Manaslu Annapurna Circuit trek distance is One of the most commonly asked questions before trekking on this challenging trek. The answer isn’t simple, as the total distance depends on the specific itinerary, chosen side trips, and starting/ending points. In this guide, we’ll break down the total distance, daily trekking lengths, and route variations to give you a complete picture of what to expect on this epic adventure.
On average, the combined Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit trek covers around 300–350 kilometers (186–217 miles). The exact distance depends on your entry/exit points and optional side hikes.
Here’s a breakdown:
Section
Approximate Distance
Arughat/Soti Khola to Larkya La (Manaslu)
180 km (112 miles)
Dharapani (Junction Point) to Thorong La Pass (Annapurna)
100 km (62 miles)
Thorong La to Jomsom/Tatopani
40–70 km (25–43 miles)
Total Estimated Distance
300–350 km (186–217 miles)
Note: Some itineraries also include Manaslu with Tilicho Lake or Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho lake and end at Pokhara, which can add more distance.
Daily Distance Breakdown
Here’s a typical 24-day itinerary combining both circuits with estimated distances per day:
Day
Route
Distance (km)
Notes
1
Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola
141
Long jeep ride
2
Soti Khola to Machha Khola
14
Moderate start
3
Machha Khola to Jagat
22
Enter restricted area
4
Jagat to Deng
20
Scenic riverside trail
5
Deng to Namrung
19
Starts gaining altitude
6
Namrung to Lho
11
Views of Manaslu begin
7
Lho to Samagaon
14
Acclimatization required
8
Acclimatization Day in Samagaon
5–7
Hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa
9
Samagaon to Samdo
17
Close to Tibet border
10
Samdo to Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi)
13
Final stop before pass
11
Cross Larkya La (5,106m) to Bimthang
24
Long and challenging day
12
Bimthang to Dharapani
22
Join Annapurna Circuit here
13
Dharapani to Chame
16
Walk through pine forests
14
Chame to Pisang
15
Views of Annapurna II
15
Pisang to Manang
19
Beautiful Tibetan villages
16
Acclimatization Day in Manang
5–6
Hike to Ice Lake or Gangapurna
17
Manang to Yak Kharka
10
Steady altitude gain
18
Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
7
Short but steep
19
Cross Thorong La (5,416m) to Muktinath
16
The highest point of the trek
20
Muktinath to Kagbeni
10
Enter Mustang
21
Kagbeni to Jomsom
11
Windy flat trail
22
Jomsom to Tatopani (by Jeep)
34
Optional hike adds ~25 km
23
Tatopani to Pokhara (via Beni)
94
End of trek
24
Rest Day in Pokhara
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Celebrate the journey!
Depending on side treks, the itinerary might vary by a few days, and so will the distance.
Variations in Route and Distance
Several variations and options can add or reduce your trekking distance:
Ice Lake or Gangapurna Lake from Manang (~10–12 km round trip)
Tilicho Lake (adds 2 days and ~30–35 km)
Birendra Lake, a turquoise glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and alpine terrain near Samagaun, Nepal.
Shortcuts That Reduce Distance
Taking a jeep to Dharapani instead of trekking from Soti Khola (saves ~60 km)
Ending the trek at Jomsom or Tatopani instead of continuing to Ghorepani or Pokhara on foot
Skipping Tilicho Lake and other side trails
Tips to Tackle the Long Distance
Train ahead – Start building endurance 1–2 months before the trek.
Use trekking poles – Helps with knees on long descents.
Stay hydrated and eat well – Fuel your body for the kilometers ahead.
Acclimatize properly – Don’t skip rest days.
Hire a guide/porter – They help manage pace and carry weight.
Wear quality boots and gear – Comfort matters over long distances.
Ending Point and Return Options
The trek usually ends in Jomsom, Tatopani, or even Ghorepani Poon Hill for a scenic conclusion. From any of these, you can:
Take a jeep or bus to Pokhara
Catch a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (weather permitting)
Transport Choices and Their Impact on Distance
Some trekkers may choose to skip the first few days of walking by driving directly to Jagat or Dharapani on a local jeep, cutting down the total distance by 20 to 30 kilometers. On the other end of the trek, taking a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara or a jeep from Tatopani can also reduce the number of walking days.
Mahindra Scorpio SUV parked in a rugged terrain, showcasing its off-road capabilities
However, many adventurers prefer to walk the full trail to absorb the dramatic shift in landscape from high alpine passes down to hot springs and rhododendron forests and to enjoy every moment of this once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Is the Long Distance Worth It?
Absolutely. While covering over 300 kilometers on foot might sound daunting at first, every step reveals a new layer of beauty—towering glaciers, chanting monks, blooming wildflowers, or a glimpse into centuries-old lifestyles untouched by modern civilization. The long-distance isn’t just a number; it’s a pathway to one of the most rewarding experiences Nepal has to offer.
What is the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you around Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) the eighth-highest peak in the world offering a pristine trail rich in Tibetan culture, remote Himalayan villages, and dramatic mountain scenery. It reaches at Larkya La Pass (5,106m).
From there, the trek transitions into the Annapurna Circuit, one of the most famous trekking routes in the world. It circles the Annapurna massif and includes crossing the famed Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and connecting diverse landscapes from alpine meadows to subtropical forests.
Together, these treks form one of the longest, most scenic, and spiritually enriching long-distance trails in Nepal.
Is the Distance Manageable?
Yes with good acclimatization, a steady pace, and rest days, the total distance of 300–350 km is achievable for most trekkers with moderate fitness. However, due to the high altitude and steep terrain, it can feel harder than the distance suggests.
Daily hikes range from 10 to 22 kilometers, with only a few exceptionally long days like the Larkya La and Thorong La crossings.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek in November is perfect if you want to combine Himalayan trekking experience with Festival of Lights, known as Tihar. Tihar is Nepal’s second-biggest festival and is celebrated across the country, from the mountains to the Terai. November is also the peak trekking season in the Manaslu region also known for crystal clear view of Himalayan ranges. The skies are clear, and the temperature is moderate, offering an excellent opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, including Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and the surrounding peaks. Continue reading “Manaslu Circuit Trek in November”
The Manaslu circuit trek in October is the most thrilling and adventurous time to trek. It is also the peak season in autumn. Thousands of trekkers come here to trek, and although it is a lesser-known trekking place in Nepal than Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, you will still find a good quality of trekkers on the trails. During October, the mighty Manaslu looks so beautiful and awesome and makes it a once-in-a-lifetime visit. The weather is clear, temperatures are moderate, everything is lush green, and the rivers are roaring in the background, which sounds like honey to the ears. Continue reading “Experience the Magic of Manaslu Circuit Trek in October”
The Manaslu circuit trek in September is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness. During this time the trekking seasons will have just started with the beautiful Himalayan ranges as the backdrop. During this time the weather is clear, and everything looks fresh and lush green due to the monsoon rains in August. You will witness the rivers are clean and green, and the forests are giving off a smell of freshness. The views are clear, making it the best moment to witness the Himalayan ranges in the background. In early September the crowd is smaller compared to late September.
You will see that the tea houses are just open and there is enough availability of the tea houses. You can interact with the locals more personally, as the tea houses and accommodations have just opened, and the locals are more friendly and welcoming. During this time the daytime temperatures are more pleasant and crisp. Continue reading “Manaslu Circuit Trek in September”
The Manaslu Circuit Trek during monsoon (June to August) looks beautiful, and everywhere is lush green. The forests are covered with greenery, and the clouds add beauty to the forests. The weather is a little cold and awesome. Manaslu Circuit Trek In monsoon, it looks very romantic and eye-catching. During this time the flowers bloom, and the water streams are full, with the waters giving a soothing sound to the ears. The birds are chirping everywhere, and there is the sound of cicadas. You will notice the ferns, moss-covered rocks, orchids, and wild mushrooms popping out from the trunks of the trees.
You will pass via multiple swinging bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River. During the trek, you will witness the temporary waterfalls that are forming. Not only that, but you will witness Mt. Manaslu playing hide-and-seek with you during the trek by hiding behind the clouds. You will feel the peaceful environment as there will be no crowd. During this time in Nepal, people plant rice, so you will witness the green terraced fields and muddy people planting the seeds in their fields. You will witness that the goats and yaks are grazing over the fields and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. During this time of the month, everything looks peaceful, eye-catching, and awesome if you are a rain person.
Why trek in the Manaslu Circuit during the Monsoon?
If you love the rainy seasons and you want to explore the trails and immerse yourself in nature fully, then the monsoon can be the best season for you. As Monson, you will witness the freshness of the trees, roads, fields, and the weather. You will pass by dozens of Mani walls, chortens, fluttering prayer flags, and the monasteries hiding in the mist, giving awesome views and adding beauty to the trek. You will listen to the forest playing songs for you, which is honey to the ears.
You will feel that birds are welcoming you into their forests. Also, you will witness some aquatic and wild animals during the trek, adding a thrilling experience to your trek. In lower elevations, you will witness local people plucking the wild herbs that give medicinal value. On the terraced fields, you will witness that the lands are wet and filled with the seeds of the rice. The weather is such that you will witness the tops of mountains, but the bodies of the mountains are lost somewhere in the clouds.
The Manaslu Circuit trekking distance in monsoon is the same as the normal trekking duration, which is from 14 days to 17 days, depending on the itinerary you have chosen. However, monsoon is the month of the rain, and unpredictable weather conditions make your trek difficult. During this time there might be landslides and floods, due to which we might change our trekking route and accommodation options, increasing the rest days and increasing the duration as well. We will try to be safe and always choose the safest options for trekking. However, if you are trekking in Monson, keep ¾ days extra as buffer days to cope with your itinerary durations.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek costs less in the monsoon season compared to other peak seasons. As Monson is in the off-season, things like transportation and accommodations are cheaper. You will get food, guides, and porters—everything at a lower price. The gear rentals are also on the affordable side during the monsoon. Generally, the only thing expensive during the month of monsoon is the permits.
The permit prices are the same like 100 USD for 7 days for the restricted area permits; MCAP permits are 30 USD, and ACAP permits are 30 USD. You can divide it into Nepali rupees according to the time you are visiting Nepal, as every day the USD exchange prices change. You will get the accommodation for 5 USD to 8 USD. The foods are also priced at 4 to 6 USD.
The guide and porter also charge you around 20 USD to 25 USD. You can hire a guide and porter from us for even more affordable prices. The total budget for trekking in the Manaslu Circuit is around 800 USD to 1000 USD, depending upon the transportation you choose. The transportation costs are also on the cheaper side during the off-season. You can get the local bus starting from 10 USD and a private vehicle starting from 150 USD. You can read the blog for more detailed on topic: Manaslu circuit trek permits and costs required
Vehicle cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Monsoon
Vehicle cost for the Manaslu circuit in monsoon is way cheaper than in other seasons because this is the time when there are heavy rainfalls and a high risk of landslides and floods. If you are using a public vehicle to reach the starting point in Jagat, the price will be 10 USD. If you are renting a vehicle, it is around 150 USD per vehicle for a comfortable drive. However, keep in mind that this time there is the risk of landslides and floods causing frequent blockage of the roads.
The highways are closed if there are landslides on the way. Also for traveling, you will need to take extra days, as the Prithvi highways have the most landslides during the month, resulting in the blockage of roads for 1 day to 2 days, depending upon the conditions. So always check the live weather and then only plan your travel for safe trekking.
Additional Packing List for the Manaslu Circuit Trek During Monsoon
Monsoon is the month for the rainfall, so planning a good packing list is very important. As you know, what are the packing lists for the Manaslu circuit trek already? Let’s discuss something that you need to bring extra from the mentioned list. The first thing is you will need to bring a raincoat to cover yourself, as there will be rainfall every time. You will need to bring a waterproof bag cover to protect your gear and documents from getting wet. You will need to bring crampons to walk on the muddy trails. Also, you will need to wear boots during the trek to avoid getting attacked by leeches and insects.
During this time there is a high risk of mosquitoes, so you will need to bring the mosquito repeller as well. You will also need to bring repellents to scare away snakes and spiders. You will need to watch out for the trails, as there are big, big leeches. You will need to pack some clothes to deal with the cold and hot weather, as the weather is unpredictable in the upper region.
What are the weather conditions of the Manaslu Circuit Trek during Monsoon?
The weather conditions of the Manaslu Circuit Trek during monsoon are that you will witness heavy rainfall in the lower regions like Soti Khola, Macha Khola, Namrung, and all. The trails become slippery and muddy and create landslides. You will see the region is covered with clouds and humidity. You will see that the lower region is from 20°C to 30°C during the day. While higher elevations like Larkya La Pass range between 5°C and 10°C in the daytime, at nighttime the region is cold and freezing at both altitudes.
You will see that the thick clouds are blocking the views of the mountains, making it difficult to witness them. When you are walking in the jungle areas, you will witness that there are leeches and insects all over the jungle. If there is heavy rainfall, then there might be the risk of floods and landslides, making it difficult to trek.
Walking through the mystical foggy pine jungles of Manaslu, where the air is fresh and the atmosphere is tranquil.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Map for Monsoon
The Manaslu Circuit Trek map for monsoon is the same as the other seasons. However, keeping in mind the weather and road conditions, you might need to walk a little more than usual. Suppose there is heavy rainfall and your starting point is Jagat, but due to the muddy roads, now your starting location may be shifted to Macha Khola or sometimes even Arughat to avoid any kind of accidents. So your maps can be changed. However, you can see the normal trekking routes map below.
Map of the Manaslu Circuit Trek route showing trekking trails, villages, and elevation points.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Detailed Itinerary in Monsoon
The Manaslu Circuit Trek detailed itinerary in monsoon is not fixed by the trekking companies because of natural calamities. So at first, the same itinerary is suggested for you, which is to start at Jagat and end at Dharapani, but due to the landslides and other blockages, you may need to start from Arughat and end in Besishara, as the vehicles might not be able to reach the higher altitudes where there are no roads and the roads that exist are slippery and covered with landslides. Generally, your trek will be 12 to 17 days. Let’s look at the outline itinerary :
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Thamel, the bustling tourist hub. Get briefed about the trek and prepare permits with some spare time to explore the local markets.
Day 2: Drive to Soti Khola via Arughat (710 m)
Take a scenic yet challenging drive through Dhading and Arughat to reach the trailhead at Soti Khola. Monsoon rains can make the final stretch bumpy and slippery, so a 4WD is highly recommended to rent like Scorpio or Jeep.
Day 3: Trek to Machha Khola (870m)
Begin your trek along narrow trails beside the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through lush jungles and small waterfalls. Leeches and muddy paths are common in monsoon, so wear long socks and leech repellent.
Day 4: Trek to Jagat (1,340 m)
The trail winds through riverside cliffs and charming villages as you slowly gain elevation. Jagat is the official entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area, marked by traditional stone houses.
Day 5: Trek to Deng (1,804 m)
Walk through subtropical forests, cross suspension bridges, and witness stunning views of waterfalls. Be mindful of slippery rocks and occasional landslide-prone sections.
Day 6: Trek to Namrung (2,630 m)
Today’s route takes you into the upper highlands with more Tibetan cultural influence and chortens along the way. The air is fresher, and the trail gets steeper but slightly less humid.
Day 7: Trek to Lho (3,180m)
A scenic climb through the alpine forest leads you to the village of Lho, known for its impressive monasteries. If the skies clear, you may catch your first glimpse of Mt. Manaslu.
Day 8: Trek to Samagaun (3,520 m)
Trek across glacial rivers and yak pastures to reach Samagaun, one of the largest settlements in the region. Misty clouds often cover the peaks, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Day 9: Acclimatization Day at Samagaun
Take a rest day to adapt to the altitude with optional hikes to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa. It’s best to start early, as afternoon rains are common during monsoon.
Day 10: Trek to Samdo (3,875 m)
Follow a gentle trail through barren landscapes and yak-herding villages to reach Samdo. This small Tibetan village offers a peaceful stay with spectacular views (if weather allows).
Day 11: Acclimatization or Buffer Day at Samdo
Use this day to rest or explore the ridge towards the Tibetan border if the skies are clear. It also serves as a crucial buffer in case of delays or altitude-related issues.
Day 12: Trek to Dharamsala/Larkya Phedi (4,460 m)
Hike along rocky ridgelines to the base of Larkya La Pass, where you’ll spend the night preparing for the crossing. Expect colder weather and cloudy conditions at this elevation.
Day 13: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m), descend to Bimthang (3,590 m)
Start early to cross the dramatic and snowy Larkya La Pass before clouds and rain roll in. Though exhausting, the descent into Bimthang offers breathtaking alpine scenery if you’re lucky with the weather.
Day 14: Trek to Tilije (2,300 m)
Descend through rhododendron forests and lush green hills, returning to warmer and wetter terrain. Leeches may appear again as you re-enter the lower forests.
Day 15: Trek to Dharapani (1,860m), trekto Besisahar
A short hike leads to Dharapani, where your Manaslu journey connects with the Annapurna Circuit route. Take a bumpy trek to Besisahar, often delayed in monsoon due to muddy roads.
Day 16: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu
Enjoy a scenic drive back to Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway, passing river valleys and terraced fields. Return to your hotel and relax with a hot shower and a hearty Nepali meal.
Day 17: Final Departure
Transfer to the airport for your flight home with unforgettable memories of the remote Himalayas. Or choose to extend your stay in Nepal with a cultural or spiritual side trip.
Why not trek the Manaslu Circuit in the monsoon?
There are many reasons why you should not trek in Monson, like heavy rain may cause the trails to wash away, blocking the roads to walk and cross the river. The river starts to flow aggressively, making it difficult to cross via swinging bridges. Sometimes it also takes the bridges with the river. During this month there are no proper transportation or logistics supplies. Due to the heavy clouds, you may not be able to witness the Himalayan views. The main point for trekking is to witness the ranges themselves. You will see that most of the time trials are covered with fog and clouds.
You may have a high risk of leeches and insects, snake bites, spider bites, and other insect blisters. During this time the accommodations may be closed, or you will have fewer options due to the rainfall and floods. During the month, you will have difficulty walking, and your trial duration will be increased in case of an emergency. There will be fewer emergency evacuations due to unfavorable weather conditions. It is only suggested to trek in the Manaslu circuit during monsoon when you are an experienced trekker seeking solitude and adventure in life.
Do you want to do Manaslu Circuit trek in April? If yes, lets discuss in detailed about trekking in April. April is the peak season for trekking in Nepal. During this time you will witness forests blooming with flowers. Trees are getting new leaves, animals are roaming around, and the weather is moderate. The skies are clear, and everything looks lush, green, and beautiful.
Are you planning to trek in Manaslu Circuit? If so, the first and foremost thing you will need to know about is the Manaslu Circuit trek permits and costs required to do the trek. The Manaslu trek is in a Restricted Area of Nepal due to which you will need to have different kinds of permits like Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and the Annapurna Conservation Area permit as some places of the Manaslu trek lies within the Annapurna region.
Manaslu circuit is also know as Manaslu round trek, around Manaslu trekking. So don’t be on confusion Manaslu round trek permit and Manaslu circuit trek permit is same thing.
Knowing the trekking cost before will help you to be prepared as well to make your journey enjoyable too. This blog will help you to tentatively calculate the total amount you need to carry for Manaslu circuit trek. When booking a package from trekking companies like Adventure Vision Trek they will cover all the expenses required during the trek like accommodations, permits, and transportation. Please confirm the cost includes and excludes before payment so your booking becomes more transparent and you will know what you will pay personally even booking with agency. However, there are miscellaneous costs which you will need to bear. Let’s discuss all the things in detail: Continue reading “Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit and Cost- Essential Guide”
Are you Ready to witness untouched beauty through the lens? The Manaslu Circuit Trek isn’t just a trek it’s a visual journey through one of Nepal’s most raw and breathtaking landscapes. Because it’s still far from the crowds, every photo captured here feels intimate, powerful, and deeply personal. Here, we have collected various Manaslu Circuit Trek photos. Take a look and let us know what you think!
From timeless villages and dramatic gorges to sky-piercing snow-capped peaks, each snapshot tells a story of adventure and wonder. Misty river valleys, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the majesty of high mountain passes this trek gives you more than just pictures; it gives you goosebumps. Continue reading “20 Stunning Manaslu Circuit Trek Photos”
For the question Do I Need a Guide to Trek Langtang? the answer is Yes, starting February 15, 2025, the Nepal Government requires all Langtang Valley trekkers to have a licensed guide. This rule is for both international visitors and Nepalese citizens. It’s enforced by Langtang National Park and the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN).
Are you planning to do the Manaslu trek? If so, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure! But beyond just following the trail, there are incredible places along the way that you won’t want to miss. From picturesque mountain villages rich in Tibetan culture to breathtaking viewpoints that showcase the Himalayas in all their glory, this trek is packed with hidden gems. Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, natural wonders, or simply the best spots to soak in the views, this guide will help you make the most of your journey. Let’s know the Best places to visit during Manaslu Trek before going there and prepare for them.
