The addition of the Annapurna Circuit to your Manaslu Circuit trek is a high-quality way to combine two legendary romps through the Himalayas into a single, mega adventure. Although the Manaslu Circuit is comparable to a deep dive in a Nepalese region strongly influenced by Tibetan cultures, remote stupas, and high-altitude landscapes, moving onto the Annapurna Circuit brings in vastly different landscapes, larger villages, and more varied cultural experiences. These two incorporate geographically in a way that it is physically possible to combine them into a long trekking circuit without having to return to Kathmandu in between.
Dharapani is the natural juncture of the two treks, while it also ends the Manaslu Circuit and is among the starting points of the Annapurna Circuit. From Bimthang, trekkers make their return trek down to Dharapani, crossing over the Larkya La Pass in the Manaslu region. But you could also, at this point, just stop the trek and turn around, or keep venturing westward along the Marsyangdi River further into the Annapurna.
Manaslu Circuit Nepal As you keep on hiking, the scenery starts to change. You emerge from the Tibetan Buddhist villages of the Manaslu region into the increasingly mixed Hindu and Buddhist communities of Annapurna. The infrastructure gets better, the tea houses become more developed, trails become better to walk on, as do amenities like hot showers or a variety of menus. But at the higher elevations in Manang, Thorong Phedi and Thorong La Pass, the Annapurna Circuit continues to retain much of its rough-hewn magic. Continue to Thorong La at 5,416m and you will have achieved one of the highest trekking passes in the world — a rewarding feat post Larkya La Pass.
The logistics of this long expedition need to be carefully worked out. The Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area, so you’ll also require a special restricted area permit along with the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). You also have to trek with a licensed trekking guide as well as be from a registered trekking agency. You’ll find most trekking companies that run Manaslu itineraries have no trouble adapting your route to take in the Annapurna part of the circuit. The entire combined trek itself can take anywhere from 25 to 30 days, depending on your speed, how many rest days you take, and what side hikes you do.
The climb itself, while demanding, is very satisfying physically. You will have to be ready for several high passes, varying weather conditions, and long days on the trail. Acclimatization is essential, even more so when two high-altitude treks are combined. Many trekkers schedule rest days at the major locations, such as Samagaon and Manang, so they can acclimatize to the altitude and explore the area.
Adding a little Annapurna onto the end of your Manaslu trek isn’t just about extra days — it’s about enhancing the experience. So you go from soulful isolation and clipped trails to vibrant villages, to ancient monasteries, to towering peaks like Annapurna, Gangapurna, and Dhaulagiri. It’s also a way to experience Nepal’s amazing geographic and cultural diversity in one massive trek. For hikers who crave depth and diversity, for a life-changing expedition, joining these two treks is a dream to be lived.
About Extending the Trek from Manaslu to the Annapurna Circuit
If you’d like to get even more out of your Manaslu Circuit trek, you can also trek the Annapurna Circuit as well, combining two of Nepal’s most popular trekking routes into one epic adventure. The trek is popular because it is impassable to vehicular traffic and weaves through a combination of rocky terrains and Tibetan Buddhist culture (due to its proximity to the Tibetan border). The trails derive their name from Manalush “chilli “, and have offered sanctuary to the mountaineer since 1950. This variation offers trekkers a chance to experience many different types of scenery, from high mountain passes to alpine meadows to lush valleys with local remote villages. There is an interesting risk balance of trekking both circuits, as Annapurna is more popular with international trekkers.
Dharapani: The Natural Connection The Natural Connection Point: Dharapani
Dharapani is an important village and the trailhead that connects the Manaslu Circuit to the Annapurna Circuit. At a height of around 1,860 meters, it is a gateway between these two trekking areas. If you have already trekked the Manaslu Circuit, which finishes just short of Dharapani, you can keep walking onto the Annapurna Circuit— the travel is without having to retrace your steps back to Kathmandu or Pokhara. The trek from Dharapani continues westward through the Marsyangdi River valley to popular attractions such as Chame, Pisang, and Manang on the Annapurna Circuit. Dharapani is itself a lively village with traditional stone houses, teahouses, and shops for trekkers. It’s a good place to relax and get time to acclimate yourself to the crowds and higher peaks ahead. The village presents a great chance to observe the combination of Tibetan-tilted Manaslu culture meeting the Hindu-turned Annapurna communities and gradually transforming into them. This natural trail connection allows you to easily and culturally consider adding days to your journey, and Dharapani is the perfect spot to base yourself for the Himalayan Trek. To manage their itinerary, trekkers may find Dharapani’s role an interesting one to understand.
Key Permits and Regulations for the Long Hike
If you want to continue from the Manaslu Circuit to the Annapurna Circuit, it’s good to know the permit situation in advance to know what to expect. The Manalsu region is categorically classified as a Restricted Area of Nepal, the government has imposed special permits for trekkers. This implies that trekkers have to get a Restricted Area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and they have to take a registered guide from a licensed trekking company. Meanwhile, the Annapurna region falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area and necessitates the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The permits are mandatory to trek legally and go towards conservation and local communities. Dating the two circuits together — you’ll need both permits at the same time, which means also planning well in advance, and getting all your ducks in a row before the trip. In Nepal, most trekking agencies will take care of the permits in no time. Be sure to carry both of these permits at all times, as there are frequent checkpoints along both trails. Knowing such regulations results in your great trek in the Manaslu and Annapurna region, so that you can enjoy the natural vista views and cultural riches in the Manaslu and Annapurna Region itself.
Preparations for the joint trek (which would be a lot of walking)
The Manaslu Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit combo trek is a strenuous undertaking that demands to be well-trained. The trail has two high passes, the Larkya La Pass (at 5,106 meters) on the Manaslu side, and the Thorong La Pass (at 5,416 meters) on the Annapurna Circuit. Height can be a risk of altitude sickness, so you need to be okay with gradual acclimation and being fit. Before the hike: Build cardiovascular strength. A few months before your hike, you’ll want to get your cardiovascular system in shape so you can make it to the top without having a breakdown. Strength training, particularly for your legs and core, aids in managing steep uphills and downhills. When you train with a weighted backpack, you mimic the demands you’ll encounter on the trail. Pacing and rest days at waypoints like Samagaon and Manang on the trail are important to avoid exertion and promote adjustment. Hydration and proper nutrition, and listening to your body are key here. The trek at this height and for this long can be challenging, but also very rewarding if you are prepared. A good fitness level means you can enjoy such places and people even more, and the added benefit of a lower likelihood of altitude sickness.
Culture Transformation: Tibetan to Annapurna field traditions.
One of the best things about extending your walk from Manaslu to Annapurna is the change in cultures along the way. Culture Manaslu, a region of Tibetan Buddhism, the people and villages of Manaslu reflect both their practice and their historic role in the region. You’ll be able to view prayer flags, mani walls, ancient gompas, and locals performing Buddhist rituals as you wind your way through Manaslu’s remote communities. Once you cross Dharapani into the Annapurna, the cultural landscape changes slowly. Here, Hindu culture comes to the fore in addition to Buddhism, giving rise to an extravagant mix of festivals, temples, and local customs. Villages are bigger, more diverse; you might meet Gurung or Thakali people, with their traditions and cuisine. This pass provides trekkers the opportunity to visit many of the diverse Nepalese cultures in one trek. Local Festivals, Traditional dances, and Hospitality vary from one another, which will make your trip more fun. This melting pot of culture is one of the highlights that make it so worthwhile to extend your trek and witness the breadth and depth of Nepal’s Himalayan heritage first-hand.
Extended Manaslu-Annapurna Trek: Essential Gear
For your extended journey from Manaslu to Annapurna, be sure to bring the appropriate gear to keep you comfortable, safe, and entertained. “This is a long trek through different regions and from subtropical valleys to high mountain passes over 5,000m, so you need to have gear that is adaptable and dependable. Solid, waterproof hiking boots with great ankle support are a must to cope with rocky and often slippery trails. Bring layered clothing so you can accommodate fluctuating temperatures — warm days, and cold nights — with moisture-wicking, insulating base layers, mid layers, and a windproof, waterproof shell. A good down jacket is essential for cold nights and for use in high-altitude camps. Trekking poles ease the burden on joints during a descent. Don’t forget accessories such as a warm hat, gloves, and UV-protection sunglasses to protect against strong mountain sun. Even with minimal heating, -10°C (14°F) or below rated bag is enough for a comfortable night in a teahouse. For hydration and hygiene, you’ll want a reusable water bottle and a way to purify water, either in tablets or filters. Don’t forget to bring a headlamp with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, and personal hygiene supplies. Being well-equipped will help ensure that you are prepared to shoulder whatever the unpredictable weather and all the conditions that the varied trails at the Manaslu-Annapurna circuit would throw at you.
Best Time to Trek Manaslu to Annapurna Circuit
Climb Manaslu When is the best time to hike from Manaslu to Annapurna? The best season to trek from Manaslu to Annapurna is essential for optimizing your experience, time, and safety. The best seasons for trekking are pre-monsoon (spring), March through May, and post-monsoon (autumn), late September through early December. In the spring, Rhododendrons burst into bloom in the lower forested areas of Manaslu and Annapurna, adding lift to the landscapes and color to the temperatures. The weather is mild with sunny and clear skies. Autumn also provides the best views of the mountains and the most comfortable trekking conditions after the monsoon rains have cleaned away dust and pollution. It is cooler, but bearable if you have the right gear. Neither time of year comes during the intense summer monsoon rains (June to August), when landslides, slick trails, and leeches in the lowlands make conditions for trekking perilous. (It is possible to do, but difficult due to snow on the high passes like the Larkya La and Throng La passes, and becomes more of a mountaineering trip, requiring technical equipment and experience.) In addition, tea houses in the remote areas may be shut down. Organising your trek in the spring or fall will mean you’ve got easier trail conditions, larger availability of places to stay, and clearer, wider vistas filled with magnificent Himalayan peaks throughout your extended journey from Manaslu to Annapurna.
Lodging on the Expanded Route
Accommodation on the long Manaslu to Annapurna trek ranges from basic tea houses to very simple lodges with facilities that are comfortable. This is the Manaslu region, and in the remote villages, traditional style tea houses are constructed out of stone and wood, where meals are taken, dormitory-style sleeping, or twin rooms, and very little hot water is heated by a simple method due to the lack of resources. These rooms provide an authentic opportunity to partake in local hospitality, mixing with the locals. As you approach the Annapurna region, the facilities are well developed and diverse, and tea houses often have private rooms, attached bathrooms, and even intermittent Wi-Fi. More popular villages such as Manang, Chame, or Jomsom have guesthouses with all comforts and commodities, such as hot showers and charging stations, hence a more developed trekking experience. During busy times, especially in the autumn, rooms are limited, and you may want to book through your trekking agency. Staying at locally owned guesthouses helps the communities and maintains authenticity. Manaslu Mountain Either way, most lodges serve standard Nepali and Tibetan fare, hearty meals to replenish the body after those long trekking days. Rest and warmth. Rooms for rest and warmth are extremely important for acclimatization and recovery, so getting to know your options for places to stay is one thing that is worth your time when preparing your long trek.
Safety Tips for the longer trek
Safety is the number one concern when crossing from Manaslu to Annapurna because of the high elevation, difficult terrain, and unpredictable weather. Among self-guided trekkers, altitude sickness is considered the riskiest health contingency for hikers above 2,500 meters. Climb slowly, allow for acclimatization days in places such as Samagaon and Manang, and keep yourself hydrated. Become vigilant to symptoms such as headache, nausea, and dizziness, and descend immediately when these worsen. Always hike with a professional, licensed guide who is there to help in case of an emergency and to navigate the sometimes confusing trails. Pack a simple first aid kit, altitude pills such as Diamox ( check your medication), emergency communication tool. Weather in the Himalayas can shift dramatically, so be sure to bring along waterproof gear and be prepared to alter your plans if the conditions are too dangerous. Stick to designated paths to prevent backtracking and tell someone where you are trekking, and when you will be back. And respect the customs and wildlife around you to keep the peace within the environment and among the locals. By being aware and prepared, you can help keep your long Manaslu to Annapurna trek a fun and safe adventure.
Highlights and sights along the extended hike
The Manaslu Circuit Trekking and Annapurna Circuits … then link them together for some of the best Nepal has to offer in natural and cultural diversity. The trail starts with spectacular views of Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world, and is challenged by hiking over the Larkya La Pass, which rewards trekkers with panoramic views. In Manaslu, discover the traditional Tibetan Buddhist villages of Samagaon and Samdo, and visit ancient gompas and prayer sites. As you enter Annapurna, the terrain changes to high valleys, terraced fields, and culturally prosperous villages. You might visit the Tibetan-style houses and lively markets in Manang, and trek out to nearby Tilicho Lake, one of the world’s highest. The trek is capped off with the famous Thorong La Pass – a dizzying highlight that offers panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the Nilgiri mountain range. The Marsyangdi River cuts through the gorge, and you will also cross the natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda, as well as witness the flourishing flora and fauna in the Annapurna Conservation Area. This composite hike provides a great mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventurous challenge, creating an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Is Manaslu Visible from the Annapurna Circuit?
Yes, you can even view Mount Manaslu in certain sections of the Annapurna Circuit, particularly on the Northern part near Manang and Thorong La Pass. Even with the Annapurna range taking the main stage in the skyline, Manaslu, at 8,163 meters, the 8th highest mountain in the world, can also be seen on clear days, especially in the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon when the sky is free of clouds and visibility is at its best. The outlook from Thorong La Pass is one of the rare chances to spot many of the Himalayas’ heavyweights, among them Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. The Annapurna view of Manaslu is one of the many stunning scenes of the Himalayas for which trekkers in the Annapurna region are treated. But visibility is significantly weather dependent, with trekkers warned to expect cloud cover or haze at times.
Annapurna Circuit Packing List 1. What to Pack for Annapurna Circuit?
Manaslu Trekking Getting Ready : Train for the Annapurna Circuit, logistics & gear prep. The trail crosses diverse terrain and reaches altitudes of up to 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass, so cardiovascular fitness is paramount. Try aerobic exercises such as running, biking, or hiking , and include strength exercises for your legs and core. Hiking with a weighted backpack mimics trekking environments. Acclimatization is the key – plan days off at places like Manang to prevent serious altitude sickness. In terms of gear, that means bringing layers to adapt to changes in temperature, a pair of sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, and items needed for safety in remote areas, such as a first-aid kit and water-purification tablets. Logistics involve getting the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card ready. It is advised to book through a well-established trekking agency for easy arrangements. Mental preparation is key, too—be prepared for long days, varying weather, and basic lodging. Preparation is key, and the Annapurna Circuit will be a Himalayan adventure well to remembering.
How Many People Have Died on the Annapurna Circuit?
The Annapurna Circuit is a strenuous hike, but with far fewer fatalities than mountaineering expeditions on peaks such as Annapurna and Everest (more on the Annapurna Circuit hike here). There are more deaths from altitude sickness, falls, and avalanches in the winter and early spring, when conditions are harsher. Numbers are imprecise, but official statistics show that there are dozens of deaths a year across the entire Annapurna trekking area, not all of them on the circuit. A lot of deaths are a result of insufficient acclimatisation, underestimation of the terrain, or unpredictable weather. Over the years, infrastructure on the trek has improved with better trails, teahouses, and evacuation options for emergencies, making the risk relatively minimal. You should be properly prepared, ideally with a guide, and attuned to symptoms of altitude sickness, to stay safe. Tragic though the deaths are, with due attention and care, the Annapurna Circuit is still a safe trek for fit and experienced trekkers.
What’s the Other Option to the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Manaslu Peak If you don’t have that much time or don’t want such a big elevation gain, consider an alternate trek to Annapurna Circuit called the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek, which has equally amazing mountain views and cultural experiences, but is shorter. The ABC trek goes to the foot of Annapurna I and goes up to around 4,130 meters. This trail goes through beautiful villages such as Chhomrong and Ghorepani and provides a 360-degree view of numerous Himalayan peaks. Or you can opt for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, a shorter and easier trek known for its stunning sunrises over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, perfect for beginners or those with only a few days to spare. If you want to experience a relatively less crowded trek and get away from it all, then the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a long and challenging trek full of cultural encounters. Though all are challenging in their own right, and none quite compares to the Annapurna Circuit, they’re all also extremely rewarding Himalayan treks and great alternatives if the ACT doesn’t fit into your preferences.