Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek Travel Guide is a blog that talks about all the information you need to complete the trail. If you're a passionate trekker looking to experience the best of Nepal's Himalayas in one sweeping journey, the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek is the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. This rare combination of the Manaslu Circuit Trek (MCT) and Annapurna Circuit Trek (ACT) connects two legendary routes, taking you from remote valleys to high mountain passes like Larkya La (5,106m) and Thorong La (5,416m). The trek offers over 300 kilometers of rugged trails through Tibetan-influenced villages, roaring rivers, serene alpine forests, and snowy landscapes.
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| Thorong la pass welcome board. |
This guide will walk you through everything you need to plan your trek in 2025 — from a complete day-by-day itinerary and updated cost breakdown to permit requirements, essential gear, and practical tips from fellow trekkers.
Recommended Read: How to stay safe on Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Why Combine Manaslu and Annapurna Circuits trek?
Merging the Manaslu and Annapurna circuits creates a trekking experience that’s both diverse and immersive. The Manaslu region is a remote and relatively untouched trail that begins in the lower hills and ascends through hidden Himalayan valleys. With fewer trekkers on the route, the experience feels raw and authentic. You’ll encounter Tibetan-style villages, ancient monasteries, and stunning views of Mount Manaslu the world’s eighth-highest peak.
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| High altitude deserts on the way to Annapurna Circuit. |
Once you cross the dramatic Larkya La Pass, the trail joins the Annapurna Circuit at Dharapani. This section contrasts sharply, offering well-developed teahouses, varied trekking infrastructure, and panoramic views of Annapurna II, III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. While the Annapurna trail is more frequented, its diversity—from pine forests and deep gorges to arid desert-like valleys—is unmatched.
Combining these routes allows you to experience solitude and serenity on the Manaslu side, followed by the cultural richness and natural diversity of the Annapurna region. It’s the best of both worlds — remote adventure with the reliability of a classic route.
Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary (Day-by-Day)
This trek typically takes around 22 to 25 days, starting from Soti Khola in the Gorkha district and ending in Jomsom or Pokhara. Here's how a standard itinerary might unfold:
You’ll begin with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, the trailhead of the Manaslu region. The early days of the trek take you through warm subtropical forests and narrow river valleys. As you move higher, the landscape becomes more alpine and the culture increasingly Tibetan.
Notable villages like Samagaun and Samdo offer opportunities to acclimatize while exploring side trails to viewpoints or even Manaslu Base Camp. Crossing the Larkya La Pass is a major milestone, offering sweeping views of Himlung, Cheo, and Annapurna II.
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| View of the Mighty Manaslu seen from the Lho village. Credit: Nepal Tourism Board |
After reaching Dharapani, the trek transitions into the Annapurna Circuit. You'll pass through charming settlements like Chame, Pisang, and Manang, where better infrastructure, bakeries, and teahouses await. After another acclimatization day in Manang, you’ll approach the iconic Thorong La Pass and descend into Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site. The journey usually concludes in Jomsom, where you can take a flight or jeep to Pokhara.
Read More: Annapurna Circuit Trek; An Epic Journey
This combined trek not only challenges your endurance but also enriches your soul with spiritual sites, hospitable locals, and a landscape that changes almost every day.
Cost Breakdown for Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek (2025 Update)
The cost of this trek depends largely on how you choose to do it—independently or through a trekking agency. In 2025, prices may fluctuate slightly due to tourism trends and inflation, but here’s a general breakdown:
If you opt for a guided package, expect to pay between $2,200 to $2,800 USD, which includes permits, guide and porter fees, accommodation, meals, and transport. Going independently with a hired guide and porter may reduce your expenses to around $1,500 to $2,000, depending on your choices for food and lodging.
Accommodation and food along the Manaslu trail are basic and slightly more expensive due to its remoteness. Annapurna offers more variety, including menu items like apple pie, pasta, and even espresso. Expect to spend $25–$40 per day on food and lodging.
Additional costs may include transportation (around $150) for jeeps or flights, gear rental, Wi-Fi, hot showers, and battery charging, which are typically paid separately in the higher regions.
Permit Requirements for MCT + ACT
Since this trek enters a restricted area, you'll need specific permits. Here’s what you need for 2025:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) – $100 for the first 7 days (Sept–Nov), $75 during other months, and $15 for each extra day.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) – $30
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – $30
TIMS Card – $20 (required for the Annapurna section if you’re trekking independently
Importantly, trekking in the Manaslu region requires a licensed guide and at least two trekkers in the group (unless arranged through an agency, which can adjust for solo travelers).
Route Map and Trekking Distance
The combined trek spans over 300 kilometers, with an average of 15–20 kilometers of walking per day depending on acclimatization and detours. While the Manaslu section demands early starts and longer days through isolated terrain, the Annapurna side offers better infrastructure and shorter daily walks.
You’ll cross two high passes over 5,000 meters—Larkya La and Thorong La—both of which require early morning starts and careful pacing due to altitude.
While this guide doesn’t include a visual map, we highly recommend downloading offline maps from Maps.me, Gaia GPS, or using trekking agency-provided maps for daily navigation.
What to Pack for Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Packing wisely is crucial for such a long and varied trek. Weather can change rapidly, especially at higher altitudes, so layering is key.
Your packing list should include:
- Base layers (moisture-wicking)
- Fleece or softshell jacket
- Down jacket (for high passes and nights)
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Warm hat, gloves, buff/scarf
- Sturdy, broken-in trekking boots
- Sleeping bag (-10°C to -20°C)
- Trekking poles and sunglasses
- Headlamp, first aid kit, water filter, or purification tabs
It’s also advisable to carry Diamox or similar altitude sickness medication, along with common items like lip balm, sunscreen, blister pads, and dry snacks.
Many of these items can be rented or bought in Kathmandu’s Thamel area, which is well-stocked with gear for every budget.
Best Time to Do the Manaslu Annapurna Trek
The ideal trekking windows are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is relatively stable, the skies are clear, and temperatures while cold at night are comfortable for hiking.
Spring adds the bonus of blooming rhododendrons and colorful valleys, while autumn provides post-monsoon clarity with some of the best mountain views Nepal has to offer. Winter trekking is possible but comes with risks like snow-blocked passes and freezing temperatures. Monsoon (June to August) is best avoided due to slippery trails and frequent landslides.
Tips from Trekkers Who Did Both Circuits
Many trekkers who’ve completed this combined route recommend building in enough acclimatization days one at Samagaun before Larkya La and one at Manang before Thorong La. These breaks not only help you adjust to the altitude but also offer great side hikes to viewpoints or lakes.
Tea houses are available throughout the route, though facilities in Manaslu are more basic. Annapurna, by contrast, offers comfortable stays with Wi-Fi, menus, and charging points — though all at an extra cost in higher altitudes.
Wi-Fi access and charging are inconsistent; it’s wise to bring a power bank and rely on local SIM cards (NTC or Ncell) with mobile data for occasional connectivity.
Most importantly, take your time. The altitude is not to be underestimated, and rushing can lead to AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Listen to your body, stay hydrated, and enjoy the journey at your own pace.
Summary
The Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek is a long but incredibly rewarding adventure that combines raw Himalayan wilderness with the iconic charm of the Annapurna region. You'll walk ancient trails, cross snow-covered passes, and experience a blend of solitude and community in the villages you pass through.
Whether you're looking for a spiritual journey, a physical challenge, or simply to stand among giants of stone and snow, this trek will stay with you for a lifetime. If you're ready for a truly immersive experience in 2025, this hybrid route is your ticket to the heart of the Nepal Himalayas.
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