All three of these treks provide great adventure, gratifying challenge, stunning views and memorable experiences. To help you decide on which one would be of best fit to you, I’ve pointed out below few key differentiating factors between these treks:
- The max altitude you reach on Annapurna Sanctuary trek is 4200m approx, while Annapurna Circuit trek reaches up to 5400 approx and Manaslu Circuit trek up to around 5200m. So the Annapurna Sanctuary is the least demanding of the three, and Manaslu Circuit is the most demanding.
- All three are now lodge based treks (which is more affordable than camping expedition treks)
- The Annapurna Sanctuary, depending on the route you take, can be completed in 7-10 days; Annapurna Circuit in 7-15 days and Manaslu in 12-18 days
- The Annapurna Sanctuary is the most popular of the 3 treks
- The Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit offer more of a varied landscape, terrains and cultures compared to Annapurna Sanctuary
- The Annapurna Circuit at one time was considered one of the 5 best treks in the world but due to development of road connections in the last 15 years or so, it has been progressively losing its shine. The Manaslu Circuit, especially after becoming a lodge-based trek, is increasingly attracting the trekkers away from Annapurna Circuit.
So really it depends on your preference and abilities.
