Side by side
| Manaslu Circuit Trek | Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 16 | 22 |
| Highest point | 5,106 m | 5,143 m |
| Difficulty | Challenging | Strenuous |
| Total distance | 177 km | 225 km |
| Best months | March to April and October to November | March to May and October to November |
| Typical cost | $1,400 to $2,800 | $2,500 to $4,500 |
| Starts from | Soti Khola (700 m) or Machha Khola | Taplejung (1,820 m) — via flight from Kathmandu to Biratnagar then to Taplejung, or overland |
| Permits | 3 | 2 |
Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek if
The Manaslu Circuit is a 14 to 18 day restricted-area trek in the Gorkha District of western Nepal, circumnavigating Manaslu (8,163 m), the world's eighth highest mountain. The route crosses the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m and offers a rawer, less-crowded alternative to the Annapurna Circuit with comparable cultural depth and mountain scale.
The route is long and the Larkya La crossing demands proper acclimatisation. The trail is well-worn but involves some exposed rocky sections and glacier moraines near the pass. A restricted area permit and mandatory guide are required.
Choose the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek if
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is a 20 to 25 day challenging remote trek in far-eastern Nepal, approaching the third highest mountain in the world (8,586 m) from both north and south base camps. It requires a restricted area permit, a licensed guide, and significant logistical preparation. The reward is some of the most pristine wilderness and authentic cultural encounters in all of the Himalaya.
One of the most demanding teahouse treks in Nepal due to the remoteness, altitude, duration, and the physical demand of the full north-to-south traverse. Not recommended for first-time Himalayan trekkers.
