Manaslu Curcuit (Part 2): Trusting the Body at Altitude

Welcome back to the trail.In this second part of the Manaslu Circuit trek in the Himalays of Nepal, we move into higher altitude, deeper simplicity and wisdom, where the body takes the lead and the mountains make everything basic: warmth, breath, water, food, and rest. We continue from Samagaun to Samdo, up to Dharamsala, across Larkya La Pass (5,106m), and down to Bhimtang and finally the last descent to Tilije and Dharapani, before the jeep ride to Besisahar and the long bus ride back to Kathmandu. In the first part of the Manaslu Circuit trek , we explored Boundaries & Belonging. In this episode, we meet the teachings of altitude and attention: what trusting the body looks like when it’s freezing, when appetite disappears, when fatigue is real and joy arrives anyway. In This EpisodeDay 7: Samagaun (3,560 metres) to Samdo (near the Tibetan border)Leaving the resting place of Samagaun and walking into a higher, wilder simplicity of thin air, wide landscape, and that sense of being a guest in the mountains. Day 8: Samdo (3,860 metres) to Dharamsala (4,460m)A step closer to the pass: less “village life,” more high-camp reality. The body starts speaking louder now, and everything becomes practical: pacing, warmth, hydration, and the basics. Day 9: Daramshala to Larkya La Pass (5,106m) to Bhimtang (3,720m)The long summit day: 02:45 wake up, crossing the pass, the prayer flags, the wide white world and then the descent, where I get a boost of energy and move into a focused and practical flow... the body knows. Day 10: Bhimtang to Tilije (2,300 metres) to Dharapani, then jepp to BesisaharThe rollercoaster of coming down: energy returns, the joy of trail-running, and the “end of trek” turns into a lesson in flexibility and acceptance. Day 11: Besisahar and bus back to Kathmandu: re-entryCelebration, traffic, horns, dust and a city life that feels unreal after thin air and silence. But, the rhythm stays in the body: one step, one breath. A simple trail practice to take with youWhat do I need right now? If you don’t know, start with the basics… and let clarity come in its own time. Just because guilt shows up doesn’t mean you’ve done something wrong—it can be an old pattern trying to keep you safe. Mentioned in This EpisodeMy trekking agency: Nepal High Trek You’re welcome to contact me for any practical tips for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. In the next episodeWe’ll explore what these mountain teachings look like in ordinary life, when everything is supposed to be normal… but it isn’t. Follow & ShareIf this episode resonates, please follow the show, leave a review, or share with a friend who might need to hear it. Every step matters. Every listener counts. Stay connectedExplore my work and resources For inspiration: Follow me on Instagram & TikTok For updates and inspiration: Follow me on Facebook NoteThis podcast is for education and personal growth; it is not therapy or a substitute for professional care.