Trekking in Nepal is an adventure in itself and by far two of the most iconic treks in Nepal with many bucket list items already alongside of them namely the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Manaslu Circuit Trek; come up as a must be trek items on any itinerary already of trekkers in the search of natural beauty trekking experience.
Both may give an unforgettable experience, but they do it with a different trekking style and expectations. Suppose you want one of them, and you are not sure which one to select, then this detailed comparison will provide you with a list of the best trail options adapted to your dreams.
The Annapurna and the Manaslu treks may appear to be the same kind of trek at first glance, being circuit treks that cover some of Nepal's most rugged terrains and feature tall snow-capped mountains. They have, though, a drastic difference in terms of their accessibility, developmental stage, scenic view and general mood.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is traditionally viewed as the more classical one, well-known, famous, and easy to reach. It takes you through the green subtropical valleys to the high-altitude desert as you detour the Annapurna range. If you are looking at the other hand, you will find Manaslu Circuit Trek to be more raw and remote. It offers a much secluded experience, with a smaller number of trekkers on the route, and is ideal in case someone is in need of peace, challenge and cultural richness.
Comparing treks, one should put forward certain specifics. As a summary, we can mention:
● Duration: Annapurna can be done in approximately 15-20 days, whereas Manaslu is 14-18 days long.
● High altitude: the highest peak of Annapurna is Thorong La Pass (5,416m), and Manaslu is Larkya La Pass (5,160m).
● Stay: There are more comfortable teahouses and better infrastructure in Annapurna. Manaslu is less complex and more genuine.
● Permits: Annapurna, TIMS, and ACAP are needed. The Manaslu is a restricted area and you must have a special permit, a guide, and a minimum of two trekkers.
● People: Kearsney Annapurna is popular with large numbers of people, and Manaslu is very quiet and crowd-free.
Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most varied treks in Nepal. One begins at the subtropical forests of Besisahar, then the trail goes through deep ravines, rice terraces, alpine meadows, and the distant Tibetan villages. You will slowly hike up to pass Thorong La Pass (5416 meters) and you will cross one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
The trekkers get to traverse their way through villages (which are very attractive) such as Manang, Pisang and Marpha as they observe the panoramic scenery of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Nilgiri. It is also a destination with a lot of culture that mixes the cultures of Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan people.
Conversely, Manaslu Circuit Trek is a trek around the 8th-tallest mountain on Earth- Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters). It starts either in Arughat or Machha Khola and gradually ascends in beautiful gorges, terraced hillsides, and high-altitude Tibetan-influenced settlements.
Villages such as Lho, Samagaon or Samdo present considerably more genuine cultural experience where the monasteries and local life have not been changed in hundreds of years. The trail reaches its highest point at Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters) where one can have a splendid view of Manaslu range, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.
The fact that Annapurna offers all-around diversity is one of the reasons that draws many trekkers to it. The scenery changes not only the infrastructure is improved with hot showers, comfy accommodations, and Wi-Fi at some locations. Other small luxuries found on the route are natural hot springs in Tatopani and apple orchards in Marpha, which turn a long trek into something a bit more luxurious.
● Proper Route: It is an easy hike with well-developed trails that have dozens of guesthouses and eateries.
● Cultural Diversity: You will see a cultural mishmash from Hindu temples to Buddhist stupas.
● Scenery Variety: In a day, you may find yourself going through pine forests, desert-like scenery, and space-covered passes.
● Adaptability: The path may be modified or shortened via sidewalks and paved paths.
Manaslu provides the level of trekking that is rough and natural. It is ideal for people who simply want to forget about modernity and become immersed in the natural world.
● Isolated Trails: You will also encounter a few trekkers along the way and this will make the tour more peaceful.
● Authenticity: This region has a great Tibetan culture, which is highly uninfluenced by the tourism industry.
● Scenic Drama: The land varies from the lowland jungles to the glacial valleys.
● Hurdle: The terrain of the track caters to senior trekking enthusiasts in search of something rough and rugged.
Yes, overall Manaslu Circuit Trek is more demanding. More than just a more rugged terrain and an infrastructure that is much more limited, the lack of sufficient special permits and required guides contributes to its logistical challenge as well. There is a shorter time between rest stops, and the altitude gain is more sudden in some places.
Annapurna is more approachable, though not as difficult. The trail has facilities to ease the beginners and less-experienced trekkers in their journey.
It is objective, but in case you want variety, the Annapurna region can provide you with all shades of natural beauty, from tropical jungles to alpine deserts as well as ice-crowned mountains. In case you like your nature untouched, wild, with a dramatic canyon, dramatic valleys shaped by glaciers, and the mysterious silence of the Himalayas, Manaslu is your choice.
Difficulty Level
● Manaslu Circuit is a physically harder trek and requires more fitness and endurance.
● The Annapurna Circuit is more manageable to do on rest days, with advanced infrastructure, and the flexibility of the route.
Sceneries
● Annapurna exhibits drastic changes in scenery every few days.
Crowds
● Annapurna draws a larger number of trekkers, particularly during high seasons.
● Manaslu is for people who want to feel alone and to walk on the silent mountain trails.
Annapurna Circuit Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek are treasures in the list of trekking in Nepal, and both experiences are distinct. Annapurna Circuit does not have via ferrata, and it is not very challenging. This makes it suitable as the correct choice in case you are a first-time trekker or want more comfort, diversity, and improved facilities. But when you are an explorer at heart who seeks to be on his own and wants nothing more than a wild trip to the Himalayas, then go to the Manaslu Circuit.
Whatever the route you take, you can be guaranteed you will end up with some memories drawn in your heart, forever. Nepal High Trek And Expedition Pvt. Ltd. is an authentic local trekking company based in Kathmandu, Nepal, specializing in multi-day tours, treks, climbing, and other related activities for solo travellers and private groups. You can contact us at info@nepalhightrek.com or via WhatsApp at +977-9851142116.
