Addres:

Thamel - Kathmandu - Nepal

E-mail:

info@alpinistclub.com

Contact No:

+977 9843603583

1 Person From:

$2255

2 Person From:

$

Manaslu and Annapurna Trek Informaion

  • Max. Elevation: 5,416 m

  • Best Season: Spring- Autumn

  • Duration: 23 Days

  • Trip Grading: Moderate

  • Activity: Expedition

  • Transport: Private vehicle

  • Accommodation: Hotel-lodge-Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner

  • Availability Status: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner

Highlight

“Combine the iconic Manaslu (8,163 m) and Annapurna (8,091 m) Circuit treks. Cross Larkya La & Thorung La passes, enjoy Himalayan vistas, village stays, and perfect acclimatization on this epic Nepal adventure.”

Manaslu & Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek combines two of Nepal’s most remarkable trekking routes into one unforgettable Himalayan journey. The adventure takes you through remote mountain villages, deep river valleys, ancient Buddhist settlements, and dramatic alpine landscapes, with spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.


Stunning views of Manaslu, Annapurna, and other towering Himalayan peaks.
Cultural immersion in remote villages with Tibetan-influenced traditions and ancient monasteries.
Off-the-beaten-path adventure, offering solitude and an authentic trekking experience away from crowds.
Diverse landscapes, from lush forests and terraced fields to high-altitude passes like Larkya La.

Overview

From Larkya La to Thorong La: An Epic Himalayan Adventure

The journey begins in the remote Manaslu region, where the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River through lush forests, narrow gorges, terraced fields, and traditional villages. As you gain altitude, the landscape gradually changes into rugged mountain terrain, with views of Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) and the surrounding peaks. The highlight of this section is crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), a challenging high-altitude crossing offering magnificent views of snow-covered mountains and glaciers.

After completing the Manaslu Circuit, the trek continues into the Annapurna region, introducing a different landscape and cultural experience. The route passes through traditional settlements and high mountain valleys before reaching Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), one of the most famous high-altitude trekking passes in the Himalayas.

With a carefully planned itinerary, appropriate acclimatization days, and gradual altitude gain, this combined trek offers a rewarding challenge for experienced trekkers. It brings together the quieter trails of Manaslu and the classic mountain scenery of the Annapurna Circuit, creating a diverse Himalayan adventure filled with natural beauty and cultural discoveries.


Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in kathmandu

Our 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: 1,440m

Day 2: Drive from kathmandu- Arughat - Macchakhola

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 Macchakhola.

  • Drive: 6-7 hrs 
  • Accommodation:  lodge 
  • Meals:  Dinner
  • Elevation: 900m

Day 3: Trekking from Machhakhola to jagat

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 gain/loss: +660m / -220m.
  • Duration: Approximately 7 hours.
  • Altitude: 1,300m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge.

Day 4: Trekking from jagat to deng

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 gain/loss: +1,040m / -520m.
  • Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
  • Altitude: 1,860m.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge.

Day 5: Trekking from Deng to Namrung

Cross the Kutang region, inhabited by the 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 gain/loss: +1,340m / -600m.
  • Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
  •  Altitude: 2,630m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge.

Day 6: Trekking from Namrung to shyala

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 gain/loss: +1,050m / -200m.
  • Duration: Approximately 6 hours.
  • Altitude: 3,500m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge.

Day 7: Trekking from Shyala to Sama Gaon

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 gain/loss: +900m / -600m.
  • Duration: Approximately 5 hours.
  • Altitude: 3,520m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge.

Day 8: Acclimatization day at Sama

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-hour walk
  • Elevation gain/loss: +300m / -300m (for village/lake exploration).
  • Duration: Approximately 3 hours (for village/lake exploration).
  • Altitude: 3,520m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge.

Day 9: Trekking from Sama To Samdo

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 gain/loss: +400m / -50m.
  • Duration: Approximately 4 hours.
  • Altitude: 3,850m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge.

Day 10: Trekking from Samdo - Dharamsala

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 gain/loss: +600m / -50m.
  • Duration: Approximately 4 hours.
  • Altitude: 4,480m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge

Day 11: Dharamsala - Larkya La - (5,150 m) - Bimtang

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 gain/loss: +750m / -1,450m.
  • Duration: Approximately 9 hours.
  • Altitude: 3,710m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge.

Day 12: Trekking from Bintang - Dharapani

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 gain/loss: +350m / -1,950 m.
  • Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
  • Altitude: 1,900m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge.

Day 13: Trekking from Dharapani - Chame

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 gain/loss: +1,000m / -220m.
  • Duration: Approximately 7 hours.
  • Altitude: 2,700m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge

Day 14: Trekking from chame - Pisang

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 gain/loss: +850m / -359m.
  • Duration: Approximately 6 hours.
  • Altitude: 3,200m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge.

Day 15: Trekking from Pisang - Manang

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 gain/loss: +640m / -320m.
  • Duration: Approximately 7 hours.
  • Altitude: 3,500m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge.

Day 16: Trekking from Manang - Leder

After a morning enjoying Manang, a short and gentle stage leads to Leder for an overnight lodge stay.
  • Elevation gain/loss: +900m / -150m.
  • Duration: Approximately 5 hours.
  • Altitude: 4,200m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge

Day 17: Trekking from Leder - Thorung phedi - high Camp

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 gain/loss: +750m / -150m.
  • Duration: Approximately 5 hours.
  • Altitude: 4,800m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge

Day 18: Trekking from High Camp - Thorung La Pass (5,416 m) — Muktinath

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 gain/loss: +700m / -1,800m.
  • Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
  • Altitude: 3,800m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge.

Day 19: Trekking from Muktinath - Lupra (2,790 m) -Jomsom

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 gain/loss: +1,500m / -1,300m.
  • Duration: Approximately 5 hours.
  • Altitude: 2,710m.
  • Accommodation: Lodge

Day 20: Drive Jomsom - Pokhara

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

Day 21 - Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Half-day sightseeing in Pokhara and evening flight back to Kathmandu  

  • Accommodation:  Hotel 
  • Meals:  Breakfast, lunch
  • Elevation:1,440m

Day 22: Free Day kathmandu

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

Day 23: Final Departure at international airport Ktm

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 

Included

Airport pick - up and drop : Airport pick - up and drop :

Airport - Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop).

Accommodation in kathmandu : 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 : Welcome dinner :

One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Office Staff.

Permits : Permits :

All necessary paperwork: Trekking Permit including MCAP, ACAP, and special permit, TIMS Card and conservation entry fee.

Special permit : Special permit :

Manaslu restricted permit and Annapurna restricted permit.

Staff insurance : Staff insurance :

Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek.

Map : Map :

Manaslu Region Trekking map.

Member transportation : Member transportation :

Land Transportation: Kathmandu – Macha Khola and while returning Dharapani - Kathmandu (by reserved Jeep/bus, as per itinerary)

Member luggage : Member luggage :

Up to 15 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek carried by porters.

Foods and lodging : Foods and 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 : Guide :

Government licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek and sightseeing in Kathmandu valley.

Porter : Porter :

Porters (2 trekkers: 1 porter) during the trek.

Staff salary and allowance : Staff salary and allowance :

All Nepalese staff and porter’s daily wages, salary, equipment, food and clothing.

Medical kit : Medical kit : Comprehensive Medical kit.


Excluded

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 and 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 and 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.

International services :

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 Organization

Your Guide and Trekking Team

During the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek, your guide and support team play an essential role in making your journey safe, organized, and enjoyable. From your arrival in Kathmandu to your departure, our team assists you with trip arrangements, route guidance, local cultural experiences, and trekking logistics.

Your lead guide coordinates the trekking team, monitors the group's progress, and makes decisions based on trail conditions, weather, and altitude. Please follow the guide's instructions, particularly when crossing high mountain passes or walking through challenging terrain. The safety and well-being of the entire group always come first.

Your Nepalese Trekking Team

Depending on the group size and trip arrangements, your team may include the following members:

Lead Guide (Sirdar): The lead guide oversees the trekking operation, coordinates the team, manages daily logistics, and monitors the safety and progress of trekkers.

Assistant Guide: An assistant guide supports the lead guide, helps trekkers along the trail, and assists with group coordination and accommodation arrangements.

Porters: Porters carry the main trekking luggage between overnight stops, allowing trekkers to walk with a lighter daypack. Alpinist Club arranges appropriate equipment and insurance for its trekking staff in accordance with applicable requirements.

The exact team composition depends on the group size, route conditions, and whether additional support is required.

Accommodation in Kathmandu

During your stay in Kathmandu, you will be accommodated in a comfortable hotel, such as Hotel Himalayan Suite or Sampada Garden, subject to availability. Rooms include essential facilities for a pleasant stay, with breakfast and other services according to your package inclusions.

Accommodation During the Trek

During the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will generally stay in local tea houses and mountain lodges. These provide a comfortable place to rest after a day on the trail while offering opportunities to experience traditional Himalayan hospitality.

Accommodation typically consists of twin-sharing rooms with basic furnishings. Facilities become more basic at higher elevations, and private bathrooms may not be available at every overnight stop.

Dining rooms are usually shared spaces where trekkers can enjoy meals, relax, and meet other travelers. Heating is generally limited to common dining areas, and hot showers, charging facilities, and Wi-Fi may incur additional charges.

Meals During the Trek

Meals are prepared by local tea houses and lodges along the route. The menu varies by location, season, and availability, with a selection of traditional Nepalese dishes and familiar international options.

  • Breakfast: Eggs, toast, Tibetan bread, pancakes, tea, or coffee.
  • Lunch: Dal bhat, noodles, fried rice, pasta, or soup.
  • Dinner: Dal bhat, rice, vegetables, noodles, pasta, or soup.

Dal bhat is a popular choice because it provides a good source of energy for long trekking days.

Meals included in your package will be specified in your itinerary. Additional drinks, snacks, bottled beverages, and other personal purchases are generally at your own expense unless otherwise stated.

Drinking Water

Staying hydrated is essential throughout the trek. We recommend carrying reusable water bottles and refilling them with properly treated water.

Water purification tablets or an appropriate filtration method can help make available water safer to drink. Follow your guide's advice regarding water sources and treatment. Avoid unnecessary single-use plastic bottles to reduce environmental waste in the mountains.

Physical Fitness and Trekking Difficulty

The Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek is a demanding high-altitude journey suitable for trekkers with good fitness, endurance, and a willingness to walk for several consecutive days.

Depending on the itinerary and walking pace, trekking days generally involve approximately 5–8 hours of walking. Some days may be longer, particularly when crossing Larkya La Pass and Thorong La Pass.

The route includes steep ascents and descents, rocky trails, uneven terrain, and prolonged walking at high altitude. Weather conditions can change quickly, and snow or ice may affect the high passes, especially outside the most favorable trekking periods.

Previous multi-day trekking experience is highly recommended. You should be comfortable walking for several hours while carrying a daypack and managing changes in temperature and altitude.

Medical Check-Up and Travel Health

Good general health is important for a successful high-altitude trek. Before departure, consider consulting your healthcare provider about the physical demands of the itinerary, altitude exposure, vaccinations, existing medical conditions, and any medications you may need.

A dental check-up is also advisable, particularly if you have existing dental problems, as access to dental care is limited in remote mountain areas.

Travelers with cardiovascular, respiratory, or other significant medical conditions should seek individualized medical advice before undertaking this trek. Discuss the planned maximum altitude and the remoteness of the route with your healthcare provider.

We also recommend obtaining comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, emergency medical treatment, and helicopter evacuation at the elevations reached on this itinerary.

Safety During the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek

At Alpinist Club, safety is an essential part of our trekking operations. Our guides monitor weather forecasts, trail conditions, group progress, and signs of altitude-related illness throughout the journey.

The itinerary is planned to allow appropriate acclimatization, although actual conditions may require adjustments. Crossing Larkya La and Thorong La depends on weather, snow conditions, visibility, and the group's health and fitness.

Our team carries appropriate first-aid supplies and uses communication equipment suited to the route and operational arrangements. Emergency response options depend on location, weather, and accessibility.

For your safety, please follow your guide's instructions, maintain a steady pace, communicate any health concerns promptly, and avoid walking alone in remote or high-altitude areas.

Responsible Trekking

The Manaslu and Annapurna regions are home to traditional mountain communities and fragile natural environments. We encourage all trekkers to respect local customs, follow responsible waste-management practices, minimize plastic use, and treat local people and their cultural traditions with consideration.

With suitable preparation, a well-planned itinerary, and cooperation with your guide, the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a rewarding opportunity to explore two extraordinary Himalayan regions.


FAQ's

1. What are the ideal seasons for the trek? :

With 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.

2. What permits are needed for the trek? :

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.

3. How much these permits costs ? :

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.

4. Can I Customize the Annapurna Circuit trek? :

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.

5. What about the wifi services during the trek? :

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.

6. What about the water facilities during the trek? :

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.

7. What is the maximum altitude in the trek? :

Thorong La Pass (5,416m) is the highest point one can reach while trekking, making it a formidable obstacle for those seeking excitement.

8. What is the duration of the trek? :

Depending on the itinerary, acclimatization days, and speed of the trip, the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit journey typically takes 20–23 days to finish.

9. Is it beginner-friendly? :

It is appropriate for trekkers who are reasonably fit and have some trekking experience. It helps to have prior high-altitude trekking experience.

10. What types of accommodations are available during the trek? :

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.