Manaslu Trek With Annapurna Circuit: The Ultimate Himalayan Challenge
Manaslu Trek with Annapurna Circuit begins in the less-traveled western Nepal. The region's pristine wilderness offers a raw and authentic trekking experience on unspoiled trails. This journey blends Manaslu's remote tranquility with Annapurna's vibrant energy. The Mardi Khola borders the trek route to the west and the Budhi Gandaki to the east, two of the major river systems in Nepal. The remarkable 21 to 3014-day hike is a daring experience of the Himalayas as it is an opportunity to conquer high-altitude passes, including Larkya La Pass (5,160m) and Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). During the thrilling hike to these passes, you will hike through subtropical valleys, appreciating the beauty of the majestic mountain peaks. Apart from the natural allure, what sets this trek apart is its cultural duality, which is renowned as one of the Nepal Cultural Trekking. The Manaslu Annapurna Circuit trek features cultural immersion in Tibetan Buddhist villages and Hindu Pilgrimage sites in Muktinath and Kagbeni. Beginning this journey is not just an adventure but a transformative experience into Nepal's extraordinary destinations.
Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Highlights
- Scenic road journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola.
- Stay in traditional homestays, teahouses, and lodges in Tibetan and Tamang villages.
- Mesmerizing views of Mt. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Naike Peak, larkya Peak, Ganesh Himal, and Siring Himal.
- Thrilling crossing of Thorong La Pass (5416m) and Larkya La Pass (5,106 m).
- Explore extraordinary Buddhist monasteries, Gompas, and Shrines.
- Visit the Muktinath Temple and witness the 108 sacred stone faucets.
Where are Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit Trek located?
Manaslu Circuit is located in the Gorkha District Of Nepal. Approximately 50 miles or 80 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu, the capital city. The trail encircles Mount Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest mountain at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). This epic journey begins from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, the starting point of the trek. In the coming days, you will travel to Larkya La Pass and descend towards the Annapurna region to begin the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The trail takes you to the north-central part of Nepal, encircling the stunning Annapurna Massif and crossing the Thorong La Pass, the trek's highest point. Moving on, you will continue the hike to Muktinath, from where you will go to Tatopani, Ghoprepani, and Poonhill. Eventually, the hike concludes in the city of Pokhara.
Who can do the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit trek is a demanding, high-altitude expedition suited for physicallyphysically fit trekkers with experience. We recommend this journey for travelers who want to test their limits and experience authentic Himalayan culture and rugged landscape. This trek is unsuitable for participants who are not physically fit and have no prior experience.
Best Suited For
- Travelers with high-altitude trekking experience.
- Trekkers who are comfortable hiking for 6 to 8 hours daily.
- Individuals familiar with high-altitude environments and altitude sickness.
- Participants eager to engage and immerse themselves in local culture and traditions.
- Risk of Altitude sickness and It's remedies.
The trek pushes travelers into a challenging high-altitude environment, where Acute Motion Sickness (AMS) is a significant concern. It's been reported by the Nepal Ministry of Health in 2022 that 30% of the trekkers experience mild symptoms of the illness in this route. The decreased oxygen level in the higher elevation of the region triggers symptoms like headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, the AMS progresses to High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) if not properly managed.
Preventive Remedies of Altitude Sickness
- Allow your body to adjust and limit the daily elevation gain to around 300–500 m.
- Use medications like Diamox under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
- Stay hydrated and drink at least 3 to 4 liters of water daily.
- Consume carbohydrate-rich foods to fuel your body for the long days of hiking.
- Drink natural remedies like lemon tea, garlic soup, and ginger tea.
- Do not rush during the trek,; get at least 8 hours of sleep.
- Use an oximeter to monitor your oxygen levels.
How difficult is the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek is more challenging than the classic Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit. The combined trail features challenging terrain in the region's rugged and remote landscapes. The Manaslu Annapurna Circuit is widely recognized as one of the most demanding expeditions in Nepal. Here is a brief candid overview of the assessment of the trek's difficulty.
- High-Altitude Passes: Trekkers must hike to high-altitude regions with routes passing over critical points like Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) in the Manaslu section and Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) in the Annapurna region.
- Trail Conditions: You will encounter remote, rocky, and rugged terrain with steep ascents and descents. Navigating them will require physical and mental resilience.
- Physically Demanding: The trek lasts 20 to 30 days, depending on the itinerary. Trekkers walk an average of 6 to 8 hours daily.
- Weather Conditions: The shift in geographical terrain contributes to sudden changes in weather, including sudden rain, snow, and temperature drops.
How to train for Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek demands a fit and healthy body to tackle high-altitude passes and long hikes on rugged terrain. To ensure an enjoyable and successful experience, we highly suggest the following training regiment.
- Endurance and Cardiovascular Training: Begin training at least 6 months in advance and include cardiovascular workouts. These include jogging, brisk walking, treadmill running, skipping, cycling, and swimming.
- Strength Training: Work out with weights to simulate steep ascents and descents. Indulge in exercises such as lunges, squats, calf raises, and step-ups.
- Flexibility and Balance: Incorporate dynamic stretching and yoga into your daily routine. This will help improve your mobility and prevent muscle strains.
- Altitude-Specific Conditioning: Expose yourself to the trek condition, and participate in short hikes to experience the challenges. Focus on maintaining hydration, rest, and recovery.
- Nutrition for High Altitude: In addition to physical training, design a balanced diet with high protein, carbohydrates, and minerals. This will help replenish your body after the daily workout sessions.
- Note: Do not overtrain and exhaust your body. Take two rest days each week to prevent injuries and fatigue.
Manaslu With Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost For 2025 And 2026
The standard cost for the Manaslu Trek with Annapurna Circuit starts at USD per person. We provide the package based on group sizes as well. Please follow the details in the table below for the price details.
Note: If you have any queries regarding the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary and cost, please contact us via email and WhatsApp. We are available 24/7 to assist you.