Index Adventure presents an ultimate trekking adventure with two of the most astonishing treks in the Himalayas in one. The off-the-beaten-track Manaslu Circuit and world-famous Annapurna Circuit in one package with a three-week-long trekking in Nepal, Manaslu Annapurna Trek.
The Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit Trek spans 23 days, offering a phenomenal trekking thrill that combines two of Nepal's most chosen trekking trails. The long-distance Annapurna Circuit and off-the-beaten-track Manaslu Region. Manaslu Circuit has gained a special place in the heart of trekkers for its quite challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters. And also for its remote trails and rich Tibetan Buddhist Bodhi and Sutras. Whereas, the Annapurna Circuit Trekking is renowned for its stunning and varied natural vistas, Hindu and Buddhist settlements, and the high Thorong La Pass, which stands at 5,416 meters.
This uniquely crafted Manaslu with Annapurna Package is ideal for those who want to get lost in the Himalayas for nearly a month, far away from crowded cities; from a quiet trekking experience, a long-distance journey, cultural exchange, to amazing memories that linger for decades. It's the ideal choice for adventurers who are seeking to have a full and real Himalayan encounter in one journey, the Manaslu and Annapurna Trekking.
The combined Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit trek is around 225 km -240 km (139.809 miles-149.129 miles) long and averages 12 - 13 km of walking. The Manaslu section is approximately 177km and the Annapurna section adds another 100-173km, as per our Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Itinerary.
The Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek – 23 days begins from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. The first part of the trek is the Manaslu Circuit.
Shortly after leaving the Kathmandu Valley rim, our 23-day adventure begins with the stunning views of Ganesh and Himalchuli/Manaslu range. For the first days, trekkers will be rewarded by fairytale waterfalls, rivers, narrow towering cliffs, and greenery.
Passing by backwoods villages such as Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, and Namrung. As trekkers move higher, they pass through Lho, Sho, and reach Shyala, adorned with mani walls, kani gates, and chortens, with panoramic views. From here, we take a route to Pungyen gompa with glaciers below, before continuing to Samagaun.
After a rest day in Samagaun(opt hike for Manaslu Base Camp), the route continues to Samdo and Dharmasala (last stop before the thriller). Then comes the challenging but rewarding section for a fabulous panorama from the pass, Larkya La (5,160m). Finally, we descend to Bhimthang and fuse into the Annapurna Circuit at Dharapani. From here, the journey continues through Chame and Upper Pisang.
The second part of the Manaslu and Annapurna itinerary explores Manang. Trekkers can opt for panoramic side hikes to Ice Lake or Chongkor Viewpoint. Further ascent leads us to Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, and its High Camp. Then comes the high-altitude challenge and the highest elevation of the trek, Thorong La Pass (17,769ft | 5,416m). The Manaslu with Annapurna Trekking package concludes after visiting the religious sites of Hindus, Muktinath. Finally, descend into the lower Mustang corridor with an optional exit through Jomsom or Pokhara.
A trek to Manaslu and Annapurna is best undertaken in either autumn or spring. The autumn period is usually the most stable period and thus will be the busiest time on the trails. Early Oct heralds the beginning of the season after the monsoon rains have abated, but in recent years, the weather has sometimes been more unsettled.
After mid-Oct, the weather is better, with clearer skies and magical views of both trails. The ripened rice-terraced hillsides are ablaze with top-notch colours, from gold to brilliant greens of all shades.
The spring season, Feb-May, is also popular, with generally stable weather but cloudy skies. The lower valleys are sultry and hot, and crossing high passes before April can be challenging. Botanists can enjoy the abundant array of plants, especially near the Tibetan rhododendrons and magnolia.
Trekking in winter is possible in the lower area, but heading to the higher altitude of Dharapani (Manaslu Larke Phedi) or Thorong Phedi of Annapurna during late December/January and early February will mean encountering more cloud, snow, and colder temperatures. Some inhabitants descend to the warmer foothills for winter, so occasionally accommodation may be closed. Heavy snow will make some higher and narrow trails dangerous if not impossible. with a risk of avalanche.
For most, trekking at the height of the summer, July and August, is not recommended, with mountain vistas a rare luxury.
Monsoon time from mid-June to Sept brings heavy rain, blood sucking leeches, landslides, while also offering green valleys, farmers' fields, and colorful festivals and events.
We don’t recommend trekking during Summer and Winter.
The trek to Manaslu, added with Annapurna Circuit, is considered a Moderate to strenuous level adventure. The length of time spent above 5000m in both Annapurna and Manaslu is longer, and there is no organised backup. Due to long trekking days, sudden weather changes, and two high mountain passes in one trek makes this trip is quite challenging.
However, we at the Index Adventure have crafted a well-planned Manaslu Annapurna Itinerary with multi-day rest days. With right preparation from your side, good mentality, and the best mentorship from our side, this 23-day trip will feel like a week-long trek and full of memories.
For a full-service trip, the budget for Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit typically costs around USD 1,500 to USD 2,500 per person, depending on several factors. These include mostly transportation, meals during the trip, accommodation, and permits, whereas for other services you have to spend them on your own. Beverages, extra meals, electricity, Wi-Fi, hot showers, and other personal expenses are not included in Manaslu Annapurna Packages. It also differs from which trekking company you choose.
Take more cash than you think you'll need, as there are limited ATM options (which may not be available due to technical problems), and there are also few official places to exchange cash. Expect prices to rise higher as you progress (probably by 10 percent or so per year in the future).
Isn’t this Mount Manaslu Circuit with Annapurna Trekking interesting? However, if you are looking for easier and shorter treks in these regions, we present you with these two astonishing packages.
Standard Annapurna Circuit Trek: If you are short in time but still want to experience the thrill of Thorong La and the beauty of the Annapurna massif, we present you with a 12-day Annapurna Circuit Trek.
15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek: Another on the list is the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Package for those with a limited schedule but still want to witness the magic of Larkya La and the Manaslu region.
We Index Adventure provides flexible customization, whether you want to trek Manaslu or its side detour to Tsum or Annapurna Classic extended with Tilicho Lake. We are here to serve you anytime, offering the best itineraries and packages. Join us for your next adventure.
A representative from Index Adventure will meet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport entrance gate and transfer you to your hotel. You'll likely have a briefing session with us to discuss the Manaslu trek itinerary, necessary gear, and safety precautions.
On your preparation day, dedicate your time to immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural and religious heritage. You can stroll around your hotel, buy necessary gear and souvenirs, or rest for your upcoming trip to the Himalayas.
If you want an itinerary (Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek 23-day package) that avoids a preparation day in Kathmandu, we are happy to arrange it for you.
Early in the morning, a guide picks you up at the hotel. Today, you depart from Kathmandu via scenic drive to Macchakhola via Arughat Bazar, Kurepani (Gurung and Magar villages), and Soti Khola.
The drive starts with a smooth, paved road covering 115km, which takes 5 hours to reach Tari Bensi. And the road becomes increasingly uneven and rugged until your last stop, Macchakhola.
You set your first foot on the Manaslu Circuit trekking trail today. After breakfast, you start a hike from Macchakhola that mixes uphill and downhill. Further, you reach the village of Khorlabesi.
Then you head towards the next stop, Tatopani (natural hot spring), which is popular and busy with numerous teahouses. You stop here for lunch. The sighting of Ganesh Himal is a highlight of the day.
This portion of the journey takes you through a dense forest, with mules along the way. As you ascend, the scenery starts to change its colors with an excellent view of the Sringi Himal. Mani walls are placed on the way to Jagat, where the MCAP office & Custom office are located.
Today, we pass several villages with peaks of Shringi Himal. Salleri village is the first, and Sirdibas (1420m ) village is the second one after you climb up the valley.
Looking out for the terrace field, high hills, we will pass by Philim, a Gurung village where Chhyoling Sandu Gumoa is located. The hike continues until the next stop, Chisapani, for lunch.
Most of the villagers are Tibetan, and their main occupations are agriculture and animal husbandry. Barley, maize, oats, and nuts are the major crops they grow.
The day continues with Nyak Phedi, Pewa, and then a tiny campsite before today's final destination, Deng.
Today starts with an early hike from Deng, crossing the river and high hanging bridges, and ascending the hill. As the trail continues, Mani Stone passes by along the path. Each stone has a Buddhist mantra, indicating a Tibetan culture-influenced region.
Pass by Rana Gaun, Bihi Phedi, Bihi (can go for a side trip to Kalchumman Lake and Kal Chokkang Gompa), Ghap, and Ghapsya, and witness typical villages with typical lifestyles.
Pass by the bold atmosphere of dense forest with sounds of insects and trees. It feels like you've reached Namrung in no time. As you reach Namrung (2,630m), your permit will be checked again.
Today, the trail has magnificent sights of the mountains, like Himchuli, Shringi range, and Mount Manaslu. Then trek via Lihi and Sho Gaun, passing by Ghumna and Tong gompa.
Finally, a long stone mani wall marks your presence in the village of Lho Gaun. As you enter the Lho village, a splendid view of Manaslu Massif comes close, so does the Ribung Gompa and Kandjur scripts monastery. As you hike, we will reach Shyala village, one of the affected towns by the Nepal earthquake 2015.
You hike to the sacred Pun Gyen Gompa of the region. The Gompa provides breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu, Puggen taal, Numla Khola, and Pungyen Glacier. This area holds a tranquil ambiance with glittering cultural aspects of the Nubri of the Manaslu region.
The trail stretches towards the settlement of Samagaun, one of the most beautiful villages during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The remaining time is free for you to explore.
Today, stay at Samagaun for acclimatization, an essential part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary. Let your body acclimate to the high altitude.
You can hike to base camp to conquer Manaslu Base Camp (4895m), where you can get magnificent views of Manaslu glacier and Mt Manaslu (Kang Pungen). This round trip takes you 7-8 hours to complete. If you wish to explore differently, there is a glacier across the valley (Birendra Tal).
Also, you can skip the hike and rest at Samagaun and explore the village if you wish to.
Today, the trail swiftly moves across pastures and Honing Khola before gradually elevating. Keep your head up for the stunning sight of Manaslu as you reach Samdo. It is a small Tibetan refugee village very close to the Tibet border.
The people around the Samdo Gou are called Bhotia. After lunch, you may go for a hike around the village or explore the Bhotia community, Taka Choeling Gompa, with the view of Naike and Pangbuche peak.
After breakfast in Samdo, you pass by the thrilling suspension bridge and the Tibetan market Larkya Bazaar, which operates during certain seasons.
Descend to the Budi Gandaki River and cross a wooden bridge. Follow the route that includes crossing two streams with stunning scenery of the Larkya glacier and Larkya peak.
Pass by the valley of Salka Khola and climb until you reach Dharamsala, Larkya Phedi (4460m). Tomorrow is a significant and strenuous day: a climb to the Larkya-la pass.
Today is the most awaited day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Today is the day you pass, Larkya la (5,106m). After you leave behind Dharamsala, a gradual climb towards Cho Chanda and moraine routes leads you to Larkya la Pass.
Witness the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view from Larkya. Mountains visible from the Pass are Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Gyaji Kung, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
Walking along the glaciers, snow screen, rock-falling area, and direct steep descent, you reach Bimthang, where you will stay for a night.
After a good sleep, rise with the fantastic views of dominant Mt Manaslu, Cheo Himal, and Lamjung Himal. Starting this day, you descend through vast pastures to the riverbed of the Dudh Khola. Cross a wooden bridge as the trail climbs alongside terraced paddies before Kharche.
This mountain pass is less spectacular than Larkya La. But affords excellent views of the path you are going to take. Witness Marsyangdi River winding through a forested valley far below. After a few hours of walking, past the small settlements like Kharche and Goa, you reach Tilije.
After a long hike, we conclude the day and the Manaslu round trip with a drive to Dharapani Village. These points are the starting point of another popular trip in Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Our foot journey starts on the 14th day of the Annapurna Trekking. The trekking trail continues from Dharapani to the village of Chame, where the manangi and Gurung ethnic groups settle. The trail is essentially a mule route path that ascends through forests of fir, oak, and continues alongside a beautiful river of Marshyangdi.
Koto (2600m) village, before our final destination of the day (Chame), serves as a junction between the Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit trails, where all necessary permits for each trip are checked. After a few minutes of walking, we will be at Chame, where one can find various facilities such as medical, communication, electricity, and many more.
The trail continues on to the beautiful village of Upper Pisang, our final destination for the day. The trails branch out further from Chame to Thaleku and Bhartang into winding woodlands decorated with natural treasures; if lucky, you can gaze at monal, danphe, and even peacocks in the forested area dancing and enjoying their habitat.
Views of the amazing Pisang Peak and the Annapurna range along the trail are spectacular to look at! Combined with the gorgeous landscape, the trek is full of pleasant natural opulence! We chose the upper trail section, leaving behind the straightway to lower Pisang to reach Upper Pisang from Dhikur Pokharai and stay there.
Taking the upper route from Manang via the Green lake (Miring Tso), a hidden and high glaciated lake of Manang district and a place that needs to be discovered in Annapurna Circuit; peaceful, quiet, and serene. We will pass by Deurali Danda, Ghyaru, and Ngawal (3660 m), where the mountain peaks of each of the Himalayas become visible from there. Panoramic views of mountain peaks like the Annapurna range, the Gangapurna and the Pisang Peak, among many, become your companion for the day, looking and walking with us side by side, making our trek pleasant.
will also pay a visit to the Barge Monastery in Manang- a century-old monastery that has a peaceful Buddhist ambiance. It is also the largest monastery in the entire Manang district. Finally, after some lauding at the monastery, we will be at Manang.
Today is set aside for acclimatization. You will stay at Manang and spend time visiting the local monasteries and religious Gumbas. You can also spend the day observing the local life of the village people and visiting the marketplace. You can also take a trip to the serene Gangapurna Lake and stroll around Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic, just a few minutes ahead of Manang, and then to Chongkor Viewpoint, where you can get the picture-perfect view of Manang valley and Gangapurna Himal.
If you are eager for more hikes and physically attentive, then we recommend Kicho Tal (4600m), also known as Ice Lake. For this, we have to be ready early in the morning, pack our day meals, and embark, as it will take 6-7 hours to reach. It's a long hike, but the view? You won't be disenchanted, trust us. Majestic sights of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak reveal that it is worth every step of challenging ascents. We return the same trail to Manang for a good sleep.
After spending 2 good nights in Manang, we will start our journey to the village of Yak Kharka. The trail is quite pretty, with clear-flowing streams and brooks intersecting at regular points. As you cross streams, you will ascend to the village of Tenki (Tengi). It lies above Manang and is a dainty village of ethnic Limbu people. Further on, you will climb to the Marshyangdi Valley and trek northwest up to the valley of Jarsang Khola.
We will then follow the valley northwards and pass lush pastures to trek through the scrubs of juniper hamlets. The trail gradually climbs upwards, and eventually, we will reach the village of Ghunsang (3950m, also known as Ghunsa by the locals in the area) - a small settlement with flat mud roofs located just below the trailhead.
Continuing further, the trail goes through meadows filled with contentedly grazing yaks and horses, but with only one or two teashops in between. Passing ancient Mani stone walls and wooden bridges, we will finally reach Yak Kharka.
Making our way past Yak Kharka, we will move towards the foot of Thorong Phedi. This is a small yet bustling settlement that caters to the needs of the trekkers and climbers. We will use this point as our base camp and stop for the day.
Some trekkers avoid Thorong Phedi and hike to High Camp by crossing high high-hanging suspension bridge on this day for a better start for the high pass. However, we recommend staying at Thorong Phedi in order to sleep soundly (rather than taking a risk at a less peaceful night in the higher elevations at High Camp).
We will sleep in early compared to other days because we will get up early, between 3:15 and 3:30. Please make sure to pack all items accordingly.
Big day of the trip. We will make an early start around 4 AM, pack our essentials, and leave Thorong Phedi behind for our climb to the Pass. As we approach the peak, the trekking trails become slushy from melted snow. After a 4 to nearly 5 hours walk early in the morning, around 8:30 AM, we will reach our highest point of the trek, Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
The top offers an indescribably breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the snow-capped peaks that extend northwards into Tibet. We can also see several peaks of the Annapurna and the beautiful gorge of Kali Gandaki. Our path then descends to Muktinath (3800m) – a significant pilgrimage site for the Hindu and Buddhist people.
Muktinath is a special place and home to many ethnic Tibetans and devout Buddhists. It is a religiously significant site where hordes of devotees make their way for prayer.
Early morning, after visiting the holy temple of Muktinath, we are close to completing our Annapurna Circuit Trip as we drive to Pokhara by local transportation.
Alternatively, you can first drive to Jomsom and fly to Pokhara at an additional cost. However, flight availability is limited (During Peak seasons) and cancellations from Jomsom to Pokhara are common, so we request to book early.
As we reach the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. You can explore the places, buy souvenirs, interact with your guides and porters, or even enjoy peaceful lakeside boating on your own.
End of our trip. With thousands of memories, millions of unforgettable moments, and the joy of completing the Nepal Annapurna Circuit, we drive back to Kathmandu today. The road section from KTM to Pokhara is under construction, offering amazing natural scenery and a glimpse of Nepal’s countryside. The distance is not too long; however, an ongoing process can make it a problem, and the 5-6 hours can take time, even up to 8 -9 hours. Overnight at the Kathmandu Hotel.
Note: If you are tired of long driving hours, you can opt for a direct flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu; however, an additional fee will be incurred.
Farewell from the Index Adventure family until next time. We will transfer to the International Airport before the scheduled flight.
With us, Index Adventure, the Manaslu wth Annapurna journey carries quiet gifts along the way—small touches, deeply rooted in care. Our add-on services aren’t surplus, they’re gentle hands that steady your path, warm moments around shared tea, and local wisdom that opens the trail like a conversation, making your Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek premium.
Each offering is chosen not to impress—but to hold space for you to feel the adventure to Manaslu & Annapurna more fully, more closely, more truly.
Porter Service – US$380: Let our experienced porter carry your load, so you can wander freely and take in the beauty around you. One porter can be shared between two trekkers, carrying a total of up to 25 kg (55 lbs).
Private Jeep from Kathmandu to Machhikhola – US$220: Kickstart your trip in style with a private jeep—easy, comfortable, and built for the bounce. Each jeep fits up to 6 passengers.
Muktinath to Pokhara via Private Jeep – US$200: Enjoy a relaxing ride back to Kathmandu in a private jeep. Each jeep fits up to 6 passengers.
Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara -US$170 per person (Flight Time 15 minutes).
Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu -US$106 Per Person (Flight Time 20 minutes).
No, you cannot do the Manaslu trek solo. Trekkers are not authorized to trek alone around the Manaslu valley due to the Manaslu area being a restricted region (as designated by the Nepalese Authority), which requires a minimum of two people in a group. A single person is unable to issue a special permit, and a licensed guide is mandatory from a government-registered company.
As soon as you land at the Kathmandu Airport and complete the arrival procedure, Index Adventure Treks’ staff will be there to pick you up. He will be standing at the entrance gate with the company brand name “Index Adventure” or with your name on a placard. Then he will transfer you to your designated hotel.
To trek the Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek, you’ll need 3 different permits:
The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
The RAP costs US$100 for the first 7 days from Sept, Oct, and November & US$15 for each additional day. From Dec to Aug, it’s US$75 for 7 days and US$10 for each extra day. Both the MCAP and ACAP cost USD 30 per person.
A licensed guide is compulsory for this region, and all necessary permits are arranged by Index Adventure.
The blissful period and summery time to hike Manaslu is in spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November). Spring arrives with green mounds, limpid and lucid skies, and trails lined with blooming laliguras near Lho and Samagaon.
In autumn, the monsoon retreats, revealing austere peaks and gilded fields near Namrung and Sho. The air turns spirited, and festives like Dashain and Tihar lend a deeper throb to the land of Bhotia.
Winter and summer times should be highly avoided. Winter and summer distort the path with ice, landslides, and heavy rain. We recommend that you choose the peak season to trek in the Manaslu area.
Yes, drinking water is available on the Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek, but it must be treated before consuming. Brooks and torrential river water flowing from glaciers may look clean, but can carry harmful bacteria or parasites.
Use disinfectant tablets (pills), a purifier attached to a bottle, or drink boiled water from tea houses. Bottled water is also sold but costs more and harms the environment. Stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
In the Manaslu region and Annapurna Region, particularly among the Tsumba autochthonous, meals typically consist of traditional Nepali dainty and Tibetan dishes. Dal Bhat (Lentil-Rice), a staple of rice, lentil soup, aachar (pickle), and vegetable curry, is a mainstay with an offer of unlimited refills.
Other popular choices include noodles, dumplings (momos), Thukpa (noodle soup), and various rice dishes. You'll also find Tibetan bread, butter tea, pancakes, porridge, and dishes featuring potatoes.
In higher altitudes, menus may be more limited, but you can still find fresh vegetables (spinach, potatoes, beans, and others) and, in some areas, even yak meat, milk, or butter. In restricted area, you can find all vegan, veg, and gluten-free meals. Just let your guide know before you order.
The duration of the Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit trek depends on the trekker's holiday. Trekking days are customizable as per the traveler's choice. Considering the differences, we primarily provide short and extended treks to Manaslu and Annapurna.
For the Manaslu and Annapurna region, we provide a 23-day Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek. We also offer Tsum Valley with Manaslu Trek for a more extended stay at Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek.
There are 2 high passes: Thorong La ( 5,416 M ) in Annapurna Region, & Larkya La Pass (5,106m), Manaslu Region. But the highest and most demanding section of the Annapurna. Stay more careful during the steep descent from the Both Pass. Both the top point of the trek provides the finest panoramic view of the mountains.
The major ethnic groups of the Manaslu with Annapurna region are Nubri and Tsum. However, Gurung dominates the central part. The majority of the population in the Manaslu region follows Tibetan Buddhism. We find many old monasteries, Chortens, prayer flags, and wheels that symbolize Buddhist local culture.
Our itinerary has rest days or acclimatization days to prevent Altitude sickness. During the trek, slow walking and plenty of water help to acclimate to the area properly. Consult a trekking guide if you experience headaches, fatigue, and breathing difficulties.
Regarding the Nepal visa info, most tourists get an on-arrival visa at the Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, but your passport should be valid for 6 months.
At this time, the online forum/app for arrival and departure to Nepal must be submitted before the flight. You can check updated information and policies of the Nepal visa on the government sites. Review the official link of Nepal immigration for more details: http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/
Yes, travel insurance is required and very compulsory for the Manaslu with annapurna Circuit Trek. It is a high-altitude trek with potential risks such as altitude sickness, accidents, injuries, and unexpected disruptions. Covers emergencies like helicopter evacuation or medical treatments. Protects against loss of property, trip cancellations, or delays.
There are no ATMs in the Manaslu circuit & Annapurna trail. There is no access to credit/debit cards either. The trekking guide does 3-time meals and accommodation costs during the trek.
We also suggest you take at least Nepalese rupees cash, Rs 2000-3000 per day, for extra expenses (hot shower, drinks, extra snacks, network connectivity, device charging, and more). Before your hike starts, withdraw some amount in KTM.
Yes, you can use regular internet services during the Manaslu & Annapurna trek, but the signal of the internet package could be fluctuating or with high speed. The internet service comes with a cost; it is not available for free, so if you need it, you can buy the internet service. Somewhere, Mobile coverage as 3G or 4 G works, but it depends on location and weather.
The answer is no. You can't rely on credit cards in the Manaslu & Annapurna region. The area is remote, and there's no solid infrastructure for card payments. Tea houses, local shops, and lodges deal strictly in cash—mostly Nepali Rupees. ATMs are nearly nonexistent once you leave Kathmandu or Pokhara. Even where cards might work, extra charges or poor exchange rates are common.
