Manaslu Circuit vs Annapurna Circuit: Which Trek Is Right for You? (2026)
The Annapurna Circuit is higher (Thorong La, 5,416 m), busier and cheaper, with more lodges, roads and exit options. The Manaslu Circuit is lower at the pass (Larkya La, 5,106 m) but more remote, needs a restricted area permit (about USD 215 to 260 in permits for autumn against about USD 37 on Annapurna) and has simpler lodges. Both take about two weeks and both need a licensed guide in 2026. Choose Manaslu for quiet and wild scenery, Annapurna for comfort and value, or link them through Dharapani.
- Highest pointLarkya La 5,106 m vs Thorong La 5,416 m
- Typical length13 to 16 days vs 12 to 21 days
- PermitsRAP + MCAP + ACAP vs ACAP + TIMS
- Permit costAbout USD 215 to 260 vs about USD 37
- GuideLicensed guide required on both
- SwotahManaslu 14 days from USD 1,235
Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit are two of Nepal's best trekking destinations. In terms of natural beauty, the Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit trails are in a league of their own. Both treks have big mountain views and a high pass to cross, and one may suit you better depending on what you want from the trip. So, which hike will be the best choice for you? You can decide by reading this blog.
Table of Content
- Introduction to the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuits
- Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Altitude
- Distance
- Duration
- Timing and Budget Considerations
- Manaslu vs Annapurna at a Glance
- Which Should You Choose?
- Which Circuit is Safer - Manaslu or Annapurna?
- Which One Should You Pick?
Introduction to the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuits
Manaslu and Annapurna Circuits are among the best treks in Nepal. Both routes have diverse and attractive scenery. In both treks at higher altitudes, Tibetan culture influences the experience with a memorable flavour that is notably different from other tours in Nepal.
Cradled inside the majestic Manaslu Conservation area, the Manaslu circuit offers the beauty of the Himalayan landscape. The major attraction of this circuit is Mount Manaslu, which stands at a towering height of 8,163 meters/26781 ft - it is the eighth-highest mountain in the world. The Manaslu Circuit is far quieter than the Annapurna Circuit, though no longer a secret. The Manaslu Conservation Area recorded about 15,000 visitors in 2025, a record (MCAP figures via eKantipur), still far fewer than walk the Annapurna Circuit.
It suits fit trekkers with some multi-day hiking behind them. A first-timer can do it, but the Larkya La day and the remote upper valley make it harder than the Annapurna Circuit.
Besides the Manaslu Circuit, The Annapurna Circuit trek is another true masterpiece of nature. This circuit has a huge range of landscapes, from deep gorges and high mountain passes to traditional farming villages and revered Buddhist temples. Additionally, trekkers will have the opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Annapurna Massif, a collection of some of the highest peaks in Nepal. It is one of the classic treks of the Himalaya and the easier of the two to organise.
Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit traditionally started at Besisahar. Today most groups drive up the Marsyangdi valley to Jagat, Dharapani or Chame and start walking there, then cross the Thorong La to Muktinath. The Manang district's grandeur and Tatopani's hot springs are some of the appealing destinations in this circuit.
As you hike up to the circuit, you'll encounter various views, from lush forests to snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna I, II, and III. Similarly, other peaks like Hiunchuli, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West, and Chulu East will make your journey worthwhile.
The Thorong La (5,416 m) is the crux of the trek. Fit beginners manage it with a guide and a rest day in Manang, and the Kali Gandaki side below Muktinath is gentler.
You walk through the green Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki River Valleys, rich with diverse flora and fauna, during your stop. The cultural highlights of the trek, such as the revered Muktinath Temple and the Magar and Gurung villages around Ghorepani and Poon Hill (an optional finish), are other attractions. Jomsom's windy nature and Tatopani's hot springs make the Annapurna Circuit Trek an enduring memory. The highest of the Annapurna peaks, Annapurna I, reaches 8,091 m (26,545 ft).
A typical route runs Besisahar or Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, Thorong La, Muktinath and Jomsom, then back to Pokhara. Some trekkers add Tatopani, Ghorepani and Poon Hill on the way out.
Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit starts at Soti Khola or Machha Khola after a long drive from Kathmandu, and follows the Budhi Gandaki through Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Samagaon and Samdo to the Larkya La, then drops through Bimthang and Tilje to Dharapani on the Annapurna side.
The trek climbs from subtropical gorge to high Tibetan-style villages in a week. Lower down live Gurung and other hill communities, and the upper Nubri valley is home to people of Tibetan origin with gompas and mani walls.
Similarly, you will get through the Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters / 16,752 ft), the highest point in the circuit. From the pass and Bimthang you see Manaslu, Himlung and Annapurna II.
The Manaslu area opened to trekkers in 1991, and the conservation area (MCAP) was set up in 1998. Since then it has grown to thousands of trekkers a year.
Altitude
Annapurna Circuit: The highest point on the Annapurna Circuit is the Thorong La Pass, ascending to an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).
Manaslu Circuit: The Larkya La Pass on the Manaslu circuit towers above all else, reaching 5,106 m (16,752 ft). Some sources give 5,160 m.
Distance
Annapurna Circuit: The total distance of the Annapurna Circuit is about 160 to 230 km depending on where you start and how much you drive, and it takes you to some of the most beautiful villages and spots around the Annapurna mountain range.
Manaslu Circuit: The Manaslu Circuit is about 177 km (110 miles), a little less now that jeeps reach further up the Budhi Gandaki.
Duration
Annapurna Circuit: The Annapurna Circuit usually takes 12 to 21 days, depending on how far you drive and which side trips you add. However, several packages include fewer or even more days of trekking. You can also add additional activities during your trek.
Manaslu Circuit: The Manaslu Circuit takes 13 to 16 days from Kathmandu. Swotah's itinerary is 14 days, and adding Tsum Valley takes it to about 22.
Timing and Budget Considerations
Timing Considerations
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is best experienced from September to November or March to May. These are the clearest months, and also the busiest. The Larkya La is often blocked by snow from December to February.
The Annapurna Circuit is also best from September to November and March to May, when the Thorong La is usually open. These months bring the most trekkers. Winter crossings are possible but the pass can close for days after snow.
Budget Considerations
Manaslu Circuit
A guided Manaslu Circuit trek costs about USD 1,250 to 2,100 per person, or USD 1,100 to 1,800 as an agency package. Permits alone run about USD 215 to 260 in autumn, because of the restricted area permit. See our Manaslu cost breakdown.
Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit is cheaper because its permits are cheap. ACAP and the TIMS card together cost NPR 5,000, about USD 32.
A guided Annapurna Circuit usually costs about USD 900 to 1,600 per person. That is a typical range, not a fixed price, since guide days, transport and side trips change the total. Sharing a guide and porter with a friend brings it down.
Manaslu vs Annapurna at a Glance
The last column says how Manaslu compares with Annapurna on each point.
| Factor | Manaslu Circuit | Annapurna Circuit | Manaslu is |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highest point | Larkya La 5,106 m | Thorong La 5,416 m | Easier |
| Typical length | 13 to 16 days | 12 to 21 days | Same |
| Distance | About 177 km | About 160 to 230 km | Same |
| Start / finish | Soti or Machha Khola / Dharapani or Besisahar | Besisahar, Jagat or Chame / Jomsom or Pokhara | Same |
| Permits | Manaslu RAP, MCAP, ACAP (no TIMS) | ACAP and TIMS | Harder |
| Guide | Licensed guide required | Licensed guide required | Same |
| Single trekker | Allowed since 22 Mar 2026, with a guide | Allowed, with a guide | Same |
| Lodges | Simpler, fewer, some close in winter | Many, with more choice | Harder |
| Roads | Road at both ends, none in the upper valley | Roads on long sections, NATT trails avoid them | Easier |
| Crowds | About 15,000 visitors in 2025 | Much busier | Quieter |
| Side trips | Manaslu Base Camp, Tsum Valley | Tilicho Lake, Nar Phu, Poon Hill | Same |
Pass height and permit cost compared
| Measure | Value | Scale |
|---|---|---|
| Larkya La (Manaslu) | 5,106 m | |
| Thorong La (Annapurna) | 5,416 m | |
| Permits, Manaslu (autumn) | About USD 215 to 260 | |
| Permits, Annapurna | About USD 37 |
Permit figures follow our Manaslu permit guide and Annapurna Circuit permit guide.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Manaslu if
- You want quieter trails and fewer jeeps.
- You like simple lodges and a remote feel.
- You have done a multi-day trek before.
- You want to see the eighth highest mountain up close, with a side trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Tsum Valley.
Choose Annapurna if
- This is your first high pass.
- You want more lodge choice, better food and easier exits.
- You are watching your budget, since permits cost far less.
- You want side trips like Tilicho Lake or a finish at Poon Hill.
Or do both
The Manaslu Circuit ends at Dharapani, which sits on the Annapurna Circuit. From there you can turn north up the Marsyangdi to Manang and cross the Thorong La as well. Plan about three weeks, and remember you will cross two passes above 5,000 m. Your ACAP from the Manaslu exit already covers the Annapurna side. Ask your agency whether the checkpoints there will also want a TIMS card.
Which Circuit is Safer - Manaslu or Annapurna?
Both treks are safe with a licensed guide, which is compulsory on both, and a sensible itinerary. However, as with any high-altitude trek, trekkers should take some precautions for their safety.
The Manaslu Circuit trek is less trodden as it is remote and less developed than the Annapurna Circuit trek. Roads reach Machha Khola and beyond at the start and Dharapani at the end, but the upper valley from Namrung to Bimthang is days from a road. A serious illness up there usually means a helicopter. In late October 2025 a snowstorm closed the Larkya La and 128 people were flown out. So carefully choose your insurance policy that includes helicopter rescue coverage before the trek.
The Annapurna Circuit trek, on the other hand, is more developed and better connected, making rescue and evacuation easier to organize in case of emergencies. Despite the development, there is still a chance of altitude sickness or other injuries.
On either trek, insurance must cover trekking above 5,000 m and helicopter evacuation, and you should plan a rest day before the pass. See how hard the Manaslu Circuit is for the acclimatisation detail.
Which One Should You Pick?
Pick Manaslu for quiet trails and a wilder feel, and Annapurna for easier logistics, more lodges and a lower budget. If you have three weeks, you can do both in one trip.
Manaslu vs Annapurna Circuit: FAQs
Is the Manaslu Circuit harder than the Annapurna Circuit?
A little. The Larkya La is lower than the Thorong La, but Manaslu is more remote, its lodges are simpler and the pass day is long, about 8 to 10 hours. Annapurna has more ways out if something goes wrong.
Do I need a guide for both treks?
Yes. A licensed guide has been required on both since 1 April 2023. On Manaslu the restricted area permit is only issued through a registered agency.
Which trek is cheaper?
The Annapurna Circuit. Its permits cost about USD 37 against USD 215 to 260 on Manaslu in autumn, and lodge food is cheaper.
Can I do the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuits together?
Yes. Walk the Manaslu Circuit to Dharapani, then continue up the Annapurna Circuit to Manang and over the Thorong La. It takes about three weeks.
Which has better mountain views?
Both are excellent. Manaslu gives close views of Manaslu, Himlung and Annapurna II. Annapurna gives the Annapurna range, Gangapurna and Dhaulagiri from the Kali Gandaki side.
Being a travel and trekking guide for over a decade, I decided to expand my passion for travel to be a tour organizer and build my team of travel experts. What's best about my passion is that I get to spend a considerable amount of time every single day with legendary climbers and mountain lovers from all around the world. There's no greater achievement for me than having a set of regular friends around who always have stories of their incredible feats or their special encounters with the locals in the mountains to share.
