The Manaslu area was opened to foreign tourists in 1991 along with some other restricted areas. However H.W. Tilman had explored the area in the 1950s and one of the highest peaks in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8163m), was first climbed by Japanese mountaineers in 1953. The area is very remote compared with other trekking areas, lacking facilities such as medical services, communications and accommodation. So, the 18-20 days trek here is an exploration of a very remote region. High mountain ranges dominate the geographic setting and the Tibetan- influenced culture of the people make the trek a perfect blend of culture and scenery. The 5100m (16728ft) Larkay- La Pass is a moderate but long and continuous high pass that combines the two trekking sections of the Manaslu circuit: the Manaslu conservation area and the lower section of Marshyangdi valley, a part of the Annapurna conservation area.