Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek

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destination Manaslu & Annapurna
duration 28 Days
grade Moderate
start/end point Kathmandu/Kathmandu
region Manaslu & Annapurna
max altitude 5416m
group size 2-10
meal All inclusive
activity 5-6 hours
accommodation Hotel/Teahouse
season All season

We Offer Group Discount

No. Of People Price Per Person
Pax 1 USD 2,290
Pax 2 USD 2,190
Pax 3 USD 2,090
Pax 4 to 6 USD 1,990
Pax 7 to 12 USD 1,890
Pax 13 to 18 USD 1,790
Pax 19 to 24 USD 1,690
  • Best Price Guarantee
  • Team of highly experienced Experts
  • Your Happiness Guaranteed
  • 24/7 Customer Support

All Inclusive Cost

USD 1,990

Per Person

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Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek

A fantastic opportunity to combine two popular trekking destinations; the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit treks. This is an amazing three-week experience that will take you across two high alpine passes - Larkya la Pass (5,160m) Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Along the trail you will see more than thirty enormous mountains, including the 8th highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8163m), and the 10th highest, Mt. Annapurna (8091m). An early morning rise before sunset will take you to Poon-Hill (3,210m), famous for its spectacular mountain views in the early morning light.

The Manaslu trek is frequently regarded as the trek for those who wish to see untouched natural beauty – and of course the iconic and majestic views of Mount Manaslu (The Spirit Mountain) Manaslu comes from the Sanskrit word manasa, meaning "intellect" or "soul". This trail circles Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m) and has recently become as popular as the other well known treks such as Everest, Annapurna & Langtang.

The Annapurna Circuit trek first opened to travelers in 1980 and today is considered one of the finest trekking destinations in the world, as it passes through rhododendron forests in the lower regions of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. You will view several massive peaks, that include Annapurna I, II, III, IV, the Dhaulagiri (8167m), Machapuchare (Fish Tail), Annapurna South and Manaslu.

The Annapurna Conservation Area is home to more than 100 species of orchids, rhododendron forests, sub-tropical marshes, valleys, bamboo and oak forests, alpine glades and hundreds of wildlife species such as Marten, deer, the languor monkey, and the elusive snow leopard. in addition to the diversity of flora and fauna, there is the remarkable hospitality of the people in small hamlets, villages and towns along the trek.

Sherpa Expeditions and Trekking have been arranging treks into the Himalayas for more than 40 years and will take care of all permits, meals and accommodation on the trek.

ITINERARY

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A representative from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will collect you from the airport and take you to your hotel in Thamel – the tourist hub of Kathmandu. You can wander around Thamel and buy some necessary equipment you may need on your trek. There will be a short briefing about our trek, and a chance to ask questions concerning the trek.

We will spend the day sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley with our guide. We will visit Pashupatinath, which is the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal and a place many pilgrims go to worship Lord Shiva (situated on the banks of the holy Bagmati River), Bouddhanath, a Buddhist temple known as ‘Little Tibet’ and then on to Swayambhunath known as the Monkey Temple. From Swayambhunath we head to Kathmandu’s famous Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site situated in front of the old royal palace.

Today we will either take a public bus or car to Soti Khola, with a stop along the way for a lunch break. Tonight we will stay at Soti Khola.

Today we follow the trail and cross the Soti Khola (river) to Khorla Besi on a ridge above the rapids on the Buri Gandaki River. The trail takes us through the lush landscape in the picturesque Buri Gandaki Valley. The trail passes through forests, fertile cultivated fields, across streams, and by waterfalls. We then climb to Lapu Besi and then to Khorla Besi.

Today we first head to Korsani Village and then follow a trail along the banks of the Buri Gandaki until we arrive at the Gurung village of Labishe. We continue to follow the trail through the Buri Gandaki Valley with the river at our side, and as we progress we have fantastic views of Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal.

Today we trek for between 6 to 7 hours and follow the Budhi Gandaki River toward Chisapani until we arrive at the junction of Shar Khola and Tsum Valley where they connect with the Budhi Gandaki Valley. We will continue through a bamboo forest until we reach Deng. Our trail the takes us to Ghap with its distinctive Tibetan style houses.

Today we cross the Budhi Gandaki River and to an area where there is plenty of wildlife, that includes the Danphe (pheasant) and Langur monkeys. The trail heads uphill through fir, rhododendron, and bamboo forests before coming to Namrung Village and on then to Upper Nupri. Views of the stately Manaslu, Manaslu North (7,157m), and Naike Peak (5515m) are visible at the head of the valley. As we reach Lho we can see a great valley expanding ahead of us. Lho also has a Gompa (monastery) worth visiting.

Today on the trail we are fortunate to have some remarkable views of Ngadi Chuli Peak (7879m) and Hiunchuli (7893m). We will pass through the village of Shyala and then continue on the trail, along the way passing chortens and Gompas and of course the ever-present colorful Tibetan prayer flags. We then emerge from the Thosang Khola and head down and cross a rocky moraine before coming to Samagaun.

At higher altitudes it is essential to spend time to get acclimatized, for at least one day, before heading to higher altitudes. Health specialists recommend that you move about and don’t just sit around doing nothing. A good way to stay active is to explore the Gompa at Pugyen (4070m), or a one day hike that leaves the trail between Syaula and Sama. If we have time we can head up the valley to the craggy rocks and terrain of the Pugin Glacier. Another alternative is a trip to the glacial lake at Birendra Tal (3450m) and then a tough and demanding climb to Manaslu Base Camp (4900m). It is said that to the north of Birendra Tal is Milarepa’s Cave (famous Buddha saint) claimed to have been used by him as a meditation retreat.

Today the trail heads back down to the Buri Gandaki River passing the junction of the  Birendra Tal and Manaslu Base Camp routes. The valley then widens before arriving at Kermo Khadka and then continues to the white Kani Gateway signifying the entrance to Samdo Village (3860m). If we have time we may trek to the peak above the village for remarkable views of Mount Manaslu. If we feel it is necessary to further acclimatize, there is a 6 t0 7 hour trek climbing 640 meters to the moraine of the Fukang Glacier, where you will be pleased with the extensive views of several high passes used by locals to cross over into Tibet.

Today we head down through fields before starting our climb to Larkya-La Pass, a trail that has stunning views of Manaslu and the Syacha Glacier, and an area where there is a likelihood of spotting Himalayan blue sheep on your way to Dharamsala (4480m). This is as high as we go today without exposing ourselves to altitude sickness. This is the final safe haven before reaching the pass. This area of the trek is often subject to snowfall and from mid-December to mid-March, when snow blocks the Larkya-La Pass, the Samdo Lodge is normally closed. Your guide will know beforehand if the lodge is closed.

A 3 to 5 hour trek will see us up and across Larkya-La Pass (5100m), the highest elevation on this trek. The climb is wintry and gusty and can often be dangerous, especially if there is snow on the pass. Your guide will check the condition of the crossing before departing Samdo. The trail passes many cairns (rock mounds) that are often covered in snow. It then crosses the moraine to four frozen lakes before climbing higher to the pass where a number of peaks stand before you. These include Himlung Himal (7126m), Cheo Himal(6820m), Gyaji Kung(7030m), Kang Guru(6981m) and Annapurna II(7937m). After a photo opportunity, we continue in a westerly direction along a dangerous track before reaching Taboche where the trail becomes less physically demanding. The valley slowly opens up and then descends to Bimtang (3720m), one of many trading posts along the Tibetan salt route. An interesting detour follows a trail above Bimtang to the clear waters of the glacial lake of Pungkar Tal (4100m).

We descend to Dudh Khola (river) and Soti Khola (river) (2700m) and follow a trail directly below the huge Phunki Peak (6258m). We then take a trail across the ridge to Gho Village. At this lower altitude, it is noticeably greener as we head down through cultivated fields and forests. We then follow the trail on the north bank of the Dudh Khola before arriving at Tilche (2300m) the largest village since leaving Samdo. The village is well known for its flagstone paved streets and the home of the Gurung people. After passing Tilche through the Kani (gateway arches), we then cross the river before coming to Thonje Village. The trail to Dharapani (1920m) means crossing a suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River. We then arrive at the junction of the Annapurna Circuit trek where the going is much easier and then head downhill to Dharapani.

From Dharapani we climb through forests to Bagarchhap, the first village on the trek with typical Tibetan architecture. We slowly gain altitude until reaching the apple country at Dhanaqi. The trail through this alpine region passes through farmlands and through forests with orchards growing wild. There are also some great views of Lamjung and Annapurna II peaks. We continue on and follow the Marsyangdi River heading upstream and passing by the villages of Ratamanang and Koto before arriving at Chame, the district headquarters of the Manang region.

Leaving Chame we pass through Telekhu Village and further along the trail have some incredible views of Annapurna and Pisang (6091m) until we come to a suspension bridge that we cross over the Marsyangdi River. After crossing the river we then head higher through a pine forest as we trek through the upper reaches of the Manang Valley to Pisang.

The town of Pisang is the start of our trek into the upper Manang area. Today we take the trail heading to Braga, a Tibetan village with its unique architecture and houses constructed one upon the other. One of its main attractions is its Gompa (monastery), the largest in the Manang region. Manang is very popular with trekkers and is also a place to acclimatize before heading to higher altitudes.

Medical professionals strongly recommend that before heading to higher elevations trekkers spend time acclimatizing. They also recommend staying active. Today we will climb up to Khangsar (3756m) as a way to further help us acclimatize.

grazing in these alpine pastures. On the trail, we pass the only teahouse at Thorong Khola. Depending on the conditions we may decide to go a little further and stay the night at Letdar.

Climbing higher we will slowly get accustomed to the higher altitudes. We follow the east bank of the Jarang Khola (river) and on the trail view some steep bluffs before arriving at Thorong Phedi (meaning foot hills). If we are lucky we may see the famous blue sheep and even a snow leopard! From here we continue to Thorong High Camp. This is also home to Lammergeyer (bearded vulture). There is also a belief the mythical griffons are in this region!

Today is probably going to be the toughest day of the trek, hiking for around 8 to 9 hours. The higher altitude and strong winds make it more challenging. Along the trail, we may pass sheep, yaks, and merchants transporting their goods by donkeys or mules – and on their backs. Once we reach Thorong La Pass we will have some awesome views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, and the distinctive peak of Khatungkang (6484m). Leaving the pass we descend 1600 meters. The dazzling Mt. Dhaulagiri (Dhavali giri, meaning “White Mountain”) is the highest mountain that is wholly in Nepal. The trail then gets easier on this leg to Muktinath.

Leaving Muktinath we have a 200 meter descent to the Kaligandaki river valley floor, with a short stop at Ekle Bhatti that has several teahouses. The trail continues and gets windy until we reach Jomsom, the headquarters of the Mustang region with its small airstrip situated just above the Kaligandaki River. After two more hours on the trail from Jomsom we come to Marpha with its whitewashed houses, paved streets and some well maintained lodges. You may wish to sample some of the local apple products like cider, brandy, and juice that are grown in this region.

Today we follow the Kaligandaki River downstream until we reach Tukuche Village situated beneath the soaring Tukuche Peak and Mt. Dhaulagiri. You will also have views of Mt. Nilgiri and the glaciers on Dhaulagiri’s east face. The next destination is Larjung Village and then head back to the tree line of pines, oaks, and rhododendron trees. Continuing on we come to Kalopani Village and a little further cross the wild Kali Gandaki River. We will also have views of Mt.Annapurna I, Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri.  A short trek downhill brings us to Lete Village.

The first village we arrive at today is Ghasa and then the trail leads us through rice fields and into a warmer sub-tropical climate. On the trail, we pass the waterfalls at Rupsi before arriving at Tatopani (hot spring) Village situated on the banks of the Kaligandaki River. This is a time to sit back and relax in the therapeutic hot pools and rest those weary muscles.

Today we climb 1670 meters, quite hard-going, and pass through more cultivated farmlands with their terraced fields. We trek through a rhododendron forest, spectacular in springtime, and magnolia forest. At Ghorepani, we can see the enormous and far-reaching Annapurna Ranges and Machapuchare (fishtail) - one of the few unclimbed peaks in Nepal due to its religious status – being home to Lord Shiva.

Getting up really early we trek up to Poon hill to watch the sunrise, an amazing experience that will leave you breathless. As dawn approaches the change in colors will be a thrilling experience where your camera will go into overdrive!  This has to be one of the best places, on any trek, to observe the Annapurnas, Dhaulagiri, and many other snow-covered peaks. This is a mind-blowing experience and will give you photos to brag about in the future. We then head back down o Ghorepani for breakfast and then head down a steep trail to Tikhedhunga.

Today the trail is fairly easy going as we pass villages and cascading waterfalls before arriving at the stunning village of Birethanti situated by the Modi River where we will stop for a lunch break. Another 30 minutes brings us to Nayapul and then from here we drive to Pokhara and your hotel near Phew Tal (lake). Tonight you may decide to celebrate with a few drinks to celebrate the end of your adventure to the Himalayas.

Today we head by road (flying is an option) back to your hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu.

A representative from Sherpa Expeditions and Trekking will take you to the airport at least three hours prior to your departure from Nepal. On your way home you may be considering your next epic adventure to Nepal.

SERVICES

Costs Included In Your Package

  • Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
  • Three night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Arughat to Soti Khola via public bus.
  • All standard meals - 3 Meals a day (lunch, dinners & breakfast) during the trek.
  • Necessary Trekking permits/ National park permit
  • TIMS (Trekkers Information Management system) card
  • Nayapul to Pokhara transportation by Private car.
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu Transportation by Tourist Bus.
  • Best possible teahouses, lodge accommodation (generally twin share rooms)- during the trek
  • Government licensed holder English speaking trek leader (10 or more trekkers an assistant guide) and porter to help carry your luggage. 
  • Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
  • Guides provided by Sherpa Trekking & Expeditions, including their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment
  • Manaslu special permit to travel within  the Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fees
  • All government, local taxes, and official expenses
  • Assistance in arranging rescue operation in case of complicated health conditions such as altitude sickness (funded by travel insurance)
  • Souvenir -  Sherpa Trekking & Expeditions t-shirt 
  • Sherpa Expedition and Trekking’s certificate of appreciation & completion after the successful trek
  • Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.

Costs Exclude

  • Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara - lunch, and dinner.
  • Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
  • Personal travel and medical insurance.
  • International airfare.
  • Your personal expenses.
  • All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
  • All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
  • Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
  • Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
  • NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.

EQUIPMENTS

The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.

General

  • All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it,  but has to be returned after the trek)
  • Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
  • A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
  • Daypack

Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear

  • A pair of half gloves
  • A warmer hat that covers the ears
  • Sunglasses 
  • Neckwarmer
  • Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
  • Headlamp and an extra set of batteries

Hands

  • A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
  • Warmer shell gloves and liner

Upper Body

  • long sleeve t-shirts
  • Thermal tops
  • wool jacket or pullover
  • Sports bras for women and girls
  • Water and windproof shell jacket 

Lower Body

  • Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
  • windproof and waterproof trousers
  • warmer trousers
  • Comfortable trekking pants
  • Extra casual sport pants

Footwear

  • A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
  • Pair of sandals
  • 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
  • Sock liners
  • Light shoes and sneakers
  • First Aid Kits and Medicines
  • Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
  • Blister treatment cream or similar
  • Insect / anti-itch ointment
  • Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
  • Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
  • Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
  • Water purifying pills

(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)

Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek

  • 4  passport size photos with original passport
  • Water bottle & filter
  • Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
  • Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)

Extra things

  • Comfortable trekking poles
  • Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
  • Power bank and music players 
  • Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)

GOOD TO KNOW

Accommodation

You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities. 

Meals during the trek

 In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of these regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.

Transportation

We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek. 

Physical fitness

This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake. 

Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!

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FAQS

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The Manaslu Trek is a challenging and remote trekking route that circles the majestic Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world. It takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, and high mountain passes.

The duration of the Manaslu Trek is typically around 14-18 days, depending on the specific route and your pace. This includes acclimatization days to adjust to the high altitude.

The Manaslu Trek is considered a strenuous trek, suitable for experienced trekkers. It involves long and steep ascents and descents, as well as crossing high mountain passes. Good physical fitness and prior trekking experience are highly recommended.

For the Manaslu Trek, you will need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, issued by the Government of Nepal, and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). You will also need a registered trekking agency to organize your trek.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic trekking route that takes you around the Annapurna massif, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and other Himalayan peaks. It is known for its diverse landscapes, including lush valleys, high mountain passes, and traditional villages.

The duration of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is typically around 18-21 days, depending on the specific route and your pace. This includes acclimatization days and allows you to fully immerse in the beauty of the region.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered a moderately challenging trek. It involves long and steep ascents and descents, as well as crossing the Thorong La Pass at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). A good level of fitness and some prior trekking experience are recommended.

For the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting your trek.

Combining the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Treks in one trip is possible, but it requires a longer duration and a high level of physical endurance. It is recommended for experienced trekkers who have enough time and are seeking an adventurous and challenging trekking experience.

Booking a guided tour is highly recommended for the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Treks, especially if you are not familiar with the region or do not have prior trekking experience. A guide can provide essential support, ensure your safety in challenging terrains, and enhance your overall experience. Additionally, a guide is required for the Manaslu Trek due to the restricted area permit.

We Offer Group Discount

No. Of People Price Per Person
Pax 1 USD 2,290
Pax 2 USD 2,190
Pax 3 USD 2,090
Pax 4 to 6 USD 1,990
Pax 7 to 12 USD 1,890
Pax 13 to 18 USD 1,790
Pax 19 to 24 USD 1,690
  • Best Price Guarantee
  • Team of highly experienced Experts
  • Your Happiness Guaranteed
  • 24/7 Customer Support

All Inclusive Cost

USD 1,990

Per Person

BOOK NOW QUICK ENQUIRY

Latest Traveller’s Reviews

Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.

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Based On 7 Reviews

Farhad Faridpanah

Denmark

October 18, 2023

A Journey of Self-Discovery

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The Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek is not just a physical adventure; it's also a journey of self-discovery. The solitude and serenity of the mountains, the challenges faced along the way, and the opportunity for introspection make it a transformative experience that allows you to connect with yourself and nature on a deeper level.

Dierdre Debell

Australia

October 4, 2023

Photographer's Paradise

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For photography enthusiasts, the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek is a paradise of opportunities. From capturing the majestic mountains and dramatic landscapes to documenting the vibrant cultural scenes and interactions with locals, there are countless moments worth capturing and cherishing.

Waldemar Grzywacz

Norway

September 10, 2023

Well-Organized and Professional

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The trek is well-organized and guided by experienced professionals who ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey. From comfortable accommodations to delicious meals and well-planned itineraries, every aspect of the trek is taken care of to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience.

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