Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Annapurna Circuit Trek

Overview of Manaslu and Annapurna

Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Annapurna Circuit Trek are two of the major trekking destinations that attract thousands of nomads globally. The raw natural beauty and the diverse cultural experiences of these two trekking are immense. However, each of the treks has distinct attractions to offer. Between these two popular trekking routes in Nepal, Annapurna is open to all kinds of trekkers and Manaslu is a restricted region. This means that trekking to Manaslu requires special permission from the Nepal government, unlike Annapurna.

Manaslu Circuit Trek, located in the north-west of Nepal bounds Nepal’s 8th highest mountain. Though there are several other trekking routes like Manaslu Base Camp Trek, and Tsum Valley Trek, a round trip to Manaslu covers almost all the parts of the region. Adding Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley is a different kind of adventure that offers distinct landscapes, culture, landscapes, and mountains.

Annapurna Circuit Trek, situated in the Central-West of Nepal is circled by some of the highest peaks in the world, Annapurna I, and Dhaulagiri with several others. The whole circuit will cover some of the best treks in Nepal like Tilicho Lake Trek, Jomsom Muktinath Trek, Poon Hill Trek, and Annapurna Base Camp Trek. However, nowadays, trekkers skip these trekking parts and do Short Annapurna Circuit Trek that lasts 10-12 days.

Top Attractions of the Manaslu Trek Nepal

• Off-the-beaten and Less Crowded Trail: Manaslu Circuit Trek is less visited by travelers due to its restrictions and regulations.
• Experience Tibetan Culture: You will find Tibetan culture and lifestyle often along the Manaslu Circuit Trek Route. Also, visit several Tibetan Monasteries like Pungyen Gompa and explore Buddhism.
• Manaslu Conservation Area: Witness a diverse range of flora and fauna inside the conservation area during the trek.
• Hike to Manaslu Base Camp and view the eighth-highest mountain in the World, Mt. Manaslu.
• Larkya La Pass Trek at 5106 meters, is a challenging pass that tests your physical state.

Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trekking

• Popular Trek among the beginners as well as the experienced trekkers.
• Hike to Thorang La Pass at 5416 meters, one of the highest passes in Nepal.
• It is the perfect mix of diverse ethnic groups, cultures, and lifestyles.
• Magical views of several 8000-meter mountains like Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri.
• Opportunity to experience the Hindu and Buddhist Temple, Muktinath at 3800 meters.
• Trek to Tilicho Lake (4950m), one of the Highest Glacial Lakes in the world.

Quick Facts about Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit

Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek more difficult than the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Yes, technically the Manaslu Circuit Trekking is slightly more difficult than the Annapurna Circuit Trekking. The Manaslu Trek route follows the remote trail that leads you to the isolated areas of the Himalayas. You will come across through the rugged trail and terrains along the Manaslu Route. Likewise, even the accommodation facility is very limited in Manaslu in the comparison to Annapurna Region. That’s why logistic facilities are also challenging in Manaslu. Another factor why the Manaslu Circuit Trek is difficult is it lies in Restricted Areas of Nepal. Trekkers must be in a group of more than two and need to obtain a Special Restricted Permit.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance and Duration

The total distance of the Manaslu Circuit trek from Macchekhola, the starting point, to Besishar, the ending point, is around 170 km (this is only the trekking part). Likewise, depending on the starting and ending point of the Manaslu Trek, it takes around 12-15 days to complete. If you take an extra day for acclimatization or do side trips to Manaslu Base Camp, it can take an extra day. However, the 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary would be an ideal option that covers all the side trips and main trails to explore the region.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Distance and Duration

The Annapurna Circuit Trek Distance is approximately 160 KM to 210 KM depending on the starting and the ending point. Due to the access of the direct Jeep direct to Manang, the trekking distance can be shortened. Similarly, even the Muktinath direct bus or jeep to Pokhara helps in shortening the Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary. The average itinerary for this trek would be 12-14 days. However, if you want to explore Tilicho Lake with the itinerary, it will be 15-16 days in duration.

Which pass is difficult to cross, Larkya La Pass or Thorang La Pass?

Larkya La Pass Trek and Thorang La Pass Trek are different routes that lie in Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit respectively. You may be confused about which pass is difficult to cross. Each pass has its features, altitude, and difficulties. In terms of altitude, Thorang La Passis 5416 meters whereas, Larkya La Pass is 5106 meters. Even though Larkya La Pass is a bit lower in elevation than Thorang La Pass, the steep trail and rugged terrain make it difficult to cross Larkya La. Whereas, Thorang La Pass can be challenging due to its high altitude. But if you are an experienced hiker with top physical fitness can do both combined Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek to cross both the passes.

Ideal Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

So, what is the best Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary for you? It all depends on the duration you have, the cost, the level of experience, and so many other factors. Overland Trek Nepal has crafted an itinerary that can be flexible for all kinds of trekkers.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Macche Khola

Day 03: Trek from Macchekhola to Jagat

Day 04: Trek from Jagat to Pewa

Day 05: Trek from Pewa to Namrung

Day 06: Trek from Namrung to Samagaun

Day 07: Acclimatization at Samagaun. Manaslu Base Camp Hike as a Side Trip.

Day 08: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo

Day 09: Trek from Samdo to Dharmashala

Day 10: Trek from Dharmashala to Bhimthang via Larkya La Pass.

Day 11: Trek from Bhimgthang to Tilije

Day 12: Drive from Tilije to Besisahar by Jeep

Day 13: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu

Day 14: Final Departure.

Above mentioned itinerary is carefully designed by our Manaslu Trekking guide considering the proper acclimatization and walking days. Even if you are a beginner and want to take on this adventure can prefer this itinerary. Moreover, the Manaslu Trek Route Map also helps in customizing the preferred itinerary.

Best Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary has several variations and options. It depends on your starting point (Besisahar/Dharapani/Chame) and ending point. Also, whether you want to include side trips like Tilicho Lake, Poon Hill, ABC Trek, and so on. However, with an experience of what our clients are looking for to date, we have designed an itinerary that suits all kinds of travelers.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 02: Drive to Besisahar from Kathmandu

Day 03: Drive from Besisahar to Chame

Day 04: Trek from Chame to Pisang.

Day 05: Trek from Pisang to Manang

Day 06: Acclimatization in Manang.

Day 07: Trek from Manang to Ledar.

Day 08: Trek from Ledar to Throang La Phedi

Day 09: Trek from Thorang Phedi to Muktinath via Larkya La Pass.

Day 10: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom.

Day 11: Drive from Jomsom to Tattopani.

Day 12: Drive from Tatto Pani to Pokhara

Day 13: Explore Pokhara

Day 14: Drive back to Kathmandu

Day 15: Departure

Comparison of Accommodation in Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit

Generally, both of the treks are like the Teahouse Trek in Nepal. You can’t expect luxury accommodations and amenities in high altitude trekking of Nepal. However, between the Manaslu Trekking Route and the Annapurna Circuit Trekking Route, there are a few differences. The type of accommodation is almost similar; however, the availability and amenities can be different. Manaslu lies in the very remote Himalayas where even access to transport is very rare. Therefore, the facilities and the amenities are difficult to provide. In contrast, in Annapurna Circuit, transport access reaches Manang and Jomsom Muktinath. The teahouses are well maintained with basic facilities.

Types of Permits Required for Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit

For the Annapurna Circuit, you will need only an Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit Card. While, for Manaslu, a Restricted Permit Card, Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit are necessary. You may think why ACAP is necessary for Manalsu. It is because the ending point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is Annapurna, so you must obtain ACAP as well. The ACAP and MCAP Permit costs USD 25 per person each. Whereas the Manaslu Restricted Permit Card costs USD 75 per person from December to August & USD 10 per person for additional days. Likewise, from September to November, it costs USD 100 per person, and USD 15 for additional days.

Manaslu Circuit Trek cost vs Annapurna Circuit Trek cost, which is expensive?

Before determining the cost of these two popular treks in Nepal, you need to understand a few factors of the price. The transportation, itinerary, permit cards, the trekking guide cost in Nepal, porters, and other logistic arrangements should be calculated. The Manaslu Circuit Trek cost is a bit higher than the Annapurna Circuit Trek cost. This is due to the restricted permit card costs and the underdeveloped logistic facilities in Manaslu. The Manaslu Circuit Trek price starts from USD 1499 to USD 1899 per person varying on the group size and Itinerary. On the other hand, Annapurna Circuit Trek costs vary from USD 1099 per person to USD 1599 per person with the group size and itinerary factors.

General FAQs of Manaslu and Annapurna Trek

Can I do the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek together?

Yes, you can do both the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek together.

Is Manaslu Circuit Trekking harder than the Annapurna?

Yes, trekking to the Manaslu Circuit is harder to some extent in the comparison to Annapurna Circuit due to its remoteness.

Which trek is better, the Manaslu Circuit or the Annapurna Circuit?

It depends on the preference of the trekkers. For those who are seeking a remote and less-crowded trek then Manaslu Circuit is better. And those who are looking for diverse landscapes, and mountains with less difficulty can do Annapurna Circuit.

When is the best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek is March to May and September to December.

Lastly, which trek to choose, Manaslu or Annapurna?

Well, choosing between Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Annapurna Circuit Trek depends on your preference, duration, physical fitness, and experience. If you are looking for a challenging remote and less crowded trail, then better to choose Manaslu Trek. However, if you seek a well-maintained trail and easy accessibility from cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, then Annapurna Circuit would be an ideal choice. Nevertheless, both treks reward you with stunning mountain views, vibrant local culture, vegetation, difficulties, and landscapes.

If you are ready to take on one of these trekking adventures, feel free to contact us via email or WhatsApp at +9779851138871.