Overview
Nepal’s Himalayas are a trekker’s dream because it is a land where every bend in the trail reveals snow-draped peaks, fluttering prayer flags and villages that seem frozen in time. Among the many routes that crisscross these mountains, two stand out above the rest: the Annapurna Circuit and the Manaslu Circuit. Both are extraordinary journeys, but they offer diverse experiences to the trekkers.
The Annapurna Circuit has long been Nepal’s most celebrated trek. It is a sweeping loop around the Annapurna massif that captures everything this Himalayan nation has to offer. It features dramatic landscapes, a mix of cultures, and is easy to access. This trekking trail feels alive, buzzing with the warmth of teahouses. And you can enjoy conversations with fellow trekkers and the steady rhythm of village life.
Manaslu, on the other hand, can be called Annapurna’s quieter sibling. It is wilder, more remote, and deeply rooted in Tibetan influence. Circling the world’s eighth-highest mountain, the Manaslu Circuit trek carries an old-world charm, where you can walk for hours without meeting another group. Add to that the monasteries and stone houses that cling to the slopes as if untouched by time.
Choosing between these two treks isn’t easy. One offers comfort and variety; the other, solitude and authenticity. This guide walks you through everything that sets them apart — from terrain and difficulty to culture and overall experience.
Whether you are setting off on your first Himalayan adventure or chasing a more rugged, offbeat trail, read the following Annapurna Circuit vs Manaslu Circuit trek comparison. At the end, you will realize that the Annapurna Circuit leaves a mark with its color and camaraderie, while the Manaslu Circuit trek is marked by its silence and soul.
Highlights
- Annapurna Circuit is lively and scenic; Manaslu is remote and wild
- Trek of Annapurna Circuit is suitable for beginners and those who enjoy comfort and variety
- Manaslu is untouched and perfect for experienced trekkers who are seeking solitude
- Landscapes differ: Annapurna has rice fields and high valleys; Manaslu has gorges and glaciers
- Annapurna showcases Gurung and Thakali culture; Manaslu offers Tibetan-Buddhist traditions
- Crowd vibe: Annapurna is social and busy; Manaslu is quiet and peaceful
- Choose Annapurna for connection, Manaslu for isolation — both unforgettable
Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit and the Manaslu Circuit are two of Nepal’s most rewarding treks. Each of the treks offers a different window into the soul of the Himalayas. However, both take you through breathtaking terrain, ancient villages and spiritual landscapes. Nonetheless, the feeling of being on each trail couldn’t be more distinct. One is open and social and the other is quiet and deeply personal.
Annapurna Circuit: The Classic Himalayan Adventure
The Annapurna Circuit feels like a grand celebration of Nepal’s diversity. It stretches between 160 to 230 kilometers and it loops around the Annapurna massif. The circuit weaves through rice terraces, pine forests and arid highlands. In addition, the route crosses the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) — a high point in every sense.
This trail also passes through cultural landmarks like Muktinath Temple and the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge. Trekkers are treated to a constant parade of peaks, from Dhaulagiri to Machhapuchhre.
And the trail buzzes with the camaraderie of hikers from all over the world. The Annapurna Circuit is accessible, well-marked and dotted with teahouses offering warmth, comfort and hearty dal bhat.
The Annapurna Circuit trek is for you if you want to be a part of trekking covering a long distance in Nepal. It is adventurous yet approachable. At the same time, this journey is challenging but comforting, too.
You can join either the 13 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek or the 16 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake. The Radiant Treks has both packages on offer and promises a memorable journey.
Manaslu Circuit: The Quiet Giant
In contrast, the Manaslu Circuit feels wilder and more remote. Circling Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), which is the world’s eighth-highest peak, it is a journey of around 180 kilometers. And the trek goes through deep river gorges, bamboo forests and villages that still hold onto a Tibetan rhythm of life.
Trekkers follow the Budhi Gandaki River up to the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,160 m), passing monasteries like Pungyen Gompa and settlements where prayer wheels spin in the mountain wind.
The Manaslu region opened to outsiders only in the early 1990s, and even today, it feels untouched — fewer trekkers, simpler lodges, and an overwhelming sense of calm. It’s not an easy walk; the trails are steeper, the logistics more demanding. But if you are someone craving solitude and authenticity, then Manaslu delivers something rare. You become a part of a trek that feels like a step back in time.
To cater to the needs of the trekking enthusiasts, Radiant Treks has been offering different options of this journey. It has on offer packages including 15 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek and 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek. But if you want to add more destinations and days to your journey, then you can opt for the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek of 20 days. Meanwhile, the 16 Days Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek brings together both the Manaslu and Annapurna circuits in one place.
Location and Accessibility
Both the Annapurna and Manaslu Circuits sit in Nepal’s central Himalayas. But the way you reach them and how connected they feel makes a difference in the kind of adventure you’ll have.
Easy to Reach Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit is one of Nepal’s most accessible major treks. You need to start the trek from Dharapani, a 6 to 7-hour drive west of Kathmandu. Public buses and shared jeeps run regularly along this route. As such, this makes it a convenient and budget-friendly journey. Radiant Treks arranges for all these in the trek package.
The route weaves through districts like Lamjung, Manang, Mustang and Myagdi. And the journey eventually ends in Pokhara. From there, trekkers can catch a bus or a short flight to return to Kathmandu.
Thanks to expanding roads, parts of the lower trail can now be covered by jeep — a blessing for those with limited time, though it slightly reduces the sense of isolation. Pokhara serves as the trek’s main base, offering gear shops, guesthouses, and even scenic flights to Jomsom. Simply put, Annapurna’s infrastructure makes it an easy trek to plan and start, even for first-timers.
Remote and Wild Manaslu Circuit
Reaching the Manaslu Circuit, by contrast, feels like stepping further off the grid. The trail usually begins from Machha Khola, which is reached after a long, bumpy 7 to 8 hours of jeep or bus ride from Kathmandu. The route threads deep into the Manaslu Conservation Area, crossing through Gorkha and Manang districts. Eventually, it connects to the Annapurna region at Dharapani.
There are no nearby airports, so all travel is by road. And during the monsoon, the journey can be slow and rough. Many trekkers book private jeeps for comfort, though it adds to the cost. However, you will feel the region is remote and this is a part of Manaslu’s charm. You feel the quiet and wildness that define the trail from the first day of the trek.
Which Trek to Choose?
If convenience matters most, then the Annapurna Circuit trek clearly wins. That is because this route is better connected and easier to access. But if you’re drawn to adventure and don’t mind a rough ride to reach something unspoiled, then choose the Manaslu Circuit trek. It rewards you with a sense of true Himalayan remoteness.
Permit Requirements
Trekking in Nepal means some paperwork. But once you understand what is needed, it’s all smooth. And Radiant Treks is always there to help you get the required permits. Both the Annapurna and Manaslu Circuits require permits.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Permits
In order to be eligible to trek to the Annapurna Circuit, you need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). This permit helps authorities manage the large number of trekkers while also supporting conservation and local development efforts. You can easily get them in Kathmandu or Pokhara through Radiant Treks.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits
The Manaslu Circuit Trek, on the other hand, involves more formalities for permits because it falls under Nepal’s restricted region category. You’ll need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Manaslu, along with the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). Since the route overlaps slightly with the Annapurna region, you’ll also need an ACAP for that section. Unlike Annapurna, solo trekking isn’t allowed here — you must trek with at least one other person and be accompanied by a licensed guide from a registered agency like the Radiant Treks. We handle all paperwork on your behalf, using your passport details, photos and travel plan.
Key Differences
While both treks are well-regulated, the difference is how flexible each one is. Annapurna is open and friendly for independent travelers as well. Thus, it is ideal for those who prefer planning on their own. But Manaslu is more controlled as it is a restricted region. It prioritizes the protection of the environment as well as community balance. Add to that its remoteness, which makes restricted regulations important for trekkers’ safety as well. It means that the added layer of regulation is also what keeps it pristine and less crowded. It is a fair trade-off for those seeking an authentic experience in the Himalayas amid solitude.
Trek Difficulty and Preparation
When it comes to the Annapurna Circuit Vs Manaslu Circuit trek comparison, both treks are challenging in their own ways. But Manaslu usually ranks a notch higher.
The Annapurna Circuit offers a mix of well-marked trails, stone steps and even some jeep tracks. However, it is demanding at times. That is evident especially as you climb toward the Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Nonetheless, the gradual altitude gain gives your body time to adjust.
Likewise, the route is dotted with teahouses and villages. As a result, you can rest, refuel and recover easily. With decent fitness and a bit of mental grit, most trekkers — beginners included— can complete it comfortably. Altitude sickness remains the main concern. So, pacing yourself and hydrating well are key.
On the other hand, the Manaslu Circuit feels wilder and more remote. The trails in this route are narrower, rockier and occasionally exposed. And there are sections that demand careful footing, especially near Larkya La Pass (5,160m).
The weather can shift quickly, and since the area is less developed, you’ll walk longer hours each day without many comfort stops in between. Evacuation or rescue services are also less accessible, adding a layer of seriousness to the journey. Manaslu isn’t just physically harder – it’s mentally tougher too, requiring stamina and focus from the trekkers. Similarly, they must have some experience with high-altitude trekking.
How to Prepare
Both treks call for good preparation from trekkers. Therefore, start training at least a month in advance of the trek. Combine cardio exercises like jogging, hiking or cycling with leg and core strength workouts as a part of your training.
Likewise, practice carrying a backpack with around 10 to 15 kg of weight to simulate real trek conditions. Arrive in Nepal a few days early to acclimatize. Eat balanced meals and drink plenty of water on the trekking trail. Monitor your body and if you experience headaches, nausea or dizziness, then stop ascending. They can be early signs of altitude sickness.
Which is More Difficult?
In short, the Annapurna Circuit is ideal for fit beginners looking for a classic Himalayan experience with support and accessibility. Meanwhile, the Manaslu Circuit trek is for you if you are an experienced trekker. If you are someone who wants to experience wilderness, unpredictable conditions and a test of endurance, then choose the trek of Manaslu Circuit.
Scenery and Landscapes
If you wish to trek to the Annapurna or Manaslu Circuit, then you can see some of the most breathtaking scenery in Nepal.
The trek of the Annapurna Circuit feels like traveling through many different worlds in a single trek. You start in lush valleys that are filled with terraced rice fields, waterfalls and subtropical forests. And if you are in this region in spring, then they are filled with rhododendron blooms.
As you climb higher, the greenery gives way to pine forests and then to dry and windswept terrain around Manang. It is an arid highland that feels otherworldly, almost like stepping into a mountain desert.
Crossing the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the world’s deepest, adds to the drama. Meanwhile, views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri and the striking Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) never leave your sight.
Reaching Thorong La Pass rewards you with 360-degree views of snow peaks and glaciers. Likewise, side trips to Tilicho Lake can add magic to your journey with its turquoise waters framed by icy ridges.
The Manaslu Circuit, in contrast, feels more wild and untouched. It begins in dense forests along the Budhi Gandaki River, where you cross swaying bridges and pass hidden waterfalls. Gradually, the landscape opens into alpine meadows and rugged moraine fields.
Finally, the route leads you up to Larkya La Pass (5,160m). The views of Manaslu, Himal Chuli and Ganesh Himal are spectacular and feel more personal. You feel as if the mountains are right beside you. Meanwhile, some other highlights of this trek are Birendra Lake and Pungyen Gompa. And they add quiet and otherworldly beauty to your journey.
Culture and People
Both the Annapurna and Manaslu treks open a window into Nepal’s incredible cultural mix.
In the Annapurna Circuit, every village has its own charm. You will get an opportunity to share tea with Gurung families known for their Gurkha roots. You can also taste the Thakalis’ famous apple brandy in Marpha. And hear stories from the Manangi people whose lives are shaped by old Tibetan trade routes.
Monasteries like Braga glow with murals that are centuries old. Meanwhile, Muktinath Temple draws both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. Prayer flags and chortens bring color to the trail. And the whole region feels alive during festivals like Dashain, among others.
Manaslu, on the other hand, feels more remote and untouched. Up in villages like Sama Gaon and Lho, the air hums with Buddhist chants from monasteries such as Ribung and Pungyen Gompa. The Nubri and Tsumba people live much as they have for generations — herding yaks, spinning prayer wheels, and celebrating masked dances during Mani Rimdu.
Annapurna offers more encounters and comfort, while Manaslu gives a glimpse of an older and quieter Nepal. Either way, a smile, a “Namaste”, and a little curiosity go a long way.
Accommodation and Food on the Trails
One of the joys of trekking in Nepal is the warmth of the teahouses along the trekking trails. In terms of accommodation and food, the Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit trek routes feature small teahouses run by families. But the comfort level between the facilities available in these regions varies to some extent.
Accommodation
On the Annapurna Circuit, teahouses are generally well-developed and comfortable. That is so in popular villages like Manang, Jomsom and Muktinath. You’ll often find rooms with attached bathrooms, hot showers (for a small fee) and even Wi-Fi in some places. The beds usually come with blankets, though carrying your own sleeping bag is still wise. After a long day on this trail, it’s usually easy to find a cozy spot to rest.
However, the Manaslu region is more remote and less commercialized. That means this area offers simpler accommodation. Most teahouses are modest, often made of wood and stone, and run by local families. Expect shared toilets, bucket showers and limited electricity. In higher villages like Samdo or Dharamsala, the facilities are basic. That is to say, the rooms are basic but clean. But they always offer warm and genuine hospitality.
Food
Food along both trails is hearty and designed to keep you energized. In Annapurna, the menu is surprisingly diverse — you can get everything from dal bhat (Nepal’s national dish of rice, lentils and vegetables) to momos, pasta, pancakes and even pizza in more touristy areas. Marpha’s fresh apples and apple brandy are must-tries, and many villages boast small bakeries offering cakes and coffee.
Meals are simple yet filling in the Manaslu Circuit. Look forward to eating dal bhat, noodles, potatoes and sometimes eggs or yak cheese. The remoteness limits variety. But what you eat is fresh, local and cooked with care.
Both regions emphasize high-carb meals for trekking energy, and it’s best to drink only boiled or filtered water. To sum it up, Annapurna offers comfort and choice and Manaslu gives you simplicity and authenticity. Nonetheless, both are equally rewarding in their own way.
Crowd Levels and Overall Experience
The number of people you meet on a trekking trail can change how a trek feels. This is true for Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit treks.
The Annapurna Circuit is lively and social during peak trekking months. You’ll meet trekkers from around the world during this time. You can share tables in teahouses and swap stories over warm meals. The energy is contagious, though the lower sections can feel busy, with jeeps and crowds on certain stretches. This trek is perfect for you if you enjoy meeting new people and being part of a busy trail community.
Manaslu, by contrast, is quiet and remote. There are only a handful of groups on the trail each day. As such, you often have the mountains to yourself. The silence lets you soak in the scenery, watch wildlife and reflect without distraction. It’s a more personal and meditative journey. And it is ideal for those who seek solitude in the Himalayas.
Best Time to Trek Annapurna and Manaslu Circuits
Both the Annapurna and Manaslu regions are at their best in spring and autumn. During these two seasons of the year, the weather is stable. Add to that the trails that are open and the breathtaking scenery.
Spring (March–May)
Spring is a favorite for many trekkers. The hills burst into color with blooming rhododendrons, and the temperatures are pleasantly mild. The daytime highs are between 10°C and 20°C. Likewise, nights drop to around -5°C at higher altitudes. The skies are generally clear in the mornings, with a bit of haze or clouds in the afternoons. It’s a beautiful time to enjoy both landscapes and village life. You might find remains of snow on higher passes like Thorong La or Larkya La in early spring.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal. The monsoon rains have washed the air clean. As such, autumn features clear skies and jaw-dropping mountain views. Daytime temperatures sit comfortably between 12°C and 18°C, while nights can dip below freezing at higher altitudes. Trails are dry and the weather is stable during these three months. As such, teahouses are in full swing and thus, early bookings are recommended. It’s also festival time in Nepal, so you might catch celebrations like Dashain or Tihar along the way.
Other Seasons
Winter (December–February) brings cold days and icy nights. Likewise, heavy snow might make high passes risky or even impassable. Only experienced trekkers with proper gear should attempt it. The monsoon (June–August) means rain-soaked trails, leeches and landslides, though Manaslu’s partial rain shadow keeps conditions slightly better there.
Which Trek Should You Choose?
Annapurna Circuit vs Manaslu Circuit trek comparison — which is the best and which one should you opt for? It depends on the kind of experience you are after.
If you are a beginner or an intermediate trekker looking for variety, comfort as well as a social atmosphere, then choose the trek of Annapurna Circuit. The trails are moderate, the teahouses are well-equipped and you will meet travelers from all over the world. It’s great for families, first-timers or anyone who enjoys a mix of culture and scenery. You can add a side trip to Tilicho Lake as well, or you may adjust routes as per your convenience.
Meanwhile, the Manaslu Circuit trek is for those who want solitude, challenge as well as authenticity. It is ideal if you have trekked before or prefer remote trails with fewer crowds. The culture feels distinct and interesting and the landscapes are wild and dramatic.
Nonetheless, both treks leave lasting memories. You should choose the one that speaks to your spirit and pace.
