The 22-Day Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek is a long walk in Nepal’s high mountains. In 2026, this trek covers approximately 250–300 km and crosses two high passes: Larkya La (5,106 m) and Thorong La (5,416 m). You will see beautiful forests, rivers, and small villages while walking from the quiet Manaslu area to the dry deserts of Mustang. The 2026 cost is about $1665 to $2191 USD, depending on group size. This price includes a required guide and all four trekking permits. The best times to go are spring (Mar–May) or autumn (Sep–Nov). You will stay in local guest houses (teahouses) that now have solar power and Wi-Fi.
The Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek is an elite, 22-day alpine traverse that synthesizes two of Nepal’s premier Himalayan itineraries into a single, continuous backcountry expedition. This high-altitude trek transitions from the deeply restricted, remote wilderness of the Manaslu Conservation Area directly into the expansive valleys of the classic Annapurna Circuit, creating an uninterrupted 360-degree circuit of two separate eight-thousand-meter mountain massifs.
Maximum Elevation: Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929ft) and Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,769ft
Difficulty Rating: Hard to Very Hard (Strenuous Alpine Trekking)
Permit Regimes: Restricted Area Permit (RAP), MCAP, ACAP and Chumnubri Rural Municipality Fee (Note: Under regulatory enforcement, a government-licensed guide is mandatory.)
Geographic Route Connection: Natural trail link at the boundary village of Dharapani
The 22-day itinerary launches from Kathmandu, tracing the steep gorges of the Budhi Gandaki Valley into the high alpine settlements of the Manaslu region. Trekkers cross the formidable Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) under the backdrop of Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m, the world’s eighth-highest peak) before descending into Bimthang.
At the trail hub of Dharapani, the route merges seamlessly into the Marsyangdi River Valley of the Annapurna Circuit. The trek then climbs past the dramatic peaks of Annapurna II, III, and Gangapurna, culminating in an ascent over Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) one of the highest navigable trekking passes globally. The final phase drops steeply into the arid, rain-shadow topography of the Kali Gandaki Valley, showcasing a radical ecological shift from glacial tundra down to subtropical pine forests.
Beyond its physical geography, this combined loop serves as a profound ethnological corridor. The 22-day journey exposes trekkers to an authentic cultural gradient:
The cost of a 22-day combined Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit trek decreases per person as group sizes grow, because shared logistical expenses are split among more trekkers.
|
Group Configuration |
Price Per Person (USD) |
Service Style |
|
2 Pax |
$2,191 |
All-Inclusive Small Group |
|
3 – 5 Pax |
$2,055 |
All-Inclusive Semi-Private |
|
6 – 10 Pax |
$1,975 |
All-Inclusive Standard Group |
|
11 – 15 Pax |
$1,835 |
All-Inclusive Large Group |
|
16 – 20 Pax |
$1,665 |
All-Inclusive Max Discount |
|
Expense Category |
Cost (USD) |
Regulatory Status |
|
Manaslu RAP |
$75 – $100 (First 7 days) |
Mandatory. Must book via registered agency. |
|
MCAP + ACAP Permits |
$50 total ($25 per permit) |
Entry fees for both conservation areas. |
|
Local Government Tax |
$8 (NPR 1,000) |
Collected at Chumnubri Municipality. |
|
Licensed Guide |
$35 – $45 / day |
Mandatory by law. Solo trekking is illegal. |
|
Mountain Porter |
$25 – $30 / day |
Carries up to 20kg (Shared between 2 clients). |
|
Food & Lodging |
$35 – $50 / day |
Standard 3 daily meals and twin-share room. |
|
Transit & Buffers |
$200 – $300 total |
For local road transport, hot showers, and WiFi. |
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 age-old 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 m 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.
Make your incredible journey perfect with Ammonite Adventure, as we have expertise in Manaslu Region Trek. We are pleased to present some exclusive premium add-ons to uplift your Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek experience that will turn your adventure of a lifetime into a memory of a lifetime!
Make your way to the starting point of your trek with our private jeep service. Book a private jeep and travel in comfort as each vehicle can carry up to 5 passengers towards Machha Khola.
Make your trek even more comfortable by booking a private porter to carry your gear. This means you can fully enjoy the beautiful surroundings without having to worry about a heavy bag. One porter can be shared between two trekkers, with a maximum load of 25 kg.
Yes, 22 days is completely sufficient, but it represents a strenuous, high-performance schedule. While a standard single circuit (just Manaslu or just Annapurna) usually takes 12 to 14 days, merging them into a continuous 22-day itinerary requires sustained stamina and offers a beautifully balanced, logical flow.
To understand how this itinerary mitigates altitude risks, look at how the elevation data is structured. Unlike short, rushed routes, this 22-day itinerary includes two built-in rest and acclimatisation days positioned right before each major pass crossing.
You are forcing your body to adapt to two distinct atmospheric pressure drops, but the trail is designed to give you a strategic physiological cushion:
| Feature |
22-Day Version (Fully Balanced) |
18–20 Day Variations (Aggressive) |
|
Acclimatization Cushion |
Two Dedicated Rest Days: Complete stops in Samagaon (Day 7) and Manang (Day 15). |
Zero Rest Days: Continuous ascents without 48-hour stops, heavily multiplying AMS risks. |
|
Physical Toll |
High but sustainable. The descent to Dharapani allows muscles to recover between passes. |
Extreme fatigue. Trekkers hit Thorong La with cumulative, unrecovered muscle strain. |
|
Side Excursions |
Allows for side trips to Manaslu Base Camp, Pungyen Monastery, and Gangapurna Lake. |
Restricted to direct-line transit. You must bypass landmarks to reach the next teahouse. |
|
Safety Contingency |
Built-in Safety. The double-rest structure provides a buffer if minor pacing adjustments are needed. |
Dangerous. A single day of poor weather or slow pacing completely ruins the flight connections. |
Note: Before booking this adventure, it is highly recommended to read this Complete Guide to High Altitude Trekking to better prepare your body, mindset, and equipment for a safe Himalayan journey.
This grand combination connects two of Nepal's most iconic trekking landscapes into one continuous high-altitude journey.
[Entry] Machha Khola -> Manaslu Circuit -> Larkya La (5,106 m) -> Dharapani Hub -> Annapurna Circuit -> Thorong La (5,416 m) -> [Exit] Jomsom
Why It's a "Double-Pass Himalayan Expedition" Trekking single passes over 5,000 meters is an achievement; hitting two back-to-back over a 300+ km journey constitutes an elite expedition.
Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek is a Hard to Very Hard trekking adventure, suitable only for experienced trekkers with excellent physical fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience.
It involves long steep climbs, sharp descents, and rugged rocky terrain combined with high-altitude alpine sections, with parts of the trail crossing glacier zones. The Larkya La Pass crossing is the most challenging section, where trekkers navigate icy slopes, changing directions on glacial terrain, which significantly increases the difficulty.
On average, trekkers walk 6–9 hours per day, requiring strong stamina and mental endurance. The route demands high physical endurance capacity to sustain continuous long trekking days at altitude. You will also face unpredictable mountain weather conditions, including cold winds, snow, and sudden temperature drops, especially near high passes.
This trek is a true test of adventure, combining remote wilderness, extreme elevation, and continuous physical challenge in one of the most demanding trekking routes in Nepal.
Walking the combined Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit in 22 days is an incredible adventure, but it is an aggressive timeline. Most standard itineraries take 24 to 28 days. Compressing this route into 22 days leaves zero room for error and creates real, high-altitude challenges. Before planning such a fast-paced journey, reading a Larke La Pass Guide: Difficulty, Altitude, and Essential Trekking Tips can help trekkers better understand the physical demands of crossing one of the trek’s most challenging sections.
To safely manage a fast-paced 22-day trek, professional guides use three strict safety rules:
Altitude sickness is a major concern on the Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek, as you will head over 5,000 meters. Symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, dizziness, and tiredness. To prevent this, you must maintain a slow pace, stay hydrated, and strictly follow mandatory rest days in high-risk zones, specifically the Samagaon/Larkya La region and the Thorong La crossing.
Recognize symptoms early and descend immediately if they worsen. Because these regions are highly remote, severe altitude sickness requires immediate emergency evacuation. You must have premium travel insurance that covers helicopter rescue up to 6,000 meters, as medical airlifts from these isolated trails cost thousands of dollars out-of-pocket.
Finally, see your doctor 4–6 weeks before your trip to discuss vaccinations and preventive medications like Acetazolamide (Diamox).
|
Permit Type |
Autumn (Sep–Nov) |
Spring/Off-Peak (Dec–Aug) |
|
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) |
USD 100 (first 7 days) + USD 15/day extra |
USD 75 (first 7 days) + USD 10/day extra |
|
Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP) |
USD 30 |
USD 30 |
|
Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) |
USD 30 |
USD 30 |
|
Chumnubri Rural Municipality Tax |
USD 15 |
USD 15 |
Most accommodations along the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit treks are basic, family-run tea houses or lodges that offer simple, clean, and sufficient shelter. Rooms are minimal, providing lockable doors, windows for ventilation, and 2 to 3 twin beds equipped with foam mattresses, pillows, and blankets. While toilets are usually outside the room, common, and squat-type, the Annapurna region offers notably better amenities, including attached bathrooms and European-style toilets, compared to the highly remote Manaslu stretch.
Food options are a highlight, serving as a haven for food lovers with traditional Nepali cuisines and Western alternatives. Breakfast features healthy options like pancakes, oats, porridge, eggs, toast, or Tibetan bread with honey or jam paired with tea or coffee to fuel you for the rugged trail.
For lunch and dinner, options range from trekking noodles, macaroni, fried rice, pizza, momos (meat/veg dumplings), and vegetable curry to Dhido (a local buckwheat/millet flour dish) though nothing beats wholesome, balanced Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), which comes with free refills at most tea houses! To stay warm, choose from black, milk, or ginger tea, but avoid alcohol (local beer/wine) as it dehydrates your body faster at high altitude.
Socializing centers around the communal dining room, which is unheated during the day but heated in the evening, making it the perfect, cozy space where you will spend the most time talking and sharing stories with your new friends while maintaining good hygiene expectations.
Finally, you must factor in charging & internet availability when budgeting your out-of-pocket expenses. While electricity and Wi-Fi are reliable downstream, connectivity drops significantly above 3,500 meters, where you should expect fees ranging from NPR 200 to NPR 900 for device charging and NPR 400 to NPR 1,000 per session for satellite Wi-Fi, which often goes completely dark between Dharmasala and Bhimtang.
The Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit treks are known for their breathtaking scenery and cultural richness. The best time to trek either of these routes is during the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) seasons as the weather is most reliable.
Combining the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuits is the ultimate Himalayan challenge. This epic journey links two distinct regions, allowing you to circle two separate 8,000 metre mountain systems, Mt Manaslu and Mt Annapurna, on a single continuous route.
Here is what makes this combined trail one of Nepal's greatest adventures:
There are several reasons why you should trek the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trekking 22 days with us - Ammonite Adventure:
The Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) is the highest point section of Manaslu Circuit Trek, located in the Himalayas of Nepal. You will have magnificent views of Manaslu and Manaslu North with Samdo Peak, Naike Peak, Larke Peak and Cheo Himal from its summit. It is situated between Dharamshala and Bimtang, by the top of Larkya La, where you are literally caught in the midst of a Panoramic view surrounded by the majestic Himalayan peaks. But crossing over this pass during winter is very difficult because of heavy snowfalls that block the trails, making the pass almost impossible to cross.
Thorong La Pass, at 5,416m, is a major highlight of the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. This tough pass links the village of Manang to the east with the temple of Muktinath and the village of Ranipauwa to the west. Trekking groups generally travel from east to west so as to allow for better acclimatization and a more gradual ascent. Distances involved mean that you overnight at Yak Kharka, followed by Thorong Phedi, before making a dawn assault on the pass. Crossing Thorong La is physically demanding due to altitude, several steep ascent and descent sections and extremely variable weather conditions, especially during winter. However spectacular views of both the Annapurna range as well as Dhaulagiri are your reward.
Ammonite Adventure offers private treks and group treks. If you have a group, usually the larger the group gets, the larger the discount.
Ammonite Adventure accepts all size groups and also adds an assistant guide for groups large groups. Ammonite Adventure also provides a porter for every two trekkers, with a weight limit of 9kg for trekkers' luggage.
Most of the costs for your Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit trek is covered within your trekking package. However, food and accommodation outside of the trekking duration in Kathmandu, Nepal, is not included.
There are every kind of hotel, lodge, and guest house in Kathmandu, and they can all be booked online.
You may want to have some extra cash on hand for food and accommodation in Kathmandu, any visa fees, travel insurance, personal snacks and drinks, tips or gratuities for the trekking team, souvenirs, and other miscellaneous costs.
When you arrive, you will need cash in the major currency you are holding to exchange into Nepali Rupees, which is the only currency accepted in the trekking areas.
While you are on your 22-day Manaslu trek with Annapurna Circuit, you will have experienced and licensed guides and Sherpas on your trek looking after your journey. Mentioning porters, we provide porters, as we take two trekkers for one porter as a standard (maximum 18 kg.), unless you want one porter per person.
All your crew members with you are local to high Himalaya areas, a place where they commonly do very well at high altitudes. The crew members, while you are traveling, ensure fair wages, insurance for all staff, clothing, food, and lodging, and we provide for the medical care of all staff in the crew.
Our expert trek leaders have:
Ammonite Adventure is a trek operator that is both government-registered and bonded, a member of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). So you can book with confidence.
To confirm your booking with Ammonite Adventure, only a 10% advance deposit is required by bank transfer, Western Union or online payment. You will be able to pay the balance in Nepal with cash, credit card, bank transfer or Western Union.
After booking the trek, we request you to email a copy of your important documents- a passport copy, a few photos, confirmation of your travel insurance, and flight details within 1 week of your trek booking.
Ammonite Adventure does allow last-minute reservations for the Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit trek. To last-minute book, you must pay for the total cost of the trip 24 hours prior to departure on the trek. We strive to provide treks at any time, but last-minute bookings can be impacted if your flights are delayed, in bad weather, or other uncontrollable reasons.
If you're interested in staying a few more days after the trek, we can set up lots of fun. You could stay in Kathmandu and look at the surrounding area or go on a jungle safari in Chitwan, paragliding, rafting or canoeing.
Ammonite Adventure will organize a farewell dinner for you in Kathmandu after your trek from the Manaslu to the Annapurna circuit. You will receive a trek achievement certificate, and you can also provide feedback.
We recommend that you bring only the essential clothing and accessories for the trek. Each two trekkers will have a porter. There is a weight limit of 9 kg for the luggage per trekker. You will also be carrying a small day pack with your gear. Use the suggested packing list below to carefully prepare your packing.
Manaslu Circuit is usually 14-18 days. Annapurna Circuit is generally 12-21 days, depending on the specific route and any additional side trips you may want to take.
Both treks are difficult, no doubt, but Manaslu Circuit is considered more remote and less developed, so it can be potentially more difficult. Annapurna Circuit has better infrastructure in that sense, there is some ease.
Manaslu Circuit’s highest point is Larkya La Pass, 5,106 meters. Annapurna Circuit’s highest point is Thorong La Pass, 5,416 meters.
Permits can be made through registered trekking agencies in Nepal. Be sure you have all the necessary permits before starting the trek.
Generally group sizes are between 2 -12 participants. Smaller groups allow for a more individualized experience.
There is no obligation, but it is nice to show your appreciation if you think the guide and porters have done a good job.
The trek leaders are trained to handle emergencies related to mountains. They also carry a well-stocked first aid kit, and most of them carry an oxygen cylinder as well. In case of an emergency arising out of altitude sickness, it is expected that trekkers inform the trek leader about their condition.
Sturdy, well-fitting boots or shoes with ankle support are an absolute must. Remember that a trek involves walking on uneven ground for the most part and over Scree, sand, rocks, etc. The soles should be non-slippery.
You will have everything from steep ascents and descends to crossing the rivers with river beds, loose rocky paths, and snow, in some cases, at high altitudes. You need to be physically fit and have proper gear for any Himalayan trek.
Yes, there are rest days factored into the trip to help with acclimatization due to altitude and also gives you time to experience some of the local villages.
The experience of getting out with Ammonite Adventure on the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit was unforgettable! They were all incredibly professional,
Trekking with Ammonite Adventure was a fantastic experience! The team was well-organized and took care of everything on the Manaslu
