Manang Annapurna Nepal: Manang is known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage in the Annapurna region. It is situated in the wide valley of the Marshyangdi River, to the north of the Annapurna mountain range. The Annapurna Circuit Trek, also known as the Thorong La Pass Trek, leads through Manang village (3,540 m / 11,615 ft).
Manang District, located in Gandaki Province, is one of the seventy-seven districts of Nepal. The district headquarters is in Chame. The total area of the district covers 2,246 square kilometers (867 square miles), and its population is 5,658, according to the National Population and Housing Census 2021 (2078 B.S.).
The Thorung La Pass, at 5,416 m / 17,780 ft above sea level, connects Manang with the Mustang District, providing a route between the towns of Manang and Muktinath. The Manang Valley, close to the Nepal-Tibet border, offers tremendous opportunities due to its rich natural flora and fauna.
Local Governments in Manang
Manang District is devided into four rural municipalities: Chame, Narpa Bhumi, Nashong, and Manang Ngisyang. These municipalities were established in 2017, replacing the previous Village Development Committees (VDCs), which included Chame, Manang, Tanki Manang, Khangsar, Braka, Pisang, Ghyaru, Ngawal, Dharapani, Tachai Bagarchhap, Thoche, Nar, and Phu.
- Chame Rural Municipality (Nepali: चामे गाउँपालिका)
Chame is one of the four rural municipalities in Manang. It was established in 2017 (2073 B.S.) and was formed from the former Chame VDC. It is divided into 5 wards, with its office located in Chame.
- Area: 79 sq. km
- Population: 1,276 (2021 census)
- Borders: Nashong to the east, Manang Ngisyang to the west, Nashong and Narpa Bhumi to the north, and Kaski District to the south.
- Manang Ngisyang Rural Municipality (Nepali: मनाङ ङिस्याङ गाउँपालिका)
Established in 2017 (2073 B.S.), this municipality was formed by merging seven VDCs: Manang, Tanki Manang, Khangsar, Braka, Pisang, Ghyaru, and Ngawal. It is divided into 9 wards, with its office in Humde.
- Area: 695 sq. km
- Population: 1,595 (2021 census)
- Borders: Chame to the east, Mustang District to the west, Narpa Bhumi to the north, and Kaski and Myagdi districts to the south.
- Nashong Rural Municipality (Nepali: नासोँ गाउँपालिका)
Formed by combining the former Dharapani, Tachai Bagarchhap, and Thoche VDCs in 2017 (2073 B.S.), it is divided into 9 wards. The office is in Dharapani.
- Area: 710 sq. km
- Population: 1,671 (2021 census)
- Borders: Gorkha and Lamjung districts to the east, Chame and Narpa Bhumi to the west, Gorkha and China to the north, and Lamjung to the south.
- Narpa Bhumi Rural Municipality (Nepali: नार्पा भूमि गाउँपालिका)
This municipality was formed from the former Nar and Phu VDCs in 2017 (2073 B.S.). It is divided into 5 wards, with its office in Chyankhu.
- Area: 838 sq. km
- Population: 396 (2021 census)
- Borders: Nashong to the east, Mustang to the west, China to the north, and Manang Ngisyang to the south.
Major Attractions in Manang, Annapurna, Nepal
Tal Village
- Location: Gateway to Manang from Lamjung on the Annapurna Circuit Trail
- Special Feature: A peaceful town with a beautiful year-round waterfall.
Hot Springs
- Location: Dharapani, Latemarang, and Chame
- Special Feature: Naturally hot water for relaxing showers and soothing sore muscles.
Sworga Dwari (Gateway to Heaven)
- Location: Between Bratang and Pisang
- Special Feature: A dramatic rock face rising above the Marshyangdi River.
Ghyaru and Ngawal
- Location: 1.5 to 2 hours’ walk from Pisang
- Special Feature: Traditional hillside villages with some of the most spectacular views in Annapurna.
Braka Gompa
- Location: Braka Village
- Special Feature: A 500-year-old Buddhist monastery showcasing local heritage.
Manang Village
- Location: 4–5 hours from Pisang
- Special Feature: A charming village with full tourist facilities and great acclimatization hikes.
Ice Lake
- Location: 3–4 hours from Manang
- Special Feature: Stunning lake views, yak pastures, and potential snow leopard sightings.
Gangapurna Lake
- Location: 15 minutes from Manang
- Special Feature: Views of Gangapurna Peak and glacier.
Tilicho Lake
- Location: 3 days from Manang via Khangsar
- Special Feature: One of the world’s highest lakes (4,900 m) with stunning mountain views and access to the 500-year-old Tare Gompa.
Yak Kharka (Pastureland)
- Location: 3–4 hours from Manang on the Annapurna Circuit
- Special Feature: Habitat of snow leopards and blue sheep.
Geographical Division of Manang
- Gyalsomdo (Tal to Chame)
Located in the southern part of Manang in the Marshyangdi gorge. Mostly inhabited by Gurungs, followers of Bonpo Buddhism, along with Ghale, Lama, Gurung, Ghotiya, Kami, and Tibetan migrants. Once a hub for salt trade via Larke Pass, today it relies on agriculture, livestock, labor, and tourism. - Nyeshang (Pisang to Khangsar)
This high-altitude valley stretches 20 km and lies at 3,500 meters. Populated by the Nyeshangpa or Manangi people who migrated from Tibet. The culture is deeply Buddhist, with old gompas and prayer flags dotting the landscape. Traditionally traders, Manangi people have increasingly turned to tourism. Agriculture (barley, wheat, buckwheat, potatoes) and yak grazing remain vital. - Nar Phu Valley
The northernmost region, bordering China. The people here, like those in Nyeshang, are strong followers of Lamaist Buddhism. The area is physically isolated but culturally rich.
Major Mountains in Manang
- Mount Manaslu – 8,163 m / 26,781 ft
- Mount Annapurna II – 7,937 m / 26,040 ft
- Mount Annapurna III – 7,555 m / 24,787 ft
- Mount Annapurna IV – 7,525 m / 24,688 ft
- Mount Gangapurna – 7,455 m / 24,449 ft
- Tilicho Himal – 7,134 m / 23,405 ft
- Lamjung Himal – 6,983 m / 22,910 ft
- Chulu East Peak – 6,584 m / 21,601 ft
- Pisang Peak – 6,091 m / 19,983 ft
Manang is proud of its spectacular mountain scenery. Despite being one of the more remote districts in Nepal, it is rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. The Annapurna Circuit Trek, including the famous Thorong La Pass, is one of the most popular trekking routes in the Himalayas, attracting thousands of travelers each year.
Best Time to Visit Manang
The ideal time to visit Manang is during the months of February, March, April, May, September, October, November, and December. These periods offer the most favorable weather for trekking, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and minimal rainfall.
In spring (March to May), the trails are lined with blooming rhododendrons and vibrant alpine flowers, adding a burst of color to the breathtaking mountain landscapes. Autumn (September to November) provides crystal-clear views of the Himalayas, golden-hued forests, and cool, stable weather—perfect for high-altitude treks and long hiking days.
Whether you’re seeking vivid natural beauty or dramatic mountain vistas, these months offer the best conditions for exploring Manang.
Best Trip Areas in Manang
1. Short Adventure (5 to 7 Days): Manang and Around
Highlights: Explore the charming villages of Pisang, Ngawal, Gyaru, Braka and Manang, visit Gangapurna Lake and Ice Lake, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Best for: Travelers with limited time who want a taste of the Himalayas without crossing high passes.
Hiking Type: Moderate hikes, great for acclimatization and photography.
2. Classic Trek (11 to 15 Days): Manang and Annapurna Circuit
Highlights: Journey through diverse climates and landscapes, culminating in the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,780 ft). Pass through Manang, Yak Kharka, and Muktinath.
Best for: Trekkers seeking the iconic Annapurna experience.
Trek Type: Demanding but rewarding. Great mix of nature and culture.
3. Epic Side Quest (16 to 20 Days): Manang, Tilicho Lake & Annapurna Circuit Trek
Highlights: Add a dramatic detour to the stunning Tilicho Lake (4,919m)—one of the world’s highest lakes. Then reconnect with the classic Annapurna circuit.
Best for: Adventure seekers wanting something more remote and scenic.
Trek Type: Physically demanding. High-altitude moderate trekking experience recommended.
4. Hidden Gems Adventure (17 to 22 Days): Nar Phu Valley, Manang & Annapurna Circuit
Highlights: Explore the remote Nar and Phu villages, ancient Tibetan-style communities untouched by mass tourism. Merge into the Annapurna Circuit via Kang La Pass.
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path explorers and cultural trekkers.
Trek Type: Challenging, remote, and highly rewarding. Requires a special permit.
