Side by side
| Khopra Danda Trek | Manaslu Circuit Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 8 | 16 |
| Highest point | 4,660 m | 5,106 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Challenging |
| Total distance | 78 km | 177 km |
| Best months | March to May and October to December | March to April and October to November |
| Typical cost | $680 to $1,150 | $1,400 to $2,800 |
| Starts from | Nayapul or Ghandruk, near Pokhara | Soti Khola (700 m) or Machha Khola |
| Permits | 2 | 3 |
Choose the Khopra Danda Trek if
The Khopra Danda trek is an 8 day ridge trail in Nepal's Annapurna region reaching 3,660 m at the lodge and 4,660 m at holy Khayer Lake. It offers close panoramic views of Mount Dhaulagiri across the Kali Gandaki gorge without the heavy foot traffic of Poon Hill.
Steep forest trails and an exposed ridgeline. The excursion up to Khayer Lake at 4,660 m requires good fitness, early morning departures and steady footing over loose stone paths.
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.
