The Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek are two of the most adventurous trekking routes Nepal has to offer. Being the land of the Himalayas, it has majestic mountains that extend from the east all the way to the west of the Himalayan region of Nepal.
While Mount Everest is the tallest peak in the world, the Himalayan range also houses seven other mountains over 8000 meters. And two of the other popular peaks include Mount Manaslu and Mount Annapurna I, which are 8,163 meters and 8,091 meters tall, making them the eighth and tenth tallest peaks in the world, respectively.
So, the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek not only offer staggeringly beautiful views of the mountains but also allow you to connect with nature and the local cultures. Trekking through the hilly trails reaching up to the Himalayan region, where you can behold some of the tallest peaks in the world, is an opportunity one should not miss.
Both treks have some similarities but also possess the qualities that make the experience very unique to the trekkers. That being said, choosing the right trek falls under great importance and determines how your entire trekking experience will be. So, on this blog, there will be informative guides that will help you choose between the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Before we begin the debate of which one is better, let’s first learn about each trekking route individually. And to be clear, one is not necessarily better than the other; it’s just a matter of preference and who knows, both will entice you equally and make swift changes in your trekking plans?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek officially opened to trekkers in 1992 and in the span of three decades, the trekking route has become a popular choice. Located in the west of Kathmandu Valley, the Manaslu Circuit encompasses the area within the Manaslu region and the Tibet border. And due to its remoteness and delicate biodiversity and landscapes, it has been categorized as a restricted area.
The trail passes through picturesque villages influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, leading to staggering elevations where you can view the stunning mountain peaks, including Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth tallest peak. Being a restricted area, the Manaslu circuit is very rich in ecological biodiversity and a hotspot for rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. While the trail is often the chosen route, you can also add a rustic village known as Tsum Valley with the Manaslu Circuit.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek’s starting point is Machha Khola or Soti Khola, depending on your itinerary, and its ending point is at Dharapani, which actually falls in the Annapurna region. The entire trail falls under the Manaslu Conservation Area, which means conservation of the flora and fauna is carried out.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is located in the central part of Nepal that encircles the entire Annapurna mountain range, including Annapurna I (8,091 meters), which is the tenth-highest mountain in the world. Officially opened in 1977, the Annapurna Circuit is one of the oldest trekking trails in Nepal; hence, it is extremely popular among trekkers.
The Annapurna region offers a diverse trail that you can do as per your time, schedule, and budget. The trail takes you from the low alpine rhododendron forests that will be in full bloom during spring to the high elevations from where you can not only see the Annapurna Massifs but also the Manaslu and Dhaulagiri massifs as well.
The trekking route also takes you through small, quaint villages that give you a glimpse of local life and their culture that is heavily integrated with nature and Tibetan Buddhism. The landscape changes from the beginning point of the trek, which is Besi Sahar and takes you to the famous Manang village across the highest pass known as Thorong La and descending on to the sacred temple of Muktinath in Mustang on the other side.
The trek, guided by the Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki rivers, offers one of the best experiences in terms of outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, and, of course, the stupendous views of the Himalayan range.
Weather and temperature information are vital for doing both the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit treks. Since both trekking routes are a prominent part of the mountain climate, the weather can be very unpredictable, and the temperature can be very cold.
The weather and temperature during the trek depend on the elevation gain and, most of all, the seasons. Not only that but the differences also should be considered as per microclimate and daytime and nighttime. The temperature depending on the four seasons is shown in the table below
|
Season |
Months |
Manaslu Circuit Trek (Approximate) | Annapurna Circuit Trek (Approximate) |
|
Spring |
Mar–May |
Daytime: 5-20°C Nighttime: -7-5°C |
Daytime: 10-20°C Nighttime: -5-5°C |
| Summer | Jun-Aug |
Daytime: 10-25°C Nighttime: 0-15°C |
Daytime: 15-25°C Nighttime: 3-15°C |
| Autumn | Sept-Nov |
Daytime: 5-18°C Nighttime: -5-6°C |
Daytime: 10-20°C Nighttime: -5-5°C |
| Winter | Dec-Feb |
Daytime: -5-12°C Nighttime: -20--5°C |
Daytime: -1-12°C Nighttime: -14-0°C |
The average duration of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is 13-18 days, excluding the arrival and departure in Kathmandu. While the Annapurna Circuit Trek takes 12-22 days, depending on how you plan out your itinerary. Both routes now have access to transportation, allowing trekkers to drive to certain parts before beginning the hike. People who prefer the old route can still follow the old itinerary, whereas those who do not have as much time and want to take a few days out can opt for a vehicle to cover the distance in a matter of hours.
The total distance of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is approximately 177 kilometers. And the total distance of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is 160 to 230 kilometers, depending on your trek starting point. For both treks, you will walk at least 5-7 hours a day on average, sometimes as long as 9 hours.
The highest altitude during the Manaslu Circuit Trek is approximately 5,160 meters (16,952 feet), which is the elevation of Larkya La Pass. Likewise, the highest altitude during the Annapurna Circuit Trek is Thorong La Pass, at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). Among the two passes, Thorong La is known as one of the highest passes in the world. Therefore, for both treks, proper acclimatization is very crucial for a comfortable and successful trek. Continuing the trek without proper acclimatization, even with bad symptoms of altitude sickness, can be very dangerous. It is better to descend if you are suffering from a bad case of altitude sickness, as it can get to a life-threatening point. Thus, precaution is better than cure.
The difficulty of the Manaslu and the Annapurna Circuit treks is definitely on a similar scale but the Manaslu Circuit trek is known to be a bit more challenging in comparison. While both are a bit challenging in their own right, with the right preparation and training, even a beginner trekker can successfully complete the trek.
Here’s what makes both the treks difficult:
There is a certain level of comfort you have to sacrifice when trekking to the mountains, no matter which destination it is. Both the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek. But with the Annapurna Circuit trekking trail being one of the oldest and most established, it offers a lot more facilities regarding food and accommodation compared to the Manaslu trekking trail.
Since the trails of the Manaslu Circuit are rugged and the villages are more isolated, there are not many accommodation options, with a limited number of teahouses to choose from. Both routes do offer local Nepalese food such as dal bhat, thukpa, momo, chowmein, etc., while the Western food might be limited, especially in the Manaslu Circuit trail.
The accommodation on both trails has tea houses that provide rooms with twin beds and basic facilities of a common bathroom and dining. As the Annapurna Circuit is more well established, they provide more facilities such as internet, hot showers, attached bathrooms, etc. The lower region of both trekking trails will have better facilities compared to higher elevations.
There are many factors that contribute to making a destination costly. So, when we compare the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the following factors should be taken into account, such as permit cost, transportation cost, accommodation cost, food cost, and miscellaneous cost.
The permit for the Manaslu Circuit Trek costs more because it is a restricted area. Depending on your route and itinerary, you will not only require the restricted area permit for the Manaslu Circuit but also the ACAP permit, which in total can cost up to 100 USD. For the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will need an ACAP permit and a TIMS card, which in total will be around 40 USD.
The transportation cost for both the Annapurna and Manaslu Circuits costs about 10-20 USD per person, while accommodation is in the range of 5-15 USD per day for Annapurna and 10-20 USD for the Manaslu Circuit.
For food per day, the Manaslu Circuit generally can be covered with 20-40 USD and 15-30 USD for the Annapurna Circuit. However, the guide and porter charge stays the same as the government has listed 30-35 USD and 25-30 USD, respectively, excluding tips.
One of the main contributing factors to the budget is that you can deduct some days on the Annapurna Circuit Trek and opt for a vehicle. That being said, the total cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek ranges from 700 USD to 1200 USD and the Manaslu Circuit ranges from 1000 USD to 1500 USD. And taking all the information above in regard, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is comparatively more expensive than the Annapurna Circuit Trek but finding a middle-ground price for both treks is possible.
Both trekking destinations guarantee some of the best mountain views you could possibly get. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is part of the Manaslu Conservation Area, whereas the Annapurna Circuit Trek is part of the Annapurna Conservation Area. Both are under protected areas, which means the flora and fauna are part of conservation where the local communities actively take part in the activity.
The rough terrain, alpine forests filled with rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, and the Manaslu Circuit Trek offer breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu itself, Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, Shringi Himal, Larkya Peak, and Annapurna II. These views are especially stunning from the top of Larkya La Pass. The villages along the trail have unique architecture that reflects the lives of locals, along with their beliefs and traditions are something exclusive to this trail. Being a restricted area with limited road access, the route is still untouched by outside influence and is presented in its very authentic self. Villages like Samagaun, Samdo, and Tsum Valley look beautiful against the backdrop of the mighty Himalayas.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is very popular to begin with, so the route has many places popular among trekkers, such as Manang village, Muktinath temple, Jomsom village, Thorong La Pass, and so on. While the mountains can be seen from the start of the trek, to see the entire mountain range of Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I, II, III, and IV), Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Lamjung Himal, Pisang Peak, Annapurna South, Himchuli, Neelgiri, and Gangapurna, you need to summit the Thorong La Pass.
Both of the trekking routes will take you deep into the cultural experience of the local people residing along the trail. But the Manaslu Circuit being less impacted and open to outside influence gives you the opportunity to experience such cultural interaction with religious aspects and traditional practices with more authenticity than the trails of the Annapurna Circuit.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the more popular routes in Nepal and sees a lot of trekkers annually, especially during the peak season of spring and autumn. While the locals have maintained their cultures and traditions throughout the long decades of tourism influence, the interaction can sometimes be a bit catered towards the foreigners.
The Manaslu Circuit is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, and the communities are full of Gurungs, Tamangs, and Nurbis, along with Tsum people. Their traditions and cultural practices, as well as their way of living, are heavily influenced by Buddhism. From the architectural construct of their lived home to the monasteries you find along the way, the Manaslu Circuit presents the exact reflection of the people and culture of the mountains.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a bit more diverse so to speak. Despite predominantly being influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, much like Manaslu, it also presents a few glimpses of Hinduism. Along the trails of the Annapurna Circuit, people of ethnicities such as Gurungs, Magars, Thakalis, Newars, Chhetris, and Brahmans can be found to be living. But the first three ethnicities are the major ones.
While most of the trails heavily reflect Buddhism, some parts, such as Muktinath Temple and Kaagbeni, show the secularity of both Hinduism and Buddhism. These two specific destinations see devotees from both religions visit from all around the world. Thus, the Annapurna Circuit Trek definitely presents a diverse experience in terms of the culture, religion, and traditions of the communities.
The best time to do both the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the same as for any other trekking destination in Nepal, which is spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September, October, and November). Spring and autumn are considered the best times to trek in Nepal, whether it be Manaslu, Annapurna, or even Everest.
Spring and autumn have the best climate, clear weather, and, of course, moderate temperatures to accommodate better during the trek. While the weather in the mountains is unpredictable no matter which season you choose, spring and autumn have more chances of having clear weather. And even among the two seasons, autumn is known to be the absolute best time to do the trek to the Himalayas.
The summer season, which is also the monsoon season, can be a bit risky, especially for the Manaslu circuit trek, due to the rain. Most of the Annapurna Circuit Trek will be good for trekking as it falls under the shaded zone, which is rarely impacted by rain. The real issue for both treks will be the transportation, as most parts of Nepal get heavy rain, which causes landslides, and that can be a safety issue. But with the right precautions, a monsoon trek can be an amazing experience for both destinations.
Winter, however, as most people might think, not being a good time, is the exact opposite. Despite the bone-chilling cold, the weather will be extreme, and the views spectacular! Pack some good gear to keep you warm, and then you’re all set to enjoy a snowy trek to the Manaslu range or the Annapurna range.
The packing list for both treks is essentially the same. Despite the fact that the Manaslu Circuit and the Annapurna Circuit are two very different destinations, they are very similar when it comes to the weather and climate. Depending on the season you are traveling, you need to make a packing list accordingly. Making a packing checklist is the best way to not forget important gear and equipment when you finally embark on the trek. You can do last-minute shopping in Kathmandu before the trek because once you are on the trail, you cannot find gear even if you want to buy it.
Your packing list should be divided into the following parts:
Other items include essentials such as a trekking bag, trekking poles, sunblock, a headlamp, water bottles, medications, and many more. You will need to look into a more comprehensive guide to packing for a trek to know extended information on the topic.
While prior trekking experiences are certainly a big help, even a beginner trekker with proper preparation and training can do both treks successfully. Hiring guides is mandatory for both treks, especially for the Manaslu Circuit. So with the help of a guide, solo trekking is a very achievable goal.
Since the Annapurna Circuit Trek is more established in terms of facilities for food and accommodation, for solo trekkers, especially female solo trekkers, this might be the safer option. But of course, if you are looking to challenge yourself and push your own limits, the Manaslu Circuit Trek can also be a good choice for a solo trek. For this, however, having prior trekking experience is highly recommended.
Still can’t decide? Here, let us make it easy for you! The table below presents an easy read of the differences between the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek so you can compare the pros and cons side by side and make your ultimate decision!
|
Feature |
Manaslu Circuit Trek | Annapurna Circuit Trek |
|
Trek Duration |
10-14 days (excluding travel to/from trailhead, including potential side trips to Tsum Valley) |
12-16 days (can be shortened with internal flights/jeep transport) 23 days originally |
|
Distance |
Approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles) |
Approximately 160-230 kilometers (100-143 miles), depending on route taken |
|
Trek Difficulty |
Moderately challenging to strenuous, involving rugged and less well-maintained trails in sections and significant altitude gain. |
Moderately challenging to strenuous, generally well-established trails, high-altitude pass crossing. |
|
Location |
Gorkha District, Nepal (encircling Mount Manaslu) |
Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal (encircling the Annapurna Massif) |
|
Popularity/Crowds |
Less crowded, it offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience with fewer trekkers, especially outside peak season. |
More popular and well-trodden, it sees a higher number of trekkers, especially during peak seasons. |
|
Remoteness |
More remote and less developed infrastructure, particularly in the upper sections. Limited access to modern amenities. |
More accessible with a more developed infrastructure of teahouses, communication, and transportation options in many areas. |
|
Highest Pass |
Larke La Pass (5,106m / 16,752 ft) |
Thorong La Pass (5,416m / 17,769 ft) |
|
Scenery |
Offers raw and untamed beauty, dramatic gorges, stunning close-up views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding peaks, and diverse subtropical to alpine landscapes. |
Showcases an incredible diversity of landscapes, from lush forests to arid high-altitude deserts and panoramic views of the entire Annapurna Massif, including multiple 8,000m peaks. |
|
Cultural Experience |
Provides a more intimate and authentic cultural immersion with the unique traditions of the Gurung and Tibetan-influenced Nubri communities. |
Offers a broader cultural experience with interactions with diverse ethnic groups, including Hindu and Buddhist communities, influenced by varying landscapes. |
|
Accommodation |
Primarily basic teahouses with limited facilities, offering a more rustic and traditional experience. |
A more established network of teahouses and guesthouses with varying levels of comfort and amenities available in many areas. |
|
Cost |
Can be potentially slightly higher due to the mandatory requirement of a licensed guide and the costs associated with restricted area permits. |
Generally can be more budget-friendly, especially for independent trekkers (though a guide is highly recommended). Permit costs are typically lower. |
|
Best Time to Trek |
Spring (March to May) with pleasant temperatures and blooming flora, and autumn (September to November) with stable weather and clear skies. |
Spring (March to May) with rhododendron blooms and clear views, and autumn (September to November) offering excellent visibility and comfortable temperatures. |
|
Permits |
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit. Hiring a licensed guide is mandatory. |
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card. Hiring a guide is highly recommended but not always mandatory. |
|
Experience Required |
Generally better suited for trekkers with some prior high-altitude trekking experience due to the remoteness and rugged terrain, but with the right preparations, beginners can also take on the challenge. |
Can be suitable for well-prepared beginners with a good level of fitness, especially if hiring a guide, as well as experienced trekkers. |
Two of the most iconic places in Nepal not only allow you to delve into the authenticity of the communities but also present you with some of the most jaw-dropping mountain views. And while both of the treks are known to be the “circuit trek,” it doesn’t mean they’re essentially the same. In the ultimate battle of choosing the right trek for you on the Manaslu Circuit Trek vs. the Annapurna Circuit Trek, it comes down to whichever one is the most suitable for you as per your time, budget, experience, and, most of all, your own preference. So, there is no one better than the other; both destinations are on par with their own unique flair. You just need to find what suits your needs at the moment.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a little rugged and rough but gives you the most authentic experience of the most untouched parts of Nepal. Not only does it encircle Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world but it also gives you great options like Tsum Valley as well with Larkya La Pass. The raw beauty with a closer look into the wildlife as you trudge through the trails of Manaslu Conservation Area is an experience of its own kind. While the facilities may be basic and the trails may be a little challenging, the journey it presents is an adventurous one. It is the best place to get away from the city and hectic life and connect with nature without any outside disturbances.
Thus, being an off-the-beaten-path trail, being part of a restricted area, having a mandatory guide, and having hard-to-reach services, the overall cost can come out a bit expensive compared to the Annapurna Circuit Trek or other similar destinations. The Tibetan Buddhism-influenced culture and traditions can be reflected in the trail and local people.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a beautiful trekking route and often the choice of many trekkers coming to Nepal. Being one of the oldest trekking routes, the trails are well maintained, and the accommodations are well established with good services. The route encircles the great Annapurna Massif, including Mount Annapurna I, the tenth highest peak in the world.
One of the perks of this trek is that you can choose to skip hiking and opt for a vehicle to shorten the length of days.
The Annapurna Conservation, which the circuit trek is part of, also offers other beautiful destinations such as Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal Trek, Poon Hill Trek, and, of course, you can also do the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake; all are amazing choices for a trek. Crossing the world’s highest pass, Thorong La, is an incredible feat to achieve. Places like Muktinath Temple bring some sort of mysticism to the journey. Overall, the Annapurna Circuit trek is a bit commercial compared to the Manaslu Circuit Trek but still is connected to its authentic roots, making it an unforgettable adventure regardless.
So in the end, which destination is the right pick, the Manaslu Circuit Trek or the Annapurna Circuit Trek? The answer lies within your own adventurous spirit. And it doesn’t always have to be one or the other; you can also choose to do both treks in one go! So, choose wisely; we are always here for your service. You can contact us on WhatsApp or email at +977 9851175531 or info@alpineramble.com.
