A long Himalayan journey linking the remote Manaslu Circuit with the classic Annapurna Circuit and Thorong La Pass.
This long Himalayan journey combines the remote Manaslu Circuit with the classic Annapurna Circuit in one continuous route. It links two of Nepal's great trekking regions: the wild valleys and high mountain scenery of Manaslu, followed by the cultural and landscape diversity of the Annapurna Circuit.
The route begins with the approach to Soti Khola, gradually ascends through Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho and Samagaon, then crosses Larkya La Pass to Bimthang and Dharapani. From Dharapani, the trek joins the Annapurna Circuit and continues through Chame, Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi before crossing Thorong La Pass to Muktinath.
The itinerary is challenging because it includes two major high passes, a long trekking duration, and several days above 3,000 m. Trekkers should train carefully and allow buffer days for weather and pass conditions.
Trail gallery
Drive: 7-9 hrs | Altitude: 710 m
A long scenic approach by road from Kathmandu into the lower Manaslu region.
Trek: 6-7 hrs | Altitude: 900 m
Follow the Budhi Gandaki valley through river trails, bridges and small settlements.
Trek: 6-7 hrs | Altitude: 1,340 m
Continue through narrow river valleys, waterfalls and village trails to Jagat.
Trek: 6-7 hrs | Altitude: 1,860 m
The trail moves deeper into the Manaslu region with changing landscapes and cultural influence.
Trek: 6-7 hrs | Altitude: 2,630 m
A steady climb through forests and villages toward the higher Manaslu valley.
Trek: 4-5 hrs | Altitude: 3,180 m
Shorter walking day with improved mountain views and strong Tibetan Buddhist influence.
Trek: 4-5 hrs | Altitude: 3,530 m
Reach Samagaon, one of the main high villages below Manaslu.
Optional hikes: 4-7 hrs | Altitude: 3,530 m
Use the day for acclimatization. Options include Manaslu Base Camp viewpoint around 4,800 m or Pungyen Gompa.
Trek: 3-4 hrs | Altitude: 3,875 m
A shorter high-altitude day to Samdo with controlled pacing.
Trek: 3-4 hrs | Altitude: 4,460 m
Approach the base of Larkya La Pass and rest early for the long crossing ahead.
Trek: 8-10 hrs | Pass: 5,160 m | Overnight: Bimthang (3,720 m)
The longest Manaslu day. Cross Larkya La Pass and descend to Bimthang.
Trek: 6-7 hrs | Altitude: 2,300 m
Descend through forested trails and warmer valleys after the high pass.
Trek: 4-5 hrs | Altitude: 1,960 m
Reach Dharapani and join the Annapurna Circuit route.
Trek: 5-6 hrs | Altitude: 2,710 m
Begin the Annapurna Circuit section, following the Marsyangdi valley toward Chame.
Trek: 5-6 hrs | Altitude: 3,300 m
Walk through pine forest, dramatic valley walls and views toward Annapurna peaks.
Trek: 5-6 hrs | Altitude: 3,540 m
Continue to Manang, a key acclimatization point on the Annapurna Circuit.
Optional hike: 4-6 hrs | Altitude: 3,540 m
Use the day for rest and side hikes, such as Ice Lake viewpoint around 4,600 m if conditions allow.
Trek: 4-5 hrs | Altitude: 4,050 m
Gradual ascent toward Thorong La with careful pacing above 4,000 m.
Trek: 4-5 hrs | Altitude: 4,450 m
Approach Thorong Phedi and prepare for the early start over Thorong La.
Trek: 8-10 hrs | Pass: 5,416 m | Overnight: Muktinath (3,800 m)
Cross Thorong La, the highest point of the trek, then descend to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath.
Road exit day
Exit by road from Muktinath toward Jomsom or Pokhara depending on road conditions and timing.
| Permit / Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Manaslu Restricted Area Permit | Required for the restricted Manaslu section |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | Required for the Annapurna Circuit section |
| TIMS Card | Required depending on current trekking regulations |
| Passport Copies and Photos | Required for permit processing |
| Trek Duration | 21 Days |
| Trek Grade | Challenging / High Altitude |
| Maximum Altitude | 5,416 m (Thorong La Pass) |
| Major Passes | Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) and Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) |
| Trek Start | Kathmandu to Soti Khola |
| Trek End | Muktinath, with road exit to Jomsom/Pokhara |
| Best Season | October-November and March-April |
| Accommodation | Teahouses / Lodges |
| Meals on Trek | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
| Required Permits | Manaslu Restricted Area Permit + ACAP + TIMS |
Read before you go
Key route details for timing, cash, safety and comfort on this trek.
Guide is mandatory for the Manaslu restricted section.
Add 1-2 buffer days for weather, high pass conditions and mountain road delays.
The itinerary may change due to health, snow, trail conditions, lodge availability or road disruptions.
Travel insurance with emergency helicopter evacuation cover is strongly recommended.
Final costs depend on group size, transport choices, porter support and hotel arrangements before or after the trek.
