manang was a remote region, and access to the village was primarily by foot. Over time, the Annapurna Circuit became more popular with trekkers, and infrastructure began to improve, though the area still retains a sense of timelessness, surrounded by traditional villages and monasteries.
Attractions
Manang is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and cultural heritage. Some key attractions include:
Annapurna Circuit Trek: One of the most iconic trekking routes in the world, it passes through Manang. The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare mountain ranges.
The trek also offers opportunities to experience the culture of various ethnic groups living along the route. The trek begins in the lush green valleys of Besisahar, accessible by road from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Gangapurna Lake: A stunning glacial lake located near the village, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including Gangapurna peak. It’s a popular spot for reflection and photography.
Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries: Manang has several Buddhist monasteries and stupas, including the Buddhist Monastery of Braga and the Manang Gompa. Visitors can explore these peaceful and spiritually rich sites, with the opportunity to witness traditional Buddhist practices.
Accommodations
Hotel Manang
Location: Manang, Annapurna Circuit
Price: Around $15-$25 per night
One of the more popular accommodations in Manang, Hotel Manang offers basic, comfortable rooms with hot showers. It’s a great place to rest after a long day of trekking, offering views of the surrounding mountains.
Yeti Guesthouse
Location: Main street, Manang
Price: Approximately $12-$18 per night
A cozy guesthouse offering simple rooms and hearty meals. Known for its hospitality, Yeti Guesthouse is a favorite among trekkers, offering good food and a relaxed atmosphere.
Braga Hotel and Restaurant
Location: Braga, near Manang
Price: Around $20-$30 per night
Located in the nearby village of Braga, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with spectacular views of the mountains. It also has a well-known restaurant that serves both local and international dishes.
Hotel Tilicho
Location: Near the main market area of Manang
Price: Around $15-$20 per night
A budget-friendly hotel offering simple accommodations with clean rooms. It’s a great option for trekkers who want to stay close to the village center. The hotel also serves tasty traditional dishes.
Mountain View Lodge
Location: Upper Manang
Price: Around $25 per night
With a fantastic location that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, Mountain View Lodge provides cozy rooms and a comfortable stay. It’s perfect for those looking to relax in a peaceful environment after trekking.
Restaurants
Moonlight Restaurant
Location: Main street, Manang
Price: $5-$12 per meal
Known for its tasty Nepali and international dishes, Moonlight Restaurant is a favorite among trekkers. It offers a great variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, along with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
The Himalayan Lodge Restaurant
Location: Close to the market, Manang
Price: $6-$15 per meal
Offering a variety of Asian and international dishes, this restaurant is perfect for trekkers looking for a hearty meal. The restaurant is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Yak and Yeti Restaurant
Location: Braga, near Manang
Price: $7-$14 per meal
Located in the village of Braga, this restaurant offers a mix of Tibetan and Nepali cuisines. Known for its freshly made momos and delicious stews, it's a great stop after a day of trekking.
Pines Café
Location: Manang
Price: $5-$10 per meal
A small café offering light snacks and beverages, Pines Café is perfect for a casual meal or coffee break while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Manang.
