Max. Elevation
Manaslu and Annapurna Trek
Overview
Nepal’s Epic Trek: Larkya La to Thorung La Pass Experience
From the very beginning, the trail stays close to the heart of the Himalayas. Snow-capped peaks, dramatic glaciers, deep river gorges, and high alpine landscapes remain constantly in view. The route passes through a wide variety of traditional villages, where we stay in comfortable local lodges, allowing trekkers to experience authentic Himalayan life and culture along the way.
The Manaslu section is quieter and more remote, offering a sense of wilderness and untouched beauty. As we gradually gain altitude, our bodies adapt naturally, ensuring safe and steady acclimatization. One of the highlights of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,180 m), a challenging yet rewarding high mountain pass with breathtaking panoramic views.
After completing the Manaslu Circuit, the trail continues into the legendary Annapurna region. The journey reaches its highest point at the Thorung La Pass (5,450 m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Thanks to the well-planned itinerary and gradual ascent, acclimatization is excellent, making the crossing both safe and enjoyable.
This combined Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit trek is ideal for trekkers looking for a diverse, scenic, and well-balanced Himalayan adventure. It blends remote mountain trails with classic trekking routes, offering stunning views, cultural depth, and a truly unforgettable high-altitude experience in Nepal.
Itinerary
Expand AllOur team member will warmly greet you at the airport as soon as you arrive in Kathmandu. After that, you'll be taken to the hotel for some much-needed rest. The schedule calls for leisure time after a briefing regarding the progress and presentation of the trek. You will have a full day if you arrive early. This can be used as a place to relax or for people who want to freely explore the area. It's the perfect opportunity to savor the regional cuisine and gain a comprehensive understanding of Nepalese culture.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: Dinner
- Elevation: 1,440 m
We will head for the Macchakhola bus. From the road, you can view the Trisuli River Valley. We will change cars at Arughat Bazar. We will travel up the Burhi Gandaki, via the villages of Arkhet, Almara, and Lapubesi, and through fields and rice terraces to Macchakola.
- Drive: 6-7 hrs
- Accommodation: lodge
- Meals: Dinner
- Elevation: 900m
Continue along the river to Bhudi Gandaki River and Khorla Besi, with views of Ganesh Himal. Pass Tatopani (hot spring) and cross the Budi Gandaki via a suspension bridge to Dobhan (1,300m). The valley narrows before reaching Jagat.
- Elevation: +660m / -220m.
- Duration: Approximately 7 hours.
- Altitude: 1,300m.
- Accommodation: Lodge.
Trek along a balcony path, sometimes above the river, crossing villages like Philim. You can navigate through narrow gorges and reach Deng, a Tibetan cultural village with a Buddhist temple and chortens.
- Elevation: +1,040m / -520m.
- Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
- Altitude: 1,860m.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge.
Cross the Kutang region, inhabited by Buddhist Gurung people. Pass through pine and bamboo forests, rivers, and villages like Rana, Ghap, and Bihi, arriving at the stone houses of Namrung.
- Elevation: +1,340m / -600m.
- Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
- Altitude: 2,630m.
- Accommodation: Lodge.
Continue along the Budi Gandaki, passing through Bhotia villages (Tibetan origin) such as Benjam, Lihi, Sho, and Lho. Views of Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli (7,893m), Ngadi Chuli, and Ganesh Himal emerge. Visit the Lho monastery before reaching Shyala.
- Elevation: +1,050m / -200m.
- Duration: Approximately 6 hours.
- Altitude: 3,500m.
- Accommodation: Lodge.
From Shyala, a less-frequented variant leads to the ancient Pung Gyen Monastery (3,870m), offering an exceptional panorama of Manaslu and glacial surroundings, aiding acclimatization. Return to the classic path to Samagaon.
- Elevation: +900m / -600m.
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours.
- Altitude: ~3,520m.
- Accommodation: Lodge.
Acclimatization day. Visit the Tibetan village of Samagaon, its monastery, and nun cells. Optionally, visit Birendra Kund lake (3,570m). For well-acclimatized trekkers, an early morning, challenging excursion to Manaslu Base Camp (4,850m) is possible (+1,350m ascent/descent, ~10 hours walk).
- Elevation: +300m / -300m (for village/lake exploration).
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours (for village/lake exploration).
- Altitude: 3,520m.
- Accommodation: Lodge.
Continue past the Kermo Manan mani wall to Samdo (3,780m), a Tibetan refugee community located near the Tibetan border, where a caravan trail leads to Tibet via Lajyung Pass (5,096m)
- Elevation: +400m / -50m.
- Duration: Approximately 4 hours.
- Altitude: 3,850m.
- Accommodation: Lodge.
Explore Samdo surroundings before proceeding to Dharamsala (4,480m), the highest camp of the trip. Accommodation is in a stone shelter or lodge, with a cold night expected.
- Elevation: +600m / -50m.
- Duration: Approximately 4 hours.
- Altitude: 4,480m.
- Accommodation: Lodge
Early start for the challenging ascent of Larkya La Pass (5,150m). Superb views of Tibetan border peaks like Cheo (6,812m), Nemjung (7,140m), Himlung (7,126m), Kang Guru (7,010m), Gyaji Kang (7,036m), and Annapurna II (7,937m). Descent often involves snow and scree to reach Bimtang, with views of Manaslu's West face.
- Elevation: +750m / -1,450m.
- Duration: Approximately 9 hours.
- Altitude: 3,710m.
- Accommodation: Lodge.
DAY 13: BIMTANG — DHARAPANI
Descend the Dudh Khola river valley to Tilije, a Gurung village. Pass through alpine hamlets and re-enter wooded areas before reaching Dharapani.
- Elevation: +350m / -1,950m.
- Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
- Altitude: 1,900m.
- Accommodation: Lodge.
The trail turns west, entering an alpine valley with pines and junipers. At Chame, if conditions permit, a bath in the hot springs near the village may be possible
- Elevation: +1,000m / -220m.
- Duration: Approximately 7 hours.
- Altitude: 2,700m.
- Accommodation: Lodge
The route gains altitude, offering magnificent views of snowy mountains like Lamjung Himal (6,931m), Pisang Peak (6,091m), and Annapurna II (7,937m) before reaching Pisang. This stage is long but gradual.
- Elevation: +850m / -359m.
- Duration: Approximately 6 hours.
- Altitude: ~3,200m.
- Accommodation: Lodge.
From Chame onwards, villages are of Tibetan origin with characteristic flat roofs, mani walls, and chortens. Arrive in Manang, the region's main town, and continue through pastures where yaks graze.
- Elevation: +640m / -320m.
- Duration: Approximately 7 hours.
- Altitude: ~3,500m.
- Accommodation: Lodge.
After a morning enjoying Manang, a short and gentle stage leads to Leder for an overnight lodge stay.
- Elevation: +900m / -150m.
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours.
- Altitude: 4,200m.
- Accommodation: Lodge
The final day before the Thorung Pass ascent. Trek among yak herders, passing through glacial moraines to Thorung Phedi, then on to High Camp
- Elevation: +750m / -150m.
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours.
- Altitude: 4,800m.
- Accommodation: Lodge
Early morning start for the slow ascent to Thorung La Pass (5,416m), dominated by Khatung Kang (6,484m) and Yakawa Kang (6,482m). After the pass, the arid Muktinath valley, near Mustang, appears, illuminated by Dhaulagiri (8,167m). Visit the sacred Muktinath sanctuary, a pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus, known for its "eternal flame" from natural gas.
- Elevation: +700m / -1,800m.
- Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
- Altitude: 3,800m.
- Accommodation: Lodge.
Ascend to a 4,000m pass above Muktinath with magnificent views of Dhaulagiri. Descend to Lupra, a village of the pre-Buddhist Bön religion, and continue to Jomosom
- Elevation: +1,500m / -1,300m.
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours.
- Altitude: ~2,710m.
- Accommodation: Lodge
We will take a drive from Jomsom to Pokhara. We will make a stop at Pokhara before moving on to Kathmandu. We will be staying overnight here at Pokhara.
- Accommodation: hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and Dinner
- Elevation:822m
Half day sightseeing in Pokhara and evening fly back to Kathmandu
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Elevation:1,440m
Free day in Kathmandu serves as a safety precaution in case any unforeseen circumstances arise during the trek. Today, you have the opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate or explore Kathmandu at your leisure, which may include shopping or engaging in any activity of your choice. Feel free to make the most of this day according to your preferences and interests.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Elevation: 1,440m
Depending on the departure time of your flight our representative will drop you at the airport, ending your journey in Nepal. We hope to provide our services to you again.
- Meals: breakfast
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
Plan a Private TripIncluded & Excluded
Included Points
AIRPORT PICK-UP & DROP : Airport - Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop).
ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU : 3 nights sharing a twin bedroom at the hotel (3 Star category) in Kathmandu on a bed and breakfast basis.
WELCOME DINNER : One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Office Staff.
PERMITS : All necessary paperwork: Trekking Permit including MCAP, ACAP, and special permit, TIMS Card and conservation entry fee.
SPECIAL PERMIT : Manaslu restricted permit and Annapurna restricted permit.
STAFF INSURANCE : Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek.
MAP : Manaslu Region Trekking map.
MEMBER TRANSPORTATION : Land Transportation: Kathmandu – Macha Khola and while returning Dharapani - Kathmandu (by reserved Jeep/bus, as per itinerary)
MEMBER LUGGAGE : Up to 15 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek carried by porters.
FOODS & LODGING : 3 meals a day (BLD; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation on a sharing basis in a tea house/camp during the trek.
GUIDE : Government licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek and sightseeing in Kathmandu valley.
PORTER : Porters (2 trekkers: 1 porter) during the trek.
STAFF SALARY & ALLOWANCE : All Nepalese staff and porter’s daily wages, salary, equipment, food and clothing.
MEDICAL KIT : Comprehensive Medical kit.
Excluded Points
INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE : International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
NEPAL VISA FEES : The Nepal Visa fee is US$ 40 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days (USD$ 100).
LUNCH & DINNER : Lunch and dinner during the stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara (also in case of early return from Trekking than the scheduled itinerary).
EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU & POKHARA : Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
INSURANCE : Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, medical and emergency evacuation.
PERSONAL EXPENSES : Telephone calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, and any alcoholic beverages.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT : Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears, etc.
TOILETRIES : Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
FILMING : Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
INTERNET SERVICE : Internet facilities during the trek are not included.
TIPS : Tips for Guide, porters, and staff.
EXTRA : Any other services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary. Any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Trip Information
Your Guide and Team During the Manaslu Annapurna Trek
Your guide, from your arrival in Kathmandu until your departure, is responsible for the success of your trip and oversees your team. Do not hesitate to ask him questions, respect his position as the team leader, and above all, follow his advice! Often, your guide is the only English-speaking member of the team. In the mountains, especially during high-altitude travels, your guide is responsible for the safety of the group. The instructions he gives and the remarks he makes to all participants must be carefully followed. The interest and safety of the trekking group must be preserved, even when it may be to the detriment of an individual member of the group.
Your Nepalese team may consist of several people, each with different responsibilities. They are:
The Guide Leader (Sirdar): is responsible for and leader of the whole team and is treated with respect by all. Often, he has earned his position by starting as a porter and rising through the ranks.
The Assistant Guide: actively helping clients under the leader’s direction and setting camp.
The Porter: is the load carrier for the trekking group. As Nepal is a mountain country with few roads, porters are employed to carry loads. Compliance with regulations and common courtesy dictates the maximum weight carried and the minimum wage paid. Porters are provided with gear based on the routes they follow and with insurance for alpine treks.
Each trekker is allotted the following maximum weights per person:
For Lodge (tea house) Accommodations:15 kg maximum;
Tent Camping: 22 kg maximum; Expeditions/summit ascents: 20 kg maximum. The porters are given a premium wage for carrying loads over 30 kg.
Additionally, the Alpinist Club ensures that insurance is provided for the guide and porters. They are also equipped with specific gear for crossing high-altitude passes.
Accommodations in Kathmandu
In Kathmandu, you will be accommodated in a hotel. We use different hotels depending on availability. The two preferred hotels are:
Hotel Himalayan Suit: Located in the heart of Thamel, this hotel is ideal for walking the bustling streets of Kathmandu. The spacious rooms all have a bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. A fully equipped and active dining room is available for all meals, and the breakfast buffet offers a wide choice of foods. The hotel offers currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
Sampada Garden: Located just 20 minutes on foot from Thamel and Durbar Square, this hotel is convenient for exploring Kathmandu. The rooms have all the necessary comforts for your stay: air conditioning, bathroom, and Wi-Fi. Breakfasts are served as a generous buffet. The hotel provides currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
Accommodation And Meals during the Trek
For lodge accommodation: during the Manaslu circuit Trek, you will stay in the lodge or Tea House with twin shared bedrooms. For this trek, Meals are prepared by the Lodge's cook and served in the dining room.
Here is a typical one-day menu:
Breakfast: eggs, toast or chapati, Tibetan bread or pancakes, pancakes, butter/jam, tea or coffee
Lunch: a main course, tea or coffee
Dinner: soup, main course, fruit (fresh or canned), tea or coffee. During the trek, tea or coffee is served with meals. Two cups per person are included. Apart from these included menus, other drinks and foodstuffs will be at your expense.
Water: We provide water purification tablets. and recommended to bring refilling bottles with purified water. Avoid buying mineral water due to its environmental impact.
Physical level in Manaslu circuit Trek
This program is designed for those who exercise regularly, especially in endurance activities. You only need to carry a daypack with essentials. The trek lasts 12 days, with daily hikes of 6 to 7 hours and altitude changes between 400 m and 1,350 m. The Larkya Pass (5,150 m) often has snow later in the season.
Preparation for the Trek
Preparing for the trek requires several months of preparation with 4 to 6-hour walks every weekend for stamina and participating in a sport that requires short periods of high exertion.
Medical check-up
Being in good health is essential to fully enjoying your Alpinist Club trip. If your last medical visit was more than four years ago, please get another general physical exam and tell your doctor the nature of your trip (climate, altitude, difficulty, etc.). The altitude also has the effect of reviving dental problems or other chronic pain, so getting a dental checkup is also prudent. If you are undertaking a high-altitude expedition, we advise you to consult a mountain medicine specialist.
Acute Mountain Sickness
This trip takes place at high altitudes, so some people may experience altitude-related discomforts like headaches, loss of appetite, and swelling of limbs. Most of these symptoms usually go away within a few days, but sometimes they can develop into a serious illness: pulmonary or cerebral edema. There are no preventive drugs for AMS. Diamox diuretic is often effective for symptomatic relief, but you should first check with your doctor to verify that it is not contraindicated for you. Think about it before you go.
Safety During Manaslu Circuit Trek
Safety has always been our top priority at Alpinist. Our team of expert guides is dedicated to leading a fun and successful climb while ensuring that safety remains uncompromised. We plan carefully, considering daily weather forecasts and paying diligent attention as we venture into high altitudes. Throughout the journey, we carry comprehensive medical kits, rescue equipment, and reliable radio and satellite communication gear.
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FAQ's
Expand AllWith consistent weather, beautiful blue skies, breathtaking scenery, and excellent trail conditions, spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek. Although the Manaslu Circuit's rain-shadow location allows it to flourish even during the monsoon, it is best to combine it with the Annapurna Circuit during these main seasons.
Yes, you need a few permits for the trek. You will need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS), and Manaslu Special (Restricted) Permit.
In peak season (September to November), the Manaslu Circuit Trek requires a special restricted area permit, which costs USD 70 for the first week and USD 15 per day; in the off-season (December to August), the fee is USD 50 for the first week and USD 7 per day. Additionally, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) costs USD 30 per person and NPR 1,000 for SAARC citizens. International trekkers must pay USD 30 per person for the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). The cost is NPR 1,000 per person for SAARC citizens.
Yes, You can completely customize the Annapurna Circuit Trek. We are willing to adjust this program based on your fitness level, limited time, and price. Based on your schedule, you can either book a full circuit through Poonhill or take a flight from Jomsom airport to Pokhara after crossing the highest pass, Thorang La.
Many guesthouses allow hikers to use their Wi-Fi for an additional price. At lower altitudes, you can easily have access with better connections, but at higher altitudes, the wifi networks are weak.
You can drink tap water, filtered drinking water, or water from a bottle. We recommend that you get filtered refill water from your tea house lodge. Each refueling may only cost a small charge, depending on your location. It is better to bring your bottles and water purifiers.
Thorong La Pass (5,416m) is the highest point one can reach while trekking, making it a formidable obstacle for those seeking excitement.
Depending on the itinerary, acclimatization days, and speed of the trip, the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit journey typically takes 20–23 days to finish.
It is appropriate for trekkers who are reasonably fit and have some trekking experience. It helps to have prior high-altitude trekking experience.
During the trek, lodging usually consists of teahouses and guesthouses with simple yet cozy amenities. More luxurious lodges can also be found in some places, especially at lower elevations.