Manang, situated within the Annapurna area, goes from 3,000 m to over 8,000 m. Monsoon clouds are effectively blocked by the mountains and it is up to the glaciers and melted mountain snows to feed the many lakes, brooks, and rivers, and keep alive the meadows, forests, and farmlands in the area. The harsh, dry desert-like conditions in Manang Valley also means that the Manangi people don't lose their nomadic roots. Horse-riding and archery were the most popular tools used by these people to gather food, and these abilities are still prized among the people, and are celebrated and renewed each year with festivals.

Manang district consists of 13 villages and is divided into two valleys, the Upper Valley and the Lower Valley. The Valleys harsh landscape has, so far, prevented roads from being built. Travel is possible through man-made trails on horseback, or on foot. Goods are usually transported by mule trains or by porters.