30th Dec, 2024

Annapurna Circuit Vs Manaslu Circuit: Which Trek is Right for You?

- Magnificent Himalayan Treks

Overview of Manaslu Circuit trek Nepal

Manaslu Circuit Trek covers 14-18 days offering the trekkers fewer crowds, untouched villages , diversified ethnicities . It serves you the raw trekking experience with the panoramic views of Mt. Manaslu.

 If you are looking for a wilder and adventurous route, remote in nature Manaslu is considered as one of the most challenging routes.

This circuit encircles the 8th highest peak i.e Mt. Manaslu at 8163 meters. Likewise, it covers 177 kilometers approximately. 

You will start your journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola passing through Soti Khola.

The lush forests, subtropical lowlands, Gurung communities and the Tibetan-influenced villages that passes making a way towards Larkya La Pass(5106 meters) makes your adventure more.

You will also see the panoramic views of Manaslu route, Himlung and Annapurna ranges. You not only will enjoy the beauty of this circuit but also will get to explore the rich cultural experiences and works as cultural immersion.

Manaslu Conservation Area here in this region focus on the ecological conservation providing more serene substitute for more crowded hiking trails in Nepal.

Overview of Annapurna Circuit Trek

The journey to this circuit takes 12 to 21 days . The highest point on Annapurna Circuit is Throng La Pass (5,4,16 meters). You will enjoy the views of mountainous landscapes like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Manaslu.

It encloses the Annapurna Massif and offers you the notable trekking routes. You will love to witness the beauty of the circuit from subtropical forests to Alpine Meadows and arid mountain deserts that ranges between 160 to 230 kilometers.

Enriched in cultural diversity, you will be mesmerized by the hospitality you get by Gurung, Thakali and Tibetan-influenced community.

Annapurna Conversation Area here is one of the protected region. Infact it’s one of the largest protected region/conservation areas amongst other regions in the Annapurna Circuit. This are have to offer you the diverse ecosystem and captivating adventure.

Manaslu Vs Annapurna Circuit Trek Summary Table

This is just a list . Let’s dig into more below, shall we?

Scenic Highlights Of Annapurna Circuit

Let us see what the Annapurna Circuit from subtropical forest to the high-altitude desert has to offer you:

• You will witness the clear captivating views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Manaslu Ranges.
• Manang Valley is a high-altitude valley surrounded by towering peaks, alpine meadows and glaciers.
• The world’s deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki  Gorge with dramatic cliffs surrounded by Dhaulagiri and Annapurna will offer you immense beauty.
• The Marshyangdi River Valley gives you the most stunning view of the landscapes like the lush forests, terraced fields, waterfalls at the lower portion of the Trek at Annapurna Circuit.
• Annapurna Circuit trek has a viewpoint for sunrise from Poonhill where you can enjoy the majestic mountains.
• Muktinath Temple, the most famous and a sacred Pilgrimage spot for Hindus and Buddhist in the Mustang Region has a lot to offer.
• More Precisely, Tilicho Lake( 4,919 m) is one of the highest lake and much of a greater sight to see.

Scenic Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Lets see what the Manaslu Circuit Nepal in the Nepal’s most remote and dramatic landscapes has to offer you:

• The Manaslu Base Camp is a viewpoint at the foot of Mount Manaslu (8,163m) . This will give you the mesmerizing views of glaciers and towering peaks.
• The highest point of this Himalayan trekking is Larkya La Pass (5,106m)  that highlights the panoramic mountain views of Manaslu, Cheo Himal, Himlung, and Annapurna II.
• The Tibetan-influenced remote villages will offer you the best hospitality.
• Samagaon and Samdo are the two destinations where you will be enjoy  the traditional architecture surrounded by majestic Himalayan backdrop.
• Syangla village offers a perfect 360-degree view of majestic mountains including Mount Manaslu, Himal Chuli, and Ngadi Chuli.
• Budhi Gandaki River George, glacial valleys deep and narrow  shows you the beautiful waterfalls, suspension bridges and the steep cliffs from this Region.

Broadly speaking, the glacial viewpoint, Pungyen Glacier near Samagaon and the serene glacial lake with clear blue waters reflecting the surrounding peaks will make every ounce of your journey worth it.

Cultural Experiences:

Annapurna Circuit

The cultural stops like Manang , Muktinath and Lower Mustang is a fine destination to explore. Likewise, the traditional Gurung and Thakali Magar Villages like Ghandruk and Tadapani will treat you with great hospitality. You can learn about their customs, livelihood and traditional crafts.

Annapurna Circuit welcomes you with the Tibetan culture. You will also see the ancient Braga Monastery and several Buddhist monasteries that enlights you with Buddhist cultural practices.

The architecture in this circuit is stunning. You will see the stone houses, the terraced fields and intricate woodwork and wonder how talented are the artists to carve such amazing traditional framework. 

Muktinath temple, a place where thousands of pilgrims visit with the belief of fulfilling their desires is a perfect destination to observe and get delve inside the spiritual thoughts .

It is the matter of time to which month you select to explore this Annapurna  Circuit.

Avoid, winter and Monsoon as it is extreme cold and you may get stuck on different disasters. Choose Spring and Autumn. If you visit in this month you can have fun and celebrate Hindu, Dashain and Tihar.

You can play “Deusi and Bhailo” and get the most unique experience.

Annapurna circuit trek takes you to the allays and get you amazing experience. If you are looking for the Annapurna circuit Trek itinerary and Annapurna circuit trek cost do tab on Annapurna Itinerary.

You will get to see not just the tropical evergreen lush green forests or the trekking routes on Annapurna  but also will be amazed to witness the ethnic diversity, cultural heritages and the unique blend of cultural experiences.

Manaslu Circuit

You can enjoy the cultural tapestry of Nepal’s remote highlands in the Gurung Villages such Philim.

Samagaon and Samdo are the perfect spot to visit the Tibetan-influenced communities with rich culture . You can explore the different  lifestyles of people and architecture including their local customs.

Visit Samagaon, Kargyu Chholiinang Monastery in Lho . Here you can watch the Tibetan Buddhist rituals, art and their monastic life.

The stone houses, prayer flags and Chortens( Stupas) promotes Buddhist heritages and their daily lifestyles in Manaslu Circuit trek.

You will be amazed to witness the farming methods, traditional crafts and the role of yaks herding like a daily ritual. I assure you, you will love them.

Pungyan Gompa is a place where you can perform sacred ceremonies and please the mountain deities and save communities on Manaslu.

Difficulty and Challenges

Annapurna Circuit

Annapurna Circuit Trek is a very demanded trek in todays context. It involves the daily hikes of almost 5-8 hours covering the distance of 160-230 m. However, the journey is not easy as one might think of.

The ascents and descents have challenging terrain. The trails are steep and dangerous.

Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) at above 3000 meters is the highest point in the trek.

It is necessary to be mentally and physically prepared.

You might be familiar with the risk of Altitude Sickness(AMS). At high altitude not only you might get caught with altitude sickness but also the freezing temperature on your journey exhausting with low level of oxygen.

There are several stops like Chame, Thorong La Pass . You might be extra cautious here because the landslides and the avalanche does no justice to the trekkers.

Likewise, the changing climatic conditions and the hazardous storms and heavy snowfall at higher altitudes will make you stunned unable to move further. Risky, isn’t it.

Imagine you are at the way to the trek but got caught on a problem. You will just get fewer villages and low, limited emergency services except Manang for immediate treatment.

Even if you are lucky enough to get the medical support , you will get expensive supplies. Also, the teahouses available possess limited facilities creating a barrier for accommodation.

Solutions 

Your mental stability is most important so is your physical ability during any high-altitude trekking.

If you don’t have way too much time and are trying to shorten your acclimatization days. Don’t do it. Travel when you have no boundaries for number of days.

If you skip or shorten your days and not get enough rest, you might tend to lead yourself to AMS.

Trek during the season of Spring( March to May) and Autumn( October to November). You can see the stunning Himalayan scenery with lush Rhododendron forests .

Avoid monsoon and winter months .There are chances you might get encounter heavy rainfall, snow, unclear vision and landslides. Get a quick research on weather conditions through the trek. 

Manaslu Circuit

Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) is the highest spot  on the Manaslu Region . It has a very dangerous routes and there are various factors that can create hazards on the routes.

One of them is Altitude Sickness (AMS).

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and isolated trek with fewer villages , teahouses and emergency services . If you compare it with Annapurna Circuit, this route is less travelled and more has more diverse landscapes.

It takes 6-8 hours of walking on challenging trails. 

The weather conditions on Manaslu circuit keeps changing like Annapurna Circuit.As it is a restricted area, incase of accommodation the food varieties keeps on decreasing as you go up higher.

Don't forget to take your Special Permits and ACAP requiring advance planning and coordination with the available trekking agency.

The trekking seasons are the same to Annapurna Circuit Trek i.e. Autumn( September to November) and Spring( March to May).

In the case of accommodation, the food varieties decrease with increasing altitude.

As the Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area, you need Special permits and ACAP requiring advance planning and coordination with the trekking agency.

It is best to not trek during Monsoon(June to August).

The Manaslu circuit Trek typically lasts 14 to 18 days make sure you are in a good physical preparation for these treks and boost your  stamina enduring the trails of this long journey.

Required Permits for Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit

Annapurna Circuit Trek

You require TIMS Card ( Trekker’s Information Management System)  to trek for Annapurna Circuit. This costs $10 or $20. Compared to other permits it definitely is cheaper.

This trek is also not possible without Annapurna Conservation Area Permit costing $30 USD.The total cost reaches $50 USD together if you want to trek without a guide.

Whatsoever, if you want your trek to be comfortable and be managed by some licensed trekking agencies, it will cost you $40 USD.The trekkers can easily get the permits in both Kathmandu and Pokhara.

You can get the permits at several checkpoints too but the price here are higher and definitely more compared to the original price.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

You need ACAP permit and Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Project Permit.

The cost for MCAP is NPR 3000( about $25 USD).

Likewise, Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) is mandatory for Manaslu region as it is a restricted area.

The costs varies based on the season.

If you trek to Manaslu Circuit on September- November, you will have to pay USD 100 for the first 7 days then USD 15 per additional day.

Likewise, if you trek December-August you will be charged USD 75 for the first 7 days, then USD 10 per additional day.

Broadly speaking, one needs to pay $150 USD for a Manaslu Trek of 14 days.If you want to extend the trek toward Tsum Valley the cost is 200 USD per person for necessary Permits.

Guides are mandatory for your safety. For this, extra charges for your guide and your trekking company are unavoidable.

This might extend to $35 USD per day jointly.

Accessibility and Logistics

Annapurna Circuit

Travel by bus or take a private jeep from Kathmandu. This adventurous journey starts from Beshi Sahar and ends at Jomsom or Pokhara.

You will find multiple teahouses ,guest houses that will provide you accommodation and serves you as per your requirement.

I hope you make sure you make bookings in advance as the trek is way too crowded during the peak season.

 Carry Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP) and TIMS card before starting the trek. Different trekking agencies arrange these permits of are arranged from Kathmandu.

The changing weather might create barrier on  your journey , so don’t forget to carry equipment you need.

You don't need a guide or a porter for this trek and get your own amazing experience exploring Annapurna Circuit.

Manaslu Circuit

Start your journey from Machha Khola passing through Soti Khola. You can go by bus or take a private jeep from Kathmandu.

If you go by local bus, it takes 8-9 hours and takes 7 hours by Private Jeep.

This journey involves a drive to Arughat, followed by a local transport to Machha Khola.

You can find accommodations along the route but same as Annapurna Circuit make sure you make advance booking at peak seasons.

Make sure you get Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit through the registered trekking agency in Kathmandu.

Don't forget to take a licensed guide as it it mandatory for Manaslu. Be prepared mentally and  physically for remote conditions on the Manaslu circuit Trek.

Cost and Budget of Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek

Cost of Annapurna Circuit

You will find the permits to Annapurna Circuit around $40 USD. Likewise, the basic cost for this adventurous journey is $700 to $1200 USD.The transportation fare will cost you $10 to $20 USD if you go by bus from Besi Sahar.

Your accommodation will cost you almost $5 to $15 per night. Similarly, you can get your meals around $15 to $30 USD.

If you are looking for a guide, their charges are relying around $25 to $35 and $15 to $25 USD for porter services.

Broadly Speaking if you are looking for luxury trek with better accommodation services you will be charged upto $1800 to $2500 USD or more.

However, you might get limited services when you are in the High Camp.

Cost of Manaslu Circuit

The cost of Manaslu Circuit trek is higher than that of Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted area that requires special permits and one needs a guide compulsorily on their way.

Expect to spend around $1000 to $1500 for a basic trek to Manaslu.

You will be charged $70 for the restricted area and $30 for ACAP.

Likewise, for transportation $10 to $20 by bus. This is the journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. 

Your accommodation costs $5 to $20 USD per night and meals around $20 to $40 USD per day.

The guide fare is charged $25 to $35 USD per day and charge for porters is $15 to $25 USD per day.

However, if you are thinking for luxurious trek with high accommodation services on Manaslu, this trek might not be for you.

Essentials Required on Annapurna Region And Manaslu Region

Clothing:

• Fleece Jacket(1)

• Down Jacket/ Gore-Tex Jacket

• Hiking Pants( Two Pairs)

• Four to Five T-shirts

• Windproof Trousers

• One/ Two pairs of base layers

• Hiking socks( 3/4  pairs)

• Thicker socks(couple of pairs)

• Raincoat or combination of jacket/trousers

• Gloves(two pairs)

• Waterproof undergarments

Footwear:

• Flip-flops / one pair of sneakers( for leisure time)

• Trekking boots( ankle supportive and water resistance)

Other Materials

The other necessary materials that you need to carry are enlisted below:

Sunglass, sunscreen, lip balm, multi-purpose soap, first aid kit, sunhat, luggage cover, headlamp, Swiss army camp( not mandatory), extra batteries, micro crampons,, trekking poles and gaiter, water bottles/camel bag, Thermos,, shampoo, towel, whistle wipes, mosquito spray( not mandatory),, earplugs, reading books, playing items like chess/cards.

Carry a sleeping bag rated 15 to 20 degrees Celsius for extreme temperatures. It depends on the routes and seasons.

Bag pack (60 liters)

Daypack (25 to 30 liter)

Note: The packing lists above are based on AI and would be best to start packing on recommendations of the trekking guides or agencies for accuracy.

Choosing the Right Trek: Annapurna Circuit or Manaslu Circuit?

If you are looking for a quieter and want to explore the scenery with fewer crowds than there is no another option better for you than Manaslu. This trek is quite challenging compared to Annapurna Circuit.

Manaslu circuit trek offers you the best altitude to reach, best trekking trails, best view of majestic mountains. 

On the other side, if you are just looking for unforgettable experiences with more acquired facilities/accommodations than choosing Annapurna Circuit Trek is the best fit for you.

The roads here are more advanced and it is one of the most popular treks these days for national and international trekkers.

Go and explore the beautiful green forests, mountain views, cultural tapestries and make your journey amazing with Annapurna Range.

Broadly speaking, your trekking depends upon the preference of your trek. No matter you choose Annapurna Circuit or Manaslu circuit you are gonna get the best experience anyway!

Which trek is cheaper? Annapurna or Manaslu Trek

Manaslu Circuit trek is offers you a raw trekking experience and unexplored places . This is a restricted area which requires trekking guides .

The experienced trekking guides helps you to navigate the trekking routes and make you safe and comfy. It requires like Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Project( MCAP).

Annapurna Circuit is different. This is easier with accommodations as you require, more teahouses on routes.

It requires permits like Trekker’s Information Management System(TIMS), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.

Comparing both the treks, Annapurna Circuit Trek is cheaper and easier. Take the popular trekking routes. Guides are not mandatory in this trek and does not require restricted permits like Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Manaslu Circuit Vs Annapurna Circuit: Table Form

Lets see the key differences for the two treks:

"Manaslu Circuit vs Annapurna: Why the Manaslu Trek is the Tougher Adventure"

If you have read the above blogs, definitely you have found out which is under your preference. However , let me take you to more valid reasons why people choose less Manaslu Circuit to trek than Annapurna Trek.

Higher the altitudes , tougher the trek. The Larkya La Pass is a difficult route to explore.

Manaslu is a less travelled , less developed with fewer accommodations making the logistics more challenging.This trek requires a special trekking permits and trekking guide. This adds more complexity and more expensive.

It has more strenuous trekking days compared to Annapurna Circuit.

You will find this circuit less trafficked i.e. fewer resources and support making it more risky The ascents here are steeper and more rugged trails increases the physical demand.

The more difficult barrier that trekking in Manaslu is the weather variability. The climate keeps on changing making the roads difficult to navigate.

If you are thinking of more road access with best accommodations, this Manaslu circuit is definitely not for you. The river crossings and high-altitude passes requires careful navigation. Be extra cautious.

The higher elevation and remote environment demand more time for acclimatization and recovery.

Major Highlights to explore while in Annapurna Region and Manaslu Region

Treks are not just about walking a long way with a stick on your hand and climbing uphill. It’s mostly about creating, exploring and picturing the beauty with your eye lens and blushing widely when you remember it on your future. 

While in Annapurna Circuit don’t skip the following places:

Poon Hill

Annapurna Base Camp

Muktinath Temple

Ghorepani

Manang

Tilicho Lake

Pokhara

While in Manaslu Region don’t forget the following places:

Manaslu Base Camp

Larkya La Pass

Sama Gaon

Buddhi Gandaki River

Tsum Valley

Samdo

Lho

Our Recommendations for alternative treks 

The beauty of the trek will leave you overwhelmed.

 If you are intending to explore Nepal for a month on your 30-day tourist visa. Our agency strongly recommends you to explore their treks:

• Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Annapurna Base camp

• Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

• Nar Phu Valley Trek

• Khopra Danda Trek

• Mohare Danda Trek

• Mardi Himal trek

• Upper Mustang Trek

On exploring the Treks towards Mount Manaslu ,we would definitely suggest you

• Manaslu  Tsum Valley Trek

• Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Manaslu Circuit Upper Route

• Manaslu Circuit Alternative Route

• Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek

Personal view towards Annapurna Circuit Trek Vs Manaslu Circuit trek

There are numerous trekking destinations nationally and globally. However, my choice would definitely be Manaslu Circuit Trek . It might be risky, challenging or dangerous. No matter how the trekking routes or how expensive it is, the crowed or the popular destination is not for me.

I will choose Manaslu Circuit Trek.

But if you want to trek on a comfortable way with fine accommodations and lesser days you can definitely choose Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Still Curious?

If the dilemma is driving you crazy , the above destinations or the recommended trek might be of use for you.

Conclusion

Walking the Annapurna and Manaslu trails gives you two distinct vibes.

Manaslu throws you into a rugged less-traveled adventure. You'll find fewer people and get a deep dive into local ways of life. It stands in contrast to the Annapurna Circuit which is famous, comes with easy-to-find comforts, and has a mix of landscapes.

Hit the Annapurna trail if you're after a walk with handy facilities and different views. The fellow trekkers however find the way to enjoy no matter how difficult the routes are.

Especially those chasing a challenging hike full of cultural insights and peace, the Manaslu trek is the way to go.

Still, you gotta pick your trek based on how fit you are and what you wanna experience.