Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trekking

Trip Facts

Duration

Duration 23 Days

Difficulty

Difficulty Moderate

The trip begins with one of the most unspoiled,  secret, and incredible valley, the picturesque settlements resided by various ethnic communities, their unique rituals, culture and lifestyles and many more in Manaslu  area. The local people are mostly of Tibetan origin and seek a unique dialect. Trails are strewn with artistic Chhortens and lined with mani walls made of thousands of stone slabs carved with deities and prayers.

After exploring beautiful ethnic villages and buddhist monasteries, you will be taken to Larke La pass and joins to Annapurna region. It will take you to explore highest elevated Tilicho lake, Thorong la pass and sacred hindu temple “Muktinath”. You will have great opportunity to view Tibetan plateau, Kaligandaki river and Kagbeni village.

Background

Nepal alternative treks has combined itineraries of  Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit trekking to offer something unique package. We have designed this trip in an alternative route to avoid road wherever it disturbs on path . We take you not only to the wilderness, off the beaten track and authentic Buddhist culture but also get great opportunity to visit old Monasteries and high pass Larke la in Manaslu region. After exploring these special areas, you will be taken to world’s most popular route Annapurna circuit.

About Us

At Nepal Alternative Treks and Expedition, we put our efforts to create and operate trips to various parts of Nepal. We have a great team of skilled guides and porters to assist travelers. Thus, we provide our finest people and services to cater to your needs. Also, we allow you to change the itineraries as per your liking easily.

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Highlights

  • Trek around the foothills of Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
  • Cross the Larkya La Pass, the longest mountain pass in Nepal.
  • Visit ancient Buddhist Gompas (monasteries), including Rachen Gompa.
  • Understand the unique lifestyle and culture of the Tibetan and Gurung people.
  • Explore the dramatic landscapes and natural beauty of the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit.
  • Cross the Thorong La Pass (5416m), one of the biggest passes in the world
  • Enjoy the panorama of the mountains in the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri ranges
  • Experience the Manangi and Thakali culture and traditions
  • Trek across the Annapurna Conservation Area and relish its biodiversity

Day-to-day-Itinerary

Day 1

Drive to Machha Khola

Day 1 Facts

Trekking Time Average

180km Drive to Machha Khola
(Average 10 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Machhakhola

Altitude

(870m. /2871ft.)

Your exciting journey starts with a drive along the Prithvi Highway from Kathmandu. A smooth drive on a black-topped road takes you to Dhading Bensi from where the road turns upward to Gola Bhanjyang and then slopes down to Ankhu Khola. At Arughat, you cross the Budhi Gandaki River and drive further to reach Sotikhola. We continue to drive two hours to reach Machhakhola. This Ten-hour long drive rewards you with scenic villages, rivers, terraced farms, and a good view of Mount Manaslu and Ganesh. Overnight stay at Machhakhola.

Day 2

Trek to Jagat

Day 2 Facts

Trekking Time Average

21km Uphills trekking
(Average 07 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Jagat

Altitude

(1410m./3990ft.)

After breakfast, we prepare to trek to Jagat. First, we trek along the bank of Budhi Gandaki River and ascend through dense forests of Sal. The trail then takes us to Tatopani, which houses natural hot water springs. You can take a dip in the springs if you like. Then, we continue to trek on the banks of Budhi Gandaki again to reach Jagat. Overnight in Jagat.

Day 3

Trek to Deng

Day 3 Facts

Trekking Time Average

24km Uphills trekking
(Average 08 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Deng

Altitude

(1960m./6430ft.)

After our permits are approved, we start the trek to Deng. We first trek through the dense tropical forest and continue to trek alongside the Budhi Gandaki river. The trail of this part is through the forests, which is shelter to much rare wildlife. We continue to trek through the forests of the Manaslu region and come across many different villages like Bhatti Khola and Philim. We then cross the bamboo forest over Budhi Gandaki to reach Deng. Overnight in Deng.

Day 4

Trek to Namrung

Day 4 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Uphills trekking
(Average 06 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Namrung

Altitude

(2660m./7527ft.)

From Deng, we cross a suspension bridge and continue to trek through the uneven trails. The trail leads us to Bihi Phedi. We continue from there to reach Ghap. The trail from Ghap is dangerous as it is prone to dry landslides. After crossing the landslide zone, we go past several Magar villages to reach Namrung. Overnight in Namrung.

Day 5

Trek to Lho Gaon

Day 5 Facts

Trekking Time Average

12km Uphills trekking
(Average 04hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Lho

Altitude

(3100m./10230ft.)

As we gain altitude, we start seeing a change in the vegetation and culture as well. We slowly enter the Tibetan cultured areas as we trek from Namrung. The trail takes us through the Mani walls and stone houses. On the way, we can also see the beautiful view of mountains like Mt Manaslu (8163m). After trekking for 4 hours, we finally reach Lho. Overnight in Lho.

Day 6

Trek to Sama Gaon

Day 6 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Uphills trekking
(Average 05 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Sama Gaon

Altitude

(3530m./9989ft.)

After breakfast in Lho, we start our day with a trek towards Sama Gaon. We trek through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests. The breathtaking view of Mt. Manaslu (8163m) follows us throughout the trail. The trek is challenging, and also we gain altitude today. We trek for about five hours to reach Sama Gaon. Overnight in Sama Gaon

Day 7

Acclimatization day/ Exploring around

Day 7 Facts

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Sama Gaon

Trekking to the higher altitude may become dangerous if you do not take proper rest. So, we rest for a day today in Sama Gaon. After breakfast, we explore the village and interact with the villagers. We will then hike to Pung Gyan Gompa, where we can enjoy the beautiful view of the Manaslu and other mountains around it. In the evening, you can interact with the locals and try local foods. Overnight in Sama Gaon.

Day 8

Trek to Samdo

Day 8 Facts

Trekking Time Average

09km Uphills trekking
(Average 03 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Samdo

Altitude

(3780m./12402ft.)

After a day of rest and breakfast in Sama Gaon, we start our trek. We first trek through the pine forest, which slowly starts getting sparser. The vegetation disappears, and the land becomes barren. We trek to a remote and isolated part of the trail with the beautiful Mt. Manaslu (8163m) still keeping us company. The trek is about 4 hours along the banks of the reduced Budhi Gandaki River. Overnight in Samdo.

Day 9

Trek to Dharmashala

Day 9 Facts

Trekking Time Average

10km Uphills trekking
(Average 05 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Dharmashala

Altitude

(4200m./13780ft.)

Today is one of the most important days of the trek as we trek west along with the views of Naike and Pangbuche peaks. After breakfast in Samdo, we cross a suspension bridge and continue through the uneven and rocky trail. You get a beautiful view of mountains in Manaslu and Himal Chuli range on the route to Dharmashala. After five hours of trekking, we reach Dharmashala. Overnight in Dharmashala.

Day 10

Trek to Bimthang

Day 10 Facts

Trekking Time Average

22km Uphills trekking
(Average 10 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Bimthang

Altitude

(4200m./7218ft.)

Today, we trek through one of the most challenging and exciting trails of the trek. We will trek through the barren and remote part of the Manaslu region. The trek provides us with the beautiful view of Mt. Manaslu (8163m), the eighth highest mountain in the world. The trail ascends to the top of the Larkya La Pass (5160m) across the rough and snowy trails. From the top, you can relish the views of Larkya, Mansiri, Cheo, and Himlung Himal range. Later, you descend from the pass with a panoramic view of the mountains and glaciers. Overnight in Bimthang.

Day 11

Trek to Dharapani

Day 11 Facts

Trekking Time Average

16km Uphills trekking
(Average 07 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Dharapani

Altitude

(1992m./6535ft.)

Today is the last day of our trek. After breakfast in Bimthang, we start our trek towards Dharapani. Today’s trek is more comfortable compared to the last few days. We will descend through the pine and rhododendron forests of the Manaslu region. On the way, the beautiful view of the snow- capped mountains follows us. Overnight in Dharapani.

day 12

Trek to Chame

day 12 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Uphills trekking
(Average 06 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Chame

Altitude

( 2710m/8943ft.)

Leaving Dharapani, Following the pristine mountainous river takes you through lush forests towards Danaque. The trail continues going north towards Koto village, where you’ll enjoy your lunch. Afterward, you’ll continue walk upstream towards Chame village. Chame is the headquarters of Manang District, where you can enjoy the majestic sight of Lamjung Himal (6983m) in the distance. Overnight in Chame

Day 13

Trek to Upper Pisang

Day 13 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Uphills trekking
(Average 06 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Upper Pisang

Altitude

( 3400m./11220ft.)

Enjoy a delicious breakfast and then embark on the first day of the trek. Leaving Chame, you’ll begin trekking upstream along the Marsayangdi River towards Telekhu village. The trail starts to climb through lush forested ridges towards Bhratang. A short hike will bring you to Dhukur Pokhari from where you’ll begin climbing along the Marsayangdi River towards Lower Pisang village. A short climb above Lower Pisang will bring you to Upper Pisang village. Overnight in Upper Pisang.

Day 14

Trek to Manang

Day 14 Facts

Trekking Time Average

12km Uphills trekking
(Average 04 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Manang

Altitude

( 3500m./11550ft.)

Enjoy breakfast at Upper Pisang while enjoying the beautiful view of Marsayangdi Valley. Leaving Upper Pisang, you’ll begin to cling uphill through Manang Sadak towards Ngawal village. You can enjoy your lunch and then explore the Tibetan styled settlements at Ngawal. From here, the trail continues through Ghyaru, Humde, and Braga villages towards Manang. Overnight in Manang.

Day 15

Acclimatization/Exploring around

Day 15 Facts

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Manang

Manang is a town in Manang District surrounded by Annapurna III (7555m) and Gangapurna (6454m). It is home to the ethnic tribes of Tibetan and Magar people. You can spend the day exploring the scenic town and nearby destinations. If you’re up for an adventurous hike, you can head to the Gangapurna Lake and Ice Lake located in the glaciated region amidst Annapurna massif and Chulu East Peak. Catch the beautiful panoramic sight of Annapurna and Gangapurna ranges on the way. Overnight in Manang.

Day 16

Trek to Tilicho base camp

Day 16 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Uphills trekking
(Average 07 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Tilicho Base Camp

Altitude

(4,150 m./13645ft.)

The trek resumes after a hearty breakfast. From Manang, you head west towards Khangsar Khola. The trail gets steeper as you start gaining altitude. Once you cross the river, you reach Khangsar. Then, you ascend again to reach Shree Kharka. En route, you get to see the fantastic views of mountains like Annapurna and Gangapurna. From here onwards, the trail is easy, and you arrive at Tilicho Base Camp . Overnight at Tilicho Base Camp.

Day 17

Trek to Shree Kharka

Day 17 Facts

Trekking Time Average

08km Uphills trekking
(Average 03 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Shree Kharka

Altitude

(4,060m./13398ft.)

You wake up to the picturesque views of Tilicho Peak and have your breakfast. You ascend to a steep slope and head to explore the Tilicho Lake. The trail continues along the pastureland, where you can see yaks and deer. After crossing the pastureland, you arrive at the breathtaking Tilicho lake with the Tilicho Peak in the backdrop. You return to the base camp after exploring the lake area and then descend to Shree Kharka for the overnight stay.

Day 18

Trek to Yak Kharka

Day 18 Facts

Trekking Time Average

09km Uphills trekking
(Average 05 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Yak Kharka

Altitude

(4,020 m./1366ft.)

After cleaning up and having breakfast, you descend back through the trail you took to ascend. As you descend, you arrive at Tare Gumba, an ancient monastery. You can do a quick tour of the place if you want. Then, you head towards Khangsar village, and from there, you head towards Thorong Khola Valley. You ascend to a plateau after crossing Thorong Khola, which then leads you to Yak Kharka. Overnight in Yak Kharka.

Day 19

Trek to Throng Phedi

Day 19 Facts

Trekking Time Average

06km Uphills trekking
(Average 03 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Thorong Phedi High Camp

Altitude

( 4400m./14520ft.)

Leaving Yak Kharka, you’ll begin climbing uphill through Chauri Ledar village and make way towards Thorong Phedi. The steep trail goes upstream along the Kone River and climbs through the rocky ridges towards Thorong Phedi. Enjoy the scenic sights of Annapurna massif and Thorong Peak (6144m) as you make your way towards Thorong Phedi High Camp. Spend the rest of the day acclimatizing for the upcoming climb of Thorong La Pass.

Day 20

Trek to Muktinath

Day 20 Facts

Trekking Time Average

18km Uphills trekking
(Average 10 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Muktinath

Altitude

( 3800m./12540ft.)

Leaving Thorong Phedi, the trail begins to climb upstream along the Marsayangdi stream. You’ll encounter thick snows as you approach the top of the pass. Once at Thorong La Pass situated (5,416 m), you can enjoy the majestic view of the surrounding mountains in Annapurna and Gangapurna range along with the desert-like landscape of Mustang. Mountains as far as in Tibet will also be visible from the top. You’ll begin descending to the other side and climb down the rocky ridges to reach the monastic destination of Muktinath Temple. Overnight in Muktinath.

Day 21

Trek to Marpha

Day 21 Facts

Trekking Time Average

15km Uphills trekking
(Average 06 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Marpha

Altitude

( 2713m./8952ft.)

The day begins with an exciting tour around Muktinath Temple. Located at an altitude of 3760 meters, Muktinath Temple is one of the most popular pilgrimages in South Asia. Leaving Muktinath, you’ll begin climbing downhill with the company of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri peaks in the distance. You can enjoy your lunch upon reaching Kagbeni village. The trek continues over the dried beds of Kali Gandaki River and goes towards Jomsom, the headquarters of Mustang District. Overnight in Marpha

Day 22

Drive to Pokhara

Day 22 Facts

Trekking Time Average

90km Drive to Pokhara
(Average 08 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Hotel in Pokhara

Altitude

( 820m./2706ft.)

The early morning, Jump to bus which will take you to Pokhara via Tatopani – Beni and Nayapul. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to hotel . Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 23

Drive to Kathmandu

Day 23 Facts

Trekking Time Average

200 km Drive to Kathmandu
(Average 06 hours)

Accommodation

Luxury Hotel in Kathmandu

Altitude

(1295m./4273ft.)

Enjoy your breakfast overlooking the beautiful Phewa Lake. Afterward, you’ll embark on a tourist bus for a half- day long road journey back to Kathmandu. The scenic journey goes along the massive Trishuli River and crosses numerous colorful towns en route. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you can explore the nearby Thamel town and shop for souvenirs. Overnight in Kathmandu.

What do you get in the Trip?

Included

  • Tribhuwan International Airport transfer ( Airport – Hotel – Airport)  in Kathmandu .
  • One night hotel accommodation in Pokhara.
  • All meals during the trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
  • Lodge accommodation ( Twin share base) during the trekking.
  • One experienced, well-trained, fluent English speaking, friendly, specialized in Manaslu /Annapurna trekking region and government authorized trekking guide and required porters ( One porter for two persons)
  • Guide and porter’s food, accommodation, salary, insurance, transportation and equipment.
  • Overland transport as per mentioned in itinerary.
  • Manaslu special permit, ACAP ( Annapurna conservation area project) and MCAP ( Manaslu conservation area project).
  • A trekking map, duffel bag, Oxygen saturation check up everyday, Water purification, first aid medical, company t-shirt and trekking company certificate.
  • Assistance for emergency rescue evacuation .
  • Government tax and service charge.
  • Public Liability Insurance.
  • Hotel accommodation and meals in Kathmandu.
  • Hard and soft table drinks such as tea/coffee, coke, fanta, mineral water, beer, hot shower, battery charge, boiled water , phone bill and laundry. .
  • Personal Travel insurance.
  • Tips for guide and porters.( Highly suggested ).

Need a private date?

The given rates are per person with guaranteed departure schedules. If the given dates are not appropriate for you, please feel free to contact us for requesting a new dates, we will gladly personalize the itinerary and schedule of the trip that fits for you.

Book a private date

Additional Trip Information

When to visit

Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit is a long trek. So, you have to be very careful choosing the right time to do the circuit here. Similarly, the perfect time to visit this place is during the autumn and spring season. During this time of the year the climate, temperature, and weather are stable and suitable in Nepal. Besides, if you travel here during this time of the year you will fully enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. Therefore, if you travel here during this time then it can double your fun and experience. However, this trek also can be done during the monsoon season. Similarly, if you travel here during the off-seasons then you might not be able to find suitable weather to travel and enjoy the surroundings. ]

The difficulty of this trek

There can be a lot of difficulties if you climb at a higher altitude. Therefore, you have to be very careful preparing your trek.  Similarly, the trek to Makalu and Annapurna is very troublesome. Likewise, you can face a lot of difficulties climbing here. The most common difficulty that you are going to face while trekking here is high altitude sickness. Altitude sickness is a condition when your body has shortness of breath and dizziness. Similarly, if you travel here during overripe seasons then there might be a shortage of suitable porters and accommodation facilities. Likewise, if you travel here during the winter season then you might find slippery trails which can hamper your journey. In addition, if you do this trek in the rainy seasons then the climate and weather can affect your journey.

Travel insurance

Travel Insurance is compulsory while you do any kind of climbing. Furthermore, your travel insurance covers your injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, rescue mission, loss of property e.t.c. Most importantly, check with your insurance company that your adventure and climbing above 3000m are covered. If you haven’t taken any insurance policy, then it would be difficult for us to operate your rescue mission.

Meals and Accommodation

In Kathmandu, we normally provide a 3-star hotel with the facility of breakfast, lunch, and dinner but you can upgrade it as per your wish. Similarly, while climbing we provide you with the most comfortable tea houses with hot showers, toilets, western food, and private rooms. Likewise, the tea houses provide you with their local foods. They also provide you with Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner facilities as you wish. Most importantly, they also provide food in sufficient quantities. Likewise, the local food at higher altitudes is mostly cheaper than the western foods because most of the local dishes are produced from local farms. Whereas for western food, they have to import it from the cities which adds to the cost of the foods, So, western foods are slightly expensive. Furthermore, as you go higher up the altitude the price of the meals also increases. And, all kinds of hard and soft table drinks such as tea/coffee, mineral water, Coke, Fanta, alcoholic drinks, hot shower, laundry, phone bill, bar bill, hot water, etc are not provided. But, it can be adjusted according to our consumers’ wishes. But, at higher altitudes Nepali and Western foods differ in price. Where western food is more expensive than local food.

Climate and weather

The climate and weather of Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit keep changing. Similarly, the weather is unpredictable. So, you have to be ready for any challenge it bestows to you during the trek. The best time to visit this trek is during the spring and autumn season. During this time you will be traveling in a clear sky and beautiful weather. A lot of tourists climb here during this time. Similarly, during the spring season, you will find the best value for your trek. However, this can also be done in the monsoon season. If you do this circuit trekking is during autumn of the year then you will fully enjoy the environment, temperature, and weather. During this time the weather is also very stable for climbers. The Spring season consists of March, April, and May. in which April is the warmest month of the year. This season is best if you want to travel in pleasant weather and a suitable climate. But it usually gets cold at night due to the drop in temperature. However, the time of spring usually remains warm and the trail gets moist and clean after the long winter. In addition, the time of spring and autumn provides a glorious scenery of the surrounding which adds up the fun of your trek. Similarly, if you visit here at the right time then you will not be a victim of any diseases that certainly. Likewise, the way also gets easier which reduces the possibility of injury during the trek.

Safety and Security

The Safety and Security of our trekkers are very important for us. Similarly, while trekking at Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit. Likewise, we carefully check every route for the trek. So, don’t worry you will be safe with us. Similarly, we also take good care of the belongings of our trekkers on the lodges and during the trek as well. Therefore, you feel free and fully enjoy yourself during the trek, you should not worry about yourself and your belongings. We fully take care of that.

Required Permits

ACAP: NPR. 3000 for foreigners and NPR 1000 for SAARC.

MCAP: NPR 3000 for foreigners and NPR 1000 for SAARC.

Manaslu Special permit: USD 100 Sept – Nov for 1 week and USD 15 per day beyond 1 week
:USD 75 Dec-Aug for 1 week and USD 10 per day beyond 1 week

Note: Child below 10 years are free

Gear List

Gears required for the trek vary upon destination and season. A comprehensive list of gear for all activities is listed on our dedicated page of Trekking Gear List

Frequently
Asked Questions

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