The Lure of Manaslu

There’s no doubt that during the 1980s and 1990s, the Annapurna Circuit Trek stood proudly as one of the greatest trekking adventures in the world. The trail began in the lush, lowland Marsyangdi River Valley and gradually ascended into the stark and stunning high-altitude desert landscape of Manang. From there, trekkers crossed the formidable Thorung La Pass—one of the highest trekking passes on Earth—before descending into the dramatic depths of the Kali Gandaki River Gorge, the deepest in the world. Spanning nearly three weeks, the journey was as much a test of endurance as it was a celebration of Nepal’s diverse geography and cultures.

Over the years, however, with the expansion of roads into the hilly regions of Nepal, the traditional trail has become increasingly fragmented. Today, what was once a three-week circuit has been reduced to just a one-week trek. The essence of the original circular route has largely faded, and the legendary “circuit” no longer truly exists.

Ellen Shapiro, author of books about Nepal in her own words described, "The Annapurna Circuit, which I did a number of times and is a favorite trek for me, I have heard is no longer really the same trek because of all of the roads that have been built. Progress must be made, of course, and people deserve to be able to get goods without having to carry them on their back and to be able to get from one place to another without having to walk for days but I understand that one of the results of this progress is that the new roads have deeply impacted the Annapurna Circuit and it's not at all the same trek anymore".

As the Annapurna Circuit Trek began losing its charm, the Manaslu Circuit trek slowly and steadily started to gain prominence as well as the alternative the Annapurna trek.  Manaslu (claimed as the Japanese Mountain) also known as Kutang, is a part of the Mansiri Himal Range and is the 8th Highest Mountain at 8183 meters, higher than the Annapurna.

While Annapurna Circuit is more accessible and comfortable, Manaslu Circuit offers a more rugged, off-the-beaten-path experience with fewer trekkers, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and raw Himalayan beauty. If you're after a classic trek with cultural diversity and easier logistics, Annapurna might be your pick. But if you crave a more remote and challenging adventure, Manaslu could be the perfect fit.  

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is often considered better than more popular routes like the Annapurna Circuit for several compelling reasons—especially if you're craving a more authentic and less commercialized Himalayan experience:

Here are the reasons - the lure:

🌄 1. Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: Far fewer trekkers than Annapurna or Everest routes. Offers solitude and a deeper connection with nature. Trails feel untouched and wild.2

🏞 2. Breathtaking Scenery: Towering views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna II. Dramatic landscapes from lush valleys to high alpine passes. Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) is a thrilling and scenic highlight.

🏞 3. Rich Cultural Immersion: Villages influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and ancient traditions. Less commercialized, more genuine interactions with locals. Mix of Hindu and Buddhist communities along the trail.

🐾 4. Pristine Nature & Wildlife: Trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area. Home to rare species like snow leopards, red pandas, blue sheep and Himalayan tahr and many species of birds.

🛤 5. Sustainable & Responsible Tourism: Restricted area permits help preserve culture and environment. Fewer trekkers mean less impact on local ecosystems.

💰 6. Great Value for Money: Less expensive than Everest Base Camp and other Nepal treks. Offers similar high-altitude thrills without the crowds.

If you're looking for a trek that feels like a true Himalayan expedition—raw, remote, and rewarding—Manaslu might just be your perfect match. Want help planning your route or figuring out the best time to go? I’ve got your back.