Manang

by Sanjog pandey

Manang is located in the Western development region at an altitude of 3519 m above sea level at Gandaki zone same as the beautiful city of Pokhara and which is in broad valley of Marshyangdi river to north of the Annapurna mountain range. Chamae is the capital of the Manang district. North to this district lies Tibet. Also famous as the lowest population residing district of Nepal. Majority of the people follow Buddhism in this area.

Manang is a district where the social norms and Tibetan culture is still preserved. Manang district offers different visitors to observe the beauty of flora and funna because Manang is very rich in different types of flora and funna. The Thorang La pass at 5415 m above the sea level which connects Manang district providing routes between Manang and Muktinath towns. Being in the norther part of Himalayans ; Manang district gets least amount of rain fall and snowfall in winter around this region. There are three great routes starts from here, vai Thorangla, Muktinath, Mustang to Lhasa which takes four day trek, second vai Naur Khola to Naurgaon, which is five days trek, third vai Larkiya Bazzar which is commonly used route by the people. The trails from Manang to Muktinath are being used by local for hundreds of years to transport which is important route for the local people. This is best trekking route in Annapurna conservation area where people gets to experience the Himalayan lifestyle and to observe the Buddhist culture from nearest point.

The major attraction of this place is:

  • Tilicho Lake – Lies at world’s highest altitude
  • Yartung – Horse parade
  • Dhachhyang – Archery competition

Tilicho Lake: Tilicho Lake lies in the altitude of 4919m which lies at the world’s highest altitude.  Tilicho Lake is the best destination and popular in Annapurna circuit trek. Tilicho Lake is less visited trekking area of Nepal. Tilicho Lake trek offers magnificent views of different mountains such as Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV and other beautiful snow capped mountains. This trek helps to explore the unique Tibetan tradition and culture which can be the best experience for life.

Yartung – Horse parade: This is one of the major festival in this district. Local people gather to meet their friends and relatives on this occasion. The spectacular view of horse race in the mountainous track takes the adventure to another level. Yearly people gather in the headquarter Chamae to become a part of the amusement. Horses are flaunted and judged on the basis of its performance and stamina.

Dhachhyang – Archery competition: This is one of the most famous festival of this region. It is held during the month of March, April and May. Locals after harvesting the crop worship their gods by indulging in such competition.