Nepal is a trekker’s paradise, home to some of the most beautiful trails on Earth. While the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit dominate the spotlight, two lesser-known routes, Manaslu Circuit Trek and Upper Mustang Trek, offer equally mesmerizing adventures for those craving something unique, remote, and culturally rich.
But which one should you choose for your next Himalayan journey? Let’s break it down in detail, covering everything from scenery and culture to cost, difficulty, and ideal seasons.
Overview of the Treks
Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Region: Gorkha District, central Nepal
- Duration: 14–18 days
- Maximum Altitude: 5,160m (Larke La Pass)
- Permits: Manaslu Restricted Area, ACAP, MCAP
- Trek Type: Teahouse trek
Circling the world’s eighth-highest mountain, the Manaslu Circuit trek is a remote and dramatic route through lush valleys, terraced hillsides, and snow-covered passes. It’s often compared to how the Annapurna Circuit used to be before the roads, raw, challenging, and authentically Nepali.
Upper Mustang Trek
- Region: Mustang District, northern Nepal
- Duration: 12–16 days
- Maximum Altitude: 3,840m (Lo Manthang)
- Permits: Upper Mustang Restricted Area, ACAP
- Trek Type: Lodge and guesthouse trek
Upper Mustang, often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” was closed to outsiders until 1992. Trekking here feels like stepping into another world, where Tibetan culture thrives, ancient caves dot the cliffs, and the desert-like landscapes resemble a slice of Tibet within Nepal.
Quick Comparison Table
| Factor | Manaslu Circuit | Upper Mustang |
| Region | Gorkha District | Mustang District |
| Duration | 14–18 days | 12–16 days |
| Altitude | 5,160m | 3,840m |
| Difficulty | Challenging | Moderate |
| Terrain | Alpine forests, glaciers, mountain passes | Dry desert, cliffs, canyons |
| Culture | Tibetan-Nubri, Buddhist influence | Pure Tibetan-Bon Buddhism |
| Permits | Restricted + ACAP + MCAP | Restricted + ACAP |
| Cost (approx.) | USD 1,200–1,800 | USD 1,800–2,500 |
| Best Season | Spring & Autumn | Summer & Autumn |
Trekking Experience
1. Scenery & Landscape
Manaslu Circuit:
You’ll experience a spectacular transition from subtropical forests and rice terraces to alpine meadows and glacial terrain. Crossing Larke La Pass (5,160m) offers a thrilling high-mountain experience with panoramic views of Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and of course, Manaslu itself.
Upper Mustang:
The scenery here is completely different—think red cliffs, eroded canyons, and vast barren plateaus. The desert landscape, shaped by wind and time, feels more like Tibet than Nepal. The highlight is the walled city of Lo Manthang, surrounded by monasteries and whitewashed mud houses.
2. Culture & People
Manaslu Circuit:
The trail passes through Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages like Samagaon and Samdo. Monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags dominate the trail, offering a rich Buddhist cultural immersion.
Upper Mustang:
Culturally, Upper Mustang is even more distinct. Once part of the ancient Lo Kingdom, its people still follow traditional Tibetan customs. If you visit during the Tiji Festival, you’ll witness one of the most vibrant and spiritual celebrations in the Himalayas.
3. Difficulty Level
Manaslu Circuit:
It’s a challenging trek—long days, steep ascents, and the crossing of a high pass at over 5,000 meters. Trekkers should be physically fit and prepared for altitude.
Upper Mustang:
Moderate in difficulty, with gentle climbs and lower altitudes. The challenge comes mainly from the dry, windy conditions rather than elevation gain.
4. Accommodation & Comfort
Manaslu Circuit:
Teahouses are basic but improving. Expect simple meals (dal bhat, noodles, soups) and limited amenities—perfect for those seeking a genuine Himalayan experience.
Upper Mustang:
Lodges, especially in Lo Manthang, offer better comfort with attached bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and more food variety. As tourism grows, facilities are becoming more comfortable each year.
Cost & Permits
Manaslu Circuit Permits
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit: USD 75–100 (depending on season)
- MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit): USD 30
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): USD 30
- Guide required: Yes
Upper Mustang Permits
- Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit: USD 500 (for 10 days, USD 50/day after that)
- ACAP: USD 30
- Guide required: Yes
While the permit for Upper Mustang is significantly higher, it helps limit foot traffic and preserve the region’s fragile culture and ecosystem.
Accessibility & Route
Manaslu Circuit:
The trek begins after a long drive (8–10 hours) from Kathmandu to Soti Khola or Machha Khola. The road is rough but scenic, following the Budhi Gandaki River.
Upper Mustang:
You’ll first travel to Pokhara, then take a flight or jeep to Jomsom, the starting point. Flights are weather-dependent but offer spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Best Time to Trek
- Manaslu Circuit: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) offer the best conditions—clear skies, stable weather, and great mountain views.
- Upper Mustang: Uniquely, it’s best during summer (May–October), since the region lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas and remains dry even during monsoon.
Which Trek is Right for You?
Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek if you want:
- A challenging and adventurous route with high-altitude passes
- Diverse landscapes—from jungle to glaciers
- Fewer trekkers and an authentic mountain feel
Choose the Upper Mustang Trek if you prefer:
- Rich Tibetan culture and ancient history
- Dramatic desert scenery and easy-to-moderate walking days
- A rare glimpse into the “Forbidden Kingdom” with comfort and culture combined
Final Thoughts
Both the Manaslu Circuit and Upper Mustang treks deliver unforgettable experiences.
If your heart leans toward rugged trails, solitude, and a sense of Himalayan wilderness, Manaslu is your adventure.
If you dream of discovering ancient Tibetan culture, mysterious caves, and otherworldly landscapes, Upper Mustang will capture your soul.
No matter which route you choose, both offer a deep connection with Nepal’s people, nature, and timeless spirit.
Plan Your Trek
Whether you’re looking to conquer the heights of Manaslu or explore the lost kingdom of Mustang, it’s essential to trek responsibly—with a registered guide, proper permits, and respect for local traditions.
Ready to plan your next Himalayan journey?
Reach out to a trusted local trekking agency in Nepal for custom itineraries, permits, and experienced guides who can make your adventure safe and truly unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is harder, Manaslu Circuit or Upper Mustang Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is generally more challenging due to its high altitude (over 5,000m at Larke La Pass) and steep ascents. The Upper Mustang Trek is easier in comparison, with moderate walking days and lower elevation.
2. Do I need a special permit for both treks?
Yes. Both routes lie in restricted areas of Nepal.
- Manaslu Circuit: Requires the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit plus ACAP and MCAP.
- Upper Mustang: Requires the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit plus ACAP.
A licensed guide is mandatory for both treks.
3. How much does each trek cost?
- Manaslu Circuit: Around USD 1,200–1,800 per person (including permits, guide, transport, food, and lodging).
- Upper Mustang: Around USD 1,800–2,500 per person, mainly due to the expensive restricted permit.
4. What is the best season to trek Manaslu and Upper Mustang?
- Manaslu: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November).
- Upper Mustang: Summer (May–October), since it lies in the rain shadow and remains dry even during monsoon.
5. Can I trek without a guide?
No. Both Manaslu and Upper Mustang are restricted-area treks, and the Nepali government requires that you trek with a registered guide through a licensed trekking agency.
6. How high is the altitude on each trek?
- Manaslu Circuit: Highest point is Larke La Pass (5,160m).
- Upper Mustang: Highest point is around 3,840m in Lo Manthang.
Altitude sickness is a bigger concern in Manaslu than in Upper Mustang.
7. What type of accommodation can I expect?
- Manaslu Circuit: Basic teahouses with simple meals and shared bathrooms.
- Upper Mustang: More comfortable guesthouses, especially in Lo Manthang, with better food and sometimes Wi-Fi or private rooms.
8. How do I reach the starting point for each trek?
- Manaslu Circuit: 8–10 hour drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola or Machha Khola.
- Upper Mustang: Fly or drive from Pokhara to Jomsom, then begin trekking.
9. Is Upper Mustang suitable for families or beginners?
Yes. The Upper Mustang Trek is more suitable for beginners and families with reasonable fitness, thanks to its moderate difficulty and relatively comfortable accommodations.
10. Which trek offers a more unique cultural experience?
Both are rich in culture, but Upper Mustang offers a deeper immersion into Tibetan Buddhism and the ancient Lo Kingdom, while Manaslu showcases a blend of Tibetan-Nubri and Hindu influences.
Image: Unsplash, Geetangey
