Ghandruk Loop vs Manaslu Circuit
Pick Ghandruk Loop for
tight budgets, family trips, first-timers, an easier walk, a smaller budget, fewer days
Pick Manaslu Circuit for
peace and quiet, adventure, a real challenge, fewer people
| Ghandruk Loop | Manaslu Circuit | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Nepal, Kaski, Gandaki | Nepal, Gorkha, Gandaki |
| Highest point | 1,940 m | 5,106 m |
| Difficulty | Easy–moderate | Difficult |
| Trek distance | about 30 km | about 177 km |
| Days on the ground | 4–5 | 12–14 |
| Best months | Mar, Apr, Oct, Nov, Dec, Feb | Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov |
| Snow likely | Jan | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar |
| Crowds in season | Moderate | Quiet |
| Daily spend | about ₹2,800 | about ₹4,000 |
| Gateway | Pokhara | Kathmandu |
| With kids | Great | Not advised |
| With seniors | Good | Not advised |
| Permits | ACAP permit. Check current guide rules. | Restricted Area Permit + MCAP + ACAP + TIMS. Must go through a registered agency. |
Ghandruk Loop: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Manaslu Circuit: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely