There is no winner in the Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Annapurna Circuit Trek because they are completely different from each other. Both give you different experiences. Annapurna is easier, social, and well-developed, and it circles Annapurna massif. Manaslu is a quieter, remote, and restricted trek which crosses the high mountain Pass i.e Larkya La pass(5,106 meters). Both of the treks reward the best stunning view of the Himalayan landscape, traditional villages, culture, and traditions.
Planning to do treks in Nepal? If you get confused, don’t worry, in this blog we will help you to provide in detail. Let’s break it down into details.
What Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Manaslu Circuit trek is located in the Manaslu Region in the Gorkha District of Gandaki Province in north-central Nepal. The starting point is normally Machha Khola, which is approximately 160 km far from central Kathmandu. From Machha Khola, you will cover around 180 Km ending in either Dharapani or Besisahar.
It takes around 12- 14 Days to complete the trek, and mostly suitable for trekkers with previous trekking experience. The highest point that you will reach on this Manaslu trek is Larkya La pass, which is situated at an altitude of 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). The Manaslu route circles Mount Manaslu( 8th highest Peak in the world).
During the trek, you will pass through a remote village, Manaslu Conservation Area, experience Tibetan-influenced culture and enjoy breathtaking views of the Manaslu Himal range. Trekkers can add the Tsum Valley to the standard Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary to make the trip more adventurous and a richer cultural experience.
Let’s see what the 15-day standard Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary looks like.
| Day | Route/ Elevation | Highlights |
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu(1,355m) | Airport pickup, trek briefing, welcome dinner |
| Day 2 | Kathmandu Sightseeing & Preparation(1,355m) | UNESCO sites visit, permit check, gear preparation |
| Day 3 | Drive to Machha Khola(930m) | Scenic drive via Arughat and Soti Khola |
| Day 4 | Trek to Jagat(1,340m) | Suspension bridges, Tatopani hot springs, Manaslu Conservation Area entry |
| Day 5 | Trek to Deng(1,860m) | Philim village, terraced fields, Tibetan culture begins |
| Day 6 | Trek to Namrung(2,660m) | Mani walls, forests, first close mountain views |
| Day 7 | Trek to Lho Gaon(3,180m) | Spectacular Mount Manaslu views, Ribung Monastery |
| Day 8 | Trek to Sama Gaon(3,530m) | Traditional Tibetan village, stunning Himalayan scenery |
| Day 9 | Acclimatization Day at Sama Gaon(3,530m) | Optional hike to Birendra Lake or Manaslu Base Camp |
| Day 10 | Trek to Samdo(3,875m) | High-altitude landscapes, last village before the pass |
| Day 11 | Trek to Dharamsala-Larkya Phedi(4,460m) | Preparation for Larkya La Pass crossing |
| Day 12 | Cross Larkya La Pass(5,106m) and Trek to Bimthang(3,590m) | Highest point of the trek, panoramic mountain views |
| Day 13 | Trek to Dharapani(1,725m) | Forest trails, join Annapurna Circuit route |
| Day 14 | Drive to Kathmandu(1,355m) | Scenic drive via Besisahar, farewell dinner |
| Day 15 | International Departure | Airport transfer and end of trek |
What Is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit trek is the world’s most popular Himalayan trekking trail located in the Annapurna region, north-central Nepal. The starting point of the Annapurna trek is Besisahar, which is around 175 km in the Lamjung District. This classic Himalayan trail in Central Nepal loops around the Annaourna massif. The highest point of the Annapurna Circuit trek is Thorong La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 5,416 meters.
To complete the standard Annapurna Circuit trek, it takes around 12- 18 Days. During the trek, you will visit the famous Manang village, including popular places such as Muktinath Temple, Jomsom and Pokhara. Annapurna trekking routes take you deep inside the Annapurna Conservation Area in the Annapurna region, from a subtropical landscape to alpine meadows and snowy mountain landscapes. This region is home to Annapurna Massif, including Annapurna I (the 10th highest peak in the world), Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV. It also features the Dhaulagiri Range with Dhaulagiri I (the 7th highest peak in the world) and other peaks like Dhaulagiri II–V. Other notable peaks you can witness are Machapuchare (Fishtail), Manaslu, Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Nilgiri, and Lamjung Himal.
On the standard Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary, you can add Tilicho lake which is high altitude lake situated at an altitude of 4,919 m.
Let’s see what the 13 Day standard Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary looks like.
| Day | Route/ Elevation | Highlights |
| 01 | Arrival in Kathmandu airport(1,320 m) | Airport arrival and trek preparation |
| 02 | Drive to Dharapani via Besisahar(820 m) | Scenic road journey through hills and rivers |
| 03 | Trek to Chame(2,720 m) | Entry into Manang region, forest trails |
| 04 | Trek to Pisang(3,180 m) | Mountain views and traditional villages |
| 05 | Trek to Manang(3,540 m) | Cultural villages and Himalayan scenery |
| 06 | Acclimatization day in Manang(3,540 m) | Rest day for altitude adjustment and short hikes |
| 07 | Trek to Yak Kharka(4,110 m) | Alpine landscapes and yak grazing fields |
| 08 | Trek to Thorong La High Camp(4,450 m) | Steep climb and high altitude landscape |
| 09 | Cross Thorong La Pass and trek to Muktinath Temple(5,416 m) | Epic pass crossing and spiritual temple visit |
| 10 | Trek to Jomsom via Kali Gandaki Valley(5,416 m) | Scenic descent through deepest gorge |
| 11 | Drive to Pokhara(860 m) | Long scenic drive with river and mountain views |
| 12 | Drive/Flight to Kathmandu(1,320 m) | Drive or flight back to capital city |
| 13 | International departure | End of journey and farewell |
Which Trek Is Better: Manaslu or Annapurna?
Both the Annapurna and Manaslu Circuits are among the best trekking adventures in Nepal. The choice depends upon your experience level, budget, time and what kind of trekking experience you want. Annapurna is a more comfortable, well-managed trekking route, suits for first-time trekkers and allows flexibility. Manaslu suits those who are seeking solitude, trekking trails, raw culture, and untouched natural beauty.
Below, we break down both treks across every major factor so you can decide with confidence.
How Difficult Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Compared to Annapurna?
Both of the treks demand a good level of physical fitness, and high- altitude trekking experience is recommended. However, Manaslu is a little tougher than the Annapurna Circuit due to steeper trails, fewer rest options, basic teahouse and a more technically and physically demanding mountain pass.
The Manalsu trail is narrow, less maintained in some places and involves long daily walking with few villages in between for resting. Because the route lies inside the restricted area, which is closer to Tibet, trekkers need to hire a compulsory licence guide. Also, getting a restricted permit is possible only when you book through a registered trekking agency. Due to the remote location, trekkers mostly join the group, which can affect the trekking pace and acclimatization schedules.
The Annapurna Circuit trail is far more developed than the Manaslu Circuit. Here, a comfortable teahouse, lodge, and rest stops appear every few hours. This makes the trekking pace easier while allowing trekkers to acclimatize gradually. Another big advantage of choosing the Annapurna Circuit trek is the flexibility option. On the lower section of the route, trekkers can take a private Jeep or use buses to shorten the trip. This option is generally not possible in Manaslu.
How Much Does the Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost vs Annapurna?
The Manaslu trek is more costly compared to the Annapurna trek due to high permit fees.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Breakdown
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP): USD 70–100 per week (September–November), USD 50–75 per week (rest of the year), plus (7-15$ daily fees after the first week.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit: approximately USD 30
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit: approximately USD 30 (required for the final stretch into the Annapurna region)
- Guide and porter fees: USD 25–35 per day each (mandatory for restricted areas)
- Teahouse lodging and meals: USD 25–40 per day
- Total estimated cost: USD 900–1500 for a full package, depending on group size and season
Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost Breakdown
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): approximately USD 30
- Guide and porter fees: USD 20–30 per day each (optional but recommended)
- Teahouse lodging and meals: USD 20–35 per day
- Total estimated cost: USD 700–1,300 for a full package
Do You Need a Guide for Manaslu or Annapurna?
Before March 22, 2026, for the restricted trekking routes, it was compulsory to hire a licensed guide, and the group size was a minimum of 2 trekkers. But now Manaslu solo trek is possible, but you still need to hire a licensed guide with them. Annapurna Circuit trek sits in a Conservation Area, so it is not compulsory to hire a trekking guide by law. If you have good trekking experience, you can do a solo Annapurna trek. For Manaslu, hiring the guide is compulsory by law, and for Annapurna trekkers still hire the guide and porter for safety, navigation, and to support the local economy.
What Is the Best Time to Trek Manaslu vs Annapurna?
Manaslu and Annapurna both treks are open throughout the year, but for a comfortable and safe trekking experience, it is best in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Let’s see what to expect in each season on both treks.
| Season | Manaslu Circuit | Annapurna Circuit |
| Spring (Mar–May) | Excellent; rhododendrons bloom | Excellent; warm days, clear passes |
| Summer/Monsoon (Jun–Aug) | Not recommended; landslide risk | Possible on rain-shadow side (Manang) |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Best season; peak permit fees apply | Best season; busiest trails |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Closed at Larkya La due to snow | Possible but Thorong La may close |
How Crowded Is Manaslu Compared to Annapurna?
Manaslu sees fewer trekkers than most of the routes in Nepal, while Annapurna is one of the most popular and frequented routes.
The Annapurna Circuit was once the most popular long-distance trek in Nepal, and hundreds of thousands of trekkers go there every year. Some lower levels of the trail have seen less foot traffic due to road construction, but the trail is still quite busy, particularly around Manang and at the Thorong La crossing during peak season.
A fraction of the visitors go to Manaslu, which is still restricted and opened to foreign trekkers only since 1991. So quieter trails, more authentic interactions in villages, more sense of remoteness – this is what appeals to trekkers who have found Annapurna or Everest too commercialised.
What Kind of Scenery Will You See on Each Trek?
Manaslu is a more raw and pristine Himalayan wilderness, while Annapurna has more diverse topography, ranging from jungle to high desert.
Manaslu Circuit Scenery
It then enters the thick forests, the terraced fields and the traditional village life of Gurung and Tibetan settlement before reaching high alpine areas near Samagaon and Samdo. The upper trail is dominated by close-ups of Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli, while the Larkya La crossing provides panoramic views of several 7,000m and 8,000m peaks.
Annapurna Circuit Scenery
The trail dramatically transitions from subtropical lowland to the dry Tibetan-plateau-like Manang Valley and then to the high desert beyond Thorong La as it plunges to Muktinath. On the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to see Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) – arguably more peaks per day than Manaslu offers.
What Is the Cultural Experience Like on Manaslu vs Annapurna?
Manaslu is more traditional and has a more Tibetan tinge, while Annapurna feels more diverse but also more commercial.
In the upper villages of Manaslu (e.g. Samagaon, Samdo), Tibetan Buddhism is still relatively unaffected by mass tourism, with monasteries, prayer wheels and chortens integrated into everyday life. The lowlands cross villagers of the Gurung ethnic group with their unique culture and houses.
It allows cultural exposure to Annapurna, which goes through the village of the Gurung, Thakali and Manangi people, as well as the sacred place of Hindu-Buddhist pilgrimage of Muktinath. Many villages along the way are more commercial, however, with bakeries, WiFi cafes and German-Bakery style lodges becoming commonplace through decades of tourism.
Which Trek Has Better Infrastructure: Teahouses and Facilities?
Wifi, teahouses, and a variety of food are much more developed on Annapurna than on the more basic lodges on Manaslu.
In decades of popularity, Annapurna has established a strong network of teahouses, for hot showers, diverse menus (pizza, pasta, bakery goods), and good wifi in many villages and even some road access for replenishment. The accommodations are generally more comfortable.
Manasou’s teahouses are more basic and limited, particularly above Samagaon, with basic rooms, simpler meals (mostly dal bhat and noodle dishes), and unreliable mobile network or wifi. This is one of the things that makes it so remote and authentic, but also a lack of comfort.
How Long Does Each Trek Take?
The duration of Manaslu is 14 to 18 days, and for Annapurna is 12 to 18 days, with shorter durations and vehicle transfers.
Both treks can be customized. Due to the limited area requirements and limited shortcuts, the duration of Manaslu is relatively set. The trek at Annapurna offers more flexibility; trekkers can cut a fair amount of the lower sections between Muktinath and Jomsom with a local jeep or bus, or extend the trek with side hikes such as Tilicho Lake (the highest lake in the world) or the Annapurna Base Camp extension.
Can Beginners Do the Manaslu or Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Annapurna is more suitable for a beginner, while Manaslu is more challenging for trekkers and requires some experience in high elevation trekking.
The infrastructure, the acclimatisation facilities and the number of rescue and resupply points make Annapurna safer for first-time long-distance hikers. The trail also gives you the freedom to set your own pace because there are numerous teahouses along the way.
Manaslu is remote, villages are not built near each other, and a guide is required to trek there, making assistance less available in the event of difficulties. Not so difficult in terms of the grade of the terrain, however, as there is no infrastructure, it is not recommended for inexperienced trekkers, but trekking experience at altitude is strongly advised.
Which Trek Has a Higher and Harder Pass?
The height of Thorong La (5,416m) is actually more than Larkya La (5,160m) on Manaslu. Even though it is higher, many trekkers find Larkya La more challenging than Thorong La as it is a longer, more exposed crossing day, unpredictable weather and fewer facilities nearby to descend in case of emergency. Thorong La remains a higher pass, but has better-established trails and lodges on both sides for faster acclimatization support.
Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Safer Than Annapurna?
The partial road network at Annapurna allows for faster evacuation in an emergency in many parts and more frequent teahouses as shelter in the event of sudden weather changes. Rescue may take longer with Manaslu’s remoteness and restricted area status, and it’s wise always to be equipped with travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage, particularly on the Manaslu treks.
Can You Combine Manaslu and Annapurna Into One Trek?
Manaslu-Tsum Valley-Annapurna is a popular extended route for the more experienced trekkers.
Some trekking itineraries connect the end of the Manaslu Circuit from Dharapani to the Annapurna Circuit trail, so that the trekkers can enjoy both in the same 20-25 day trek. It is a joint trek that demands both Manaslu restricted area permits and Annapurna conservation permits, as well as some serious effort and endurance. Still, it provides an unparalleled mix of Nepal’s central Himalayan areas.
Manaslu vs Annapurna Circuit: Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Factor | Manaslu Circuit Trek | Annapurna Circuit Trek |
| Duration | 14–18 days | 12–18 days |
| Highest pass | Larkya La (5,160m) | Thorong La (5,416m) |
| Permit required | Restricted Area Permit + MCAP + ACAP | ACAP + TIMS |
| Guide required | Mandatory | Optional (recommended) |
| Solo trekking | Allowed but hiring license is mandatory | Allowed |
| Crowd level | Low | Moderate to high |
| Cost | USD 900–2,000 | USD 700–1,300 |
| Infrastructure | Basic teahouses | Well-developed teahouses |
| Best season | Mar–May, Sep–Nov | Mar–May, Sep–Nov |
| Cultural exposure | Tibetan Buddhist, less commercialized | Gurung/Tibetan influenced Buddhism, more commercialized |
| Beginner-friendly | Moderate, prior altitude experience advised | Yes |
| Mobile/WiFi access | Limited | Widely available |
Which Trek Should You Choose: Manaslu or Annapurna Circuit?
Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek if you want:
- Peaceful trail with a wilderness Himalayan experience
- Closer views of an 8,000m peak
- Experience Tibetan-influenced mountain culture
- More remote and untouched natural beauty
Choose the Annapurna Circuit Trek if you want:
- More flexibility in itinerary length and difficulty
- Better infrastructure, food variety, and connectivity
- A beginner-friendlier long-distance Himalayan trek
- The option to add side trips like Tilicho Lake or Poon Hill
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manaslu harder than Annapurna Circuit?
- While the Annapurna pass is slightly higher in elevation, Manaslu is considered more physically challenging, with fewer rest stops, less infrastructure, and a longer day of crossing the pass.
How many days does the Manaslu Circuit Trek take?
- The majority of itineraries are 14-18 days with acclimatisation days and Larkya La Pass crossing.
Do I need a permit for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
You will require an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and you can purchase it in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek open to solo trekkers?
Yes, now trekkers can do solo Manaslu trek but still hiring the licensed guide is compulsory due to the restricted area.
Which trek has better mountain views, Manaslu or Annapurna?
Manaslu provides closer views of a single 8,000m peak and several 7,000 m peaks, and Annapurna has a variety of peaks visible throughout the trek.
Can beginners trek the Annapurna Circuit?
Yes, Annapurna is accessible for trekkers with limited high altitude experience with fitness preparation and acclimatization.
What is the best season for both treks?
The best weather conditions and clear mountain views for both routes are in the spring (March–May) and fall (September–November).
Final Say
No matter whether you choose the world-famous Annapurna Circuit Trek or the currently No matter whether you choose the world-famous Annapurna Circuit Trek or the currently trending Manaslu Circuit Trek, both provide a memorable trekking experience. Each trek has its own speciality. If you are an experienced trekker and have time, you can even combine both treks.
Peaceful Nepal organizes several trekking programs within Nepal. If you are planning to do any of the treks, then contact us through:
- Email: info@peacefulnepal.com, peacefulnepaltreks@gmail.com
- Phone: +9779851150739