Overview & Detailed Route Comparison
Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview
The classic Manaslu Annapurna circuit trek is about 177 km in length and takes about 12-16 days to complete. You start from Machha Khola (930 m) and finish at Dharapani (1,860 m) after crossing Larkya La (5,160 m). Key stops include Jagat (1,340 m), Namrung (2,660 m), Samagaon & Samdo (4,020 m), Bhimthang (3,720 m), and Dharamsala (4,480 m) before the last ascent to Larkya La.
The trails meander through the Budhi Gandaki gorge, which offers close-up glacier and valley views, boasting limited but cozy teahouse lodges— a near solitary trek that encourages individual self-sufficiency.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Overview
The Annapurna circuit trek is roughly 208 –230 km long, it usually takes around 14 –20 days. It starts with a bus trip from Kathmandu to Besisahar (820 m) to trek via Bhulbhule to Chame (2,630 m) and on to Kimchi (3,300 m), and Manang (3,540 m). After aclimitization in Manang the trek continues to Thorong Phedi (4,500 m), then you cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) and descend to make your way to Muktinath (3,800 m) before continuing to Jomsom or Nayapul.
The Annapurna trail includes numerous teahouses, optional diversions in terms of Jeeps/buses, and side trips to places such as Tilicho Lake or Poon Hill, where trekkers can engage with local culture (to some extent) without reverting to normal comforts.
Side-by-Side Route Summary
| Feature | Manaslu Circuit Trek | Annapurna Circuit Trek |
| Distance | ~177 km | ~208–230 km |
| Duration | 12–16 days | 14–20 days |
| Highest Pass | Larkya La (5,160 m) | Thorong La (5,416 m) |
| Permits Required | Restricted Area + Conservation | ACAP + TIMS (phasing out) |
| Accommodation | Limited teahouses | Abundant teahouses |
| Road Sections | None | Optional motorable sectors |
| Remoteness | Very remote | Well-established |
| Side-trip Options | Tsum Valley, Ganesh Himal | Tilicho Lake, Poon Hill |
Cost Breakdown
Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost
Projecting Manaslu circuit trek vs Annapurna circuit trek cost can help you budget:
Permits & Fees
- In Manaslu, the Restricted-Area Permit costs $100/week in the autumn and $70/week in other seasons, while the Conservation Area Permit costs $30 flat.
- Annapurna: ACAP Permit NPR 1,000 + 13 % VAT (≈ US $10–15); TIMS Card NPR 2,000 (≈ US $15–20) for independent trekkers (not necessary if travelling as a guided group).
Guide & Porter
- Manaslu (requirement): Guide US $25–30/day; Porter US $15–20/day.
- Annapurna (option): Guide US $20/day; Porter US $15/day.
Accommodation & Meals
- Rooms US $5–15/night; meals US $5–10 each on both circuits.
Transport
- Kathmandu–trailhead land transport or flight to Lukla (Annapurna only), additional costs US $30–150.
Total Budget Estimate
- Manaslu circuit trek total cost: US $1,000–1,600 (mid-range).
- Annapurna circuit trek total cost: US $800–1,300 (mid-range, as optional road/flight options reduce trekking days).
Difficulty & Fitness Level
When comparing the treks, particularly as your thinking about the Difficulty of Manaslu vs Annapurna Circuit, its best to focus on:
Manaslu Circuit Difficulty
- Strenuous, because of steep ascents, remote conditions, and technical moraine and glacier high up to Larkya La.
- Daily hiking hours for Manaslu were 6–8 hours, and elevation gain grater than 600-800 m/day, for experienced hikers that are acclimatized to the elevation.
Annapurna Circuit Difficulty
- Moderate to challenging. It is a longer distance overall but elevation gain is more gradual, and an acclimatization day in Manang will help to reduce the AMS risk significantly.
- Daily hiking hours were 4-7 hours, elevation gain of 400 m - 1,100 m with suitable training the Annapurna is also a suitable trek for fit beginners.
Fitness training
- cardiovascular conditioning (running, cycling), stair climbing, and more importantly back to back multi-day hikes at altitude with pack weight.
High-Pass Face-Off
Larkya La Pass vs Thorong La Pass
| Feature | Larkya La (Manaslu) | Thorong La (Annapurna) |
| Elevation | 5,160 m | 5,416 m |
| Approach Base | Dharamsala (4,480 m) | Thorong Phedi (4,500 m) |
| Trail Condition | Narrow, rocky moraine | Wider, well-trodden |
| Technical Challenge | High (moraine crossing) | Moderate (steep but firm) |
| Best Start Time | 4–6 AM for firm snow | 2–4 AM pre-sunrise |
| Acclimatization Focus | Two rest days before pass | Single rest day in Manang |
Larkya La's loose moraine and open higher altitude camps will take stronger technical skills and an earlier start, while Thorong La has a much better trail system and is a higher pass but you can get better shelter at lower altitudes.
Scenery & Cultural Highlights
Manaslu's Natural Beauty
- Dramatic Budhi Gandaki gorge, snow-covered peaks, Ganesh Himal views, and beautiful glacial lakes on the way up to the Larkya La.
- Wonderful wild flowers (like rhododendron) bloom in Spring, creating incredible contrast to snow-covered mountains.
Annapurna's Stunning Views
- Massive amphitheatre made up of the highest ridges: Annapurna I - IV (8,091 - 7,525 m); Dhaulagiri (8,167 m); Machhapuchhre (6,993 m).
- Side-trip to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), the highest lake in the world, is a fantastic bonus to an already high and dramatic circuit.
Village Life & Culture
- Manaslu Villages: Gurung & Bhotia cultures; Tsum Valley extension is dotted with ancient monasteries; colorful Mani walls and many prayer flags.
- Annapurna Villages: Thakali hospitality in Chame and Pisang; ethnic heterogeneity in Manang; Muktinath temple as a Hindu pilgrimage site.
Permits, Logistics & Best Season
Permit Requirements
- Manaslu Circuit: To obtain the Restricted Area Permit + Conservation Area Permit you require a minimum group size of ≥2 + registered local guide.
- The Annapurna Circuit requires an ACAP + TIMS Card, with TIMS becoming optional for walking with a guide starting in 2025.
Transportation & Access
- Manaslu: An 8–10 hr driving bus/jEEP from Kathmandu to Soti Khola/Machha Khola; return from Dharapani via the Besisahar road.
- Annapurna: 6–8 hours by bus/Jeep to Besisahar or fly Kathmandu–Pokhara and then bus; an optional flight could be taken from Jomsom–Pokhara on the descent.
Best Trekking Window
- Manaslu: Spring (Mar-May) & Autumn (Sept-Nov) for stable weather, clear skies and blooming rhododendrons.
- Annapurna: Late September–November (peak); March–May (shoulder season) will have fewer trekkers and great views.
Packing & Preparation Tips
Gear Basics:
- Insulated down jacket, waterproof shell, trekking poles, crampons, high altitude/special sleeping bag, water purification,
- Headlamp, first aid kit (with altitude medication), sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen).
Clothing Layers:
- Moisture-wicking base layers, warm fleece mid-layers, breathable shell layers, gaiters.
Footwear:
- Sturdy waterproof boots with ankle support; camp shoes or sandals for lodge evenings.
Training Plan:
- Stair climbing, weighted backpack hiking, aerobic workouts 8–12 weeks prior to trekking.
Hydration and Nutrition:
- Electrolyte mixes, high calorie snacks (nuts, energy bars), avoid alcohol at altitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which trek is more challenging? Manaslu circuit or The Annapurna?
The Manaslu circuit is greatly challenging than the Annapurna circuit. The Manaslu circuit has difficult moraines - especially near the Larkya La Pass - also the trail has less developed infrastructure and fewer facilities. The lack of infrastructure, isolation and technical trail conditions ultimately make Manaslu the more difficult trek for the majority of hikers.
How many days to complete each trek?
Completing the Manaslu Circuit hike successfully takes 12–16 days, including the required acclimatization days. The Annapurna additionally requires 14-20 days in total completion time, depending on hiking speed, optional side trips like Tilicho Lake. The Annapurna has many more options for flexible trip extensions or shortening time due to more available multiple access points for transportation.
What is the permit cost of Manaslu vs Annapurna?
The permits of the Manaslu Circuit is around USD $100-$170 total (with both short-term and long-term), which includes the Restricted Area Permit (most expensive at $100/week peak season, or $75/week off-season), ACAP ($30), and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit ($30). The Annapurna permits cost approx. $35-50 total for both ACAP (NPR 3,000) and the TIMS card (NPR 2,000).
Is Larkya La Pass more difficult than Thorong La Pass?
Yes, Larkya La Pass (5,160m) on the Manaslu Circuit is more technically challenging than Thorong La Pass (5,416m) on Annapurna, even though it is slightly lower. Larkya La uses loose Moraine, potentially snow conditions, and requires 2 acclimatization camps. Thorong La is higher but has better trails and certainly a more consistent footing.
Which trek has better panoramic views?
Annapurna Circuit has larger Himalayan panoramas with several 8,000m peaks, while Manaslu Circuit has more intimate mountain scenery with up close views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), amazing glaciers, and the Ganesh Himal range. In terms of topospatial diversity, both treks transit different landscapes; from sub-tropical forests to the alpine environment.
Is a guide required or is it possible to trek Manaslu alone?
You cannot trek Manaslu solo. The Nepali law requires all Manaslu trekkers to have a registered Nepalese guide and be part of a minimum group of two persons. All permits have to be done through licensed trekking agencies. This law will be enforced strictly at checkpoints (US Permit Fees) along the restricted zone.
Conclusion
Both the Manaslu circuit trek vs Annapurna circuit trek provide lasting memories of trekking in the Himalayas. If you want a remote challenge, cultural richness, and technical moraine crossings, choose Manaslu. Choose Annapurna for panoramic views of 8,000 m peaks, lots of teahouse choices, and flexibility in itinerary.
Ready to weigh up the Manaslu trek vs Annapurna circuit and embark on your dream trip to Nepal?
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