Manaslu circuit vs Annapurna circuit Trek In Nepal

Circuit trek refers to round trek around mountain. The most popular circuit trek in Nepal are Manaslu circuit trek and Annapurna circuit trek. If we talk about which one is better, Manaslu circuit trek or Annapurna circuit trek? Then it is difficult to answer because both of these trekking are best to the explore nature and life. The comparison between these trekking can be done on the basis of itinerary, location and view. The table below gives brief information on Manaslu circuit vs Annapurna circuit trek.

Table 1: Comparison chart between Manaslu and Annapurna circuit trek

Which trek is more difficult: the Manaslu circuit or the Annapurna circuit?

The difficulties of the trek depend on the route, duration, altitude, and tea houses. Both treks have well-organized trekking routes and tea houses. Even though the Annapurna circuit trek is less difficult than Manaslu circuit. The long trekking route, off-beaten trial and basic accommodation have made Manaslu circuit quite difficult compared to Annapurna. While Annapurna circuit has more tea houses with option of basic and luxury accommodation. We should not walk more than seven hours during ACT while we should walk eight hours in lower altitude of MCT. 

Is there any Similarities between Manaslu and Annapurna circuit trek?

Yes, there are few similarities on region, transportation route and climatic condition of MCT and ACT. Both trekkings are long trek in mountain of Gandaki province, western Nepal. We should take long drive from Kathmandu before starting the trek. The climatic condition of Manaslu and Annapurna region is alike. There are similarities in culture and tradition of Himalayan villages. 

Best time to trek

The Best time for Manaslu and Annapurna circuit trek is spring and autumn season. Both trekking can be done at the same time: March, April, May, September, October and November. These months shower with pleasant weather and amazing views of mountains in both Manaslu and Annapurna regions. 

What are the major differences between the Annapurna circuit and the Manaslu circuit?

The major differences in Annapurna circuit and Manaslu circuit are difficult to point out. Although we tend to give prime differences based trekking route to support trekkers for choosing best destination of their choice.

• Location

Annapurna circuit trek occurs within the boundary of Annapurna conservation area spread in 7629 sq km. It covers four districts: Lamjung, Manang, Mustang and Kaski. The trekking route inbounds the tenth highest peak in the world and its surrounding peaks. 

Manaslu circuit trek occurs within the boundary of Manaslu conservation area spread in 1663 sq kilometer. It covers three districts: Gorkha and Lamjung. The trekking route inbounds the eighth highest peak in the world and Ganesh Himal.

• Trekking duration

Annapurna circuit trek is longer than Manaslu circuit trek. It takes 22 days to complete the longest trek to Annapurna circuit. 

Table 2: Brief itinerary of 22 days Annapurna circuit trek

The complete route of Annapurna circuit is challenging.  It is 22 days trekking that covers forest, non-green hills, mountains, lakes and snow-covered landscape. It covers four trekking: Annapurna base camp trek, Tilicho lake trek, Poonhill trek and Lower mustang trek. Thus, we can say it is a complete trek to explore the beauty of the entire Annapurna region.  We can customize Table 2 and complete Annapurna circuit trek in 16 days (Table 3) by skipping Annapurna base camp and Ghorepani Poonhill. 

Table 3: Brief itinerary of 17 days trekking to Annapurna circuit

Manaslu circuit trek is 17 days trek (Table 4) that cannot be customized. The trekking route remains less crowded as compared to ACT. It is challenging trek because we should cover around 12 to 13 km daily during the trek.