Manaslu circuit trek with Annapurna circuit itinerary
Manaslu circuit trek with Annapurna circuit is a 24-day package. In these 24 days, you will spend 4 days traveling to/from the starting and ending point of the trail and spend the rest 20 days in the mountains.
The trek begins from Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,600 ft), the beautiful city of temples. Here, you will get a chance to explore some ancient historical sites before you leave the city and drive to Soti Khola, the starting point of our Manaslu circuit trek with the Annapurna circuit.
We will be doing the Manaslu circuit first. From Soti Khola (730 m/2,896 ft), the trail gradually ascends via subtropical forests, crossing suspension bridges and trekking past lovely waterfalls. On the way, you will also trek through landslide-prone areas and steep tracks.
The trail ascends and descends via many remote villages Machha Khola (890 m/2,965 ft), Jagat (1,410 m/4,625 ft), Ekle Bhatti, Lokpa, Deng (1,804 m/5,917 ft), and Namrung (2,630 m/8,626 ft) to reach Samagaun (3,520 m/11,548 ft).
In Samagaun, we will take an acclimatization break and hike to Pun Gyen Gompa (4,060 m/13,316 ft) or Manaslu Base Camp (4,400 m/14,435 ft) and Birendra Lake. From here, the trail gradually ascends to Larkya La pass via Samdo (3,875 m/12,713 ft) and Larkya Phedi (4,480 m/14,698 ft).
We come across glacier moraine, alpine lakes, and grassy meadows on this part of the trail. Once we cross the Larkya La pass (5,106 m/16,747 ft), the trail descends to Bhimtang (3,720 m/12,205 ft) and continues to Chame (2,650 m/8,694 ft) via Goa (2,550 m/8,367 ft). We join the Annapurna circuit trek from Chame onwards.
The trail goes through lush forests and verdant hills for a few days. We trek through beautiful settlements Pisang (3,115 m/10,200 ft), Ngawal (3,660 m/12,008 ft), Manang (3,540 m/11,614 ft), Yak Kharka (4,110 m/14,275 ft), and Thorong Phedi (4,525 m/14,525 ft) to Thorong La pass (5,416 m/17,756 ft).
Crossing the Thorong La pass is quite challenging as it is also the highest mountain pass in Nepal. The trail descends from the pass to Muktinath Temple (3,760 m/12,623 ft). Muktinath is one of the important pilgrimage sites in Nepal.
From here, we will traverse the lower Mustang region to reach Jomsom (2,720 m/8,924 ft). If you have extra days and wish to extend your trek, you can continue to Upper Mustang. Following the Kali Gandaki gorge from Muktinath, we will trek to Jomsom. It is also the deepest gorge in the world. The trail is a little on the offbeat side and passes by small villages.
We will end the trek in Jomsom and fly to Pokhara (822 m/2,697 ft). In Pokhara, you get one full day to spend. Take this opportunity, and enjoy the serenity of this beautiful city. The next day, you will fly back to Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,600 ft), a scenery flight.
Trek difficulty, daily trekking hours, altitude sickness, and preparation
Manaslu Circuit Trek with Annapurna Circuit is a strenuous trekking program in Nepal. This trek is only for travelers who have trekked before and have faced high altitudes. We do not recommend the Manaslu Annapurna circuit trek to beginner trekkers even if you are physically strong because the challenges on this trek exceed rugged terrains and steep ascends and descends.
To spend 20 days in the mountains while trekking from one village to another, you have to know the Himalayan trail, the limitations it carries, and the compromises you have to make. You will be off-grid for most of the trail. Likewise, you have to adjust to simple tea houses and square toilets in many places.
The water is extremely cold and frozen in the upper parts of the trail, so taking hot showers is not possible everywhere. There will be times when you will be left with your thoughts. The tranquility will be immense, unlike the chaos and noise of the city that you might be used to. Accommodation and meals are simple, and the options are limited. You will trek for 6 to 7 hours a day.
As you begin to touch the high altitude, the thin air will exhaust you quickly. Therefore, every mile you trek will become a big effort. And with all these things, there is always the risk of altitude sickness and injuries if you are not careful. If you are not mentally strong and endure these challenges, the journey will become a nightmare for you.
So, we highly recommend the Off Beaten treks Manaslu circuit trek and the Annapurna circuit to travelers who know the Himalayan trail. If you are well prepared and supported, you can also do this trek smoothly. You will not even realize how fast these 20 days pass by. Our Manaslu Annapurna circuit itinerary has enough rest days to let you acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness.
The guide will keep a check on your health and help you with any discomfort. If you follow his instructions, the journey will not be unbearable. Similarly, to prepare for a trek like this, you have to make sure you are physically and mentally ready. Build your leg and core strength, stamina, endurance, practice focus, and a positive mindset.
The best time to do the Manaslu circuit and Annapurna circuit trek together
During the Manaslu circuit trek with the Annapurna circuit, you will come across various weather and climatic zones. From subtropical forests, the trail extends to barren hills, rocky gorges, and glacial moraines.
Also, you will repeat the similar trail condition twice as you transition from Manaslu to the Annapurna region. Towards the end of the trek, from Muktinath to Jomsom, you will also experience arid landscapes.
The best times to cross the Larkya La and Thorong La passes together are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Trekking in these two seasons will provide you with stable weather conditions, great visibility, and a moderate climate. The trail is teeming with seasonal vegetation in spring and festivals in autumn.
The unpredictable weather and poor trail conditions during summer/monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February) make this trail even more demanding. We do not recommend the Manaslu circuit trek with the Annapurna circuit in the off-season.
The wonders of the Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area
The Manaslu Conservation Area and the Annapurna Conservation Area are the two most remarkable natural sanctuaries in Nepal. Both are renowned for their exceptional biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Manaslu Conservation Area:
The Manaslu Conservation Area boasts a wide variety of plant species due to its diverse altitudinal range, which spans from 1,000 meters to over 8,000 meters above sea level.
Lush forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine dominate the lower elevations, giving way to alpine meadows and shrublands as you ascend. The area is also famous for its medicinal herbs, such as Yarsagumba (Cordyceps sinensis).
Likewise, the Manaslu region is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including endangered species like snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan tahr, and musk deer. Additionally, a wide variety of bird species, such as Himalayan Monal, Griffon vulture, and Lammergeier, can be spotted here.
Annapurna Conservation Area:
The Annapurna Conservation Area, with its varying altitudes and climatic conditions, supports an even wider range of plant species. From subtropical forests with species like sal and bamboo to temperate forests dominated by oak and rhododendrons, and finally, alpine meadows with high-altitude vegetation, the plant life here is incredibly diverse.
This conservation area is home to numerous wildlife. The forests and wetlands of the Annapurna Region are also teeming with birdlife, including the endangered Spiny Babbler and the colorful Himalayan Monal. Furthermore, the Modi Khola River within the Annapurna Sanctuary provides a habitat for various fish species.
Mountain views and landscapes on the Manaslu circuit trek with the Annapurna circuit
The best thing about the Manaslu circuit trek with the Annapurna circuit is the varied landscapes you will get to witness. You will catch many sunrises and sunsets throughout the trail. Enjoy views of beautiful waterfalls, rushing rivers, lush hills, barren hills, snow-capped mountains, huge rock formations, and picturesque villages.
In the Manaslu region, you will witness mountains like Ganesh Himal (7,422 m/24,350 ft), Simnang Himal (6,251 m/20,508 ft), Mt. Kangguru (6,981 m/22,903 ft, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), Himlung Himal (7,126 m/23,379 ft), Siringi Himal (7,155 m/23,474 ft), etc.
Likewise, while traveling in the Annapurna region, you will witness views of the Annapurna Range (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri Range (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m/23,406 ft), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), etc.
The locals of the Manaslu and Annapurna regions
The locals of the Manaslu and Annapurna regions of Nepal are predominantly Tibetan and Gurung ethnic groups. Other communities like Rai, Magar, Brahmin, Chettries, and Thakalis also live in the various villages. These communities have adapted to the challenging mountain environment. Their cultural traditions remain integral to their daily lives.
The majority of the people in both regions follow standard Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhism. Monasteries, stupas, Chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags are scattered around the trail. People with different ethnic backgrounds have different cultural practices, beliefs, languages, and traditions. The cultural diversity is huge.
Regardless of their differences, the locals live in harmony, sharing and celebrating each other's cultural heritage. The locals are very welcoming and kind. You will be blown away by their hospitality. They love to talk to trekkers and share their stories.
Many locals are involved in trade and tourism-related activities. Treks in the Manaslu and Annapurna regions are popular, and locals serve as guides and porters, and provide accommodation and meals to trekkers. This has become a significant source of income for the communities.
The major attractions of the Manaslu circuit trek with the Annapurna circuit
Below, we have listed the major attractions of the Manaslu circuit trek with the Annapurna circuit:
- Cross two high-challenging passes- Larkya La and Thorong La.
- Explore the beauty of the Manaslu and Annapurna regions.
- Come across a wide range of flora and fauna along the trail.
- Witness views of numerous stunning Himalayan mountains.
- Trek through lush forests, valleys, beautiful villages, meadows, gorges, and moraines.
- Meet with people from different ethnic backgrounds and get to see their simple and unique mountain lifestyle.
- Explore ancient monasteries, stupas, mani walls, and Chortens along the trail.
- The trekking route also has alpine waterfalls, alpine lakes, and lovely pastures.
- Catch many gorgeous sunrises and sunsets during the trek.
- Unwind and rejuvenate as the trail progresses, unfolding a serene environment.
- Reach the Manaslu Base Camp and explore isolated Birendra Lake.
- Get a blessing in one of the most revered temples in Nepal- Muktinath.
- Get to see arid landscapes while trekking via the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki Gorge, from Muktinath to Jomsom.
How much does the Manaslu circuit trek with the Annapurna circuit cost? How to join this trek?
Our Manaslu circuit trek with the Annapurna circuit costs USD 1,952 per person. Are you surprised? Yes, you explore these two incredible trekking routes at just USD 1,952 per person. Moreover, if you are trekking in a group of 8 or more trekkers, we provide an additional discount.
Our package cost is comprehensive of all the essentials needed during the trek, like accommodation, meals, transportation, permits, and expenses of guides and porters.
To book the Manaslu circuit trek with the Annapurna circuit, you go to our package page and send us your booking request. We have a safe and easy payment system that will let you book the trek in just a few minutes.
Once our team receives your booking request, we will get in touch with you and begin further processing. Do note that you can also tailor-make the Manaslu circuit trek with the Annapurna circuit as per your requirements with us, Ace Vision Treks & Tours.
How long is your Vacation?
Three-weeks! So the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit trek for you. If two weeks our short Manaslu Circuit Trek for your time frame.
