Trekking the Manang Region Without Completing the Annapurna Circuit: What Are Your Options?

Most people associate the Manang region with the legendary Annapurna Circuit, but did you know you can explore this stunning Himalayan area without doing the full loop? If you’re short on time, not quite ready to commit to 2+ weeks of high-altitude trekking, or just want to focus on the raw beauty of Manang itself—good news: there are multiple trekking routes that get you deep into the Manang region without requiring the full Annapurna commitment.

Manang is more than just a stopover on the Circuit. With its moonlike valleys, Tibetan-influenced culture, towering peaks, and unreal alpine lakes, it’s a destination all on its own. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to explore Manang without walking all the way around the Annapurna Massif.

1. Manang Village Trek – A Short Yet Rewarding Adventure

This is your best bet if you want a relatively short trek that still feels epic. Starting from Besisahar or Chame, you’ll gradually ascend through traditional Gurung villages, forests, and dramatic gorges until you reach the high-altitude village of Manang (3,519m).

• Highlights: Manang town, Gangapurna Glacier Viewpoint, Ice Lake hike, monasteries, local yak cheese.

• Days Required: 6–8 days round-trip (depending on your starting point).

• Why It’s Great: Perfect for acclimatization, offers cultural immersion, and doesn’t demand a pass crossing.

2. Tilicho Lake Trek – The Jewel of the Annapurna

Want to see one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,919m? The Tilicho Lake Trek starts off similarly to the Manang Village Trek but extends further into the wilderness.

From Manang, a detour leads you through Khangsar Village and then to the shimmering Tilicho Lake itself—an unforgettable alpine spectacle surrounded by 7,000-meter peaks.

• Highlights: Tilicho Lake, Khangsar village, medieval-style stone houses, high-altitude landscapes.

• Days Required: 9–12 days (depending on exit route).

• Optional Exit: Return the same way or cross the Mesokanto La Pass and descend to Jomsom (only for experienced trekkers).

3. Shortened Annapurna Circuit – Enter at Chame

Pressed for time but still want to taste the magic of the Annapurna Circuit? You can skip the lower hot-and-humid stretches by driving directly to Chame (2,670m) and starting your trek from there.

From Chame, you can follow the circuit north through Upper Pisang, Manang, and beyond. You can stop at Tilicho Lake or cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) if you’re feeling adventurous.

• Highlights: Upper Pisang monastery, Tilicho Lake (optional), Thorong La (optional).

• Days Required: 10–14 days depending on your route.

• Why It’s Flexible: You can turn back at any point or continue all the way to Jomsom or Tatopani.

4. Mesokanto La Pass Trek – Wild, Remote, and Rugged

Want a real adventure? The Mesokanto La Pass (5,099m) links Manang to the Jomsom area without crossing the more popular Thorong La. This is a challenging and remote route, passing Tilicho Lake and heading west through rugged mountain terrain.

It’s not recommended for beginners, but it’s perfect if you’re looking to avoid crowds and push your limits a little further.

• Highlights: Tilicho Lake, Mesokanto La, solitude, panoramic mountain views.

• Days Required: 10–12 days from Besisahar to Jomsom.

• Caution: Snow and ice conditions can make the pass impassable; check locally before you go.

5. Nar & Phu Valley Trek – The Hidden Kingdoms

If your heart lies in cultural exploration and raw Himalayan isolation, the Nar and Phu Valley trek is a must. This route splits off from the main Annapurna Circuit at Koto (near Chame) and ventures north into two of Nepal’s most secluded villages—Nar and Phu.

Think ancient fortresses, cliffside monasteries, and a landscape that feels like stepping into a different century. You can return the same way or loop back into Manang via Kang La Pass (5,306m).

• Highlights: Hidden Tibetan-style villages, Nar Phedi Monastery, Himalayan wilderness, off-the-beaten-path vibe.

• Days Required: 10–13 days.

• Permit Alert: You’ll need a restricted area permit and must hire a licensed guide.

📌 Trekking Essentials for the Manang Region

Whether you’re doing a quick village loop or a high-pass crossing, here’s what you need to know before heading out:

Final Thoughts: Manang Without the Full Circuit? Absolutely.

Don’t let time constraints or the daunting length of the full Annapurna Circuit stop you from experiencing the wild beauty of Manang. Whether you’re gazing at Tilicho Lake, exploring ancient Nar Phu villages, or sipping tea in Manang town, the region offers more than enough to satisfy your trekking soul—all without going the full 360.

Pro tip: If you’ve only got a week or so, consider combining the Manang Village Trek with a day trip to Ice Lake—it’s short, steep, and stunning.

Got questions about which Manang trek is right for you? Message us—we’ll help you plan your route, permits, and everything in between.