Manaslu to Annapurna | Great Himalaya Trail

Introduction

The Manaslu to Annapurna trek is a Great Himalaya Trail section that links the best circuit routes in Nepal. During this trek, you cross two high passes. First, the Larkya La pass in Manaslu, and then the Thorung La on Annapurna. The adventure begins in the Manaslu region. Weaving through varied cultures and landscapes. After traversing Larkya La, you enter the Annapurna region. Here, you follow the famous Annapurna Circuit. At last, upon crossing the Thorung La pass, you reach Jomsom.

Manaslu to Annapurna Overview

The Manaslu to Annapurna trek begins in Macha Khola. Initially, your trail follows the roaring Burhi Gandaki River. First stop is Tatopani. A hot spring that bubbles right beside the trail. In these taps, locals wash their clothes while donkeys drink the warm mineral water. For the next few days, you’ll trek alongside the river as it carves through a deep gorge and past local villages. At last, you leave the gorge behind as the trail opens into a broad valley dotted with farming fields. From this point on, the mountain scenery also shows up and becomes more dramatic every day.

At Samagoan, a well-deserved resting day. You can visit the nearby glacial Birendra Lake. You can easily combine this trip with a visit to the local monastery. The next day, a short hiking day to Samdo awaits. In this small settlement, you can roam the small alleys of this authentic village. One more night awaits at Larkya Phedi, and then it’s time to head towards the Larkya La pass. You leave at dawn in the cold, crisp air with a headlight. The sunrise during the ascent is magical. Finally, you reach your first high pass of this adventure. A long descent follows, and at the end of the day, you can relax your legs in your teahouse room.

Within a few days, you arrive at the Annapurna circuit trail for the next chapter of the trek. On the trail, you notice a difference in the crowds and the bustle on the trekking trail. From Lower Pisang, the Annapurna are showing themselves. From here, the mountain vistas are a joy to see every day.

In Manang, another resting day can be spent exploring the local area. Also, a visit to the old quarter of the village should not be missed. When you leave Manang behind, you slowly climb up towards Thorung La. This is the final pass and the highest point of the trek. At last, you trek through the lovely hidden Lupra Valley towards Jomsom. The Manaslu to Annapurna trek ends here. Following your trek, a local flight will take you to Pokhara, where you can relax.