Reasons to Choose Manaslu Trek over Everest Trek

Introduction to Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Everest Base Camp Trek

Manasluand Everest are two different icons of Nepal's majestic Himalayas. Before discussing the reasons to choose the Manaslu Trek over the Everest Trek, let's explore each trek and its introduction. The excursion to the Everest Base Camp, a starting point of the Mount Everest Expedition, is often in a trekker’s mind to reach near the highest peak in the world. The journey to Manaslu Circuit has caught the eyes of many travelers who like to enjoy the raw beauty of the Himalayas and rich cultural experience.

Here is a short introduction to both trekking regions:

Which trek is better, Manaslu Circuit or Everest Base Camp?

Well, after knowing a fair bit of idea of the both treks in the introduction part, you may be thinking about which trek is better for you in terms of experience. Both trekking regions have unique features of their own. Moreover, it depends on what kind of outdoor adventure you are expecting as well.

Mount Everest is a globally famous destination that one wants to climb on the top of it or even trek to the base camp of it. That’s why just because it is the highest peak in the world, almost all nomads want to do 14-Day Everest Base Camp Trek. Navigating through the different Sherpa villages, Monasteries, rivers, farmlands, suspension bridges, landscapes, and many more attractions. However, the most interesting part of this venture is one of the most dangerous airports in the world, Lukla Airport. Starting the journey through this nervy airport, the trek offers stunning views of 8000 meters mountains including Mount Everest.

Talking aboutManaslu Trekking is an off-the-beaten and less crowded trekking trail in Nepal in comparison to Everest Trek. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted trekking trail that passes through Tibetan-influenced villages, gorges, rugged terrains, rushing rivers, etc. This trek is an alternative for those who want to get rid of the huge traffic of trekkers and want to enjoy the solitude venture into the Himalayas. Moreover, it brings the sight of amazing 7000 and 8000 meters of vistas including Mt. Manaslu.

Reasons to do Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal than EBC

Hidden and Untouched

The hidden beauty of the Manaslu Circuit is the most charming aspect of this trek. The Manaslu Trek route goes past lush green woodland, eye-catching waterfalls, high pass, and through the foothills of Mt. Manaslu. Because of the restrictions and lack of huge tourist traffic, the natural beauty of this region remains untouched and virgin.

Off-the-beaten Pathway

Unlike the Everest Base Camp Trek Route, the trekking trail of Manaslu is comparatively less crowded, giving travelers an experience of solitude. Due to lack of the visitors on the pathway of Manaslu, no any natural beauty has been spoiled. Moreover, fewer visitors mean, trekkers can engage more with the locals and connect more with the natural charm.

Unique Tibetan-influenced Village and their culture

Manaslu Region is dominated by different ethnic groups, Nubri in Tsum Valley, Gurung, and Tibetan people. The culture and tradition of the local people in Manaslu are unique and different from the Sherpas in EBC Trek. Locals of the Manaslu region are more influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. Likewise, along the trek several Buddhist Monasteries, Stupas, chorten, and mani walls reflect the heritages of Manaslu.

Striking gorges, Landscapes, and Larkya La Pass at 5106 meters

The beauty of the Manaslu Trek is its diverse terrain, landscapes, and high pass. The variety of the landscapes regularly provides challenges for the nomads. Moreover, the most defining part of this trek is while climbing the Larkya La Pass at 5106 meters. Also, the views of the soaring peaks from the top of the pass are awe-inspiring.

Hike to Manaslu Base Camp

The outing through the route of Manaslu Circuit allows you to Hike Manaslu Base Camp as well. It is a day trip from Sama Gaun as a part of acclimatization for the trekkers. Visitors can get the closest sight of Mt. Manaslu and other mountains from the Manaslu Base Camp.

Suitable for those who are seeking challenging adventure

Well, most of the travelers who have been to EBC said it was challenging and adventurous, and we don’t deny those facts as well. But the encounters that Manaslu Trek brings are different levels because of its rugged terrain, lack of modernization, deep gorges, high pass, suspension bridges, and so on. The other reason why it is a challenging venture is because of its restrictions and lack of tourist traffic.

About Mountain views in Manaslu and Everest

Honestly, the views of the mountains in Everest are slightly ahead of those in the Manaslu Region. You can witness four 8000-meter mountains during the 14-day Everest Base Camp Trek. During the EBC Trek, trekkers can witness Mount Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Makalu, and many more.

During the Manaslu Trek, the mountains are dominated by 7000 meters and solo 8000 meter i.e. Mt. Manaslu. Beyond Mt. Manaslu, visitors can see Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, Ngadi Chuli, Shiringi Himal, Buddha Himal, Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, etc.

Duration of the Manaslu Circuit Trek and EBC Trek

The total duration of the Everest Trek and the Manaslu Trek is somehow similar. It depends on the plan and itinerary you want to prefer. The Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary and Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary can be different in terms of duration and distance.

For the EBC, a well-planned journey will take around 12-14 days to complete. Mostly, the 14-day Everest Base Camp Trek is popular among travelers. On average the route covers 12-15 km daily through the green woodland and steep rocky path.

While embarking on the Manaslu Round Trek, trekkers must have at least 12-15 days on their vacation. The venture covers around 180 km and requires 10-15 KM to walk on average. However, those who want to explore Manaslu deeply take a little bit more time and prefer the 18-day Manaslu Circuit Trek to cover all the beauty of this outing.

The difference between Manaslu Trek cost and EBC Trek cost in 2025, 2026

Generally, the trekking cost of both the treks is determined by itinerary and the number of travelers or group size. Though the meals and the accommodation on the standard package remain similar, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is less costly than Everest Base Camp. It is due to the cost of Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flights, the expertise and popularity of Everest, facilities in the teahouses, and many more factors. Does the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost more than the EBC Trek Cost? Let's find out.

The 14-day Manaslu Trek costs around USD 1399 per person. Meanwhile, the same 14-day Everest Base Camp Trek costsaround USD 1530 per person. As we have mentioned above the cost difference can vary according to the duration, group size, and even the service you choose. Let’s compare the 18-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek which costs around USD 1869 per person to the Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek costs USD 5199 perperson. Both of these trekking packages have their service and duration factor that makes costs more expensive.

FAQs of Manaslu Trek vs Everest Trek

Is trekking to Manaslu harder than the Everest Hike?

Honestly, the Everest Trek is considered harder to hike than Manaslu. However, both trips deliver tricky and challenging difficulties along the trip.

How much does the EBC Trek cost?

The standard EBC Trek cost starts from USD 1399 and reaches up to USD 2299 per person for Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek.

Can I do Manaslu Trek in 12 Days?

Yes, you can 12-day Manaslu Trek if you have very limited time.

Which is the best time to do Manaslu Trekking in Nepal?

The best time to do Manaslu Trekking in Nepal is during the months of Spring and Autumn season. Both season provides excellent opportunities to see the clear mountain views under blue skies in perfect weather conditions.

How much does the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost for 14 Days?

The 14-Days Manaslu Circuit Trek cost starts from USD 1399 per person.

Finally say, which trek to choose, Manaslu or Everest?

Lastly, we are not saying that Everest Base Camp Trek doesn’t offer the best trekking experience. EBC Trek is perfect for those who want to explore more of the 8000-meter peaks and wish to stand tall in front of the highest peak in the world. However, the Manaslu Trek is different from EBC, delivering challenges through the high pass, the Tibetan Border, authentic Tibetan Culture, and the virgin natural beauty of the Himalayas. The choice is yours. To know details about both of these treks feel free to contact us via email or at what’s app +9779851138871. We Overland Trek Nepal are an expert travel team that can deliver your ideal travel plan to the Himalayas at an affordable price.