Ultimate Himalayan Circuit Treks: Annapurna and Manaslu Explored

Nepal is a famous land of high mountains, deep valleys, and smiling people. And inside Nepal, the two most beautiful long treks are the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek. These treks are not just about walking but also about meeting people, seeing old culture, and living close to nature. Trekkers walk from low jungle to high snowy mountains, pass rivers, stay in villages, eat dal bhat, and sleep under stars. It’s a simple life, but very peaceful and full of charm. In this article, we write all about both circuit treks, with simple English and easy flow.

Manaslu Circuit Trek 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is now getting more famous but is still not as crowded as Everest or Annapurna. It goes around Mount Manaslu (8163m), which is the eighth highest mountain in the world. Trek gives full mountain, culture and nature in one round. People like this trek because it’s offbeat, very real, and full of wild feelings.

Start of trek
Trek begins from a place called Machha Khola. To reach there, people take jeep or bus from Kathmandu, about 8 to 10 hours. Then the real walk started. The first few days go through green forest, river crossings, and small villages.

Villages and People
On this trek, people meet different types of local people—Gurung, Tibetan, and some mixed groups. They are friendly and give a warm welcome. Houses are made of stone, and people live basic lives. Prayer flags, mani walls, and chortens show Buddhist life here.

Way up to Larke Pass
The main challenge in this trek is Larke La Pass, which is 5106 meters high. But before passing, people walk slowly to adjust to the high altitude. Samagaun is one big village, a good place for rest and also for visiting Manaslu Base Camp (optional side trip). Many trekkers do acclimatization here.

Samdo is the next village near the Tibet border. It is cold and dry here. After Samdo, Dharmasala is the last stop before Larke Pass. People start early in the morning to cross paths. Snow and wind can be hard, but the view from the top is amazing.

After the pass
After passing, the way goes down to Bhimtang, a beautiful place with wide open views. Then the trek goes through forest and ends at Dharapani, where it joins with the Annapurna Circuit Trek. From Dharapani, people can take a jeep or bus to Pokhara or Kathmandu.

Trek Facts

• Days: Around 14 to 17 days

• Best Time: March-May and Sept-Nov

• Permit: Need special permit (restricted area), ACAP and MCAP

• Max Altitude: 5106m (Larke Pass)

• Difficulty: Medium to hard

• Accommodation: Teahouse (basic but enough)

• Food: Dal bhat, noodle soup, momo, pancake

• Cost: Mid-range (not too expensive, not too cheap)

Why people love it
The Manaslu trek is peaceful. Not too many people. Nature is pure. Culture is old. And it still feels like a real mountain trek. No big roads, no fancy hotel—just simple walking and deep mountain feeling.

Annapurna Circuit Trek 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is maybe the most classic and loved trek in Nepal. It goes a full round of the Annapurna mountain range. Before the road was there, it was very long. Now some road parts, so people make it shorter. Still, it gives so much—villages, rivers, waterfalls, green forests, deserts, high passes, and snowy peaks.

Start of Trek
Many people start from Besisahar. But now, some go up to Chame or Dharapani by jeep to skip dusty roads. After that, walking is nice. The trail follows the Marsyangdi River, crosses many bridges and passes rice fields, pine forests, and apple gardens.

Nice Villages on Way
Big villages like Chame, Pisang, and Manang make good stops for trekkers. Manang is a special place for acclimatization. Many people stay 2 nights here. Can do short side hikes to Gangapurna Lake or Ice Lake. Local people are Gurung, and some are Tibetan-style, mostly Buddhist.

Thorong La Pass—Big Challenge
The highest point of the trek is Thorong La Pass, 5416 meters. One of the highest passes for trekkers in the world. From Manang, the trail goes up to Yak Kharka, then Thorong Phedi or High Camp. Next morning, start early to pass. It’s a hard day but amazing. Snow all around, wind strong, but the mountain view is the best.

Down to Muktinath and Beyond
After the Thorong La pass, the trek goes down to Muktinath—a holy place for both Hindus and Buddhists. There are 108 taps and a temple. From here, people can go to Jomsom or Tatopani. Some take a jeep; some walk more days.

After Jomsom, the Kali Gandaki valley opens wide. This area is dry and looks like a Mustang. At Tatopani, people can enjoy natural hot springs. Then the trail goes up again to Ghorepani and Poon Hill for a sunrise view. Finally, the trek ends at Nayapul near Pokhara.

Trek Facts

• Days: 14 to 18 days

• Best Time: March-May and Sept-Nov

• Permit: ACAP and TIMS

• Max Altitude: 5416m (Thorong La Pass)

• Difficulty: Medium

• Accommodation: Teahouse (more options than Manaslu)

• Food: Dal bhat, thukpa, chowmein, Tibetan bread

• Cost: Budget to mid-range

Why is this trek famous?
This trek shows all sides of Nepal. Green forest, mountain desert, deep gorges, and high pass. Many cultures in one trek—Hindu, Buddhist, and Tibetan style. Villages are busy, and food options are more. Good for solo trekkers also.

Manaslu or Annapurna – Which is Better?

Tips for Trekkers

• Walk slowly; listen to your body.

• Drink a lot of water.

• Don’t forget sun cream and sunglasses.

• Start early for high pass day.

• Respect local people and customs.

• Carry cash—no ATM on the trail.

• Hire a guide and porter if needed.

• Always check weather and news updates.

Conclusion
Both treks are amazing. Manaslu for wild, quiet adventure. Annapurna for the full variety of Nepal. If it’s the first time, maybe Annapurna is better. If you want offbeat and remote, Manaslu is perfect.

Best Time to Go

• Spring (March to May): Flower bloom, clear view, good temperature.

• Autumn (September to November): Best weather, clear sky, perfect view.

• Winter (December to February): Too cold; pass closed sometimes.

• Monsoon (June to August): Rainy, landslides, not good.

Final Words
Nepal’s Himalayan circuit treks are not just walking trips. They are journeys for heart and soul. Simple teahouses, friendly people, high peaks, and deep peace—these things stay in memory forever. Manaslu and Annapurna—both are gems. You do not need perfect English or expensive gear—just a little dream, a good backpack, and a love for nature. Happy trekking!

Booking Process by Nepal High Trek:

To book any of these treks or tours through Nepal High Trek Pvt. Ltd., begin by contacting them via email at info@nepalhightrek.com or phone or WhatsApp at  +977-9851142116  to discuss your preferred dates, group size, and specific needs. They will provide a detailed itinerary covering this trek’s duration, highlights, cost, and inclusions such as a guide, porter, meals, accommodation, and transportation.

Prior to the trek, you will receive a comprehensive pre-trek briefing with essential information on packing, fitness preparation, and altitude acclimatization. The agency will finalize all logistical arrangements, including transportation, accommodation, and permits, to ensure everything is in place for your trek. Upon arrival in Nepal, the team will ensure that all aspects of the trek are organized, providing you with a smooth and unforgettable experience on these treks.