Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Annapurna Circuit Trek

Which one is better, Annapurna Circuit or Manaslu Circuit? 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek are two of Nepal's most spectacular routes for adventure trekking, each offering a different breathtaking landscape, culture, and challenging trails. 

The Manaslu Circuit Trekking route circles Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world at 8,163m, passing through remote villages, high-altitude passes, and dramatic valleys. The highest point of the Manaslu Trek is Larkya La Pass, which is 5,160 meters high and offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks including Mt. Manaslu and Annapurna ranges.

On the other hand, the trail for Annapurna Circuit Trekking completely encircles the Annapurna Massif, covering Annapurna I at 8,091 meters- Earth's tenth highest mountain. The highest point of the trek is Thorong La Pass (5,416m), presenting panoramic views of Dhaulagiri at 8,167 meters and other towering peaks. While the Manaslu Circuit Trek is somewhat more remote and less crowded, the Annapurna Circuit Trek presents varied landscapes, ranging from lush subtropical forests to arid high-altitude deserts. 

Comparison of Highlights: Manaslu Circuit Trek vs. Annapurna Circuit Trek

Appropriately, both Manaslu Circuit Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek promise great mountain scenery, rich cultural experiences, and thrilling high-altitude passes. There are, however, a few distinguishing aspects between the two, Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit, including trail conditions, facilities and amenities, cultural encounters, and more. Comparison for five major highlights is here.

1. Trail and Scenery

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a less-crowded trail around Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), offering virgin landscapes, dense forests, and deep river gorges. Budhi Gandaki River Valley and Tsum Valley present pristine natural beauty-the latter one is an optional side trek.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek encompasses varied landscapes, from the lush subtropical forests in Jagat and Chame to the arid, Tibetan-like landscape of Manang and Jomsom. The Marsyangdi River Valley and Kali Gandaki Gorge, known to be the deepest gorge in the world, further add variety to the trek. 

2. Facilities and Accommodation 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek has a well-established teahouse network, offering comfortable accommodation, Wi-Fi, and food variety, especially in popular stops like Manang and Muktinath.

On the other hand, the Manaslu Circuit Trek has fewer teahouses and more basic facilities, especially in villages like Deng, Namrung, and Samagaon. As this is a restricted area for trekking, amenities are limited, so it's better suited for trekkers who enjoy a remote adventure and who are solitary lovers.

3. Cultural Experience

The Manaslu region is rich in Tibetan Buddhist heritage, with ancient monasteries like Ribung Gompa in Lho and Pungyen Gompa near Samagaon. The culture here on Manaslu Circuit closely resembles Tibetan traditions, with locals speaking Tibetan dialects.

Buddhist influences can also be found in the Annapurna Circuit, though this is often mixed with Hindu culture in lower regions such as Dharapani and Tatopani. The sacred temple Muktinath is a spiritual highlight for both Hindus and Buddhists.

4. Mountain Views and Highest Point

Manaslu Circuit Trek offers beautiful views of Mt. Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Ganesh Himal, especially from Lho and Samagaon. The highest altitude of the trek is Larke La Pass (5,106m).

Annapurna Circuit offers all round panoramic views of Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho Peak, and Gangapurna. The highest point of this trek is Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and offers alluring views of sunrise.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered more challenging than Annapurna Circuit Trek due to its remote trails, longer daily ascents, and unpredictable weather at Larke La Pass. The trail conditions, especially after Dharapani, require good fitness and acclimatization.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is relatively more approachable and the trails well-marked with numerous exit points. While physically demanding, Thorong La Pass is a bit easier than the Larke La Pass because one can use the teahouses en route to acclimatize upwards more gradually.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is ideal if you like your adventure challenging and off the beaten path, with fewer trekkers and offering authentic Tibetan culture. If you want varied landscapes, better facilities, and iconic high-altitude passes, then the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a great choice. These two treks offer unparalleled beauty of the Himalayas and hence are worth being on every bucket list.

Suggested blog posts related to Manaslu Circuit Trek

1. New Additional Local Area Permit in Manaslu Region

2. Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring

3. Manaslu Circuit Trek Package Cost Details

4. Manaslu Circuit Trek Transportation Service Details

5. Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

6. Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

7.Manaslu Circuit Trek- A Complete Trekker's Guide

8. How Difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek? 

9. Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Worth it? 

10. IS Manaslu Circuit harder than the Everest Base Camp? 

11. How to plan for Manaslu Circuit Trek? 

12. Manaslu Trek in Spring

13. Kathmandu to Machhakhola Bus

14. Manaslu Circuit Trek in April

15. 50 Facts You May Not Know About Manaslu Circuit Trek

Highest Points Compared: Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit

Although both the Annapurna Circuit Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek take trekkers through stunning Himalayan landscapes, they differ in their highest points and overall experience. The highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is Thorong La Pass, which stands at 5,416m (17,769ft) and is crossed on Day 10–12 of the trek, depending on the itinerary. Generally, trekkers start the ascend from Thorong Phedi 4,540m / 14,895ft or High Camp 4,880m / 16,010ft early in the morning to reach the pass before descending to Muktinath at 3,800m / 12,467ft.

In contrast, the Larke Pass summit, the highest point of Manaslu Circuit Trek stands at 5,106m (16,752ft) and is crossed on approximately Day 11–13. It goes uphill from Dharamsala at 4,460m (14,632ft), reaches the pass, and goes down to Bimtang at 3,720m (12,205ft). Even as it is somewhat lower than Thorong La, Larke Pass is generally more challenging since one has to pass on quite difficult terrain with often uncertain weather.

Manaslu Circuit Vs. Annapurna Circuit: Level of Difficulty Compared

While the Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit are difficult high-altitude treks in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit seems to be tougher. The Annapurna Circuit is about 160-230 km long (depending on whether the shorter or longer variants are taken) and usually takes 12-18 days. Average daily distance covered in Annapurna circuit by trekkers is about 10-20 km. Its highest point is Thorong La Pass, which is 5,416 m and involves a very long ascent and descent in one day.

Manaslu Circuit total distance includes approximately 160 km in 14–18 days, which is an average of 10 to 15 km daily. The highest point of Manaslu Circuit is 5,106m atop Larkya La Pass, which involves steep climbing coupled with unfavorable weather conditions. This Manaslu trek is also more remote when compared to Annapurna Circuit, much rougher, and requires special permits. Given its rugged terrain, fewer teahouses, and higher daily elevation gains, the Manaslu Circuit is more difficult than the Annapurna Circuit.

Which one is harder, Larkya La or Thorongla?

Throng La, at 5,416 meters, and Larkya La, at 5,160 meters, are both high-altitude passes in Nepal; Throng La is normally considered more challenging because of terrain, weather conditions, and duration. Throng La, part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, requires trekkers to start at lower altitudes and climb gradually to the pass. It is at a higher altitude, and as the day is long and strenuous with rapid altitude gain, the risks of altitude sickness are greater. The Thorongla pass is almost always windy and may be affected by snow, making it slippery and dangerous.

Larkya La (5406m) forms part of the Manaslu Circuit, where ascent to the pass is steep. Though a bit lower, the more rugged terrain and longer approach make it harder. Difficult rocky paths are common; crossing glaciers can make the experience more difficult. Considering altitude sickness, Larkya La's case is also more prolonged exposure at high altitude for several days, which may be exhaustive to the body. 

Preparation applies to both Thorong La and Larkya La, while Throng La is a little more dangerous with respect to the weather and length of the trek.

However, after the Larkya Pass, the trail is more challenging comparing it to Thorongla Pass as the trail after Larkya La Pass was lately developed. Be prepared accordingly. 

Annapurna Cicuit vs Manaslu Circuit : Facilities Compared 

Basic facilities are contrasting in Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit treks. The Annapurna Circuit is better developed, with the accesses of transportation being easier ever since the roads were developed that reach Dharapani at 1,860m and Jomsom at 2,720m. Manaslu Circuit requires an off-road jeep ride or public bus ride to Machha Khola (900m) or Soti Khola (700m), which makes this area more inaccessible. 

On the Annapurna Circuit, there is no shortage of accommodation, with well-established teahouses offering everything from pizza to pasta at places like Manang 3,519m. In contrast, the teahouses on the Manaslu Circuit, from Deng 1,860m to Samdo 3,875m, are very simple, and their menu options will mostly be basic Nepali dal bhat.

On the Annapurna Circuit, phone lines and most places have a mobile network, and even Wi-Fi is available in Chame (2,670m) and Muktinath (3,800m); Manaslu reception is spottier, and it's most reliable before Namrung (2,630m). 

Annapurna Circuit has hot water showers easily at almost all locations, though pricey higher up, while in Manaslu, hot water is mostly bucket showers, with that too getting sparser beyond Lho (3,180m). 

Which one is Longer, Manaslu Circuit or Annapurna Circuit?

The Annapurna Circuit is longer than the Manaslu Circuit in total distance. It measures about 160–230 km (100–145 miles), depending on the starting and ending points. Generally, Annapurna Circuit  takes 12–18 days, and one hikes 10–20 km per day for 6–8 hours continuously. It crosses over Thorong La Pass, which is 5,416 m (17,769 ft) above sea level, and provides an outstanding view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Tilicho Peak.

The Manaslu Circuit is 177 km (110 miles) long, takes 12–16 days, and covers daily walks of 10–15 km in 6–7 hours. It has Larkya La Pass, which is 5,106 m (16,752 ft) high and commands great views of Manaslu 8,163 m, Himalchuli, and Ganesh Himal. 

While the Manaslu Circuit is shorter in distance, it's a bit more remote and demanding. Both treks offer subtropical forests and high-altitude alpine terrain, but both are spectacular and different in experience.

Manaslu Circuit Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek: Starting and Ending Points Compared 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek starts from Soti Khola (700m)/Machhakhola(910m) which is about 126 km from Kathmandu and takes 7-8 hours by jeep or by bus. The highest altitude of Manaslu  trek is the Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters), from where one gets awe-inspiring views of Manaslu (8,163 meters) and other peaks. The Manaslu Trekking concludes in Dharapani (1,860m), from where it takes another 6-7 drive over 190 kilometers back to Kathmandu.

Annapurna Circuit Trek usually starts from Dharapani (1,860m), which can be reached by driving 10–12 hours from Kathmandu (190 km) by bus, jeep or car. It concludes in Jomsom (2,720m), a town where there is an airport from where flights operate to Pokhara, and further on to Kathmandu, which is 200 km.

The highest point of Annapurna Circuit Trekking is Thorong La Pass at 5,416m with stunning views over the ranges of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Both are demanding treks, though Manaslu is more secluded and Annapurna offers more infrastructures.

Which one is better, Manaslu Circuit or Annapurna Circuit?  

At the same time, the Manaslu Circuit is less crowded and more remote; thus, trekkers looking for solitude and authenticity like it. Outstanding views of Mt. Manaslu-8,163m, the eighth highest peak in the world-and rugged landscapes with traditional villages that the trail goes through make it outstanding. It is also a more challenging trek with fewer teahouses and the need for a special permit; hence, perfect for experienced trekkers with an urge to seek adventure.

While the Annapurna Circuit boasts variety and comfort, the Manaslu Circuit is all about solitude, virgin beauty, and proximity to one of the highest peaks in the world.

While both Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit are famous for great Himalayan experiences, the choice should depend on what a trekker's soul demands.

Compared to the Manaslu Circuit, the Annapurna Circuit is more well-trodden and popular. It offers many landscapes, which range from subtropical forests through alpine meadows, as well as its famous pass, Thorong La (5,416m); it has good infrastructure with teahouses and lodges along the way and is generally quite accessible and comfortable for trekkers. Cultural diversity includes mixed ethnic villages that the trek will pass through: Gurung, Magar, and Thakali.

Annapurna Circuit Trek and Manaslu Circuit: Mountain Views Compared

Mountain view difference between Annapurna Circuit Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Mountain Views in Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna I

Altitude: 8,091 meters / 26,545 feet

Annapurna II

Altitude: 7,937 meters / 26,040 feet

Annapurna III

Altitude: 7,555 meters / 24,786 feet

Annapurna IV

Altitude: 7,525 meters / 24,688 feet

Dhaulagiri

Altitude: 8,167 meters / 26,795 feet

Machapuchare (Fishtail)

Altitude: 6,993 meters / 22,943 feet

Gangapurna

Altitude: 7,455 meters / 24,459 feet

Lamjung Himal

Altitude: 6,931 meters / 22,740 feet

Mountain Views in Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Manaslu

Elevation: 8,163 meters / 26,781 feet

Ngadi Chuli

Elevation: 7,871 meters / 25,823 feet

Boudha Himal

Elevation: 6,572 meters / 21,564 feet

Himalchuli

Elevation: 7,893 meters / 25,894 feet

Shyala Peak

Elevation: 6,400 meters / 20,997 feet

Larkya Peak

Elevation: 6,249 meters / 20,498 feet

Ganesh Himal

Elevation: 7,422 meters / 24,350 feet

Pangbuche Peak

Elevation: 6,413 meters / 21,070 feet

The views are more expansive and wider on the Annapurna Circuit, including Pictorial Machapuchare, or Fishtail, while the Manaslu Circuit offers rugged terrain and dramatic views of Manaslu, one of the highest peaks in the world, along with Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli. Both Manaslu Trek and Annnapurna Circut offer great vistas, but Manaslu is a bit more remote and less trafficked compared to Annapurna.

Manaslu Trekking and Annapurna Circuit Trekking : Itinerary Compared 

Here is a comparison of two trip itineraries: Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit 

Annapurna Circuit Trek (Dharapani to Jomsom)

Day 1: Dharapani (1,960m) to Chame (2,670m)

Distance: 6–7 hrs (12 km)

Description: A very beautiful day through pine forests with views of the Annapurna Range.

Day 2: Chame (2,670m) to Pisang (3,300m)

Distance: 5–6 hrs (11 km)

Description: Continue through forests and alpine meadows. Pisang offers magnificent views of the surrounding peaks.

Day 3: Pisang (3,300m) to Manang (3,540m)

Distance: 5–6 hrs (15 km)

Description: You’ll start to feel the altitude here. Take it slow, with a chance to acclimatize in Manang.

Day 4: Rest day at Manang (3,540m)

Description: Acclimatization day. Explore Manang village, visit the Himalayan Rescue Association, and enjoy local views.

Day 5: Manang (3,540m) to Yak Kharka (4,130m)

Distance: 4 hrs (8 km) Description: A short, gradual ascent to Yak Kharka, a good place to adjust to the altitude. 

Day 6: Yak Kharka (4,130m) to Thorong Phedi (4,450m) Distance: 4–5 hrs (8 km) Description: A tough but scenic day, heading toward the base of the Thorong La Pass. 

Day 7: Thorong Phedi (4,450m) to Muktinath (3,800m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m) Distance: 7–8 hrs (12 km)

Description: Cross Thorong La, one of the highest passes in the world, and drop down to Muktinath.

Day 8: Muktinath (3,800m) to Jomsom (2,720m)

Distance: 5–6 hrs (15 km)

Description: A short, easy walk down to Jomsom, with views of the Mustang region.

itinerary for t Manaslu Circuit Trek from Kathmandu to Kathmandu:

Day 1: Kathmandu to Machhakhola

Drive: Take a drive to Machhakhola either by bus or jeep (about 8-9 hours)

Elevation: Kathmandu (1,400m) - Machhakhola (930m)

Distance: 150 km

Duration: 8-9 hours

Day 2: Machhakhola to Jagat

Trek: To Jagat

Elevation: Machhakhola (930m) - Jagat (1,340m)

Distance: 14 km

Duration: 6-7 hours

Day 3: Jagat to Deng

Trek: To Deng

Elevation: Jagat (1,340m) - Deng (1,860m)

Distance: 13 km

Duration: 6-7 hours

Day 4: Deng to Namrung

Trek to Namrung

Elevation Deng(1,860m) - Namrung (2,630m)

Distance: 12 km

Time: 6-7 hours

Day 5: Namrung to Samagaon

Trek to Samagaon

Elevation Namrung (2,630m) - Samagaon (3,530m)

Distance: 12 km

Time: 6-7 hours

Day 6: Rest Day at Samagaon

Explore the area or take an acclimatization hike to Pungyen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp

Elevation: Samagaon (3,530m)

Day 7: Samagaon to Samdo

Trek to Samdo

Elevation Samagaon (3,530m) - Samdo (3,875m)

Distance: 9 km

Time: 4-5 hours

Day 8: Samdo to Larkya Phedi

Larkya Phedi Expedition

Elevation: Samdo 3,875m to Larkya Phedi 4,460m

Distance: 7 km

Time in hours: 4-5 hours

Day 9: Larkya Phedi to Bimthang

Early morning crossing of Larkya Pass 5,160m to Bimthang

Elevation: Larkya Phedi 4,460m to Bimthang 3,590m

Distance: 15 km

Time in hours: 8-10 hours

Day 10: Bimthang to Tilje

Treks towards Tilje

Elevation: Bimthang 3,590m to Tilje 2,300m

Distance: 12 km

Time in hours: 6-7 hours

Day 11: Tilje to Jagat

Trek back to Jagat

Elevation: Tilje 2,300m to Jagat 1,340m

Distance: 14 km

Duration: 6-7 hours

Day 12: Jagat to Kathmandu

Drive back to Kathmandu

Elevation: Jagat (1,340m) to Kathmandu (1,400m)

Distance: 150 km

Duration: 8-9 hours

This itinerary includes all major stops of Manaslu Circuit trek, with acclimatization days and highlights of the trek!

Major Comparisons

Annapurna Circuit: Moderate to strenuous because of Thorong La Pass.

Manaslu Circuit: More challenging, especially with the Larkya La Pass.

Altitudes:

Annapurna Circuit: Highest point at Thorong La Pass (5,416m).

Manaslu Circuit: Highest point at Larkya La Pass (5,160m).

Scenery & Culture:

Annapurna Circuit: Varied landscapes with rich Hindu and Tibetan culture.

Manaslu Circuit: Very off-the-beaten-path and somewhat raw, mainly with Tibetan flavor.

Acclimatization:

Annapurna Circuit: Regular acclimatization resting in Manang.

Manaslu Circuit: Inherent altitude acclimatization days at locations like Samagaon.

Both the treks have great views and give the real culture of the Himalayas. Manaslu Circuit is far from crowds, while Annapurna Circuit is quite popular and easily accessible.

Final words 

Contrasting, while the Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit are arguably two of the most spectacular treks in Nepal, they vary in many ways. The general classification of difficulty for the Annapurna Circuit is rated as moderate, with a highest elevation of 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass. It is approximately 160-230 km long and usually takes 15-21 days to complete, with more established facilities and a greater variety of tea houses available. It is a popular trek for the variety in landscape and richness of cultural exposure.

While similar in length-distance, that is approximately 177 km to the Manaslu Circuit, it is tougher because of the higher difficulty level, more remote terrain, and fewer teahouses lining up the way. The highest point of the Manaslu Circuit is Larkya La Pass, which rests at 5,160 meters. This trek takes 14 to 18 days and offers a quiet and raw adventure compared to the more commercialized Annapurna.

The Manaslu Circuit would be the trek for you if you liked to trek more remotely and through tougher terrain. Their choice should be the Annapurna Circuit for those travelers who like accessibility with better options concerning facilities.