Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary & Cost 2025

The Combo Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek will take you to the most desired trail in the Himalayas. The trek starts with lush green vegetation, villages, waterfalls, a suspension bridge, farmland, and the Himalayas.

It combines vegetation, the Himalayas, and diverse ethnic settlements, taking one to closer Tibetan settlement areas and then to the ethnic settlement and the pilgrimage sites.

Starting with the MANASLU REGION, the trek continues through restricted areas with majestic scenic views of remote Nepal. Manalsu is one of the off-the-beaten trails with strict restrictions for travelers, and one has to follow those.

However, the jaw-dropping views and mesmerizing panorama are the ones that will remain with us. Mainly inhabited by people of Tibetan origin, Manaslu is one of the popular trekking destinations where fewer travelers dare to hike because of strict government provisions.

Exploring the majestic vista, the trail stops at SAMA GAUN for rest and one can explore the Manaslu Base Camp and Birendra Lake as a day tour. Further hike continues with a couple of days to wait for the Larkey La Pass (5106M), the highest pass of the Manaslu Circuit.

The trail then descends towards the Annapurna Region, bidding farewell to the Manaslu Region. With the decline in altitude, the trail passes by beautiful villages and then to Bhimtang.

The trail from Bhimthang follows scenic views of the hills and Himalayas, with waterfalls very common. The hike will be via the riverbank to reach Dharapani, a two-trail junction for travelers to choose.

Now, the trail diverts towards the Annapurna Region, and those who want to end the trek of Manaslu and descend towards Kathmandu/Pokhara will take a trail towards Beshi Sahar. However, those who want to adjoin, hike towards Manang village, a beautiful capital of Manang District.

Discover Altitude has three different PROGRAMS related to the Manaslu Circuit Trek, and those include: a. Budget Manaslu Circuit Trek (12 Days) b. Manaslu Circuit Trek (14 Days) c. Short Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Manang is a beautiful little town on the lap of the Himalayas and the last town before the Mustang district. With a couple of additional days, travelers will have an option to hike TILICHO LAKE and then towards Muktinath via Throung La Pass.

However, if one is restricted with time, one can skip Tilicho Lake and then go inward to Muktinath the Throung La Pass.

Descend from the highest pass of the region, you will end at Muktinath, one of the most religious sites for Hindu and Buddhist followers. Muktinath lies above the Kaligandaki River Gorge, the deepest in the world, and is surrounded by the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges.

Ending the trek, you can drive to Jomsom and then take an inward flight to Pokhara and then to Kathmandu on the same day.

If you are only looking for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Discover Altitude Treks has a couple of special programs only to the Annapurna Circuit Area: a. Short Annapurna Circuit Trek b. Short Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake

Outline Itinerary to Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek 

Day 1: Bus drive to Machha Khola (870M)

Day 2: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410M)

Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,800M)

Day 4: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630M)

Day 5: Trek from Namrung to Sama-Gaon (3,530M)

Day 6: Acclimatization Day, Day Tour to Birendra Lake and Manaslu Base Camp (4,800M)

Day 7: Trek from Sama Gaon Samdo Village (3,875M)

Day 8:Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,470M)

Day 9: Cross Over Larkey La Pass (5,106M) and Descend to Bhimtang (3,720M)

Day 10: Trek from Bhimtang to Dharapani (1,860M)

Day 11: Trek or drive from Dharapani to Chame (2,710M)

Day 12: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,310M)

Day 13: Trek from chame to Manang (3,519M)

Day 14: Trek to Throng Phedi (4,540M) or Throng High Camp (4,880M)

Day 15: Cross Over Throng La Pass (5,416M) and Descend to Muktinath and Drive to Jomsom

Day 16: Flight to Pokhara and inward to Kathmandu

NOTE: This Itinerary can be customized to 12 days or 14 days according to your time frame. Feel free to contact us at [email protected]or WhatsApp: +977-9851149890

What to Expect in the Annapurna and Manaslu Combo Circuit Trek:

Cost Includes:

• Pick up and drop off from your respective hotel in Kathmandu and drop at Bus Stop
• Tourist bus to Machha Khola
• Professional English-speaking trekking guide
• Trek's allowance of guide
• Tea house/lodge accommodation throughout the Trek
• 3-Meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
• Manaslu Restricted Area Permits
• MCAP permit (Manaslu Conservation Permits)
• ACAP permits (Annapurna Conservation Permits)
• TIMS permits
• Trekking pole for the Trek
• Discover Altitude Trekking Cap
• First aid medical kit
• Oximeter to check your pulse rate
• Jeep/bus drive from Muktinath to Jomsom
• Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
• Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu/ flight optional
• Private transfer from the airport/bus park to your hotel in Kathmandu
• Trip achievement certificate
• Government tax and service charges

Cost Excludes:

• Hotel in Kathmandu
• Porter during the trek
• Personal Expenses (Mineral Water, Hot/Cold Drinks, Hot Shower, Mobile Charging, Laundry, etc.)
• Tips for your guide

Customize Trip | Inquiry | Custom Booking | Connect WhatsApp

TOTAL COST: USD 2999 For 2 People (All-Inclusive Package)

NOTE: If Solo Trekkers, it is USD 1799 with a single supplement

FOR DETAILS, CONTACT EMAIL: [email protected] WHATSAPP: +977 9851149890

Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights:

• The Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek in one Program is the shortest way to complete two different majestic regions at a time
• Experience the thrill of the 3 highest mountains in just a combo trek. This includes Mount Annapurna, Mount Manaslu, and Mount Dhaulagiri
• Experience the varied landscape, snow-melted rivers, diverse vegetation, temples and monasteries at high altitudes, Himalayan glaciers, etc
• This majestic trek takes you through the enchanting Himalayan vista of the Manaslu and Annapurna Himalayan ranges.
• Includes the jaw-dropping views from the two high passes, Larky La Pass and Throung La Pass
• It is an incredible combination to explore the Manaslu and Annapurna region in just one attempt.
• Experience the great hospitality of the Himalayan people and get an opportunity to explore their culture and tradition.
• Visit some of the majestic Tibetan monasteries: Kargyu Chholing Monastery, Sama Gompa, Mu Gompa, Ribang Gompa, Rachen Gompa, Lho Monastery, Shringi Gompa, Pungyen Gompa, Muktinath Temple, etc

Best Part of Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek

Manaslu and Annapurna are the two most unique blends of trekking trails in Nepal. However, the former requires special permits to enter, but both the trails are majestic with unbelievable views. Diverse in every aspect, the Manaslu region is mainly inhabited by people of Tibetan origin, whereas Annapurna is mixed with different ethnic communities.

Manaslu Region is a restricted and highly conserved area. Finding any means of transportation is impossible throughout, and hence, the trail remains a paradise with homestay accommodation.

On the other hand, Annapurna is a conserved area, but to some extent, there is road access to lower areas of villages and one can find standard tea houses and lodges. Further, some parts of the Annapurna Circuit Trails can be shortened via the road drive and this makes the entire Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit Trek together possible in a short time frame.

Best Time for Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit Trek

Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit Trek are doable throughout the year. However, the monsoon season is not a highly recommended time for this trek due to the low visibility of the Himalayas and the ranges that do fall.

The monsoon makes the trek interesting with the green vegetation and farmland with crops and also waterfalls and fast-flowing rivers. However, sometimes, due to excessive rainfall, landslides might happen, blocking the trail. So, it is better to avoid the time of the Monsoon for this trek.

Now, the question is, when is the monsoon in Nepal? Due to global warming, Nepal, a country with mountains, is experiencing weather changes. We are experiencing a late monsoon arrival. So, it is better to avoid JULY, AUGUST, and early SEPTEMBER to trek the Annapurna and Manaslu regions.

The best time for the Annapurna and Manaslu Combo Circuit Trek is in OCTOBER,NOVEMBER, DECEMBER, JANUARY, FEBRUARY, MARCH, APRIL, MAY, and JUNE. However, if you are looking for exceptional weather conditions with clear sky and far-sighted views, you are recommended to trek in NOVEMBER, DECEMBER, JANUARY, February, March, and APRIL. Those are the perfect months of the year for the Annapurna and Manasluregions trek.

Best Route to follow for Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek

The best trekking route to follow for the Manaslu Circuit Trek and Annapurna Circuit Combo Trek is to start with the Manaslu region, making the starting point Machha Khola and ending towards Dharapani.

Further, from Dharapani, the trail co-joints towards Annapurna Circuit Trek and then ends in Jomsom and takes a flight to Pokhara or ends in Muktinath and then takes a drive to Pokhara.

Trekking from Muktinath/Jomsom is not a highly recommended trail because the trail follows the driveable road all the way. However, if one wants to follow the trail toward Annapurna Base Camp Via Ghorepani, then it is highly recommended to drive to TATOPNI from Muktinath/Jomsom and then trek towards Annapurna Base Camp Via Ghorepani and descend towards Pokhara.

The alternative trail to extend

The Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most diverse trails that allows trekkers to sub-join with multiple options. However, this depends upon the time frame one has for this trek.

Although the Manaslu Circuit Trail is restricted, and to extend to other areas of the region is not praiseworthy because there are no alternative trails to extend towards due to close border with Tibet, one can keep an alternative rest day and day tour around the border area.

However, Annapurna has a diverse trail one can sub-join or extend to other areas. Some of the trails one can extend during the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek can be:

• Tilicho Lake 
• Upper Mustang
• Kagbeni Village
• Ghorepani Poonhill
• Annapurna Base Camp
• Mardi Himal Base Camp

Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulty

Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Treks are both Moderate to Strenuous climbs uphill towards the high pass. However, this is a doable trek and can be accomplished without any difficulty, compared to the Everest Base Camp Trek.

The best part of the Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit Trek is its low-altitude overnight camp. During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the highest overnight tea house to stay will be in Dharamsala (4470M), and the next day you hike towards LARKEY LA PASS 5106M and descend to Bhimtang (3720M).

Additionally, during the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the highest overnight tea house will be in Throng Phedi (4540M), and the next day you hike towards THORUNG LA PASS 5416M and descend towards Muktinath/Jomsom.

The trek to Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit is via a well-maintained hiking trail with a majestic view of the vegetation and the snow-covered Himalayas. Starting from Manaslu, one will feel a bit difficult at the beginning; however, after completing the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the Annapurna Circuit Trek will be easy.

Food and Accommodation

Food and Accommodation in the Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit Trek will be at Tea houses/lodges with standard facilities and delicious food with a menu card to choose from as per your hunger.

However, on the Annapurna Circuit Trail, the standard of accommodation is better compared to the Manaslu Circuit Trek. This is because the Annapurna area is much modernized with road access, and the construction of buildings has no restrictions.

Every tea house will have two separate beds and rooms and will have attached bathrooms except in some of the places just before the high pass (Larkey La Pass / Throng La Pass).

Throughout the trek, one will have multiple options of food available from the menu card in every tea house one will stay with fresh and organic vegetables from the villages.

Communication and Electricity Accessibility

Internet and phone are accessible throughout the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trail, and the tea house provides WiFi facilities with some additional charges; however, in Dharmashal, it will not be available.

In the Annapurna region, WiFi will be available throughout the trail with an electricity supply. Tea House/Lodge and are self-sufficient with an electricity supply; they use hydro power electricity and solar panel for electricity and charging electronic device won’t be a problem.

It is highly recommended to have a local SIM card during the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek because the mobile phone network works throughout, and if you have an internet data pack, this will work everywhere.

Permits Required for Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek

Manaslu and Annapurna are two separate regions and have been protected as a Conservation Area. Further, the Manaslu Circuit Trail is closer to the Tibetan border and is remote as well.

However, the Annapurna Circuit Trail is far from the Tibetan border and is an organized region with villages. Thus, to control unnecessary activities of travelers towards the Manaslu Region, the government has made Manaslu a restricted area where travelers have to follow some of the specific requirements to travel along with Restricted Area Permits.

In the Manaslu Region, travelers will need 3 different permits:

• Manaslu Conservation Area Permits (MCAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permits (ACAP)
• Restricted Area Permits (RAP)

In the Annapurna Circuit Trek, travelers will need 2 different permits:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permits (ACAP)
• TIMS Permits

The common permit for both trails is the ACAP Permit, which can be used for both trails.

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek ( ACT)

Annapurna Himalayas Range: The Annapurna is the main attraction of the trek, chiefly Annapurna I (8,091meters), Annapurna II (7,937 meters), Annapurna III (7,555 meters), and Annapurna Dakshin (7,219 meters), The Annapurna massif is what this trekking route has been named after.

Kali Gandaki Gorge: Considered the deepest gorge in the world, at one point, the Kali Gandaki River flowing down the gorge at the base is at 2,520 meters which is 5571m lower than Annapurna I rising right next from the base. It also divides two mountain ranges, the Annapurna in the east and Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters) in the west. Kali Gandaki River basin is also famous for ‘Saligram’ which is the fossil of marine life dating back millions of years, proving that this part was once the sea.

Thorong La Pass: One of the highest passes in the world, Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) is the highest point in the ACT. Trekkers have to pass through this to circumvent the Annapurna region. The local traders also use the pass for businesses between Tibet and Nepal. It is also a critical point during the trek because of the altitude. Many people have lost their lives because of the sudden heavy snowfall and lack of proper shelter. So please consult your travel companion before crossing this pass.

Muktinath Temple: This temple happens to be on the route and it is one of the most visited Hindu temples in Nepal. Many Buddhists also worship the temple, as monks also look after this place. There is a road connection from Pokhara to Muktinath which was completed only recently, so many locals visit this temple every year by road.

Local Culture: Local ethnic groups like Gurung, Magar, Thakali and ethnic Tibetans reside along this route, so you will be able to learn about their culture. They are people living in the mid-hills and the mountains of Nepal.

Diverse Vegetation: Annapurna is one of the vast protected regions with diverse flora and fauna. The entire region is protected in the name of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) which has been doing this to conserve the nature and the biodiversity of the region. So during the trek, one can view the scenic beauty of the region with wildlife.

Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Trek (MCT)

Mt. Manaslu: Manaslu (8,163 meters) is the 8th highest mountain in the world. This is one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. The mountain which is the main attraction in MCT also happens to be the backdrop of many villages that we cross during MCT. Many trekkers stop on their route when they see the mountain slowly rising behind the villages during the trek and this is one of the highlights of the trek.

Tall peaks: Many high peaks also make this trek one of the most significant treks in the world besides Manaslu like Himalchuli (7,893 meters), Ngadi Chuli (7,871meters), and Ganesh Himal (7,422 meters). Trekkers will also be seeing numerous smaller peaks during the trip.

Larkey La Pass: This is the highest point (5,106 meters) during the trek but unlike high passes in other treks, this one is relatively easy in comparison. But still, one should be careful and take care when crossing the pass with some acclimatization. Sometimes it can be fatal if we are not well acclimatized.

Hot Natural Spring: Most of the famous trekking routes of Nepal are blessed with hot natural springs which can be used to refresh yourself during the trip. There is one at the very beginning of the trek on the way to Jagat and many locals throng to this place because they believe it can provide relief for many ailments.

Drive along Trishuli River: You will be driving along one of the most popular rivers in Nepal that is Trishuli River. It is also one of the largest tributaries that will mix with the Narayani River, one of the biggest rivers in Nepal. Almost all the rivers in Nepal originate in the Himalayas with crystal-clear water, almost ready to drink.

Local Culture: Local cultures play a significant role in Nepali society. You get to see different people and their way of life while on the trip like Gurungs, Magars, and Tibetan people. You get to view how they live, and their houses, and you also get to immerse in their culture while on the trek itself.

Tibetan Refugee Camp: While in Samdo Village (3,875 meters) you will come across the Tibetan Refugee Camp at one of the highest places in the world. This also is one of the oldest Tibetan Refugee Camps in Nepal.

Birendra Lake: During your stopover in Samagaun, you can visit a glacial lake called Birendra Tal, named after the late King Birendra. This is a snow-melted lake and gets frozen during the winter.

Pungyen Gompa: Situated just below Manaslu, PungyenGompa is a Gumba (Monastery) at a very high altitude and commands very high respect at the Samagaun region during the middle of the trek.

Manaslu Base Camp (MBC): When you reach Samagaun, there is one option where you can also trek to MBC. This happens to be during the acclimatization at Samagaun which is a rest day but you can utilize this day by trekking to MBC and back.

Comparison: Annapurna Circuit Trek ( ACT ) vs. Manaslu Circuit Trek (MCT)

FAQs regarding the Two Trekking Circuits

FAQs regarding Annapurna Circuit Trekking

Is Annapurna Circuit Trekking difficult?

ACT is comparatively easier than the MCT. However, trekkers need to have some physical workout before the trek.

ACT is easygoing in a short period because the trail is drivable on both sides. This makes the trek easy with options that have a starting point and ending point.

Is Circuit Annapurna costly?

Not really, if you consider how much effort the Trekking Agency has to put in to make this trek a success. Some behind-the-scene people manage this trip whose help we depend so much on. Considering that the cost includes food, lodges, permits vehicle travel, and sometimes even flying, the current price is not too high. We are constantly thinking about making this ever more popular trekking route within reach of all the people. We are so accustomed to the trek nowadays as we have been able to bring down the cost because we have many years of experience in this trek.

Can we have a private customized Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Yes, you can have a customized ACT or even a private one. If you want to go on the trek according to your terms. You can even change the route or the itinerary of the trek with the help of the Trekking agency. But if you want to go trekking but with a more customized one, that is also possible.

Which are some of the highest mountains in ACT?

Of course, the main mountain is Mt. Annapurna I, but other equally tall mountains are Annapurna II, III, IV, Himalchuli, and Ngadichuli. The Annapurna Massif is the main attraction in the trek and also one of the highest peaks along the trek. Besides the mountains above, one can see hundreds of smaller peaks during the trek

How much does the Annapurna Circuit Trekking Cost?

The cost differs from company to company. The cost is for lodging and food. Besides these, the cost will also include insurance coverage like health insurance and travel insurance. It is just unthinkable to travel abroad nowadays without any of these services. You never know when the accidents are going to happen. So with all these costs, the price will look expensive but in reality, it is not.

The price could be anything between $1800 to $1200. The price will not include the renting of different gear and clothing necessary for trekking like boots, sleeping bags, backpacks, etc. Every trekking company has its way of billing, so it will depend on what is included and not in the final bill. Some trekking agencies might include or exclude certain headings, so study the price before making any decision.

FAQs regarding Manaslu Circuit Trek

Is there any safety concern in Manaslu Circuit Trekking?

There is no issue of safety in any kind of situation in Manaslu Circuit Trekking. Many also are concerned about how secure their trekking will be. Since MCT had been a restricted zone before 1992, it is natural to raise the question of safety. Now anyone can visit this trekking route. We have such a professional team making safety their priority during the trek.

Is Manaslu Circuit still a restricted Area?

Yes, it's still a restricted area. 

Why was this ‘Restricted Zone’ before 1992?

There was a concern about the Tibetan rebellion after the Dalai Lama escaped to India in the late fifties. After the Tibetan movement was crushed a couple of years later, the movement shifted outside of Tibet, and Nepal was naturally a choice for Khampa Guerillas who were the chief rebels. For a couple of years, these guerillas waged a rebellion against the Chinese government from outside but the leader of the rebellion was finally killed in 1974 in Nepal. The restriction was placed in the Manaslu Region after that and only in 1992, the restriction was lifted. So you don’t have to worry about the Manaslu Region being under restriction again as the movement has lost its strength.

Can I join Manaslu Circuit Trek even with some underlying health problem?

Yes, you can join after the consultation with the doctors. We have well-qualified doctors with us. You can check with them if there might be any problems during the trek. If the doctors give you a green signal, then you can join the MCT. Some health problems can be controlled with medication and we will make sure you are fit to trek if the doctor says the underlying health issues will not pose any problem in the future. So with good consultation and medication, you can join the MCT if you wish to.

What is the best time to join MCT?

The best season for MCT trek or any treks in Nepal for that matter, is spring and autumn. Spring starts in February and ends in May and autumn starts in September and ends in November. Most trekking in Nepal is best done in the spring and autumn seasons because of clear skies and very little rain. The winter (December and January) and the Monsoon (July and August) seasons are not good for MCT because of the cold temperature in the Himalayas in winter and rain during the Monsoon period. You can still do some part of MCT during the winter and Monsoon periods with the right consultation if you want to go for it.

Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Reasonable?

Yes, MCT is certainly reasonable but many companies have their price according to the cost incurred. So, you should check what is included and what is not when comparing the prices.

Conclusion:

Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek is a combination of two different regions where one can enjoy the majestic panorama of the Himalayas and diverse vegetation along with the local culture and tradition of different ethnic communities.

This trail passes through the snow-melted rivers, lakes, and lush vegetation into the bare Himalayan desert. With numerous holy shrines and temples, the trek ends on the bank of the deepest river gorge at Kali Gandaki.

Travelers who are fit and enthusiastic and want to explore this majestic region can trek both regions in the shortest way of 14 days to the longest day of 18. However, it is recommended to have at least 2 trekkers for this trek.