Head to head
Manaslu Circuit vs Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is the more approachable option (Challenging, max 5,143 m), while Manaslu Circuit is the bigger undertaking (Strenuous, max 5,106 m). Pick based on your experience, available days and how high you're comfortable sleeping.
Difficulty
Manaslu: Strenuous
vs Kanchenjunga: Challenging
Max altitude
Manaslu: 5,106 m
vs Kanchenjunga: 5,143 m
Duration
Manaslu: 14 days
vs Kanchenjunga: 20 days
Choose
Manaslu Circuit
if you want…
- Shorter trip — 14 days vs 20
- Lower max altitude (5,106 m) — gentler on acclimatization
- More popular and better supported with teahouses
- Explores the Manaslu region
Choose
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
if you want…
- Less demanding — Challenging vs Strenuous
- Higher summit point (5,143 m) for bigger mountain views
- More time on the trail — 20 days to immerse
- Quieter, more remote region
Full comparison
| Manaslu Circuit | Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Strenuous | Challenging |
| Duration | 14 days | 20 days |
| Max altitude | 5,106 m | 5,143 m |
| Total distance | 160 km | 220 km |
| Elevation gain | 8,200 m | 9,500 m |
| Best season | Mar–May, Sep–Nov | Mar–May, Oct–Nov |
| Est. budget | USD 900-2,200 | USD 700-1,500 |
| Permits | Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, TIMS Card | Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit, Restricted Area Permit, TIMS Card |
| Accommodation | Teahouses and local lodges | Teahouses and local lodges |
| Mobile network | Patchy in upper sections | Patchy in upper sections |
| Safety level | High | High |
Planning aid only. GPX and route pages are not live trail authority. Map packs need download on Wi‑Fi; weather and SMS need connectivity when used.
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