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Manaslu Circuit Trek VS Annapurna Circuit Trek

Stunning Views during annapurna circuit trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek are two of Nepal’s most iconic trekking routes. The Manaslu Circuit is a remote, less-traveled journey that circles Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth-highest peak. The trek takes adventurers through high-altitude passes (Larkya La Pass), rugged landscapes, and Tibetan-influenced villages such as Samdo, Gho, etc. Due to its restricted area status, trekkers require special permits and a licensed local guide, making it a more exclusive and off-the-beaten-path experience.

On the other hand, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic and well-established route that encircles the Annapurna Massif. With spectacular views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre; the trek provides a mix of natural beauty and cultural encounters with Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan communities. The journey reaches its highest point at Thorong La Pass (5,416m), with numerous teahouses and flexible trekking options along the trail.

The Manaslu Circuit is ideal for those seeking solitude, adventure, and raw Himalayan beauty, whereas the Annapurna Circuit is better suited for trekkers who prefer accessibility, diverse landscapes, and a more social trekking environment. The Manaslu trek is more challenging, with steeper ascents, fewer accommodations, and higher costs due to permits and guide requirements. In contrast, the Annapurna trek is more budget-friendly, well-marked, and allows for independent trekking. Regardless, Annapurna Circuit Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to the trekkers.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview

Manaslu Circuit Trek is located in the Gorkha district and circles the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Manaslu. Our trek route passes through Soti Khola, Machhakhola, Jagat, Deng, Sama Gaon, Lho, Samdo, Larkya La Pass, and Bhimtang. Larkya La Pass is the trek’s highest point, with an elevation of 5160m. Hillarysteptrek’s Manaslu Circuit package covers the route in 13 days. However, trekking to the Tsum Valley along with the circuit takes an additional 7 days.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit trek has been categorized as a demanding expedition. The region’s treacherous terrain has huge boulders, steep ascents, and rocky trails. The trek requires three permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).

Overview of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. One of the best treks in Nepal, the circuit passes through Manang, Mustang, and Myagdi districts. The route passes through Chame, Pisang, Ngawal, Manang, Tilicho Base Camp, Thorong La Pass, Jomsom, Tatopani, and Ghorepani. Our itinerary Annapurna Circuit trek package plans to cover the circuit along with the Tilicho Lake in 15 days. The short circuit package can also cover the route in 10 days. 

Annapurna Circuit Trekking Route

Annapurna Circuit Trek is renowned for its scenic natural beauty and unique cultural immersion. Muktinath Temple and several Buddhist Monasteries are the cultural highlights of the trek. The trail passes through the bank of the holy Kali Gandaki river. The trek is considered a moderately complex trek. Beginners can complete the journey with proper preparation and planning. The journey requires the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

Key Differences Between Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit Trek

AspectManaslu Circuit TrekAnnapurna Circuit Trek
Scenery and LandscapesRemote and pristine, with rugged landscapes, dense forests, and towering peaks, including Mt. Manaslu (8,163m).Diverse landscapes range from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, barren high-altitude deserts, and views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Crowds and PopularityLess crowded and more off-the-beaten-path, offering a secluded trekking experience.One of Nepal’s most popular treks draws more trekkers, especially during peak seasons.
Cultural ExperiencesThe circuit offers a rich Tibetan Buddhist cultural experience in traditional villages like Sama Gaon and Samdo; monasteries and prayer flags are seen throughout.A blend of Hindu and Tibetan Buddhist cultures, with highlights like Muktinath Temple and local Gurung and Thakali traditions.
Difficulty and ChallengesMore remote and physically demanding due to fewer facilities, longer daily stretches, and higher altitudes like Larkya La Pass (5,106m).Challenging but slightly easier logistically, with better infrastructure and a well-defined trail crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
CostGenerally more expensive due to restricted area permits (MRAP) and the need for a guide/organized trek.More affordable with lower permit fees (ACAP and TIMS); solo trekking is allowed.

Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Annapurna Circuit Trek

CategoryAnnapurna Circuit TrekManaslu Circuit Trek
Trekking RouteThe trail starts in Besisahar and passes through Chame, Pisang, Manang, Thorong La Pass (5,416m), Muktinath, Jomsom, and ends in Pokhara.Starts in Soti Khola and passes through Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Samagaun, Larke La Pass (5,106m), and Dharapani.
Total DistanceApproximately 160-230 km (depending on starting/ending points).Approximately 177 km.
Duration14-21 days, depending on side trips and acclimatization days.The trek takes approximately 12-18 days
Difficulty LevelModerate to Challenging as the route has Long ascents and descents, Thorong La Pass is physically demanding.It is a challenging expedition with remote terrain, steep climbs, and crossing Larkya La Pass.
HighlightsThe trail passes through Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of the trek, with diverse landscapes, lush forests, alpine terrain, and a desert-like Mustang region. Hot springs in Tatopani, scenic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri, and cultural experience in Manang and Mustang add thrill to the journey.The circuit trail passes through Larke La Pass (5,106m), a thrilling high-altitude crossing,  remote and off-the-beaten-path experience, Tibetan-influenced culture and monasteries (Samagaun, Lho), and close-up views of Manaslu.
Accommodation & FacilitiesThe trail offers a well-developed teahouse trek with a wide range of lodges, restaurants, and Wi-Fi in major villages.As it is an off-the-beaten route, accommodation is more basic with fewer teahouses. Further, Wi-Fi and electricity access is limited in remote areas.
Permit RequirementsAnnapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) cards are required.Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) are required. 
Best Time to TrekSpring (March-May): Clear skies, rhododendron blooms. Autumn (Sept-Nov): Best weather, stable conditions, stunning mountain views.Spring (March-May): Ideal weather, beautiful wildflowers, clear views. Autumn (Sept-Nov): Best season, stable conditions, crisp mountain views.
Crowd LevelPopular and well-trodden, it can be crowded in peak seasons.Less crowded, offering a more peaceful trekking experience.

 Pros of Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Less Crowded & Remote: Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a peaceful trekking experience compared to the busier Annapurna Circuit. The remoteness of the Manaslu Circuit makes the trek fit for the solitude seekers.
  • Cultural Immersion: The trail passes through villages such as Samagaun and Namrung, which have a rich Tibetan-influenced culture with ancient monasteries, chortens, and traditional villages.
  • Stunning Mountain Views: It offers a close-up view of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), Dhaulagiri, and a thrilling high pass crossing in Larke La Pass (5,106m). Being an off-the-beaten route, the landscapes and terrain are pristine, with fewer commercial influences.
  • Diverse Wildlife: The Manaslu Circuit Trek lies entirely in the Manaslu Conservation Area. As such, it offers a chance to see blue sheep, Himalayan Tahr, and snow leopards in the Manaslu Conservation Area. The conservation area is also home to more than 100 bird species.

 Cons of Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Restricted Area Permits Required: Trekkers need a special Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and must hire a licensed guide. Going through the bureaucracy to obtain these can become a hassle for the trekkers.
  • Basic Accommodation & Facilities: Compared to popular treks such as the Everest Base Camp trek, Annapurna Circuit, etc, the Manaslu Circuit trail has fewer teahouses, limited electricity, Wi-Fi, and food options in remote areas.
  • Physically Demanding: The trail has lengthy sections with steep ascents and descents, especially over Larke La Pass. As a result, the trek requires a good mental and physical endurance level.
  • Risk of Altitude Sickness: Almost all the treks are in high elevations (above 5,000m). Such altitude brings an extreme risk of altitude sickness. Trekkers require proper acclimatization and preparation to accomplish the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Pros of Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Fewer Restricted Area Permits: Unlike the Manaslu Circuit,  the Annapurna Circuit requires fewer official permits. While trekkers need to obtain 3 different permits to trek in Manaslu, trekkers must present the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • More Teahouse & Food Options: As the more popular route, the Annapurna Circuit is more developed with numerous teahouses and comfortable accommodations 
  • Better for Solo Trekkers: Manaslu Circuit Trek does not permit solo trekking, and there is a mandatory provision to include a guide. Solo trekking is permitted in the Annapurna Circuit trek, and there are no such mandatory provisions to include a guide.
  • Easily Accessible: Compared to the Manaslu region, the Annapurna Circuit has relatively safer trails with fewer landslide-prone areas. As the trail is well-trodden in Annapurna Circuit, it is easily accessible in case of emergencies. As such, the Annapurna Circuit has better medical facilities, evacuation options, and cellular network connectivity.

Cons of Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • More Crowded: Being one of Nepal’s most famous trekking routes, the Annapurna Circuit Trek gets significantly more trekkers than less-known trails like the Manaslu Circuit. The trail remains crowded and busy, especially during the peak seasons. Such crowds cause significant problems for accommodations and bookings during the trek seasons.
  • Expensive during the peak season: Due to the high demand, the costs of accommodation, meals and other services rise considerably high in the peak trekking season. Such expenses in amenities increase the financial burden on the trekkers.
  • Authenticity: Due to its easy accessibility, the trail might not feel authentic to the ones looking for a raw Himalayan experience. Further, the natural landscapes and vegetation around the trail are no longer in their pristine form due to the infrastructure development.

Which Trek Should I Choose Between Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Choosing the trek destination is entirely a subjective thing. While some trekkers prefer the solitude in the off-the-beaten trek of Manaslu Circuit, others prefer the bustling Annapurna trail. However, it is important to choose the trek that fits your personal aspirations and financial budget. Also, consider making the final decision based on your physical and mental health. The trails in Manaslu are less crowded and more remote, offering a true off-the-beaten-path experience. It is ideal for those who prefer raw adventure. On the other hand, Annapurna Circuit Trek is a well-established route with many trekkers, teahouses, and villages along the way. It is a great choice if you enjoy meeting fellow travelers.

Manaslu Circuit Trek features untouched landscapes, flora and fauna diversity, high Himalayan passes (Larkya La Pass), and cultural villages such as Nemrung and Samagaun. The landscape is more diverse in the Annapurna region, with lush forests, alpine vegetation, and close-up views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. Due to its rugged trails, steep ascents, and high-altitude Larke Pass (5,106m), the Manaslu Circuit Trek is more difficult than the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Hence, we advise the trekkers to choose Manaslu Circuit if they seek solitude and an adventurous challenge, while Annapurna Circuit is your destination if they prefer a well-established route with diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and more flexibility in trekking.

Is the Manaslu Circuit harder than the Annapurna Circuit?

Yes, the Manaslu Circuit is considered a harder expedition than the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Due to its rugged trails, steep ascents, and high-altitude Larke Pass (5,106m), the Manaslu Circuit Trek is more difficult than the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Hillary Treks

My name is Hari Bahadur Gurung. Since completing the Government Guide Training from Nepal's Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (KEEP and HRA), I have been a specialist in mountain trekking and peak climbing. With specific expertise in the Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan regions, I have now been a trekking guide and tour operator in Nepal, and across the Himalayas, since 2012.

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