Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek Combination

Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek Overview

The Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek is one the most incredible trek that combines two of Nepal’s best trekking routes. It’s an adventure that takes you deep into the secluded valleys and trails of the Manaslu region and the famous legendary trails of the Annapurna Circuit.

This epic trek of Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit combined provides you with a rich and diverse trekking experience. Furthermore, this enchanting combined trek will certainly be an unforgettable journey through Nepal’s most stunning and diverse landscapes. It is unquestionably perfect for trekkers and travelers who are seeking both challenge and beauty.

Additionally, this beautifully combined trek offers travelers the chance to explore the Manaslu and Annapurna regions which have their own unique charm and challenges. Both treks are designed to deliver a genuine trekking experience, interact with local communities, and experience Nepal from different prospective.

This 25-day classic trek surely takes you deep into the untouched valleys of Nepal where you can enjoy your solitude and peace of mind. The combination of Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit Trek is sure to leave you mesmerized and deliver the experience of a lifetime. 

Highlights of the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek:

• Walk into the remote, untouched, and less-traveled trails of the Manaslu region.
• Experiencing the rich and diverse biodiversity of the regions.
• Witness stunning mountain views, including Manaslu, Annapurna Massif, and Dhaulagiri ranges.
• Walk the most popular and iconic trails of the Annapurna Circuit.
• Connect yourself with the local cultures of the Gurung, Tibetan, and Thakali communities.
• Crossing the formidable Larke La Pass (5,106m/16,752ft) with incredible views of the Manaslu and surrounding peaks.
• Going over the high-altitude Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft) with panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri and Mustang ranges.
• Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.

Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Our first section of the trek starts with the Manaslu Circuit Trek leading you to the surroundings of the world’s 8th-highest mountain, The Spiritual Manaslu. It takes you through the remote and untouched valleys of the Manaslu region. Trekking through the untouched valleys of the Manaslu region provides anyone with an off-the-beaten-path experience. 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is known for its pristine beauty and remote trekking trails. The trail takes you through the ancient salt trading route, past ancient monasteries and traditional Tibetan villages. The first highlight of this trek is the view of the majestic Mt. Manaslu. Mt. Manaslu is very popularly known as the "Mountain of the Spirit". The mountain holds deep religious and cultural significance for both Buddhist and Hindu faiths. 

The Next highlight of the trek is crossing the challenging Larke La Pass which stands at an elevation of 5,106 meters/16,751. The Larke La Pass rewards you with stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. The peaceful and unspoiled beauty of the Manaslu region makes our first section of the trek truly special.

Annapurna Circuit Trek:

Our next section of the trek is Annapurna Circuit Trek which we will continue after crossing the Larke La Pass of the Manaslu region. As we reach the town of Dharapani we exit from Manaslu which falls in the Gorkha District and enter the Annapurna Region in the Manang District.

The Annapurna Circuit is indeed very popular for its diverse landscapes and well-established trekking infrastructure. It used to be the World’s No. 1 Trekking Destination until the early 2000s. It goes through different districts of Nepal leading to diverse landscapes, ranging from tropical green valleys to alpine and finally to arid desert-like terrain of Mustang.

As you trek through this ancient salt trading route of Annapurna Circuit you will be transported to the world with natural glory. It is certainly an extraordinary journey that delivers you the true magic of trekking in the Nepal Himalayas. After the Village of Chame, you will be surrounded by the towering snow-capped peaks of Annapurna spiritually connecting you to the mysticism of nature.

As you navigate through the magical valley, cross suspension bridges over roaring rivers, and bask in the serenity of remote monasteries, the Annapurna Circuit leaves an indelible imprint on your soul. It is a pilgrimage of self-discovery, where you witness the raw power and timeless beauty of nature, reminding you of the extraordinary wonders that exist beyond the boundaries of everyday life.

The climax of this section of our trek is going over the famous Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. Thorang La is one of the highest trekking passes in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Shortly, you get to the most sacred town of Muktinath and we drive to Marpha village and finally fly through the Kali Gandaki Gorge (The world's Deepest Gorge) to Pokhara

Two Legendary Mountain Pass

• Larke La pass - 5,106 m/16,751 feet (Manaslu Region)
• Thorang La Pass - 5,416 m/17,764 feet (Annapurna Region)

Larke La Pass which stands at the height of 5,106 meters (16,752 feet) is the ultimate challenge on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. As you approach the summit of this majestic mountain pass you will be surrounded by the towering peaks giving you the most magical view. The stunning panorama includes Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal, etc, and the distant Annapurna ranges. 

The trail to Larke Pass is a series of steep switchbacks, winding through glacial moraines and jagged terrain. However, once you reach the summit, your effort will be rewarded with the most breathtaking vista that will provide you with a sense of pristine wilderness. The 360-degree view of snow-capped mountains, untouched landscapes, and the challenging descent through moraines delivers a truly unforgettable and overwhelming experience.

On the other hand, the legendary Thorang La pass on the Annapurna Circuit Trek stands at an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). It is considered one of the highest navigable Mountain Pass in the world. This high-altitude pass stands as a bridge connecting Manang District and Mustang District in the Annapurna Region. Besides the winter season, at other times of the year Thorang La Pass has served as a quick route for salt traders during the Salt Trade Era between Tibet and Nepal. 

Going over Thorang La is both a mental and physical challenge. Many have related this walk as similar to walking in the moon as you have to navigate through a barren and windswept landscape. The ascent is gradual but persistent and as you approach the summit the vastness of the Himalayas stretches out before you. The breathtaking panorama of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Mustang ranges unfolds before your eyes.

The summit is marked by the prayer flags that flutter in the wind and break the silence of the area's serenity. After spending our moments at the summit we descend to the valley of Mustang to the sacred town of Muktinath.
These two legendary Mountain Passes are the symbols of both the challenges and rewards that demand willingness to push beyond your limits.  However, it truly connects your soul to the wonders of nature and God.