Greetings, fearless adventurers!
It’s me, the Yeti, reporting back on the epic journey we embarked upon during the Manaslu Fastpack 2023, organized by the incredible folks at Himalayan Adventure Labs (HAL). Brace yourselves for a tale filled with laughter, excitement, and a sprinkle of mischief!

Our team was an unstoppable force of adventure seekers, ready to conquer the untamed trails. Tony and Sharon, the seasoned veterans of Annapurna Fastpack 2017, Kilimanjaro 2019, and Manaslu Fastpack 2022, joined forces with the spirited Sara from Australia (T & S are also from land down under), and Nepal’s very own trailblazers, Srijan and Sudeep. And guess who joined our gang at the last minute? Yours truly, shaped by the waves, the mountains, and the trails joining them, the mischievous Yeti! It was like a college reunion, but with more thrilling exploits. Together, we formed an unstoppable crew of backpackers, trail runners, and mountain enthusiasts, all geared up to conquer the ultimate Himalayan challenge.

Now, let’s rewind to October 2022, when post-monsoon chaos disrupted HAL’s plans. Mother Nature had her fun with relentless rainfall, floods, and pesky landslides, forcing the team to make a tough call and turn back from Deng. The team didn’t think of this as a defeat, turning back is the price we pay to come back stronger the next time. But hey, if I had been there, things might’ve gone differently. Just saying!
But fear not, my adventurous comrades! what’s done is done and there’s a new day to start all over, again! In 2023, HAL returned to finish what we started—a wild dance with the mighty Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world. This time, we took a different route, trading the first and last section of the classic Manaslu circuit for the enchanting Tsum valley. Why, you ask? Well, there were a few reasons: roads on the lower end of the valley, damages to sections of trail on the south of Dharapani, and the irresistible allure of the Tsum valley. Equipped with unyielding determination, waterproof gear, and the charismatic Yeti mascot (that’s me!), we set out to embrace the untamed beauty that awaited us.

Let me tell you, my friends, the Tsum valley is a hidden gem. It effortlessly blends tradition with modernity, never losing its authentic charm. And, as for me, I became the life and soul of our adventure leading the team on whimsical detours filled with unexpected encounters and side-splitting laughter. Oh, the tales I could share! I’ll never forget the day I met the majestic yaks for the first time during an acclimatization hike to Mu Gompa. Tony was absolutely smitten with those fluffy creatures!

We trekked, we climbed, we descended—Nepal being Nepal, you know how it goes. The rushing susurration of the Budi Gandaki river accompanied us as we ventured through cool forests and exposed, sunny climbs navigating Nubri valley. Who could ever forget the epic Nepali traffic jam caused by an endless mule train? It was all part of the adventure, my friends. We laughed, we marveled at the beauty around us, and we embraced every single step of our journey.
As we reached Samagaun, we entered the magical realm of the Nepali Elf forests. Those never-ending stairs tested our mettle, but the smiles from the locals revived our weary legs. The winding track along the mountains offered cascading waterfalls and awe-inspiring vistas. It was fantastically, painfully awesome, if I do say so myself! With each passing day, Team Yeti conquered new heights and embraced the snowy landscapes. Snowflakes danced in the sky, disappearing as they touched the earth—a sight of unparalleled beauty!

And then came the big day—the day we conquered the icy Larke La pass. The weather smiled upon us, and we crossed over triumphantly, greeted by breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas. The feeling of accomplishment warmed our hearts as we found solace in front of a cozy fireplace in Bhimtang. Ohhh how viscerally cathartic it was, what a moment to cherish!

We had a buffer day in our itinerary, so we decided to spend it in the peaceful and picturesque village of Gowa. It was a well-deserved break, surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. The next day, we headed to Dharapani, marking the end of our incredible adventure. But fear not, my fellow adventurers, for the memories we created and the bonds we formed will endure far beyond the confines of this remarkable journey.

As we bid a bittersweet farewell to our Manaslu Fastpack adventure, a longing stirs within our hearts. 2022 denied us the opportunity, but 2023 gifted us with triumph, fueled by resilience, laughter, and the playful antics of yours truly, the mischievous Yeti. Until we meet again on the trails, keep the spirit of adventure alive and let your wanderlust guide the way!
Yours adventurously,
The Yeti
That was an awesome trip report Mr Yeti. I can’t wait to meet up again and taste the offerings of the great Himalayan moutains… except LUMP! I don’t need to taste LUMP again. However, for anyone else out there who does not know what LUMP is… you will have to visit Nepal to find that out for yourself!
Fantastic trip, great report – but words cannot do justice to Manaslu and Nepal! Thanks HAL – but obviously i am a fan as it was my 4th trip with you guys….and it won’t be the last!