Also known as Kutang, the Manaslu region is located in central Nepal within the Manaslu Conservation Area. It is considered as one of the best trek destinations in Nepal which is enriched with diversity in both cultural and natural aspects. Since the region was opened for trekking as recent as 1992, it is comparatively less popular than other trek destinations in Nepal. As such, the region is popular for its off-beat trails in the foothills of the Mansiri, Shringi, and Ganesh Himal ranges. The name of the region comes from Mt. Manaslu (8163 m) which is also the eighth highest mountain in the world. People of Tibetan origin mostly reside in this area along with other ethnic groups like Tsumba and Nubri.
As it is recently opened and is new in comparison to other trek destinations, the region is barely touched by western influences. As such, its actual beauty is unspoiled like other travel destinations in Nepal. The area is bordered by two great rivers; Budhi Gandaki and Marsayangdi. Other than Mt. Manaslu the area has many beautiful snowcapped peaks like Himalchuli (7863m), Ngadi Chuli (7871m), Buddha Himal (6,674m), and Shringi Himal (7187m). Also, the region boasts of a wide variety of flora and fauna. The lower alpine zone is mostly covered by vegetation comprising of pines, fir, and wild rhododendron which is home to many exotic species like barking deer, pike, marmots, pheasants, raven, and chough. The higher altitude trails are decorated with alpine vegetation with scarce wildlife. The region hosts several attractions like Prok Lake, Manakamana Temple, Birendra Lake, Manaslu Base Camp, and Larkya La Pass (5160m).
The trips in this region go through culturally adorned villages like Namrung, Lho, Sho, Sama Gaon, and Samdo. These villages are inhabited by people from Tibetan and Nubri communities. Likewise, the region also houses the discreet Tsum Valley which is home to the illustrious Tsumba ethnic group. The valley alone has numerous attractions including Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa. This valley lies in the foothills of the Shringi Himal range and also connects the Manaslu region with the Tibet Autonomous Region in China. Other religious heritages across the Manaslu region are Pung Gyen Gompa, Ribung Gompa, and Namla Gumba. Some of the famous treks in Manaslu regions are Manaslu Circuit trek, Manaslu Base Camp Trek, Tsum Valley Trek, and Rupina La Larkya La Pass Trek.
The terrain here is very tough and rugged and the area is still underdeveloped. Due to this, the number of lodges and tea houses is fewer than those in other trekking destinations. The best time of year to visit Manaslu is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During this time, the trekking terrain is pleasant and ideal for trekking. However, the altitude remains a major issue for trekkers so, extra carefulness is required.