Trekking Manaslu and Annapurna Circuits in One Epic Journey: A Himalayan Odyssey

For those seeking to go beyond the ordinary, to push past the beaten path and truly immerse themselves in Nepal’s raw Himalayan beauty, there is a trail less taken—but more rewarding than most: the combination of the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit trek in one seamless adventure.

This extended trek, weaving together two of Nepal’s most iconic circuits, is not for the faint-hearted. It’s for those who crave silence and solitude, challenge and awe, wild beauty and deep culture. This is not just a trek—it is a journey of the soul across two of the most breathtaking mountain regions on Earth.

Highlights of the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek

The restricted area makes it highly untouched

What makes the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit trek so special is its remoteness. Unlike Everest, the Manaslu region is a restricted area, requiring a special permit and guide. Similarly, the part of the Annapurna Circuit included in this trek is in a remote trans-Himalayan region with limited access. This limitation has preserved its authenticity. The region stands as a testament to conservation, preserving traditional lifestyles and practices that have flourished for centuries.

Gradual ascent from subtropical to trans-Himalayan region

Starting in the lush subtropical region, the trek route meanders through vibrant forests, cascading rivers, and charming villages, each step offering stunning vistas and a glimpse into local life. As the trail climbs higher, the peak of Manaslu (8,163m) begins to dominate the skyline. By the time you reach Samagaun, the landscape has shifted dramatically—barren alpine valleys, icy waterfalls, and ancient monasteries define the terrain. This is an acclimatization country. The trail further traverses the Larke Pass (5,106 m) and then the Thorong La pass (5,416 m) in an ascending order, making it more convenient with acclimatization.

The Challenge of: Larkya La Pass (5,160m)

The Larkya La Pass is the climax of the Manaslu Circuit and one of the most spectacular passes in Nepal. The climb begins in Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi), a rugged high camp sitting beneath scree slopes and the ever-looming Larkya Peak.

Crossing the pass is a grueling yet deeply fulfilling experience. You begin pre-dawn, trudging across moraine and snow under starlight. As the sun rises, the snow-capped giants—Cheo Himal, Himlung, and Annapurna II—unfold before you in every direction.

The descent into Bhimtang on the other side is also equally challenging on a steep mountainside with snow, scree, and rock fields.

However, the euphoria of triumph over the 5,106 m Larke Pass and the overview of the peaks of Manaslu and Annapurna massifs make this challenge worthwhile.

Linking to the Annapurna Circuit

After Bhimtang, the trail descends steeply through pine forests and rhododendron groves to Dharapani, where trekkers meet up with the classic Annapurna Circuit route.

Here, you can continue seamlessly into the Annapurna Circuit—without ever returning to Kathmandu. While many trekkers start the Annapurna Circuit in Besisahar, you’ll be joining it after already having conquered Manaslu’s wild frontiers, making you one of the few who combine both treks into one journey.

Annapurna Circuit: A Contrast in Grandeur

The Annapurna Circuit may be more touristy, but that doesn’t make it less stunning. In fact, after the solitude of Manaslu, the Annapurna Circuit feels like entering a different dimension—more developed, yes, but also more varied in terms of culture and landscape.

Passing through villages like Chame, Upper Pisang, and Manang, you’ll witness the fusion of Tibetan Buddhist culture with modern trekking life. Manang is a great place to take another rest day, explore the Ice Lake (Kicho Tal), or hike to Gangapurna Glacier Viewpoint.

The Second High Pass: Thorong La (5,416m)

By this point, you’ve already crossed one major Himalayan pass. But the Thorong La, the jewel of the Annapurna Circuit, awaits as the final test.

Trekking from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (or High Camp if you’re daring), you begin to feel the thin air. On summit day, the path is steep and oxygen scarce, but the views are otherworldly. Reaching the Thorong La Pass (5,416m)—the highest point of your entire trek—is like standing on the roof of the world.

From here, the trail descends sharply into Muktinath, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temples, natural eternal flame, and confluence of cultures are truly moving.

Ending the Journey: Jomsom or Beyond

From Muktinath, the trail winds through Kagbeni and finally into Jomsom, where you can either:

Fly back to Pokhara via a dramatic mountain flight, or continue trekking through the Lower Mustang region or even the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) if time and energy allow.

This final leg offers a fascinating shift into arid, almost Tibetan-like terrain with whitewashed villages and wind-blown landscapes. You’ve walked from humid river valleys to high passes and back into an alpine desert.

In conclusion, the combined Manaslu and Annapurna circuit trek offers adventurers an unparalleled journey through some of the most stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences in Nepal. Travelers will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and engage with the vibrant local communities along the way. With every step, trekkers will be enveloped in the majestic panoramas of Manaslu's towering peaks and the iconic Annapurna range.

To learn more about planning your trek, we invite you to visit our Nepal Trek itineraries.

Embark on this exceptional journey and discover the magic of the Himalayas for yourself.

Logistics & Planning Tips

• Total Duration: 16–18 days (combined trek)
• Permits Needed:

  Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

  Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

  Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

  TIMS card

• Guide Required: Yes, for Manaslu (government rule).
• Best Time to Go:

  Spring (March–May)

  Autumn (Sept–Nov)

Why Combine Both?

While most trekkers choose one or the other, combining Manaslu and Annapurna offers an unparalleled experience:

• See remote, untouched villages and modern trekking communities.
• Experience two iconic high passes: Larkya La and Thorong La.
• Immerse in Tibetan Buddhist culture, stunning mountain panoramas, and wildly different ecosystems.
• Push your limits mentally and physically while creating a story of a lifetime.

I am Rabindra, a seasoned explorer and storyteller with roots in the majestic Himalayas. Join me on this incredible journey as I explore and write, sharing the beauty of the Himalayas and beyond!