The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a rewarding journey that takes you around Mount Manaslu (8,163m / 26,781ft.), the world’s eighth-highest peak. The trek is popular for its stunning natural beauty, adventurous terrain, and rich cultural experiences. As an alternative to the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the Manaslu Circuit offers a mix of adventure and peace. As a trekker, you will hike through various landscapes, from lush greenery forests to high-altitude alpine meadows, with breathtaking views of the Mount Manaslu and Annapurna ranges.
The trek typically lasts 14 to 18 days, and is moderately difficult, requiring physical fitness and mental strength. The best times to trek the Manaslu Circuit are Spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September, October, and November). You’ll cross the Larkya la pass (5,160m/16,752ft.), one of the highest points of the whole trek, and explore the Nubri and Tsum Valley regions. Along the way, you’ll visit ancient monasteries, pass through traditional villages, and trek through some of Nepal’s remote villages.
So, you must be wondering when to trek the Manaslu Circuit. Let’s look into the details to help you decide the best time for your adventure.
1. Understanding the Seasons in Nepal
Nepal, with its diverse landscape from lowland plains to the highest peaks in the world, experiences four distinct seasons. Each season offers unique conditions, which can highly influence your trekking experience. Here’s what you can expect throughout the year:
a. Spring Season (March to May)
Spring is the best time to visit and trekking in Nepal. The weather is mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures between 16°C to 23°C (60°F to 73°F) in lower areas and cooler temperatures at higher altitudes. The skies are generally clear and provide a mesmerizing view of the surrounding mountains.
One of the highlights of trekking in spring is the blooming of rhododendrons, which cover the hillsides in vibrant colors, creating a picturesque landscape. The combination of clear skies, constant temperatures, and beautiful scenery makes spring a popular choice among trekkers.
b. Summer/ Monsoon Season(June to August)
The summer season in Nepal coincides with the monsoon season, bringing hot and humid weather along with heavy rainfall. The trails become slippery and can be difficult to navigate due to an increase in landslides, especially in mountainous areas.
Heavy cloud cover often hides mountain views during the monsoon, but the rain transforms the landscape into lush greenery. While summer trekking is more challenging, it can be also rewarding for those ready to experience Nepal’s vibrant flora.
c. Autumn Season (September to November)
The autumn season is another ideal season for trekking in Nepal. The skies are usually crystal clear, offering some of the best views of the Himalayan peaks. This season follows the monsoon, so the air is fresh and clean, and the landscapes are breathtaking.
Autumn is also the most popular trekking season, so trails can be busier, especially on well-known routes like the Annapurna and Everest regions. Despite the crowds, the perfect weather and stunning mountain views make autumn the prime time for trekking in Nepal.
d. Winter Season (December to February)
Winter in Nepal brings cold temperatures, particularly at higher altitudes, where it can drop well below freezing. In the lower regions, temperatures range from 4°C to 12°C (39°F to 54°F) during the day but can be cold at night. Snowfall is common at higher elevations, and some mountain passes may become impassable.
The cold weather can be challenging, but winter also offers its rewards. The trails are less crowded, and the clear, crisp air often provides excellent visibility of the snow-covered peaks. For those willing to brave the cold, winter trekking can be a serene and peaceful experience, with the bonus of solitude on the trails.
2. Why Spring is the Best Season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek (March to May)?
Spring (March, April, and May) is considered one of the best times for the Manaslu Circuit trek due to the mild and favorable temperatures. The daytime temperature in the lower regions ranges from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), while higher altitudes have cooler temperatures, typically between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F).
Spring offers clear skies and breathtaking views of the Manaslu massif. The trek is less crowded than the more popular routes like Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek, providing a serene trekking experience. During this season, the trails are adorned with blooming rhododendrons, magnolias, and other alpine flowers, making the scenery exceptionally beautiful. This is one of the key reasons why spring is the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit.
Flora and Fauna on the Manaslu circuit trail during Spring
| Flora | Rhododendrons, magnolias, primulas, and Lush vegetation (pine, oak, and bamboo). |
| Fauna | Himalayan Tahr, Langur Monkeys, and Blue SheepDanphe (Colorful bird) |
Weather Expectations and Temperature Ranges During Spring Time
- Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures: While daytime temperatures are mild, nighttime temperatures at higher altitudes can drop below freezing, ranging from -6°C to 5°C (21°F to 41°F). However, lower regions maintain milder temperatures between 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F).
- Stable Weather Conditions: The spring season typically brings stable weather, with little rain and a reduced risk of snow at lower elevations. However, as May progresses, light showers can become more common.
4. Why Autumn is the Best Season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek (September to November)?
Autumn (September, October, and November) is another peak season for the Manaslu Circuit trek, offering stable and clear weather. The monsoon rains have cleared the air, providing crisp and stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The Manaslu Circuit Trek in October offers crystal clear, offering panoramic views of the Manaslu range and surrounding landscapes. The trail is dry, making for comfortable trekking conditions.
Flora and Fauna on the Manaslu circuit trail during Autumn
| Flora | Oak, pine, and bamboo forests transition to gold, red, and orange as autumn progresses. Terraced fields of crops like barley, millet, and, buckwheat. |
| Fauna | Himalayan blue sheep, and Red panda |
Weather Expectations and Temperature Ranges During Autumn
- Daytime Temperatures: In the lower regions, daytime temperatures range between 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F), providing a comfortable trekking environment. As you ascend to higher altitudes, daytime temperatures cool to between 6°C to 10°C (43°F to 50°F).
- Nighttime Temperatures: At higher elevations, such as around Larkya La Pass, nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, ranging from -8°C to 4°C (17°F to 39°F). While the days are pleasant, it’s important to be prepared for colder nights.
5. Manaslu Circuit: What to Expect When Trekking in the Off-Season?
a. Winter Trekking (December to February)
Pros:
- Solitude and Tranquility: Manaslu Circuit Trek in Winter offers solitude, as fewer trekkers trek during this season. You can enjoy the peacefulness of the trail and have the paths almost to yourself.
- Stunning Snow-Covered Landscapes: The mountains and trails are covered in snow, creating a winter wonderland. The crisp air and clear skies offer breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.
- Easy Accommodation and Less Crowd: You can easily find available rooms in winter, as there are fewer trekkers and the teahouses are less crowded.
Cons:
- Extreme Cold: Temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes. Nighttime temperatures can drop to as low as -20°C (-4°F) or lower, making it challenging to stay warm.
- Snow and Ice on Trails: The trails, especially high passes like Larkya La, can be covered in snow and ice, increasing the risk of slips and falls. Some routes may become impassable due to heavy snow.
- Limited Accommodation and Services: Many teahouses and lodges may close during winter, reducing the availability of food and shelter. The harsh weather conditions also mean fewer amenities are available.
b. Summer/Monsoon Trekking (June to August)
Pros:
- Lush Greenery and Waterfalls: The monsoon rains bring a breathtaking landscape, with lush greenery and flowing waterfalls. The region’s flora is at its peak, making the trek visually stunning.
- Fewer Crowds: Like winter, the monsoon season sees fewer trekkers, offering a more serene and less crowded experience. This can offer a more close connection with nature.
Cons:
- Heavy Rainfall and Landslides: The monsoon season is characterized by heavy rain, which can lead to landslides, muddy trails, and flooded rivers. These conditions make trekking more dangerous and less enjoyable.
- Leeches and Insects: The warm and wet conditions are perfect for leeches and other insects, which can be a bother on the trail. Proper preparation and protective gear are essential.
- Obscured Mountain Views: During the monsoon, clouds and mist often cover the mountains, limiting visibility and obstructing the stunning views that usually highlight the trek.
Challenges and Benefits of Off-Season Treks
Challenges:
- Unpredictable Weather: Off-season treks are marked by unpredictable weather, whether it’s the extreme cold of winter or the heavy rains of the monsoon. Trekkers must be prepared for sudden changes in conditions, which can impact safety and comfort.
- Limited Accessibility: Some parts of the trail may be closed or difficult to access due to snow, landslides, or other hazards.
- Reduced Services: Fewer trekkers mean that many of the usual services, such as teahouses, guides, and porters, may be limited or unavailable.
Benefits:
- Unique Experience: Trekking in the off-season offers a unique experience that few others have. Whether it’s the tranquility of a snow-covered trail or the vibrant life brought by the monsoon, off-season treks provide a different perspective on the region.
- Lower Costs: Off-season trekking often comes with lower costs, as demand for accommodations and services decreases. You may find better deals on permits, guides, and lodging.
- Personal Growth: The challenges of off-season trekking can lead to personal growth, testing your resilience, adaptability, and endurance. Overcoming these challenges can make the experience more rewarding.
6. Crowds and Teahouse Availability on the Manaslu Trail
During the peak trekking seasons of Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November), the Manaslu Circuit becomes much busier. These seasons are popular because of the good weather conditions and clear views, attracting many trekkers. As a result, teahouses and lodges along the trail are fully open and offer plenty of accommodation options. However, since many trekkers are trekking at this time, the popular spots can fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to book ahead or arrive early to secure a place to stay.
In contrast, the off-seasons of Winter (December to February) and Summer/ Monsoon (June to August) have far fewer trekkers. The cold in winter and heavy rains during the monsoon discourage many from trekking, so many teahouses, especially at higher altitudes, close. Those that stay open might offer fewer services and limited menu options because it’s hard to restock supplies. While there are fewer amenities, the trail is much quieter, and you’ll often have a more peaceful and personalized experience with fewer people around.
7. Manaslu Circuit Permits and Seasonal Restrictions
Permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are available year-round, but the process and requirements can vary depending on the season. The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) are mandatory. These permits are issued only to trekkers accompanied by a licensed guide, as solo trekking is not permitted in this restricted area.
The costs of the Manaslu RAP vary by season:
- Peak Season: USD 100 per week per person, with an additional USD 15 per day for each extra day beyond the first week.
- Off-Peak Season: USD 75 per week per person, with an additional USD 10 per day for each extra day beyond the first week.
In addition to the RAP, you’ll need the ACAP and MCAP permits, which each cost approximately USD 30 per person.
Seasonal variations in permit costs mainly affect the RAP. During the peak trekking seasons (Spring and Autumn), permit fees are higher, and the demand is greater, which may result in longer processing times. In the off-peak seasons (Winter and Monsoon), the RAP costs less, and there are fewer trekkers, that leads to fewer crowds. However, additional checks or temporary restrictions might apply during the monsoon season due to the increased risk of landslides, or in winter due to snow-blocked trails. Always check the latest requirements and conditions with your trekking operator before planning your trek.
8. Weather-related safety precautions during Manaslu Circuit Trek
While trekking, trekkers should be prepared to face Manaslu Circuit Weather conditions. Trekkers can expect rapid temperature drops, high winds, heavy rain, and snow without warning. You should wear layers, including waterproof and windproof outerwear, and always carry a sub-zero-rated sleeping bag for cold nights. Trekkers should use microspikes or crampons for traction on snowy or icy trails, and closely monitor avalanche-prone areas, especially in winter and early spring.
Given the unpredictable nature of the weather, check daily forecasts and remain flexible with your trekking plans. Adjust your itinerary or seek shelter if severe weather is expected. You should acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness and use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against strong UV exposure. Additionally, carry a reliable communication device, keep emergency contacts on hand, and a complete first aid kit to handle any unexpected situations on the trail.
9. Personal Preferences and Trekking Goals
When choosing the right seasons for your Manaslu Circuit Trek it’s very important to match the timing with your experience level. The Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are ideal for trekkers with different levels of experience as they offer pleasant and moderate weather conditions.
Likewise, for those seeking a more serene experience with lush landscapes and blooming rhododendrons, spring is perfect. However, if your goal is solitude and a quieter trail, consider trekking in late autumn or early winter, when the conditions are more demanding but the routes are less crowded.
Conclusion
The best months for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are September to November and March to May. Spring offers vibrant landscapes, while autumn provides clear vistas. For solitude and a more challenging trek, late autumn or early winter is ideal. If you’re ready to experience the Manaslu Circuit, connect with our trip planner today and get ready for your next adventure. Choose the season that best suits your goals! Join one of our upcoming groups or plan your private trip for a truly personalized experience.