Manaslu With Annapurna Circuit Trekking - 22 Days

Your Annapurna Circuit with Manaslu Circuit Trek will start early in the morning from Kathmandu to travel across the Prithvi Highway toward the town of Arughat. The drive will show glimpses of urban settlements and rural countryside within the mesmerizing sights of Nepal. The drive winds alongside the Trishuli River, showing terraced fields and aged villages. Upon reaching Arughat, the road becomes rockier and follows the Budhi Gandaki River till one reaches Machha Khola.

Located around 930 meters above sea level, Machha Khola acts as a doorway toward the Manaslu region. You will get a taste of different communities, such as the Gurung and Ghale, with their unique practices and lifestyles. 

It is a long day but a slow introduction to the range of landscapes and cultures that characterize the Manaslu Circuit. The road conditions are rough, especially around monsoon, and change every time. It takes you through fascinating shifting landscapes-from verdant hilly landscapes into the rocky riverbanks of Budhi Gandaki.

Today, you will follow the trail from Machhe Khola; this trail goes along the Budhi Gandaki River. With the advancement, lesser variety in subtropical brings increasing ruggedness in topography. Jagat stands at approximately 1,340 meters, with a walk of 6 to 7 hours, depending on the speed and conditions of the trail. 

Jagat is comparatively important since it is the only place where entry permits are verified in order to gain access to the Manaslu Conservation Area. Within the village, stone-paved streets and related architecture represent its glorious past as a trading post. Most of the people practice Tibetan Buddhism, evidenced by the mani walls and chortens dotting the village. You will learn more about their past and present culture through meetings with them. 

The path to Jagat is not new, but it is sometimes narrow and steep, so footing must be assured when walking this part. During the trip, you will appreciate the many cascading waterfalls and dense forests and you will occasionally see snow-covered peaks far away. Natural beauty combined with some cultural landmarks makes this segment memorable as part of the trek.

From Jagat, the trail rises through terraced fields and forests accompanied by the Budhi Gandaki River flowing through it. This mostly consists of a few steep up and downhills and then crossed by a few suspension bridges that give way to magnificent views of most landscapes around. After trekking for about 7 to 8 hours into the evening, the next destination is in the village of Deng, which sits at an altitude of 1,860 meters. 

Deng is the gate to Nubri Valley, which becomes more Tibetan in every sense. The impact of Tibetan Buddhist culture can be felt at the adjacent monasteries and the prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze.

This trail to Deng is moderately difficult: rocky and uneven in parts. This long trek boasts rich green hillsides and mighty waterfalls, and it introduces the final components to Deng as it comes under view for the very last time before revealing snow-laden peaks. After a full day of trekking, Deng offers a place to relax in the silence and among cultural riches.

The journey from Deng to Namrung wears a slow ascend along the alpine forests, which leads to some very beautiful views. The trail passes over the Budhi Gandaki multiple times through suspension bridges, taking the person to small settlements and terraced field areas. After 6 to 7 hours of trekking, one finally reaches Namrung, which is an altitude measured as high as 2630 m from sea level.

Namrung is a cultural center with a Tibetan Buddhist influence over the region. Mani stones, carved intricately, and prayer wheels embellish the village in honor of the spiritual life of its residents. This monastery is the pride of the community in terms of the heritage of the region. The perspective of the villagers is put to light when one intermingles with them.

The Namrung trail is a nicely laid trail with few steep ups and downs that need good care. As you ascend higher, you will see the changes in the landscape, exposing views of the mountain ranges like Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal. You can observe and feel the elegance of naturalness combined with merged culture at once, which helps make this section of a trek different and worth it not to forget.

The trail from Namrung ascends through lovely forests and pastures, emerging into a breathtaking view of the towering high Himalayan peaks. Below is the village of Lho, at which the Ribung Gompa, a major Buddhist monastery, can be visited. After walking for 6 – 7 hours, we will reach Shyala at an altitude of 3,520m. Panoramic views of some may be of the majestic mountain peaks such as Manaslu, Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli from this spot. There are a lot of stone houses made with the traditional style in the village, and all around peace is prevailing there.

The way to Shyala is a moderate trek from the gradual ascend that is manageable with acclimatization. Indeed, this journey will be difficult to beat due to the scenery of mountain ranges and the diverse cultural heritage of the local people.

From Shyala to Samagaon, it's not a long trek, just some three to four hours. When you leave the Shyala itself, the trail descends and then becomes leveled, leading your way across open plains engulfed by great peaks. Thus, it gives you magnificent views of Manaslu, which stands at 8,163 meters, together with glimpses of the other Himalayan giants, such as Himalchuli and Peak 29 or Ngadi Chuli.

Samagaon is one of the biggest, culturally-richest villages at the foot of Manaslu, situated at the height of 3,530 meters. It is the typical Tibetan village, built of stone and nestled in extensive fields. The village land is closely surrounded by the famous ancient Pungyen Monastery that stands on the hill, making for awesome views over the massif of Manaslu. The monastery is of great cultural and spiritual importance to the local Tibetan Buddhist community.

The trail to Samagaon is quite simple and offers the opportunity to enjoy the great scenery. The views consist of glacial moraines, alpine meadows, and streams. As you settle down in Samagaon, you can enjoy pure nature and deep cultural heritage.

The seventh day of the Annapurna Circuit with Manaslu Circuit Trek is for rest. Rest day in Samagaon is very important for acclimatization and gives the opportunity to explore the village and its surroundings. This journey to the Manaslu Base Camp takes you at an altitude of 4,400 meters. This section of the trail climbs through the forests of rhododendrons and then out into the glacier-scattered, rugged mountainous terrain. The views of Manaslu, with peaks surrounding it, are magnificent from base camp.

Other places of interest would be Pungyen Monastery, a holy place with beautiful scenery of the Manaslu Glacier. The locals allow a glimpse into the traditional ways of life in a country that is so touched by Tibetan culture and Buddhism. You will be able to observe day-to-day practices in farming, weaving, and prayers, all fitting with nature.

The hike from Samagaon to Samdo is very pleasant and takes around 3 to 4 hours. The trail gradually involves ascension through the valley with the Budhi Gandaki River flowing adjacent to it, which passes you through yak pastures, glacial streams, and scattered mani walls inlaid with Buddhist prayers shadowed behind beautiful mountain views. 

Samdo, situated at a height of 3,860 meters, is the last big town before the Larkya La Pass. It has a small population of Tibetan origins living ancient lifestyles. The unique position of Samdo provides unobstructed views of the surrounding peak-the Syacha glacier and the north face of Manaslu.

The section of the trek does not seem too strenuous and gives time to acclimatization at a high altitude. The features of the landscape alter dramatically as one climbs, with the tree line giving way to alpine tundra and rocky country.

The hike from Samdo to Dharamsala, which can also be referred to as Larkya Phedi, can take around 4-5 hours to complete. The trail curves up along the Syacha Glacier and traverses some moraines to give good views across the surrounding Himalayan peaks. En route to the seasonal yak herders’ villages, the prayer flags and mani walls make it all feel even more remote.

Dharamsala is a basic camp at 4,460 metres, and most of its rudimentary facilities are being put to use as a base camp for the Larkya La Pass. This site is enveloped in dramatic landscapes created by towers of mountains, glaciers, and rocky cliffs, with each forming an exciting, dramatic backdrop.

This segment is the key acclimatization halt before the challenging climb over Larkya La Pass-a feat indeed in itself. Dharamsala may be very simple, but it gives that feel of adventure and anticipation as one prepares for one of the most thrilling parts of the journey.

The most difficult yet rewarding day on the Annapurna Circuit with Manaslu Circuit trek is today. The early-morning climb to Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) must be done to catch good weather. The path goes steeply upwards over snow, ice, and rocky areas. The climb is grueling, yet it rewards one in encountering views of Himalayan peaks, including Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna range.

A hike that trumps reaching the top of Larkya La is that much of the success becomes enveloped in color-blotted prayer flags flying in the wind. It is amazing how the past reveals its views, stretching wide to cover all swathes of snow-covered peaks and glaciers.

The descent to Bhimtang promises to be as stunning, going over steep slopes, moraines, and alpine meadows. At an elevation of 3,720 meters lies the quiet valley of Bhimtang, surrounded by dense forest and spectacular mountains. This is indeed a place to rest overnight.

It normally takes you about 6-7 hours from Bhimtang to Dharapani, and it provides decent with the throngs of beautiful rhododendrons and pine forests. Along the way, you will pass beautiful villages and suspension bridges connecting them with remoteness.

Coming nearer to Dharapani, the landscapes grow more cultivated-terraced fields and orchards of the slopes. Dharapani is 1,960 meters at the gates of Annapurna region. It is a bustling place for trekkers, as well as for local people.

It is a more gentle section of the trek that gives time to enjoy the beauty of the lower Himalayan region. That will enhance this day as most others because the alpine changes totally into subtropical and brings invigorating change.

It takes 5 to 6 hours to reach Chame from Dharapani, which is the district headquarters of Manang. The climb is gradual along the Marsyangdi River, winding through the pine and fir forests. The valley closes and forms into that beautiful alpine scene as we climb up.

Situated at an altitude of 2,670 meters, Chame is a very vibrant town equipped with all trekking facilities. This town has natural hot springs where you can soak and rejuvenate after a long day's trekking. This place also promises beautiful views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II, which tower at the back of the village with snow-clad peaks.

Chame showcases the Annapurna region's culture with hanging Buddhist prayer flags, mani walls, and monasteries along the way. Chame beautifully merges natural beauty with those man-made cultural landmarks that stamp it as a memorable stop.

Chame to Upper Pisang Trek is a 5 to 6-hour walk to the landscape full of towering cliffs and lush forest. The path meanders along the Marsyangdi River with suspension bridges. Another highlight of this hike is the incredible Paungda Danda, an enormous, curved rock face that rises more than 1,500 m above the valley.

Stretched at 3300 m is Upper Pisang, one of the traditional Tibetan settlements, famous for enchanting views of the Annapurna II and IV and Pisang Peak. The village has an ancient monastery where one can witness Buddhist rituals and ceremonies. Most structural designs include houses made of stone and narrow lanes of access, which reflect the type of architecture distinct to the region.

The route goes towards Upper Pisang, but the altitude goes higher and higher, making it good advice to keep pace and maintain fluid intake. The most inspiring leg of the trek is this part, within the blend of tranquility with panoramic mountain views.

This is the most beautiful part of the Annapurna Circuit with the Manaslu Circuit Trek, takes about 6 to 7 hours. Villages like Ghyaru and Ngawal comes along the ridges and great view of Annapurna range. It is a steep climb and descent, covered with juniper forests and alpine meadows.

At an altitude of 3,540 meters, Manang is the cultural and logistical center of the Annapurna region. The modern amenities that have come to the region so far blend beautifully with the faded glory of tradition. From here, dramatic landscapes stretch into the horizon, ranging from Gangapurna Glacier to Tilicho Peak.

Manang is also a place famous for its monasteries, cultural museums and bakeries that serve mouth-watering local and Western treats. This section traverses from desolate hills to lush forests.

Day 15 of the Annapurna Circuit with Manaslu Circuit Trek is another day for rest. This day needs to be reserved for acclimatizing up to higher altitudes before ascending. This rest day has a lot to offer in terms of exploration. A worthy side trip is Gangapurna Lake, which lies under the Gangapurna Glacier. The lake glistens with turquoise water, surrounded by bare cliffs and snowscapes, creating quite a vision.

Another recommendation would be to hike to the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) clinic. For the thrill seekers, a trek to the viewpoint at Chongkor offers stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range; it features Annapurna III, Tilicho Peak, and the Marsyangdi Valley.

Manang bursts with rich cultural heritage through its gompas, mani walls, and traditional stone houses. Coming into contact with the local people will, moreover, give one an insight into their Tibetan Buddhist cultures as well as the life that those people lead living in such a remote, high-altitude place.

The trek from Manang to Ledar takes an average of 4 to 5 hours and signifies the entry into more barren and alpine terrain. Gradually ascending over rolling juniper and alpine meadows, the air becomes thinner with increasing land deprivation relief and tall peaks and glaciers visually dominate the landscape. 

This tiny human settlement at 4200 m is equipped only with basic trekking facilities. It is the most important acclimatization stop between the trailheads to Thorong La Pass. Surrounding it, tall peaks like Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and the Chulu Peaks make an impressive scene. This part of the trail demands very deliberate pacing in order to adapt yourself to high-altitude living.

It is a relatively difficult trail, which takes around 4 to 5 hours from Ledar to Thorong High Camp. It climbs through rocky moraines and steep slopes. The narrow trail can be icy in certain areas; therefore, caution is needed. With the increasing elevation, thin air becomes more apparent, making its pace slow and steady.

Thorong High Camp, around 4,800 meters high, is an excellent vantage point for the surrounding peaks, including Thorong Peak and Khatung Kang. This high camp is much sought after since trekkers from different corners of the world gather here before they make their crossing to Thorong La Pass the next day.

Today's trek sums up around 8 to 9 hours of walking on the 5,416-meter Thorong La Pass, which is the highest point in the Annapurna Circuit. You will start the climb very early as strong winds and changes in weather are likely. It is such a steep and strenuous climb, but the all-attractive views from the pass make it all worth it. You can see a panorama of Himalayan peaks, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the Kali Gandaki Valley in between.

It is a long and steep descent to Muktinath down a steep trail descending over rocky terrain. Muktinath is situated at 3,760 mts in altitude and is a holy site for pilgrimage for Hindus and Buddhists. The temple consists of a Vishnu temple, 108 water spouts that represent sacred rivers, and a flame burning continuously. The culture of Muktinath, along with a sense of accomplishment from crossing the pass, indeed makes this one day very much a highlight of the trek.

Jomsom is just a five-to-six-hour trek away from Muktinath along a primarily downhill trail in the Kali Gandaki Valley. Views shift rapidly from barren landscapes at high altitudes to green fields and apple orchards as you descend.

You traverse the ancient settlement called Kagbeni, where narrow streets lead to traditional mud-brick houses with a monastery built centuries ago that is still in use. Kagbeni also serves as an entry point into the restricted area of Upper Mustang, making it quite an alluring cultural and historical spot.

Jomsom is at an altitude of 2720 meters. It is a diverse place and is mostly called a "transit point" in the Annapurna region. It is especially known for the powerful afternoon winds and the magnificent views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri.

Today, you will be flying from Jomsom to Pokhara in the morning-a short flight that gives you an aerial view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This is a 20-minute flight over the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world.

Pokhara will embrace you with its serenity in and around lakes. It’s an ideal place to slow down and re-think about the trek. You can go boating in Phewa Lake and visit the World Peace Pagoda or the International Mountain Museum. Overnight in a hotel at Pokhara.

Today, you will enjoy a flight to Kathmandu. After breakfast at your hotel in Pokhara, you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where you will be first welcomed in Nepal and transferred to your hotel. You have options like taking some rest on this day at your accommodation or going on a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu City.

Day 22, being your last day with us, one of our team representatives will transfer you to the Tribhuvan International Airport for your return flight to your hometown. We hope that we will meet sometime again in future and will assist you in planning your other trekking destination.