Manaslu Circuit With Annapurna Circuit Trek Overview
The Manaslu Circuit with Annapurna Circuit Trek is a 23-day high-altitude trekking adventure in Nepal that combines two of the Himalayas’ most spectacular trekking regions into one extended journey. The trek takes you from the remote and culturally rich Manaslu region to the famous Annapurna Circuit, crossing two major Himalayan passes: Larkya La at 5,106 meters / 16,751 feet and Thorong La at 5,416 meters / 17,769 feet.
In this journey, Manaslu Circuit offers a quieter and more remote Himalayan experience, with rugged mountain valleys, traditional villages, Buddhist culture, glaciers, and dramatic views of Mount Manaslu. After crossing Larkya La, the trail connects with the Annapurna Circuit at Dharapani. Here, this section introduces a different landscape and perspective of the Nepal Himalayas.
The journey gradually moves from lower river valleys and subtropical forests into high alpine terrain, where the landscape becomes dominated by snow-covered peaks, yak pastures, glaciers, and barren mountain slopes. Along the way, you have opportunities to experience highlights such as Shyala, Pungen Gompa, Samagaun, Manaslu Base Camp, Manang, and the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath.
Also, altitude is a major part of the adventure, but the itinerary includes dedicated acclimatization days in Samagaun and Manang to allow your body to adjust before the major pass crossings. The two high passes are challenging and you must have a good physical fitness, steady pacing, and preparation. This is why, this trek is particularly rewarding if you are an experienced trekker looking for a longer and more demanding Himalayan adventure.
Beyond the mountains, the Manaslu Circuit with Annapurna Circuit Trek offers an unusually broad experience of Nepal. You move through remote mountain communities, ancient Buddhist traditions, changing landscapes, and some of the country's most impressive Himalayan scenery before finishing in Pokhara, Nepal's relaxed lakeside city.
Altogether, if you are looking for a long-distance trek in Nepal that combines remote trails, high mountain passes, Himalayan culture, and two iconic trekking regions, this combined Manaslu and Annapurna journey offers an unforgettable experience. But if you are looking for a different Himalayan adventure, you can also explore Manaslu Circuit Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek for shorter routes across the Himalayas.
What Makes The Manaslu-Annapurna Circuit Trek Unique?
Experience Two Iconic Himalayan Circuits And Cross Larkya La And Thorong La Passes
The Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek brings two of Nepal’s legendary trekking routes together, but the real challenge and reward of this journey lie in crossing Larkya La and Thorong La. They are two of the highest and most spectacular mountain passes in the Nepal Himalayas. By the time you reach these crossings, the landscape has already transformed dramatically from green river valleys and forests into a vast world of rock, snow, glaciers, and towering Himalayan peaks.
The approach to Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters / 16,751 feet) begins at Dharmasala. The crossing usually starts before sunrise. From here, the trail climbs steadily across rugged terrain, with long stretches of rocky ground, snow, and ice possible depending on the season and conditions.
It is a long and physically demanding day, and the altitude makes every uphill step feel harder. The pace becomes slower, the air noticeably thinner, and the cold more intense as you gain elevation. As you climb higher, vegetation becomes increasingly sparse. The lush forests and villages of the lower Manaslu Valley are replaced by barren alpine terrain, frozen slopes, glaciers, and enormous mountain walls.
Then, almost gradually, the landscape opens up, and the prayer flags and Larkya La marker come into view. Reaching the pass is a moment of genuine achievement.
The second major crossing, Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters / 17,769 feet), comes later in the journey on the Annapurna Circuit. Although the experience is different from Larkya La, it presents another serious high-altitude challenge.
From Thorong Phedi, the ascent begins early, often before sunrise. The trail climbs gradually but continuously toward the pass, and the combination of high altitude, cold temperatures, and a long uphill ascent makes this one of the most demanding days of the trek.
As you ascend, the views become increasingly expansive. The surrounding terrain is dominated by rocky ridges, snow-covered slopes, glaciers, and enormous Himalayan peaks. Here, you are walking through a stark, open mountain landscape where the weather, altitude, and terrain become the defining features.
Finally, the colorful prayer flags at Thorong La signal that the highest point is close. Once you reach the pass, there is a sense of relief, exhaustion, excitement, and accomplishment all at once.
Trek Through Nepal’s Diverse Landscapes From Manaslu To Annapurna
You trek through an extraordinary range of landscapes, from subtropical forests and rushing mountain rivers to alpine meadows, yak pastures, glaciers, and barren high-altitude valleys. The adventure begins in the lower Manaslu region, where the surroundings are surprisingly green and warm. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River through terraced hillsides, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and dense forests. Depending on the altitude and season, you can walk beneath stands of rhododendron, pine, oak, and other Himalayan vegetation.
As you climb higher toward Namrung and the upper Manaslu Valley, the landscape begins to change. Forests become thinner, villages become more distinctly Himalayan, and snow-covered peaks start dominating the horizon. Around Shyala and Samagaun, the valley opens dramatically, revealing enormous mountain walls, glaciers, and high alpine terrain.
Beyond Samagaun and toward Larkya La, the vegetation becomes increasingly sparse. The environment feels quieter and more remote as you move deeper into the high Himalayas. After crossing Larkya La and descending toward Dharapani, the scenery changes once again. Forests gradually return, and the trail passes through alpine meadows before entering greener valleys. This is also where the journey connects with the Annapurna Circuit.
As you continue through the Marsyangdi Valley, the landscape shifts between pine forests, dramatic cliffs, traditional villages, and wide mountain valleys. The Annapurna range becomes increasingly prominent. Above Manang, the landscape becomes more rugged and open. The famous rain-shadow landscapes around the upper Annapurna region have a distinctly different appearance from the wetter valleys of lower Manaslu.
By the time you approach Thorong La Pass, you are walking through a stark high-altitude world of barren slopes, glaciers, snow, and enormous mountain horizons. After crossing the pass and descending toward Muktinath, the landscape begins transforming yet again.
In a single journey, you experience Nepal's changing Himalayan environments while moving through a remarkable range of elevations and ecosystems. Every few days can feel like entering a completely different part of the Himalayas.
Discover Shyala, Pungen Gompa, And The Hidden Himalayan Landscapes Of Manaslu
Shyala and Pungen Gompa are two of the most memorable highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It offers spectacular mountain views and a closer look at the remote Himalayan landscape of the Manaslu region. Shyala sits in an exceptionally scenic location, surrounded by an impressive panorama of the Himalayan peaks.
From the village, you can look across the valley toward Manaslu and other towering peaks, with snow-covered ridges rising almost directly from the surrounding landscape. Instead of catching occasional glimpses through the trees, you are surrounded by wide, unobstructed Himalayan views.
Staying overnight in Shyala also gives you time to appreciate the scenery without rushing through it. The changing light can completely transform the mountains. For photographers and mounain lovers, it is one of those places where simply stepping outside can feel like an experience in itself.
From Shyala, the trail continues toward Pungen Gompa, which is one of the cultural and scenic highlights of the Manaslu region. The gompa sits in a remarkably high-altitude setting, with expansive views toward Mount Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Nadi Peak, Kutang Himal, and surrounding glaciers. The hike to Pungen Gompa passes through open mountain terrain and yak grazing pastures, with fewer signs of modern development as you move farther into the remote Manaslu Valley.
Pungen Gompa also offers a different perspective of Mount Manaslu. From this elevated viewpoint, the mountain landscape appears broader and more imposing. The journey through this part of the Manaslu Conservation Area is also a gradual introduction to the high-altitude environment. Vegetation becomes more limited as you climb.
Acclimatize In Samagaun With Hikes To Manaslu Base Camp And Birendra Lake
Samagaun is an important acclimatization stop on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It gives you time to adjust to an altitude of around 3,520 meters while exploring some of the most spectacular high-altitude landscapes in the Manaslu region. You can use this acclimatization day to make a gradual ascent to Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake, depending on your energy, interests, and trekking conditions.
Located beneath the towering peaks of the Manaslu Himalayas, Samagaun is surrounded by an extraordinary landscape of snow-covered mountains, glaciers, rocky slopes, and open alpine valleys. The village itself is an important stop before the trail continues toward Samdo, Dharmasala, and eventually Larkya La Pass.
If you are looking for a more challenging acclimatization hike, Manaslu Base Camp sits at around 4,980 meters and provides an unforgettable high-altitude experience. The trail climbs steadily from Samagaun through increasingly rugged terrain, with the surrounding landscape becoming more dramatic as you gain elevation.
Reaching Manaslu Base Camp is a rewarding experience in itself. You are surrounded by the enormous Himalayan landscape that makes this region so special. The route also gives you a closer perspective of Mount Manaslu.
If you prefer a shorter and gentler acclimatization outing, Birendra Lake at approximately 3,700 meters is an excellent alternative. The hike takes you through the alpine surroundings above Samagaun to a striking glacial lake framed by the surrounding mountains. Its turquoise-blue waters, when conditions are clear, create a beautiful contrast against the rugged Himalayan landscape.
The choice between Manaslu Base Camp and Birendra Lake allows the acclimatization day to be adapted to your condition and preferences. Beyond the views, this day helps your body adjust to decreasing oxygen levels as you gain altitude.
Explore Manang And Hike To The Spectacular Ice Lake
The Manang village lies in a dramatic high-altitude valley surrounded by snow-covered peaks, dry mountain slopes, and the rugged landscapes of the upper Marsyangdi Valley. You can use it to explore the area or take a rewarding side hike to Ice Lake.
The Ice Lake hike from Manang is challenging, with a sustained uphill climb through rugged high-altitude terrain. The trail rises well above the village, and the thinner air makes the ascent feel considerably harder than the distance alone might suggest.
As you climb, the landscape gradually becomes more barren and alpine. The cultivated fields and settlements around Manang give way to rocky slopes, alpine grasslands, rugged ridges, and expansive mountain views.
The reward comes when you reach Ice Lake. On a clear day, the lake and its rugged surroundings provide spectacular views toward the Annapurna range, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, and other Himalayan peaks.
The area around Manang is also culturally fascinating. The village and surrounding settlements reflect the Tibetan-influenced Buddhist culture of the upper Annapurna region.
If you prefer not to take the full Ice Lake hike, the acclimatization day can be spent exploring Manang village and its surrounding trails at a more relaxed pace. You can walk through the settlement, visit local monasteries, enjoy views of the surrounding mountains, or simply allow your body to recover while remaining active at altitude.
Visit The Sacred Muktinath Temple
Muktinath Temple is one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. For Hindu pilgrims, Muktinath is known as a sacred place of liberation, and the temple is associated with Lord Vishnu. The name itself is commonly understood as referring to the “place of liberation.” Pilgrims traditionally visit the temple and take part in ritual bathing beneath the 108 water spouts.
The site is equally significant to Buddhists, who know it as Chumig Gyatsa, commonly translated as the “Hundred Waters.” The area contains Buddhist shrines and a monastery alongside the Hindu temple.
After the demanding ascent and descent over Thorong La Pass, arriving at Muktinath feels particularly meaningful. The stark high-altitude landscape begins to soften as you descend, and the sacred site provides a quiet opportunity to pause and appreciate the journey.
The temple complex itself is modest compared with the scale of the mountains surrounding it. Small shrines, prayer wheels, Buddhist symbols, religious flags, and the natural water sources create an atmosphere that feels both peaceful and deeply spiritual. You may see pilgrims arriving from different parts of Nepal and India, as well as trekkers who have reached Muktinath after completing the Thorong La crossing.
Relax In Pokhara After Your Adventure
After days of steep trails, high mountain passes, and long Himalayan walking, Pokhara is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a well-earned break. Pokhara feels like a completely different side of Nepal. With Phewa Lake, peaceful lakeside streets, mountain views, cafés, restaurants, and plenty of places to simply sit and do nothing, the city gives your body and mind a chance to recover after the demanding trek.
You can spend your free time walking along the lakeside, enjoying a quiet meal, taking a boat ride on Phewa Lake, or simply catching up on sleep after crossing Larkya La and Thorong La. The change in scenery is part of the experience.
After weeks of walking through remote villages, forests, alpine valleys, and high mountain passes, you can slow down, enjoy a good meal, and look back on the journey before heading to Kathmandu the following day.
Manaslu And Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost
The Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek costs USD 1,890 per person with Nepal Trekking Experts. The price covers the main expenses of the journey, including required trekking permits, accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and throughout the trek, three daily meals during the trekking days, and essential ground transportation.
The package also includes a professional English-speaking trekking guide, staff expenses, basic trekking equipment such as a sleeping bag and down jacket, and safety support. Airport transfers, welcome dinner, rescue arrangements when necessary, government taxes, and agency service charges are also covered, so most of the essential logistics are taken care of before you set off.
Some expenses remain outside the package, including international airfare, Nepal visa fees, meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara, personal expenses, travel insurance, sightseeing entrance fees, snacks and beverages, and tips for the trekking staff. Also, porter service is optional and is only available upon request.
What Permits Are Required For This Himalayan Trek?
You need several trekking permits because this route passes through both the restricted Manaslu region and two protected conservation areas. The main permits are the Manaslu Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- Manaslu Special Restricted Area Permit (Manaslu RAP): It is required for the section of the trek within the restricted Manaslu region, and you can obtain it through the Department of Immigration. Under the current 2026 restricted-area trekking regulations, solo trekkers can enter the Manaslu restricted area when travelling under the required guided trekking system. Its cost is as follows:
- From September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days, followed by USD 15 for each additional day.
- From December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days, followed by USD 10 per additional day.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): This permit costs NPR 3,000 per person and is issued through the Nepal Tourism Board.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): It costs NPR 3,000 per person and is obtained through the Nepal Tourism Board.
If you are booking with Nepal Trekking Experts, these required permits are included in the package cost, so you do not need to arrange them independently. However, you do need to provide passport-sized pictures and your passport for these permits.
Do I Need To Hire A Guide And Porter For Manaslu And Annapurna Regions In Nepal?
Yes, a guide is required for the Manaslu restricted area, while a porter is optional, depending on how much of your backpack you want to carry yourself. With Nepal Trekking Experts, a professional trekking guide is already included in the total package cost, so you do not need to arrange one separately. A porter can be added on request for USD 25 per day, carrying up to 20 kg of luggage.
Our NTE guides are government-registered, English-speaking, and first-aid trained, with experience navigating long Himalayan routes such as the Manaslu and Annapurna circuits. They manage the daily pace, help with accommodation and local arrangements, keep an eye on changing conditions, and can assist with altitude-related concerns along the way. They also carry essential safety equipment, including a first-aid kit and a pulse oximeter.
A porter, meanwhile, is the person who makes your backpack feel a whole lot lighter. One porter carries up to 20 kg, allowing you to focus on walking. They are particularly useful on demanding sections such as the approaches to Larkya La and Thorong La. Porters are accustomed to the mountain terrain and form an important part of Nepal's trekking culture and tourism workforce.
With us, the guide costs USD 35 per day, although this expense is already included in your trekking package. A porter costs USD 25 per day and is available when requested. If two trekkers share one porter, the cost can be divided between them, while the porter carries their combined luggage up to the agreed weight limit.
One important cost to remember is tipping. Tips are not included in our trekking package and are not legally mandatory, but tipping trekking staff is a well-established and appreciated part of Nepal's trekking culture. As a general guideline for this long Himalayan journey, you can budget around 15 to 20% of the total journey cost for tips, with the final amount depending on the quality of service, your overall experience, and how satisfied you are with your guide and porter. You are always free to give more when you feel the team has gone above and beyond.
How Can I Book The Manaslu And Annapurna Circuit Trek?
To book this trek with us, you need to pay a 10% deposit of the total trek cost and provide a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and your flight details when available. The booking process is simple and can be completed online through the Nepal Trekking Experts website
You can securely pay the 10% trekking deposit online, and once the payment is completed, you will automatically receive a confirmation receipt by email. Your remaining trek balance can be settled upon arrival in Nepal.










