Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek

If you’d like to get the best weather, most clear views, and most ideal trekking conditions, spring and autumn are the best times to plan the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek. The lower valleys are quite spectacular in spring (March to May) with colorful rhododendron blooms and mild temperatures, all the scenery captured perfectly throughout the lower forests and meadows.

Weather is consistent during this season, there are less chances of snow blockages on passes, and temperatures are moderate which makes trekking comfortable.

The second best season to visit is autumn (September to November), the sky is crystal clear, the air is crisp and the trekking is perfect. It clears the dust out of the air and gives you the unmatched Himalayan visibility, without the dust, you will be able to see Manaslu, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri without obstruction. 

Along the way, the villages feeding the trail also seem livelier, with locals celebrating festivals like Dashain and Tihar, providing a great opportunity to experience Nepalese culture at its best.

Other times of year are more problematic; while heavy snowfall and extreme cold make passes such as Larkya La and Thorong La dangerous, they are impassable in winter (December to February). The monsoon (June to August) is the same; its mists lead to landslides while creating slippery trails and bad visibility. Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek also offers solitude and adventure, and fewer crowds can be found during winter with other tourists because hiking in the snow is more dangerous.

Due to the fact that there are very diverse geographies in Nepal, Manaslu and Annapurna trekking seasons differ depending on the area. Knowing that weather changes over the course of the year enables you to be properly equipped for Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek, as well as avoid extreme conditions and choosing the perfect trekking window.

Spring (March to May)

One of the best trekking seasons is spring which provides clear skies, moderate temperature and colorful scenarios. At lower elevations daytime temperatures are 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) and colder than -10°C (14°F) higher up. 

There are rhododendron forests in bloom, rivers flows stably, the snow melts gradually, allowing crossings at Larkya La and Thorong La to become easier. Late in the season, occasional pre-monsoon showers may occur.

Monsoon (June to August)

The monsoon is one with heavy rainfall, landslides, and muddy trails below 3,500m. The swollen rivers, the leeches and fog-covered views turn trekking in Manaslu and lower Annapurna around into something that enters a new league. 

The areas at higher altitude are drier, but they are dangerous, weatherwise, unstable and subject to rockslides and that makes trekking into the high altitudes truly an off season. But Mustang’s rain shadow region is quite dry and therefore makes for an alternative trek.

Autumn (September to November) 

The best trekking season is considered autumn, when the air is crisp, the weather is stable and the views of the mountains are excellent. Valleys have temperatures of 12°C to 22°C (with 54°F to 72°F) while temperatures at a pass may fall to -5°C (23°F). 

Dust and haze gets cleared for unmatched Himalayan visibility. High-altitude crossings are safe on trekking trails as they are dry and firm. Along the route are villages that receive a colorful atmosphere due to cultural festivals like Dashain and Tihar.

Winter (December to February)

The coldest season is winter when temperatures fall to around -15°C (5°F) in high altitude. Crossing Larkya La and Thorong La both are also possible although heavy snowfall blocks the passes, making crossings risky or impossible. 

However, sub-zero nights are experienced in the lower villages. During winter, you need extra gear, layers, and flexibility, but in return you get solitude, views of frozen waterfalls, and quieter trails for experienced trekkers.

The right season is important to make sure that you are safe, you are comfortable as well as experience the best Himalayan.

Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek is moderate to hard in difficulty, unless you have strong physical endurance, strong mental preparedness and experience at high altitude. This is not a casual walk, this is a multi week immersion with two high altitude pass crossings, long trekking hours and large elevation gain.

The Manaslu section is harder to deal with as compared to others, as it is very remote, has steep ascents and lesser infrastructure. You will cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m) in your crossing of the range, enabling you to traverse deep gorges, suspension bridges and glacial moraines with altitude and cold winds tested. 

In the Annapurna section of Nepal, which is more established, has its challenges with Thorong La Pass (5,416m) being one of the highest trek passes. One needs to get acclimated and have strong stamina to face this.

You should be prepared to do high altitude walking of 6 to 8 hours a day on trails with seriously diminished oxygen levels. It allows one to adapt to the gradual ascent, but certainly not out of altitude sickness. Training before doing Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek, making you more cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and mental strength, it makes all the difference. It can be done by first time trekkers in good shape, but trekking experience is an advantage.

Preparation for a successful Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek begins weeks prior to you ever stepping in Nepal. You have to acclimatize by planning a steady ascent, so your body can adjust to less oxygen in the air. Having prior training, such as hiking to build endurance and strength building exercises will also help you in handling the long trekking hours.

You will need to pack smartly, layered clothing as temperatures are unexpectedly hot and cold, quality trekking boots, a warm sleeping bag (-15°C rating), and trekking poles for stability. Come prepared to expect the unexpected with a comfortable backpack, a hydration system, altitude sickness medication, etc.

As the trek requires permits for the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, best to sort it out as early as possible to avoid the last minute hassle. It also makes hiring an experienced guide and porter much easier, as the mountain terrain can be challenging, and his money supports the local economy.Diet and hydration play a large role, drink 3 to 4 liters of water daily, eat adequate carbs, protein and avoid alcohol (it dehydrates at high altitudes). Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek is all about physical, mental and logistical preparation and this will enable you to savor every moment without any unforeseen turns.

The highlight of Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek involves some exhilarating challenges, in crossing Larkya La (5,106m) and Thorong La (5,416m), to some of the highest trekking points in Nepal. Every pass has breathtaking views, but do not expect to run, they also test stamina, ability to cope with thin air and extreme cold, not to mention steep inclines.

The place Larkya La is situated belongs to Manaslu region and the place is famous for its glacial landscape, harsh winds, and one of the best views of Manaslu, Cheo Himal, and Himlung Himal. It is a tough climb, with some very steep ice covered ridges, but summiting is most rewarding. It is important you time it right as crossing early in the morning avoids strong winds and unstable weather conditions.

Even more well known is Thorong La on the Annapurna Circuit which is higher. It is one of the biggest trekking passes of Nepal linking the regions of Manang and Mustang with amazing views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and the Kali Gandaki Gorge. Every step of the climb is harder due to freezing temperatures and lower oxygen.

Both passes in the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek require careful acclimatization, gentle footwork, and appropriate gear, but when you grind out to the top and experience the all encompassing Himalayas bending over you, every struggle is worth it. While these are geographical landmarks, they are milestones to an adventure too, chalking the moments of tremendous and fond memories.

During your Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will go right past some of Nepal’s holiest monasteries and religious sites. These are more than just landmarks, they are the focal points of history, traditions and spirituality which is intrinsically bound with Himalayan way of life.

Pungyen Gompa, located near Sama Gaun in the Manaslu region is one of the most extraordinary monasteries you will visit on your trip. But here, you yourself can find a quiet, meditative atmosphere, surrounded by fantastic views of Mount Manaslu and glacial landscape. Locals believe that Pungyen Gompa holds protective spiritual energy over the valley and therefore is a blessing to visit before crossing Larkya La Pass.

Braga Monastery situated in Manang is a must see in an area called Annapurna. One of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the area and built high on a rocky hillside. Braga is famous for its intricate architecture, based on Tibet, and its centuries old manuscripts. Upon your entrance, the sight and smell of flickering butter lamps with prayer chants envelop you in a most peaceful surrounding to feel the deeply rooted history of Tibetan Buddhism.The trek also features Muktinath Temple, a sacred place for both Buddhists and Hindus. Pilgrims here believe that bathing under 108 water spouts cleanses them of sins. The natural eternal flame, in this case with underground gases, is seen as the divine symbol of purity.

During the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek, we meet three major ethnic groups such as the Gurung, Thakali, and the Manangi each having its respective history, architecture, and lifestyle. The cultural fabric of the trekking regions in Nepal has been shaped for millennia by these communities, which live in the Himalayas.

There are mainly Gurung people inhabiting the lower sections of the Annapurna region. Historically known as farmers and warriors, for their warm hospitality, they have a strong presence in the British Gurkha regiments. The stone and wood traditional homes are in unison with whatever hills they are placed in. During festivals, you will usually find Gurung villagers celebrating with folk songs, dances and collaborative gatherings.

Well known for its trading tradition and food, the Thakali community is situated around the Kali Gandaki Valley. They fulfilled the crucial role in Tibetan-Nepalese trade, controlling major trading routes in the past. Also, if you stop by, in any Thakali village, don’t miss the opportunity to savour their signature Thakali dal bhat which has a repertoire of different kinds of lentils, vegetables and pickles.

People of Manangi ethnicity come from Manang and its environs where they have strong Tibetan influences. The homes are built thick walled and with small windows as their climate is for the harsh mountain. With its ancient Buddhist traditions, yak herding and trade in medicinal herbs, the culture of the Manang community is greatly influenced by nature.

On Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek, the landscape is one of the most fascinating as the landscape changes from lush forest to alpine terrain and also provides a fantastic variety of flora and fauna. In the lower elevations you’ll walk through bamboo, rhododendron, oak, pine forests, making for great colors for spring walk. 

However, the Annapurna region is particularly known for its rhododendron blooms which make the region turn into a virtual sea of pink or red in the hills.

The vegetation will thin out the further you go until you will see only juniper, alpine shrubs, and mosses attached to rocky cliffs. They endure harsh terrain, these hardy plants, making the mountain more rugged and textured.

These remote regions have diverse wildlife. You can be lucky to spot a rare and elusive snow leopard that prowls high altitude sections of Manaslu. There, you will also find Himalayan black bears, red pandas and langurs in the forests below and blue sheep and Himalayan tahrs moving with grace over rocky slopes higher up. The valleys are home to some great bird watchings of Himalayan monals, griffon vultures, and golden eagles soaring above. Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek will be a route which offers a chance to see various unique wildlife of the protected regions.

Due to the government wanting to preserve Nepal’s stunning natural heritage, it established the Manaslu Conservation Area (MCA) and Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) to protect the ecosystems, wildlife and local communities.

Annapurna Conservation area, established in 1986, is Nepal’s largest conservation zone consisting of over 7,600 square kilometers. Unregulated tourism, however, produced deforestation and environmental degradation before tourism was introduced. Today, ACA deals with sustainable tourism, reforestation and conservation of natural wildlife, so that trekking is not at the expense of nature.

The fragile high altitude ecosystem and the unique Tibetan influenced cultures in the area are protected in the Manaslu Conservation Area which was created in 1998. There you find rare wildlife like the snow leopard and red panda, whose numbers are being monitored continuously for conservation. Eco trekking practices are encouraged and there is a restricted visitor permit to minimize negative impact on the surrounding environment.In the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek, these regions are something more than just the tourism as you are also contributing in conserving the Himalayan regions for the future generations. It is easy to carry out simple practices like sticking to trails, respecting wildlife and reducing waste that make a huge difference in ensuring that these conservation areas are a thriving terrain.

During your Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will experience the strong bonding cultural tradition which defines the local communities’ lifestyle. Festival as a mode of celebrating protocols of heritage, togetherness and nature, spirituality and community.

The Tibetan New Year, Lhosar is one of the most important festivals in these areas. Lhosar is celebrated by the Gurung and Manangi people to mark the beginning of a new cycle with prayer ceremonies, colourful dances and traditional feasts. Villages will be adorned with prayer flags, monks will be religiously performing their rituals and locals donning their best of traditional attires.

Dashain is another lively festival that Nepal’s biggest Hindu festival falls during September or October. Fiestas, lunch, kite flying and community get togethers follow as do families reunite and worship goddess Durga. Dashain assumes regional customs in the Thakali villages of Mustang, with Hindu customs merged into the mountain culture of the areas.

In the same way, Tihar (Festival of Lights) brightens villages throughout the Annapurna area in October or November as oil lamps are lit throughout homes and temples. Locals are seen worshiping crows, dogs, cows and brothers during this festival in order to honor their cultural and spiritual importance.These festivals at times bring warmth into the life of remote Himalayan who otherwise enjoy solitude and tranquility isolated and believe me joined by these festivals in your Manaslu Annapurna CircuitTrek make it more immersive and culturally rich.

Before the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will then need to obtain the right permits as both spots are in Nepal’s protected areas. These treasured rules are established to maintain the environment, help communities nearby and keep trekkers safe.

Trekking in Manaslu region, trekkers need to have Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) as this zone is restricted. You can’t trek alone, you will have to hire a licensed guide for this and practice responsible tourism in this fragile environment. The MCAP is also required, which goes toward the cost of environmental protection.

Trekkers entering the Annapurna region need to possess both Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Local conservation programs, protection of wildlife, and sustainable trekking, are backed up by these permits.Regulations vary so it’s a good idea to check ahead of time, although the trekking industry has upped its professional game in recent years, trekking agencies can arrange permits and there is an ethical code of practice for trekking companies to follow. While this sounds full of hassle, you can book through us and we will arrange everything for your comfortable Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Accommodation in the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek can range from comfortable in the low altitude and more central areas, to very basic in the higher altitude and more remote parts, depending on local infrastructure and altitude. Trekking ranges from simple teahouses to well established lodges and occasionally camping is offered on this trek thus a very diversified range of experiences from minimalist high mountain trail to resting in some comfortable place.

Teahouses are simple but warm with wooden rooms, hot blankets, and communal eating places. A place like Sama Gaun and Samdo does have basic service, but don’t also expect modern luxuries, charm of village life and hospitality of the locals is its feature.

The accommodations get somewhat better as you enter Annapurna region especially to towns like Manang, Muktinath, Jomsom. On these windswept valleys you can find cozy lodges with hot showers, Wi-Fi and Western and local menus so that after challenging treks you can recharge as best as possible.

Tentage camping is also possible in higher altitude sections prior to crossing Larkya La and Thorong La pass where extreme conditions may demand it. Regardless of staying in tea houses or lodges, the Himalayan hospitality makes every night stop special and helps eases the fatigue and allows trekkers rest and interact with the local community

The Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek is not only an awe inspiring place, it is also an experience in Himalayan food that has been fashioned on the basis of tradition over centuries when people have survived in these high altitudes. The nutritional, energy and warming aspect of meals here means trekkers are strong on long days on the trail.

Dal bhat is a staple meal, which you will find regularly on the trek, it is lentil soup, rice, vegetables, with pickles. The refill is unlimited, so that trekkers will get the energy they need, which will be a fuel for their trek. In Thakali villages, the dal bhat is served in a different style with buckwheat bread, a curry made of yak meat and a number of different pickles.

However, if you get a chance to go through Manang, then you have to experience yak cheese, a rich delicacy with a divine flavor. Manangi culture and their cheese used for soups and snacks is very important to them as they have a culture of yak herding. Another tasty comfort meal is the Tibetan noodle soup, Thukpa which will warm your bones after long trekking.Herbal teas made from mountain plants are available as well as momos (dumplings) and Tibetan bread in local teahouses. Food and Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek are one and the same as every meal is a connection to the local traditions and resilience of the Himalayan communities.

Although amazing scenery, Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek with its high altitude trekking is physically challenging, unpredictable weather and much lower levels of oxygen that will even test experienced trekkers. Altitude sickness can be one of the biggest hurdles as you climb in a lack of oxygen. 

Depending on the severity, it can range from a couple of mild headaches and dizziness to other extreme situations such as High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), both of which require urgent descent.

For example, in Sama Gaun and Manang, the acclimatization days are essential to adjust your body to the thinner air, thus decreasing the chances of altitude related illness. It is important to be hydrated, slow paced, and eat high carbs to maintain the energy levels. Another challenge is weather unpredictability as there are sudden snowstorms, strong winds, and extreme cold at passes like Larkya La and Thorong La Passes.Mental endurance also comes to play. While you climb steep mountains, long hours and some remote landscapes, having a positive and positive attitude makes all the difference. These challenges can be overcome through proper training, hydration and careful gain of altitude, and can ensure you have a safe Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Packing right is essential for multi week high altitude Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek to ensure comfort, safety and efficiency. More important than anything else, however, is the layering element, temperatures shoot up and down so considerably that your layers need to be adaptable.

• Clothing: Thermal base layer, fleece mid layer and insulated down jacket will keep you warm at high altitude. Rain and snow protection is covered by waterproof jacket and pants.
• Footwear: The most important things are sturdy, waterproof trekking boots with ankle support. Extra socks help avoid blisters.
• Sleeping Gear: Some nights are very cold, a sleeping bag rated for -15°C. Gloves, warm hat, neck gaiter and UV protected sunglasses are optional accessories and trekking poles help with stability.
• Backpack: A comfortable, adjustable pack (40 to 60L) with space for essentials.
• Health & Safety: Altitude sickness medication, first-aid kit, water purification tablets, and electrolytes.
• Tech & Navigation: Headlamp, extra batteries, and a map or GPS device in case of emergencies.

By carrying only essentials, you’ll be ready to walk a number of different terrains and conditions without an overly heavy pack.

The Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek is possible on a smart budget keeping in mind the permit, accommodation, food, gear, transportation and guides.

• Permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit ($100 to $75), Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit & Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit ($30).
• Guides & Porters: Guides are licensed ($30 to $50/day) and porters ($25 to $35/day).
• Accommodation: $5 to $10 per night in basic teahouses, higher in Annapurna ($10–$20).
• Food: Dal bhat ($4 to $6 per meal), snacks ($2 to $4), and tea/coffee ($1 to $3).
• Transportation: Kathmandu to Machha Khola jeep ($25 to $40), Pokhara-Kathmandu flight ($120).
• Gear Rental: Trekking poles, down jackets and sleeping bags ($1 to $3 a day).

A moderate budget can be from $1,000 to $1,500 depending on how well supported a trek is and again, depending as to how much extra comfort you are looking for.

Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek is virtually dependent on the slogging and support of guides and porters. Hiring a license guide gives you the reliability of information about the landscapes, monasteries and the altitude to prepare for, safety and assistance in emergency even in case of illness or injuries.

On the other hand, porters are tasked to carry heavy loads so that trekking becomes reachable by the visitors and they earn livelihood for the families. Still deserving more credit than they get, porters can be subjected to long working hours, poor working conditions and unfair wage packages if not contracted by ethical trekking companies. 

Responsible trekkers should pay proper wages, provide proper clothing and have proper workload for the porters, making efforts that the porters can work in great comfort.

As cultural ambassadors, guides also introduce trekkers to different local traditions and prayer rituals as well as historical sites that the visitors otherwise might not have noticed. They are also proficient in various languages so that deeper connections can be made between trekkers and villagers. 

Selecting trained and ethical guides and porters not only improves the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek but also that trekking be possible in a balanced and respectful way, which is beneficial for local communities.

Trekking at high altitude necessitates purchases of exhaustive travel insurance that protects for medical emergencies, and dismissal payments. Because of the rugged terrain and harsh conditions, injury, altitude sickness and the weather can all lead to helicopter rescues which can be expensive without insurance.

A good trekking policy should, in the Guide section, include altitude sickness treatments, emergency evacuation, cost of the hospital, lost baggage, and trip delay due to extreme weather. Make sure you have helicopter rescue services to 6,000 meters in your plan as both Larkya and Thorong La Passes exceed 5,000 meters.

In addition, cancellations and delays do come often, thanks to uncertainties, so trip interruption would come in handy. You should always confirm if your provider covers trekking policies in Nepal, as some companies exclude high altitude trekking. Take along digital and physical copies of your insurance policy and make sure emails/contacts with your trekking agency and trekking guide have emergency contacts if an emergency situation comes up.Travel insurance is a great investment to put you at peace while on the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek and by doing so you can immerse yourself without being worried about any emergency or costs in the future.

During the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek, the trails of the regions have been used by traders, pilgrims and explorers for centuries. Located near Tibet, the Manaslu region, centred around towering 8,163m high Mount Manaslu, has Tibetan influences. For a long time, traders who had made their way along the Budhi Gandaki Valley traded salt, wool and livestock between Nepal and Tibet. 

Remnants of this era still mark the way among the Tibetan style houses, monasteries and chortens of villages such as Samdo and Lho. Visit these villages, and you will feel that time has stopped, prayers ring in the air, life at its ancient pace, the pace of peace.

In the Annapurna region, you can also visit Muktinath, a sacrosanct temple venerated by Hindus as well as Buddhists. Visiting Muktinath is considered to be giving the moksha, liberation from the cycle of rebirth. Aside from its religious importance, the area functioned in trade between Mustang and the remaining Nepal, where caravans passed down the Kali Gandaki Valley for centuries. Here, on Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek, you are walking past the history of Nepal in the form of routes where cultures met, traditions were formed, spiritual roots sprouted.

Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek is a trip that immerses the trekkers in ever-changing scenery from lush forests to icy peaks and to the arid high-altitude landscapes.

The trek starts from the Budhi Gandaki Valley, that consists of dense subtropical forests, flowing waterfalls, and rhododendron trees that make the setting bright and fresh. On climbing up the trail, the surroundings change to rocky ridges and gorges fed by glaciers, a result of the powerful Himalayan winds and ice.

Crossing Larkya La pass, the landscape becomes desolate, icy moraines full of ragged peaks and ridges in a deep blue sky. Bhimtang has a view which softens to spruce forests and alpine meadows as the trekkers look down from the craggy heights they have conquered and enjoy a serene introduction to the lower regions.

The scenery keeps on varying as one travels towards the Annapurna region, Marsyangdi river valley, rock face cliffs and windswept territory mark the way. Thorong La Pass brings high-altitude tundras, ridgelines, and hanging glaciers that make the climb yet spectacular.

On the way down into Mustang, trekkers find themselves amidst a dry desert-like terrain, where the wind-carved cliffs and ancient stone cave dwellings take them into timeless times in the Himalayas. Lastly, the trek arrives in Pokhara and the lower valleys marked by warm climates, peaceful lakes, and the bustle of Nepal’s busy city life for what is a dramatic contrast to the mountains.

Such a sensational trek from one terrain to another with numerous challenges and amazing views is an unforgettable experience.

It was around 50 million years ago when the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates collided, resulting in the formation of the Himalayas, including the Manaslu and Annapurna ranges. They keep altering the region in a continuing process, heaving peaks higher and carving deep gorges, fault lines, and glacial valleys.

Tectonic Collision & Uplift

The Indian plate moved north (at a rate of 15 cm per year) and to ‘force’ itself underneath the Eurasian plate, ‘pushed’ it upward and into mountain shape. As a result, Manaslu (8,163m) and Annapurna I (8,091m) rose sharply to peaks.

Glaciation & Erosion

The area was subject to intense glacial erosion during the Pleistocene epoch (2.6 million to 11,700 years ago) as it shaped mainly U shaped valleys, moraines, and high elevation Lakes such as Gangapurna and Tilicho Lakes.

Formation of the Kali Gandaki Gorge

The Kali Gandaki Gorge is considered the deepest gorge in the world and dates back around 60 million years, formed by river erosion and tectonic movements. Other than the Marsyangdi and the Budhi Gandaki Rivers, rock layers were cut through over millennia.

This trek offers a living glimpse of earth’s geological history and one is able to feel a natural transformation that is still shaping Nepal’s breathtaking landscape.

Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek has come a long way since then, and if you were to trek these trails many years ago, the experience would be very different. These paths were not created for adventure in the past, they were the trade routes and pilgrimage trails Tibetan traders, herders and monks used to travel between Nepal and Tibet. 

There would be caravans going places like Rohtak for salt and Rohtak for wool, locals going on religious trips, small villages scavenging from the goods brought by caravans from distant lands.

Up until 1970’s trekking started in the Annapurna region; it was rugged and unstructured. There were no marked trails, it was a trail less traveled, no organized teahouses, no sets guides, only exploration. Everything changed after that when the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) was launched in 1986. The permits were created, permits were given, there was responsibility about how you should trek and there were teahouses and so on and so forth.

Yet, Manaslu Circuit was hidden from the world for a much longer time. However, it did not open to trekkers until the year 1991 when it was left untouched and in its wild charm. Special permits are still needed for the region that still has its pristine landscapes and Tibetan culture intact. 

Today, you have the remoteness of Manaslu and the adventure-worth paths of Annapurna all wrapped up into the most complete trek possible, combining history, nature and our link with one another.

All of the mountains have their story and the names Manaslu and Annapurna have deep spiritual meaning with centuries of tradition behind them. However, these peaks are not only geographical landmarks but can also be sensed, felt and understood in terms of their energy and importance by those who trek through them.

Sanskrit refers to the mountain as Manasa or mountain of the soul or the intellect, which is the origin of the name Mount Manaslu (8,163m). This mountain is believed to contain divine energy by the locals, and protects all who venture in its valleys.

 When you visit the villages around Manaslu, you will see villages’ prayer flags in the wind, monks chanting in ancient monasteries, and villagers making offerings to an expedition. Manaslu is more than a mountain, it’s a sacred guardian of the land. For the people of the region, it was not just a victory of climbers reaching the 1956 summit, it was a spiritual connection of humans with gods.

There’s also Annapurna (8,091m) and the name of this is abundance and nourishment. It is taken from Annapurna, the goddess of food in Hinduism, with the meaning of sustenance and prosperity for the body. It showed itself in the region itself fitter valleys, glacial rivers and villages that depend on Annapurnas resources. 

Saintly and spiritual site Muktinath, near the Annapurna Circuit is considered sacred for pilgrims, who arrive there to seek divine blessings, which makes the mountain all the more sacred.

It is difficult to simply walk across these regions, as you actually step in centuries of stories, beliefs and traditions that started with life in these mountains. Long before trekking existed they are memories of monks, explorers and villagers who have been respecting their presence.

1. What is the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek that combines Manaslu Circuit trek and the Annapurna Circuit trek through remote villages, across high mountain passes, and several other magnificent landscapes as it crosses Larkya La (5,106m) and Thorong La (5,416m).

2. How difficult is the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit trek?

The trek is moderate to difficult depending on the trekker’s physical fitness; acclimatization and endurance. You will distance yourself for 6 to 8 hours a day and a lot of step ascent composed of glacial moraines, high altitude passes so you should prepare how to cope with altitude and rugged landscape.

3. Do I need a guide for this trek?

For the Manaslu region, that yes, it is mandatory because the region is restricted and hence you will need the licensed guide. Guides make the trek easier and safer with their knowledge of navigation, and also serve as cultural guides of the villages and landscapes.

4. What permits are required for the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The trek requires Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to allow controlled access, fund conservation and monitor safety.

5. What kind of accommodation is available along the route?

There are teahouses in remote parts of Manaslu but Annapurna has comfortable lodges. The closer you get to Manang and Jomsom the better facilities become with hot showers, a variety of meal options plus even some places that have Wi-Fi.

6. How much does the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek cost?

To travel it is expected that you will spend $1,000 to $1,500 on permits, guides, food, accommodation, and transportation. Costs depend on the level of luxury in the trekking style, the more luxury, the more stay at the private lodges, the more support is included in the trek.

7. What should I pack for the trek?

Take on layered clothing, heavy sleeping bags, waterproof clothing, strong boots, trekking poles and first aid kits as well as high energy snacks. It is essential to have sunscreen, sunglasses and altitude medication, as the Himalayan conditions can be very harsh.

8. How do I prepare for high-altitude trekking?

Cardio, endurance hikes, and strength exercises should be included into training. Hazards of altitude sickness can be reduced by prior acclimatization, hydration, slow pacing, and high carb meals. Proper preparation of the mind is necessary when facing long trekking days and difficult terrain.

9. What are the risks of altitude sickness, and how can I prevent it?

Headaches, dizziness and nausea may develop with altitude sickness, some of which can become severe if ignored. Stop it by acclimatizing properly, drinking plenty of water, eating a balanced diet, not drinking alcohol, and descend if symptoms deteriorate.

10. What kind of food is available during the trek?

Oil lamps are everywhere, and the dal bhat (lentils and rice), momos, Tibetan bread, noodles and yak cheese can be sampled at the local teahouses. To do high altitude trekking you need energy and warmth, which is provided by meals. Western options are available in some lodges in Annapurna.

11. How do I arrange transportation to the starting point?

Machha Khola for Manaslu can be reached by a jeep or bus from Kathmandu. After the trek to Annapurna trekkers take a bus or flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu to complete the circuit.

12. What are the major attractions along the trek?

The attractions include Manaslu and Annapurna peaks, Larkya La and Thorong La passes, Muktinath temple, Tibetan villages, waterfalls, glaciers and deep gorges making it adventurous, a cultural experience, and a dazzling sight to look at.

13. Is travel insurance necessary for this trek?

Yes, Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek does recommend travel insurance because they at least cover for the worst case scenarios such as medical emergency, altitude sickness, evacuation plus trip delays. Evacuations in the high altitudes are expensive, and high altitude regions will need helicopter rescue coverage that will not be affordable without insurance.

14. How safe is the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek?

So long as you acclimatize correctly, drink enough water and listen to guides, the trek generally isn’t dangerous. However, altitude sickness, extreme weather and dangerous terrain are all risks. During Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek, you should always have an experienced guide, important safety gear and have your health closely checked.

15. Can I do the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek solo?

The Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek is prohibited for solo, as it demands a guide and unique grants while in a limited territory. Solo trekking is allowed on the Annapurna section, but hiring a guide is safer, provides for better navigation and better experience of local culture particularly in remote regions.

16. How does trekking impact local communities?

Although trekking supports the local economy supporting jobs, guides, porters, and teahouse owners, it also brings about environmental challenges, strain of resources and cultural shift. Trekking practices can be eco friendly, business can be supported and traditions can be respected for minimizing the negative impacts.