Sep 10

Sep 10 Manaslu Or Annapurna, What should you choose for your next trip?

I’m sure you’ve heard these names before. Even if you’re not from Nepal, a few clicks here and there for deciding your next trip and boom these two pop up. The Manaslu Circuit trek and the Annapurna Circuit trek. Both of these have insane views and are some of the best places you can ever visit in your life.

But both of these carrying Himalayan DNA does not mean they are similar in the slightest. No no no, these treks couldn't be more different. One is remote, rugged, and still relatively untouched. The other is the go-to of adventurers who come to explore from every corner of the world.

So, time for the big question, which way should you go? Well, Let's answer this.

1. Accessibility and Remoteness

Manaslu Circuit Trek: This trek is surely one of those you consider as a "hidden gem". The sheer distance of it from central Nepal takes a lot for its remoteness. Because hear this, this trek is about 177 long from its starting to ending. And on top of that, its starting point (Machha Khola) is about 180 kilometers from Kathmandu. After which, you trek for days in these untouched valleys. This path is less commercialized, meaning you'll get more raw experiences with the cherry on top–fewer crowds!
Annapurna Circuit: On the contrary, trekking is the bread and butter of Annapurna. It's well known and well taken care of. You'll find very easy access to it from Pokhara. Other than that, the infrastructure here is also top-notch. You'll find teahouses, food courts, and even Wifi in some villages. But you can expect the catch, it's way busier than other treks.

2. Scenery and Landscapes

Manaslu Circuit: Here, you'll feel like you're walking through a slide show. Every day is a new view, one day is lush green valleys, the other is high altitude passes with snowfields. This trail circles Mount Manaslu, the world's 8th highest peak. And I’m sure you can imagine what the rest of this place is like.
Annapurna Circuit: With Annampura, the drama comes from diversity. Manaslu may have changing scenery, but Annampura offers much more, from rice terraces, subtropical forests, Buddhist monasteries, to desert-like landscapes of Mustang. Annapurna plays the game of quantity. Especially the highlight of Annampura, the crossing of "Thoron La Pass". Truly a magical place sitting at just shy of 5,500 meters at 5416 meters.

3. Culture and Local Encounters

Manaslu Circuit Trek: This region is filled with Tibetan traditions. Why? Because this region actually borders Tibet. And as a result of this a lot of Tibetan traditions have been adapted on this side of the border as well. And are still to this date being performed throughout the local villages. Monasteries, prayer flags, and ancient gompas, you'll find such spiritual things in every corner. These create an atmosphere that feels spiritual and intimate.
Annapurna Circuit: Now let’s keep the theme of diversity going. Annapurna have brought this theme into cultures as well, Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi communities you name it. All these communities live in harmony along this trail. One might expect the tensions here to be kinda high. But that would be very wrong, as you'll find that the people here are very hospitable and sweet.

4. Difficulty Level

Manaslu Circuit: Now imagine Manaslu like a wild beast. A beast very beautiful but still very uncivilized and wild in nature. You’ll see these resemblances in real time. This trek will demand your attention and will give you a run for your money. The trails will be rugged, you might have to spend some sleepless nights. And the high points especially like Larke La Pass (5,160 meters) will drain you out. Yet, it's not extreme mountaineering, but it's not something to be taken lightly as well.
Annapurna Circuit: And, don’t get us wrong. Annapurna is also not in any words easy. Especially at high altitudes like Thorong La Pass, but it has an edge over Manaslu due to its infrastructure. The infrastructure makes the trek very smooth, and trekkers with moderate fitness levels often manage just fine.

Which Trek Should You Choose?

Well, you have your answer already, but still, let's bring it all together.

Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek if:

You crave solitude and fewer crowds.
You want a culturally rich, Tibetan-influenced journey.
You're up for rugged trails and a challenge.
You don't mind the higher cost and restrictions in exchange for authenticity.

And go for Annapurna Circuit if:

You're really new to trekking and have very few trekking experiences before.
You’re not ready for a full on trek and want to ease into this field.
You'd prefer flexibility in going solo or hiring a guide.

And here you have it, the full comparison of both these giants.

Conclusion

In the end, it's not a decision you can easily make. You sitting in your living room can’t distinguish which trek is better to visit and which is not. But with expert advice you find your way. Take Mosaic Adventure for example. These are some of the best guys in business, with a great team of guides and logistics. These guys have taken hundreds if not thousands of trekkers on their first trek.

So, if you’re intrigued, Dial-up mosaic adventures and hook yourselves up with a great deal.

Reach out to them at info@mosaicadventure.com or directly WhatsApp them at https://wa.me/ +9779823816556.

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