Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek - 23 days

Best Time for Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trekking

For the combined Manaslu Annapurna Trek, the ideal seasons stand out to be the Spring, starting from mid-March to last May, and Autumn, as during this span of the year, you can expect the weather and temperature to remain stable and moderate, perfect for crossing the high mountain passes over 5000 meters. 

Meanwhile, suppose this trek was done solely with no combined effort. In that case, one can opt for this trek in monsoon and winter, but as it already falls under a strenuous hike and long-duration journey, this adventure is not safe to undertake during the off-season, no matter what prior experience you have. On top of that, due to heavy snowfall in the upper terrains, the gateway (route) and tea houses get closed toward high passes, delaying the trip for 3-4 more days.

Hence, spring and autumn are the only suggested seasons to do this trek, and here is a detailed overview stated below to make it clear and suggested seasons.

What to expect in Spring (March to May)?

Spring stands out to be one of the ideal times to do this trek to the Manaslu Annapurna Trail adventure, as the temperature only ranges from 5 to 12 degrees Celsius at daytime and doesn't fall below -5 degrees Celsius at night in the upper section. It means you can simply hike along the trail without being fully drained out and enjoy the cozy night while settling in at the tea houses with no hassle. In mid-march, the rhododendrons bloom abundantly, and the pine forest with apple orchards adds life to the boring and green valleys, making the forested section captivating.

Besides, as it falls just after winter, there is low humidity with fresh air, with some snowy sections where you still feel the chill vibes throughout the journey, and maybe even build a snowman in between the high passes route of Thorong La and Larkya La Pass, making the trip fun yet smooth to complete successfully.

What to expect in Autumn (September to November)?

Autumn is another peak season to do the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek, as it comes right after the monsoon in Nepal. There is almost zero chance of precipitation, especially at higher elevations, allowing you to cross the high passes with no hassle. Whereas, at the lower sections, you can get an insight into locals engaging in harvesting and plantation of crops in agricultural farms and yaks in the terraced fields, enriching the trip even more.

Apart from that, the main festival of the Himalayas: Dashain and Tihar, takes place here in between October and Nov, where you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and celebrate such festivals with diverse ethnic groups in remote areas. If you are someone who loves to explore the thriving ethos of the isolated section of this iconic region, then you should opt for his expedition in the Autumn. 

Is this trip doable in the off-season (Monsoon and Winter)?

While this trek to Manaslu and Annapurna circuit is still considerable in winter, starting from December and lasting till the end of February and the monsoon between June to August, however, due to safety reasons, and high climatic fluctuating situations, this trip is not suggested during the seasonal time. What happens is that at this span of the year, there is a high level of precipitation (snowfall and rainfall), making the route slippery, loose gravel, and muddy, making the trip more challenging than it is supposed to be.

Due to the heavy rain showers, sometimes, the route to the high passes might get blocked, for a few days, lasting for 2-3 days, till the weather clears out, hence, it could ruin or disrupt the trek, so make sure to be prepared accordingly. On the other hand, while in the winter, the temperature becomes cold, at night taking a massive drop to -5 to -12 degrees Celsius, whereas, in the monsoon season, the humidity is high during the day, even going beyond -22 degrees Celsius, making you completely drained out. Meanwhile, this trek is suggested to those who have prior experience to handle the off-seasonal period drawbacks, as one could completely delve into the beauty of the highlands, where the snowy, frosty peaks and trails become your reward in each stride, and an achievement after passing through such hurdles.

Know more details here, in our recently updated blog: Best Time to trek in Nepal, which has a detailed guideline on what kind of weather and climatic conditions to expect in each span of the year.

How difficult is the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Combined Trek?

As it is a combined trek of both the off-beaten trails to Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit in Nepal, it falls under challenging treks that ascend to a height of over 5000 meters at the highest points, with a hike of almost 5-6 hours per day. This 23-day trip is a complete thrilling adventure, where you can expect the unexpected situations, some scenically eye-captivating and others a thrilling odyssey, demanding a high level of endurance, power, and a strong mindset.

The trail itself is varied, not because of it being a combined expedition; however, the route changes frequently, as on some days, you have to go through a lush, deep, dense forest area, transforming gradually to a more rugged and remote trailhead and to the alpine valleys, after navigating 4000 meters, with several steep, ridged and multiple ascend and descend, hence, this combined expedtion is only recommended to those, having prior experiences.

This trek begins with an altitude of 930 meters, and goes all the way uphill, a walk of more than 2500 meters each day, hence it is only suggested to pro hikers who have some high experiences of what high altitude hiking is supposed to be. However, if you are a beginner, then you must have proper preparation of gear, choose the right itinerary according to your pace, and be mentally and physically prepared by engaging in some physical strengthening activities.

The most challenging section of this entire trip is crossing over 2 high passes of Throng La (5146 meters) and Larkya La Pass (5106 meters) with approximately 7-8 hours of hiking with some rugged, steep, and slippery sections. Thus, you must have a high patience level and endurance level, building a positive yet persistent mindset, to make it an easy-going expedition. After all, the mind plays a crucial role and increases one's willpower. 

On the other hand, someone who has never been to the Himalayas expects too much, like it's just a holiday made out with friends, solo or family, meanwhile, the remoteness, at the upper trails, makes the trip mentally frustrating for beginners, where the reality check hits you. Please, take a good note that the amenities up there are quite limited, with basic facilities, the basics like washroom, bedding, wifi, and others become a luxury, and the trail is completely off beaten, being not so well maintained, thus, engage in research before the trip, especially when you are a beginner, so you get to know, exactly, what to expect on the trailhead, and make a positive enthusiastic mindset accordingly.

To conclude, this trek is highly suggested to those who have some prior experience on the high altitude adventure, whereas beginners can also venture out on this 23-day trek to Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trail, keeping preparedness and packing list as a foremost priority.

What is the risk of altitude sickness, and how to prevent and Stay Safe on this trip?

One of the most concerning parts is the risk of altitude sickness that is always circulating in mountain areas, no matter whether you are an experienced or novice hiker. Try to follow the preventive guidelines and make yourself fully secure to avoid the risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), try to maintain the pace, and hydrate the body with 3-4 litres and moisten the body to avoid dehydration and mouth dryness. 

If you are already panicking about whether you could get one, do not worry! Our 23-day Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary is crafted well with an ascent of only 400-500 meters each day, where 2 acclimatisation days are set, one in Sama Gaon and another in Manang, before crossing over the high-altitude passes. Just walk along with the guide and maintain the pace without rushing through things and ascent, other than that, this trek to the Manaslu circuit and Annapurna circuit can be smoothly completed with prior prep and gear, with the assistance of our highly experienced and medically equipped trekking guides.

Besides, please take note that a mere risk of altitude sickness is quite expected at higher elevation, such as mild headaches, feeling dizziness (vomiting alike condition), nausea, and even difficulty to breathe in and out, like normal days, however, if there is any kind of severe symptoms of AMS, like, insomnia (loosing apettite or sleep), severe headaches, blood vomiting, loosing control, while walking than, inform the guide immediately, where the guide will monitor your health, and ensure everything is okay, before proceeding the hike further.

Here are some of the preventive guideline measures to follow from the very beginning till the end:

1. Make yourself hydrated from the start, by drinking at least 3-4 liters of water per day, avoiding dehydration and mouth dryness, which makes you feel dizzy, and drained out, so make sure to consider hydrating your body.
2. If drinking high liters of water sounds too much, then substitute with hot ginger and garlic soups, or noodles, so that your body stays warm and hydrated throughout the trip.
3. Make sure to check your pulse rate through an oximeter, from the start, at every stopping point, and ensure that your body is doing well.
4. Do not rapid your pace, just walk at your own pace, and ascend slowly and gradually, by 500-600 meters, not going beyond that, so that your body gets adapted to the rising elevation.
5. If you feel any sort of discomfort in your body, then make sure to inform the guide immediately, so that emergency procedures can be initiated soon after.

How to be prepared for the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek?

This 23-day Manaslu Annapurna Trek, lasting for more than 2 weeks, demands a strong physique, a positive and enthusiastic mindset with considering medical and research factors, for a smooth, hassle-free adventure. While the trip itself isn't wild, strenuous, difficult, or challenging, and even dangerous, with a properly crafted itinerary and comprehensive preparations, you must be trained accordingly, depending on the situations. While the preparations are done on a per-individual basis, still, there are still some considerations that one should definitely make before venturing out on this odyssey.

Strengthen your Core Level 

Physical preparedness is something that you must consider before starting any adventure, especially in the mountain areas, where you have to go through different kinds of terrains, through some forested areas, steep sections, several ups and downs, for a long duration. Engaging in cardiovascular exercises with simple cardio such as running or walking on a treadmill, strengthening the calf muscles, with leg exercises such as leg press, squats, or lunges to build your leg stamina, to performing frequent ascent and descents. If heading to Gym, isn't something as your cup of tea, then, instead, you can engage in short hikes nearby, or do home workouts watching YouTube, or even hit the goal of 10,000 steps per day. For beginners, try to do 50-60 ups and downs by staircase, carrying a loaded backpack, which helps you at the trailhead, for an uphill walk, with your hiking backpack, without causing back problems.

Create a Positive Enthusiastic Mindset

As the trailhead passes through rapid changes in altitude, where the terrain changes frequently, as higher you ascend, might more you might feel completely zoned out, want to give up, and even experience difficulty in breathing due to the massive transformation of the elevation gain, that's how the mind game plays on. Yes! While physical preparedness is crucial, along with that, keeping your mental state in good condition, by having a positive mindset and great determination, will motivate you to proceed further. Also, the longest and most challenging section that you will face is while crossing the passes of Thorong La and Larkya La, where you have to enjoy the hardship and keep a hawk-like eye on your goal, and maintain the same energy as it was at the start of the trip.

Make the packing considering all the seasonal variations

No matter what season you are proceeding the hike, ensure to carry all the gear and essentials that match all kinds of weather and climatic conditions. While other packings for the trip are basic, such as packing moisture-wicking t-shirts, insulated pants, footwear like hiking boots, and sports shoes, in the seasons of spring and autumn seasons. Ensure to carry a down jacket or a puffer jacket, a sleeping bag (-15 degree Celsius rated), a rain cover for the backpack, and a raincoat, even when high precipitation (rainfall) isn't expected, just consider carrying the essentials, for unexpected weather situations.

Engage in Research 

Before selecting the trip duration and route, ensure to take guidance from our expert teams regarding the expectations, whether the hiking pace matches your experiences or stamina, or not, so you can expect what's realistic and be prepared accordingly. Whereas, especially, beginners, should engage in research about the remoteness of the trail, amenities availability, and the locals as well, watching podcasts, YouTube videos, or even short blogs, so you can keep the realistic expectations, and create a mindset accordingly, so that, the remoteness, and cultures won't shock you in an unexpected way, which is far distinct from the city area.

Is a guide mandatory for the Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek?

This trek goes all the way through the most remote section, and with no proper accessibility for immediate medical and tea houses. On top of that, the government has implemented the law that you must hike along with a guide in the restricted areas of Manaslu Circuit solely, and for the Annapurna Circuit, only in 2023, the new regulations have been implemented that hiking without a licensed guide is not allowed. 

Hence, no matter whether you are a hiker who has ample experience walking through the toughest terrains, the guide is one hundred per cent necessary for this trek. Our guides are highly experienced with almost 15+ years to date, they are medically equipped and know every corner of both regions.

Besides, to cross these thrilling passes of Thorong La and Larke La? They become your shadow to cross this snowy pathway where the danger is always circulating 24/7. That is why these regulations are implemented and must be followed to conserve the pristine nature and for your safety purposes, as nothing matters more than being safe and comfortable at such high altitudes.

Note: 1 experienced licensed registered guide is included in this package, for minimum 2 hikers. If you are above 6 then, one assistant guide will also be provided ensuring the safety.

Transportation Accessibility

Our itinerary includes all the transportation accessibility required for the trip, including the comfort flight transportation to Pokhara from Jomsom, which shows the breathtaking view of the almighty Himalayan peaks. Along with that, the 4WD jeep is also included, from Muktinath to Jomsom, after crossing the high mountain pass of Thorong La.

Meanwhile, from Kathmandu to Aarughat, a local bus will be provided to you for 7-8 hours of road driving, and from Ararughat, a comfortable 4WD jeep on a sharing jeep will take you to the starting point of the trek - Maccha Khola. To reach Kathmandu from Pokhara, you will be seated on a luxury tourist bus, in a single seater, for approximately 7 hours of road drive via Trishuli River and the Prithvi Highway, showing the distinct transformation of the landscapes, terraced fields, lush valley, mountains, along with several roaring riverside by the side.

As every transportation cost is included in our Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek package, you do not have to bear any extra cost; meanwhile, if you want to opt for a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, to avoid the road pathway, then we can arrange the flight cost for you; however, an extra cost for the flight fare is required.

What permits are required for the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek?

To get access to the restricted areas of both treks combined, there are certain rules implemented by the government of Nepal for tracking the well-being of trekkers within the isolated area. As the Manaslu Trail is also included, which is also tends to be the most protected area, highland. Whereas, for the Annapurna Circuit, only 2 permits of the ACAP and TIMS Card are required. In total, there are 3 permits required to do this combined trek of the Manaslu Annapurna Trek.

Firstly, the required permits must be applied for through the registered local trekking agency.

Secondly, you must hire a licensed and experienced guide to hike with and a travel partner, excluding the guide and porter, which simply means a minimum of two hikers are required, and last but not least, these permits must be obtained before the trip starts. 

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (Special Restricted Area Permit cost): The cost of the MCAP depends on the seasonal trek you are opting for. For instance, if you are hiking during the peak season, Spring and Autumn, the permit price is USD 100/-, i.e, NPR 13400, per person. After 7 days within the restricted area, you must pay an additional USD 15 per person for the additional days.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP cost): As both the Manaslu and Annapurna trekking falls under the Annapurna region, this permit is required. It costs around USD 26 and NPR 3200/- per person for foreigners, whereas for the SAARC nationals, the price is slightly lower, costing around USD 8 to NPR 1100. 

Note: Our package include these permits, thus it will be arranged with no hassle after your booking is confirmed with us.

Foods and Accommodations

As this trek has two sections, the lodging facilities vary in both sections of the trek. While the Annapurna Circuit Trek has the best accommodation availability with even luxury amenities, the Manaslu Circuit Trek goes all the way through the remote areas with simple tea houses, as it is more isolated. To combine it all, you'll get the lodging run by the locals, itself being well-maintained and hygienic.

The rooms will be either provided with single beds or twin beds with attached washrooms in the lower trails, whereas moving to the upper trails, the attached bathrooms aren't available, and you might not find single bedrooms. However, if you are a solo hiker and are sure to want a single bedroom, then it will be arranged if the pre-booking is done. Every tea house offers comfortable beds, pillows, and blankets, but you might require a sleeping bag if you are a newbie. Hence, we can arrange it, and it must be carried by you or a porter throughout the trek. 

For the meal options: the standard Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner will be provided, where the menu will be given to you, and you just have to order it, and it will be prepared accordingly. Throughout the Manaslu Annapurna Trekking, there is a wide range of food availability with veg, non-vegan, and non-veg options. From the western, American, asian, indian to local options, the trailhead caters to everyone's taste and preference. 

Tips: Before the trek gets started, please make sure that you inform us or either guide if you are allergic to some sort of foods, like lactose intolerance or something. Besides, try to consume garlic soups or any other hot soup for the warmth and if possible avoid the red meat (not fresh) and caffeine items after crossing 3000 meters. 

Can I do the Manaslu Annapurna Trek solo, or is Group Joining compulsory?

Hiking solo to the restricted area during these 23 days, the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek isn't allowed. If this trip were solely done attaining the Annapurna Circuit, then you can either hike along with a guide, or you can even embark on a solo trip with no travel partner. However, as it is a combined trip, where the Manaslu Circuit Trek is included as well, you cannot do this trek alone. 

Meanwhile, not everyone has a trekking partner to hike along with, right? If you are just settling back, thinking that you do not have a group to trek with, then Destination Himalaya Treks becomes your rescue. YES! You heard it right, no matter whether you are solo, you can complete this trek with no fuss with our assistance.

What we simply do is offer fixed departure dates, and you can simply join it with other free-minded adventurers like you across the globe. Well, do not worry about comfort and safety, as we highly look forward to taking care of such things. If that sounds like it's not your forte and you want to enjoy the "ME time" along the trekking route, then we even offer elusive private treks, but it will be slightly on the higher cost side. If you have any queries, then contact us anytime.

Is Travel Insurance mandatory for this trip?

This combined trek to Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit goes all the way through the remote and rugged terrains of diverse landscapes, with limited accessibility. Hence, travel insurance is mandatory for this trek, and there are certain things to take care of. Well, while making your insurance policy, make sure that it includes theft, lost baggage, trip cancellation, delays, and most importantly, helicopter evacuation, that too with the higher elevations above 3500 meters.

If you are not thinking about getting one, then please remember that this trek crosses high passes above 5000 meters, each of Thorung La Pass and Larke Pass, where the risks are always there. Having no coverage of insurance coverage makes the trip a nightmare if such uncertainty occurs along the trekking route. Having a good one ensures a hassle-free journey with a free mind, and the evacuation (rescue) via helicopter (aircraft) can be arranged immediately.

Tips for Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trekking for a Successful Adventure

1. While making your packing list, it is highly suggested to pack less and more intelligently, as the trail has many ascending sections, which might be too much of a hassle with a load. Just carry essentials such as warm clothes, dry-fit t-shirts and pants, crampons (compulsory), hiking boots, and others such as sun cream 40+ SPF, sunglasses (heat protected), caps, and two trekking sticks. If possible, also make sure to carry slippers, socks (at least 7 pairs), and a water bottle. 
2. Carry quick snacks such as granola bars, small bar chocolates, museli, protein bars, that are easy to munch on. Also, include dry ginger and garlic if you aren't allergic, as it helps in keeping you warm and avoiding the risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
3. At upper trails in both the Manaslu circuit and Annapurna circuit, the electric sockets aren't attached in the room, so you must head to the dining area just to charge your phone, waiting in line. Thus, carry at least 2 power banks to quickly charge the phone. The charging cost costs around USD 2-3 in some areas after crossing 3500 meters, as the electricity is generated by solar panels only.
4. Estimate the daily expenses and do the money exchange in Kathmandu via ATM in Nepali rupees. If you even have dollars, then you are good to go, but it might not be accepted at higher sections. You might require cash for laundry services, hot water shower, bottled water, buying sovuniers and gears, for which credit facilities aren't available, try to carry cash.
5. Even though every tea house has accessibility, you must bring some cash, like USD 2-3 per day, just for internet usage on the upper trail of both Annapurna and Manaslu. Buy an NTC SIM Card while in Kathmandu, and purchase the $1 (NPR 130) that works fine on the route to make a call back home.
6. Our 23-day Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek package covers all the essentials and requirements; however, it doesn't include tips for the guide and porter. Please tip the trekking guide and porter, considering their hardships, as it costs like a fine dining restaurant; your small initiative becomes a great help to them, so it would be highly appreciated if you tip a guide.

Willing to Sign Up with us? Booking Procedure?

Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition has been a registered and operating trekking agency for 15 years and is also a member of TAAN (Trekking Agency Association of Nepal) and Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), hence your booking is totally safe with us. For the booking confirmation, you just have to pay 10% of the total cost, whereas the remaining amount can be paid after you arrive here in Kathmandu, aka Nepal, from where the trip gets started.

The payment options are either Bank Transfer, Web Transfer, Cash, Credit Card, and many others. To know more, contact us anytime by emailing info(a)destinationhimalayatreks.com or just call or WhatsApp us at +977 9851016814; we are available 24/7 online. After the booking is made, send us your original passport and passport-sized photo so we can arrange the logistics soon after the booking is confirmed with us.

Last Minute Booking

For the last-minute booking for Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trekking 23 days, you have to make 100% of the total payment. If you are starting the trip after a week or 10 days, the full payment is not required because we trust you. However, what happens is that during peak seasons, the logistics become very limited due to a high number of visitors and bookings, so we must arrange everything, the best logistics for your comfort, in a rapid way, which is why full payment is crucial. After the payment is made, we will notify you via WhatsApp or email confirming the successful booking of the trip. Furthermore, if you have any questions or queries, feel free to contact us anytime.