The Manaslu region lies in the Gorkha district of Nepal, which is regarded as among the most unexplored trekking areas in the country. The Manaslu region is best known for the presence of the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu.
It is situated at an altitude of 8,163 meters. Mt Manaslu opens the door for trekking, hiking, climbing, and other adventure activities. While many areas of the region are still unexplored, one typical trekking route inside the Manaslu region has caught the eye of several trekking enthusiasts, and that is the Manaslu circuit.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is an off-beaten trekking loop around Mount Manaslu, where trekkers pass through diverse terrains, challenging paths, and remote, charming villages. This Manaslu circuit trek is renowned for providing spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, including Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Ganesh Himal Range, Ngadi Chuli, Himalchuli, Samdo Peak, Larke Peak, and, of course, the majestic Manaslu.
Similarly, the Manaslu Circuit trek also allows visits to the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to some of the most exotic flora and fauna. The Manaslu Conservation Area includes wildlife like Snow Leopard, Lynx, Musk Deer, Red fox, Brown Bear, Blue Sheep, Himalayan Tahr, Himalayan Serow, Wooly Hare, Himalayan Marmot, and others.
With the remarkable experience of the Manaslu region, the trail is rather challenging due to unpredictable weather conditions. The Manaslu circuit trek features Larkya La Pass(5,160 m), known for its challenging high-altitude mountain pass.
So, weather plays a crucial role in undertaking the Larkya Pass, and even the entire Manaslu circuit trek is highly dependent on suitable weather conditions. Small weather fluctuations can significantly impact the trekking conditions and compromise the experience. So, choosing the best time for the Manaslu circuit is very important.
Manaslu circuit weather variations play an important role in determining the journey's safety, comfort, and overall success. Choosing the wrong season can expose trekkers to extreme cold, heavy rainfall, and landslides, making the trek dangerous.
Among all the Manaslu circuit trekking seasons,autumn is the best season for the Manaslu circuit trek. The weather is stable, the temperature is moderate, and the trails are dry and possess minimal risks. Likewise, autumn offers the best panoramic view of mountains, which provides clear visibility. Overall, trekking in the Manaslu circuit during autumn is comfortable and safe.
Likewise,spring is the second best time for Manaslu circuit trekking,marked by mild temperatures and blooming rhododendron forests. The snow begins to melt, making the mountain passes more accessible. Spring is also suitable for the visibility of panoramic mountains. Likewise, the trails are in good condition, and the stable weather provides a comfortable experience.
On the other hand, winter is a challenging and risky time to do trekking in Nepal. The Manaslu region especially faces extreme cold and heavy snowfall. The Larkya La pass often becomes impassable during winter, and the trails are icy, which can be dangerous. Sometimes, winter offers clear skies on some days, but snowstorms and freezing fog can obscure visibility. So, trekking during winter is very difficult, with cold temperatures, icy trails, and deep snow, making the trek challenging and even dangerous.
Lastly, the monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, landslides, and slippery trails, making the trek difficult and risky. Similarly, the skies are filled with constant clouds, which surely obstruct the mountain views, compromising the trekking experience. The monsoon season has the worst visibility, with frequent clouds, fog, and rain making it difficult to appreciate the surrounding mountains. So trekking in monsoon season is very difficult, with muddy, slippery trails, and the risk of landslides significantly increases the number of hazards. So, choosing the best time to trek Manaslu circuit is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Why Autumn & Spring Are the Best Time for Manaslu Circuit?
✅ Larkya La Pass is safely crossable
✅ Accommodation is widely available
✅ Mountain views are crystal clear
✅ Stable temperatures for comfortable trekking
✅ Festivals & cultural immersion in Autumn
Month-by-Month Manaslu Circuit Guide
Manaslu Circuit trek in December
December marks the beginning of winter, and the surroundings get chilly. The higher altitude can have temperatures up to -8 degrees Celsius. By the end of December, locals in the upper region, especially Samdo, and Dharamshala, will have moved to lower areas to avoid the cold. So most of the accommodation options remain closed at this period.
Manaslu Circuit trek in January
January is the coldest month in Nepal. The Manaslu Circuit region persists with heavy snowfall and freezing weather conditions. Similarly, the frigid conditions cause difficulty in crossing Larke Pass, and walking in the snowy terrain requires proper technical gear. Also, the accommodation options remain closed as the locals drop down to avoid harsh climatic conditions.
Manaslu Circuit trek in February
February marks the end of winter, and the temperature slowly rises. The February days can be sunny, but it can be below the freezing point at night. Still, trekkers can get to see the snow-capped vistas of mountains.
Manaslu Circuit trek in March
March is the spring season's beginning when the temperature increases and the days become warm. March is an excellent time to trek to Manaslu Circuit as the weather conditions are moderate without any complications. Early March can still be cold, but there is very little chance of snow and rainfall.
Manaslu Circuit trek in April
April is the best month for trekking in Manaslu Circuit during spring. The days get warmer day by day, and there is plenty of sunlight that offers excellent visibility. All the surroundings turn green, giving the experience a vibrant one. The forests and rhododendrons bloom, adding an extra touch of beauty to the trek.
Manaslu Circuit trek in May
May marks the end of the spring season in Nepal. The weather is generally warm and stable, with plenty of sunshine. Similarly, the day follows with a cool breeze, allowing for comfortable walking. Likewise, trekkers can see another number of individuals stationed at Manaslu Base Camp for expeditions.
Manaslu Circuit trek in June
June marks the beginning of Summer. The days are bright and sunny, and trekkers can witness slight rainfall at lower altitudes by the end of the month. But the view after the rainfall is fabulous. Trekkers do need to pack additional rain gear. Also, as the number of trekkers in June is lower, trekkers can quickly get some discounts at the teahouses.
Manaslu Circuit trek in July
July has a higher frequency of rain, and trekkers can feel the increase in temperature. Generally, trekkers can experience rain during the evening and night; however, mornings are clear with an unobstructed view of snow-capped mountains. Similarly, the atmosphere is green, and the scenic view of forests promotes longer walking.
Manaslu Circuit trek in August
The month of August is quite similar to July. It is the wettest month of summer, so trekkers can expect a high frequency of rainfall. The trails can be damp and slippery during August, so investing in good-quality gear and clothes is ideal to counter the effect of rainfall.
Manaslu Circuit trek in September
September marks the start of autumn. The temperature of the summer season starts to fall as September approaches. However, rainfall continues until the end of September, and the skies become visible after the rain. So, trekkers can experience two different seasons during September.
Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek in September
Manaslu Circuit trek in October
October is the best month to go to the Manaslu Circuit region. The days are warm, with clear skies that portray an unobstructed view of snow-capped mountains. The weather is neither hot nor cold, making it an ideal condition for trekkers. However, trekkers can feel cold up to a certain amount at night in higher altitudes. Nonetheless, the Manaslu Circuit trekking trail can be crowded during October, resulting in scarce accommodation options. But in Nepal, October is the month of festivals, including the grandest festival of Nepal, Dashian. So October allows trekkers to immerse in the festive environment and learn more about the culture, tradition, and customs.
Manaslu Circuit trek in November
November is another good month to trek. The temperature is moderate, and it is the driest month of the year. So, trekkers will not experience any rainfall during the month. So, the visibility of mountains is genuinely excellent during the month. Also, trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit trail can experience the annual Manaslu trail race, which lasts from the first to the third week of November.
Choosing the Right Time to Manaslu Circuit Trek Based on Your Preferences
The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit depends on what kind of experience you're looking for. While spring and autumn are generally considered the ideal trekking seasons, each time of year offers something unique. Here's how to choose the best season for you:
📸 For Photographers: Spring (March to May)
If you're after vibrant landscapes and blooming rhododendrons, spring is your season. The skies are generally clear in the mornings, offering crisp views of Mt. Manaslu and neighboring peaks. The colorful flowers and lively forests make this a paradise for nature photography.
🚶♂️ For Peace and Quiet: Winter (December to February)
Looking to escape the crowds? Winter offers solitude, frozen waterfalls, and a peaceful trail. While it’s colder and snow can block higher passes like Larkya La, the lower regions are still accessible and incredibly serene.
💸 For Budget Travelers: Off-Season Treks (June to August & December to February)
During monsoon and winter, fewer trekkers mean lower prices on accommodation and guides. If you're an experienced trekker looking for adventure and don't mind the weather challenges, these seasons can be cost-effective.
🎉 For Culture & Festivities: Autumn (September to November)
This season coincides with Nepal's biggest festivals—Dashain and Tihar—offering a unique chance to witness local celebrations in the mountain villages. The air is clear, and the views are breathtaking—making it a favorite among both locals and international trekkers
Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather and Difficulty by Season
Spring (March-May)
Spring in Nepal lasts from March to May, one of the best seasons for the Manaslu Circuit trek. During the Manaslu circuit trek in spring, the skies are clear, and the temperature is moderate. The spring season provides comfortable walking conditions for the trek. Similarly, the average temperature in spring months ranges around 20 degrees Celsius, which is an easy temperature for trekking. If trekkers want to trek to the Manaslu trekking route, it is better to trek in spring. Spring is all greenery, from the valleys to the forests, and everything is vibrant. The rhododendron comes to full bloom, and the trail is filled with bushes and green terraced fields, making the season for trekking in the Manaslu Circuit the most favorable.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is another good month to trek to the Manaslu circuit trek. Autumn in Nepal lasts from September to November, another season to hike on the Manaslu circuit trek. During autumn, the skies are clear and the temperature is moderate, providing comfortable walking conditions. Similarly, autumn is a festive season in Nepal. Grand festivals like Dashian and Tihar are held in Nepal during October and November. So, due to the occurrence of the festival month in Nepal, trekkers get to immerse themselves in the culture and tradition of Nepal, which helps to provide insights into the culture and tradition of Nepalese.
The average temperature in autumn ranges from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius in lower altitudes. As trekkers move to higher altitudes, the temperature drops to 0 to 10 degrees Celsius. So, cold weather will not be an issue with proper packing, and there is little to no chance of rainfall.
Winter (December–February)
Winter in Nepal lasts from December to February and is characterized by freezing temperatures. In higher altitudes, winter is marked by snowfall, which causes difficulty to walk in the trekking trail. Winter is not the most preferred season for trekking, and it is often considered the off-season. However, some adrenaline enthusiasts who wish to trek in extreme weather conditions can do the Manaslu circuit trek. Similarly, as the winter season is an off-season trek, few trekkers are on the route, which is favorable for those who want to omit the crowd.
The average temperature in winter ranges from 5 to 10 degrees Celsius in lower altitudes. At higher altitudes, the temperature can be below freezing during the day and up to -10 to -15 degrees Celsius at night. So, additional preparation is required to counter the freezing conditions. However, trekkers can see the Manaslu region covered in snow blankets, waterfalls in freezing conditions, and a crisp view of snow-capped mountains.
Monsoon (June–August)
Although Manaslu is a top trekking destination, monsoon is not the best time to trek Manaslu Circuit. The monsoon in Nepal lasts from June to August and is characterized by extreme rainfall. Many trekkers consider the monsoon a dangerous period to go on a trek. The continuous rain causes trails to become slippery, and many regions are prone to landslides during such times.
The average temperature during the monsoon season is 20-25 degrees Celsius in the lower region so the atmosphere will be scorching hot during the day. Similarly, in higher altitudes, the temperature can be between 5 to 15 degrees Celsius and up to 5 degrees Celsius at nighttime. So, trekkers need to prepare for sudden changes in climatic conditions. Likewise, the trail will frequently be cloudy during the monsoon months, covering the mountain view. So, trekkers must also compromise with the experience. But suppose you are a travel enthusiast who is ok with an intermediate trekking experience and wants the trail to yourself. In that case, the monsoon is the right choice.
How Cold Does it Get on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit trek can be coldest during the winter season. Winter trekking in the Manaslu circuit can be adventurous, as it is marked by snowfall and extreme cold conditions. The temperature can range from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius during the daytime. Meanwhile, during the night, the temperature can drop to -5 degrees Celsius. Similarly, at higher altitudes, the temperature can range between 10 to -5 degrees Celsius during the day and up to -20 degrees Celsius or lower during nighttime.
Likewise, there are few chances of rainfall but a heavy chance of snowfall at higher altitudes. There are some sections in the Manaslu Circuit Trekking route where there are strong winds.
How to Choose the Best Time to Trek Manaslu
Trekkers must consider several factors before choosing the best time to trek Manaslu Circuit that can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. While it is best to head to the trekking route during spring and autumn, other things can be considered before deciding to trek. Factors crucial to the Manaslu circuit trek experience include weather conditions, crowd level, difficulty, and availability of accommodation. A brief discussion is as follows:
1. Check weather conditions
Spring and autumn are the best times to trek the Manaslu Circuit, where the skies are clear with stable weather and moderate temperatures. These seasons offer the best visibility of snow-capped mountains and moderate weather without any complications. However, winter and monsoon seasons are the off-season period for the Manaslu trek, and there are difficulties due to extreme weather conditions. Winter can be too cold with snowfall and low temperatures. Likewise, monsoons come with heavy rainfall and reduced visibility due to cloud-covered skies. So winter and monsoon are not the best times to trek the Manaslu Circuit due to bad weather conditions and low visibility.
2. Analyse how busy the trail would be
The best season for the Manaslu circuit trek is often the one with the highest crowd. So, autumn and spring attract most trekkers, and the trail can be busier with more trekkers during these seasons. Even if the route is not overwhelmingly crowded compared to other major trekking routes, trekkers might face difficulty finding teahouses and campsites during these seasons.
On the contrary, winter and monsoons witness few trekkers, which can provide a solitary experience. Still, as mentioned, the atmosphere can be harsh. The off-season also poses various challenges and requires more logistical planning. So, to avoid the crowd and harsh conditions, trekkers can start the trek at the beginning of spring or autumn, which marks the start of the trekking season, but the number of trekkers is not that overwhelming.
3. How difficult it is to trek to Manaslu Circuit
Trekking during spring and autumn is easy, with moderate temperatures and clear skies. So, these seasons are ideal for trekkers to head to Manaslu. The trails are dry, with lower chances of rain and snowfall. Trekkers can expect a steady pace without any significant weather-related challenges. However, the weather can have a harmful effect during the winter and monsoon season. So, due to extreme cold conditions and heavy rainfall, trekking in the Manaslu circuit is complicated.
4. Availability of teahouses and accommodation
During the peak season of spring and autumn, there can be limited availability of teahouses and accommodation. As the Manaslu circuit area is remote and has few teahouses and lodges, there are only limited places to stay due to heavy crowds. Manaslu trekking trail can see an overwhelming number of people, such as 6000 trekkers, during the peak season. Although the number seems small, the limited accommodation available in the region may not be able to compensate even 6000 individuals during peak season. So, there is a chance that trekkers may need to return as most of the accommodation options can be filled up.
However, in the case of winter and monsoon season, the teahouse can particularly close due to harsh climatic conditions, and only a few lodges may stay open. In addition, the accommodation can equip fewer trekkers; however, the few lodges may have uncomfortable living conditions. Thus, booking early and associating with a reputable trekking company like Nepal Trekking Planner is necessary to guarantee accommodation options in the Manaslu region.
Trekking Tips Based on Season for Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Winter: Pack heavy-duty winter gear and check for open teahouses.
- Monsoon: Carry waterproof gear, insect repellent, and avoid landslide-prone areas.
- Spring/Autumn: Book accommodations early (especially in October), carry layered clothing, and hydrate regularly.
What Should I pack for Trekking to Manaslu Circuit in Different Seasons?
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Final Thought
So, the best seasons for the Manaslu circuit trek are spring and autumn, which best balance the weather, visibility, and safety. Trekkers get to witness the beauty of Manaslu and travel in perfect moderate climatic conditions from March to May and September to November. Similarly, beginner-level trekkers should omit the winter and monsoon seasons. But winter and summer can be an option for only experienced trekkers who wish to challenge nature just for the adrenaline rush.
Similarly, for most trekkers, selecting the right time to trek can minimize the risks and offer safety, comfort, and an unobstructed view of snow-capped mountains, ensuring an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
FAQ
What is the best month to trek the Manaslu Circuit?
The best month for the Manaslu Circuit trek is March to May and September to November, with moderate temperatures and clear sky providing an unobstructed view of snow-capped mountains.
Is it possible to trek the Manaslu Circuit in winter?
Yes, it is possible to trek the Manaslu Circuit in winter. However, winter months are cold and filled with snow. So, trekkers need to be extra careful when trekking to Manaslu during winter. Even though trekkers can trek in winter, it is not recommended for everyone.
Can I trek the Manaslu Circuit during the monsoon season?
Yes, trekkers can trek the Manaslu circuit during the monsoon season, but it comes with significant challenges. Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, which can be challenging for most trekkers as trails will be muddy and slippery, and the risk of landslides prevails. However, the trails have fewer crowds, making them entirely favorable for solitary trekking.
How cold does it get during the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The temperature of the Manaslu circuit varies depending on the seasons. Here is a breakdown of the Manaslu Circuit trek:
- Autumn: 10-20 degrees Celsius during the day and up to -10 degrees Celsius at night.
- Spring: 10-22 degrees Celsius daily and -5 to -10 degrees Celsius at night.
- Winter: -5 to 10 degrees Celsius during the day and -25 degrees Celsius during the night.
- Monsoon: 15 to 25 degrees Celsius during the day and o degrees Celsius at night.
