Are you thinking of doing the Manaslu circuit trek? But, wondering that the Manaslu circuit trek looks so expensive at first glance, you are thinking of doing an alternate due to the budget. Now you will not need to worry about how to do the Manaslu circuit trek on a budget, as in this blog we will be discussing these topics only, and we will talk about how and where we can save the money and make your Manaslu circuit trek more affordable along with the best experience of your lifetime, as the Manaslu region is known for its best experience along with the beautiful mountain views and the culture of the region. Well, without any delay, let’s get started with our topic on how to do the Manaslu circuit trek on a budget.
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:
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 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”
Manaslu circuit trek in May is one of the most wonderful things you can do. Trekking during this time of the month allows you to explore the beautiful Himalayan ranges, interact with the locals, and make new friends from different countries, as lots of trekkers come for trekking here. You will witness the various kinds of wildlife animals like snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, and musk deer, which you will see all over the trails starting from Samagaun.
You will witness the red panda, bears, aquatic animals, birds, water streams, and many more interesting things yet to be explored. You can also witness the beautiful stars shining in the night, which is often called stargazing, which looks beautiful and awesome. Manaslu in May is also the best time to experience the local cuisines, customs, and traditions. Continue reading “Epic Manaslu Circuit Trek In May”
Are you looking for the best time to visit to Manaslu Circuit trek in march 2026 or 2027 or any other trekking region in Nepal? Then you are in the right place. Trekking in the Manaslu circuit during March not only offers breathtaking views of the mountains but also offers a once-in-a-lifetime moment to explore the region. As this is the season of spring, you will witness the flowers blooming all over the trails. Forests are also covered with the rhododendron flower, giving the perfect views of green and red.
The weather becomes moderate, which makes the trek even more fun and awesome, as the days are also not so cold or not so hot. During this time of the season, there is no risk of snow or any kind of natural calamities. March is the month of the breezing wind, which gives the perfect vibe of the Tibetan-influenced culture. During this time every teahouse in the Manaslu region is opened, giving the trekkers many options for stays and food. During trekking in March, it creates a culture-sharing environment as you will be interacting with the local and international trekkers all over the trails.
The Manaslu circuit trek in February gives the perfect vibe of the snowy and blooming flowers. During February, flowers start to bloom, and there is also snowfall on the trails due to the cold and harsh weather conditions of January. During the month of February, the skies are clear and crisp. The nights and mornings are freezing, but the daytime weather is perfect for trekking. The trails are also not so crowded, due to which your trek will be peaceful and you can enjoy nature.
The higher altitudes may have a little snowfall and sometimes become chilly. As the winter is at its end, you will witness the wildlife biodiversity during the trek as well. If you are lucky enough, you may witness snow leopards, bears, Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, lammergeier vultures, and more. The trek might be a perfect time to explore the Manaslu region. Continue reading “Stunning Winter Challange: Manaslu Circuit Trek in February”
The Manaslu Circuit Trek in January feels like you are in heaven, as every place is covered in snow and feels like a snow wonderland. Trekking in the Manaslu circuit allows you to witness the mountains covered with snow. Not only mountains but every place is covered with snow, giving the vibe of the perfect holiday destination for winter. Not only that, trekking in winter allows you to explore the places fully, as there will be no crowds and the trail is peaceful, which makes your mind and soul connected with nature.
You will witness the skies are clear in the night, allowing you to watch stars, often known as stargazing. you will witness the water streams are frozen and you can actually walk on the lakes and rivers covered with the ice, which can also allow you to snow ski. Your trekking journey will be the best during this time for exploring the local authentic life. Continue reading “Epic Manaslu Circuit Trek In January”
This blog about Manaslu Circuit trek map provides you the complete information about the offline(printed) and online maps available for trekking Manaslu circuit. Online Maps like google or bing will help you to see the real time updates of the maps. Online maps also has feature like saving or downloading maps area so you can use these map even with out internet connection. Since you might not always have a power source during the trek, so you won’t be able to use downloaded Google Maps on your device. Where, print map will provide all the details you need about the region, even when you’re not internet friendly or not connected to electronic device.
Using map during trek is future things, you must take guide for Manaslu circuit trek as this is restricted area trekking in Nepal. The guide will also guide you and you may not need a map just for trekking. But looking maps before trekking will help you to know better about the route, places, destinations that can be explored during the trek. This will make your journey more enjoyable and safer also. Continue reading “Manaslu Circuit Trek Map”
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”
