Best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit

The Manaslu Circuit Trek stands out as a unique and multi-day adventure in the heart of Nepal, attracting thousands of trekkers annually. If you’re considering embarking on this journey but are uncertain about the Best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit, allow us to provide some guidance. The prime seasons for Manaslu trekking are spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September, October, and November). During these periods, you can expect stable weather conditions, excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks, festive celebrations, longer daylight hours, and, most importantly, mild temperatures.

Spring ushers in a vibrant burst of colors and blossoms, with April being akin to a natural festival. Conversely, autumn adorns the trails with golden hues, creating a mesmerizing tapestry. Additionally, some of Nepal’s major festivals, such as Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath, occur in October, adding to the allure with their traditional music and attire.

Yet, it’s not solely about the picturesque scenery and celebrations in the Manaslu region during these times. The weather is your ally, providing clear skies that ensure you won’t miss the awe-inspiring vistas. Visibility? Crystal clear. The climate and temperatures? Perfectly moderate, eliminating the discomfort of scorching heat or freezing cold. These ideal conditions make your trek all the more enjoyable, making it worth hiking for days to savor the perfect mountain views.

And there’s more! We’ve gone the extra mile to provide you with essential information to make a well-informed decision. We’ve meticulously compared the weather, temperature, and visibility data for each month. Armed with these insights, you’ll have all the information you need to confidently select the best time for your Manaslu Circuit trek.

Manaslu Trek in the Spring (Mar, Apr, May)

Springtime, encompassing March, April, and May, presents an enticing opportunity for embarking on the Manaslu Trek. This season brings forth a visual feast of blossoming landscapes and comfortable trekking conditions, although it comes with its own set of considerations.

Manaslu Trek in March:

• March signifies the onset of spring in the Manaslu region.
• Temperatures are gradually rising, yet mornings and nights retain a chill.
• Daytime temperatures vary between 2 and 8°C, dropping below freezing in the early hours.
• The snow-clad peaks of Manaslu remain visible, enhancing the scenery.
• Forest trails come to life with vibrant blossoms, adding a colorful touch to the surroundings.

Manaslu Trek in April – The Perfect Time:

• April is the zenith of spring’s charm in the Manaslu region.
• Temperatures become more moderate, and daylight hours extend, allowing for a relaxed trek without early starts.
• The temperature range typically falls between 6°C and 12°C, ensuring pleasant days and milder mornings and nights.
• Dry trails and excellent visibility accentuate the grandeur of the towering peaks, intensifying their captivating allure.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in May:

• May, towards the end of spring, remains a favorable time for exploring the Manaslu Circuit.
• Higher altitudes experience warmer weather, and lakes like Birendra and Ponkar thaw, presenting picturesque views.
• However, by mid-May, occasional rain may occur, and humidity might increase towards the end of the month.
• Temperature fluctuations can range from 12 to 31°C.
• Mid-May sees many groups preparing for climbing expeditions near the Manaslu base camp.

Pros and Cons of Trekking Manaslu in the Spring:

Pros:

• Spring adorns the region with colorful blossoms and lush greenery, creating a picturesque trekking environment.
• Temperature conditions are ideal, providing a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.
• Clear skies offer unobstructed views of the magnificent Himalayan peaks.

Cons:

• Spring is a popular trekking season, resulting in more fellow trekkers on the trail and at accommodations.
• While rainfall is minimal, occasional showers can impact visibility and trail conditions.

With these insights into the Manaslu Trek during the spring season, you can make an informed decision to plan your adventure accordingly.

Manaslu Trek in Autumn (Fall)

Autumn, spanning from September to November, stands as the other prime season for embarking on the Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal. During this period, you can expect stable weather, optimal visibility of Mt. Manaslu, mild temperatures, and extended sunny days, enhancing the excitement of your adventure.

Manaslu Trek in September:

• September marks the onset of autumn, transforming the Manaslu trek into a scenic journey.
• The weather is generally pleasant, with mild temperatures, clear blue skies, and snow-capped mountain peaks.
• However, early in the month, some residual monsoon rains may affect lower paths, so carrying rain gear like raincoats and waterproof jackets is advisable.
• Daytime temperatures range from 5 to 7°C, with cooler mornings and nights.

Manaslu Trek in October – The Month of Celebrations:

• October stands out as the optimal time for the Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal.
• As the days warm up, crystal-clear skies reveal stunning snowy peaks, creating breathtaking vistas.
• Daytime temperatures typically hover between 12 and 15°C, while higher elevations experience sub-freezing temperatures.
• October witnesses a bustling Manaslu circuit trail with the highest number of trekkers.
• It’s also the prime time to tackle Larke La Pass, with less snow making the trail less challenging.

Manaslu Trek in November – The Start of Wintry Days:

• November provides another excellent window for the Manaslu trek, featuring moderate temperatures and the driest weather of the year.
• Mountain views are at their finest during this month.
• Cold temperatures range from 12 to 13°C along the trail, with even lower temperatures at higher elevations.
• Additionally, November hosts the annual Manaslu trail race, adding an extra layer of excitement to your adventure.

Pros and Cons of Hiking Manaslu in Autumn:

Pros:

• Autumn offers the most dependable and predictable weather conditions, reducing the likelihood of disruptions caused by rain or snow.
• Clear skies provide exceptional visibility for panoramic mountain views and picturesque landscapes.
• Mild and pleasant daytime temperatures enhance the overall enjoyment of Himalayan trekking, while cooler nights create a cozy atmosphere.
• Autumn is an ideal time to tackle challenging high passes like Larke La Pass, as the weather is less likely to pose obstacles.
• The region often celebrates local festivals during this season, immersing trekkers in the cultural richness of the area.

Cons:

• Autumn is a popular trekking season in Nepal, so expect more fellow trekkers on the trail and crowded accommodations.
• Due to the influx of trekkers, there might be limited availability of rooms in tea houses, necessitating advance reservations.
• The high demand for services during the peak autumn season can lead to higher prices for accommodation and food in and around the Manaslu region.

With these insights into the Manaslu Trek during the autumn season, you can make an informed decision and prepare for a memorable adventure in Nepal.

Manaslu Trek in the Summer and Monsoon

The summer and monsoon seasons are not recommended for the Manaslu Circuit trek due to unfavorable conditions. These months are characterized by heavy rainfall, which leads to wet, slippery, and muddy trails. Trekkers may also encounter leeches, bugs, and mosquito bites in forested areas, causing discomfort. Additionally, the risk of landslides is a concern, potentially blocking roads and trails and causing delays in your itinerary. It’s worth noting that higher elevations generally receive less rainfall compared to lower trekking regions.

Manaslu Trek in June:

• June marks the beginning of the monsoon season.
• Days are characterized by humidity and brightness, with temperatures around 25°C.
• Increased rainfall is observed toward the end of the month, especially along the lower forested trail.
• Be prepared for wetter conditions during this period.

Manaslu Trek in July:

• July experiences heightened rainfall and rising temperatures.
• This month is one of the hottest periods of the year.
• Temperatures average around 25 to 30°C, with slightly cooler temperatures at higher altitudes.
• While days are typically clear, mornings and nights may bring increased rainfall.

Manaslu Trek in August:

• August sees the heaviest rainfall compared to other monsoon months, with temperatures similar to July.
• The trail encounters substantial rainfall during this period.
• Carrying a rain jacket is essential, as the path can become slippery.
• The risk of landslides increases, necessitating preparedness for these challenges.

Pros and Cons of Trekking Manaslu in the Summer or Monsoon:

Pros:

• Despite the challenges, the landscape transforms into a lush and vibrant scene due to the rain, creating a unique visual experience.
• Higher elevations experience comparatively less rainfall, offering improved trekking conditions.

Cons:

• The summer months bring substantial rainfall to the Manaslu Trail, resulting in wet and slippery paths.
• Forested areas may harbor leeches, bugs, and mosquitoes, causing disruptions during your trek.
• Monsoon rains increase the likelihood of landslides, potentially obstructing roads and paths and causing delays in your itinerary.

Considering these factors, it’s advisable to plan your Manaslu Circuit trek during the more favorable spring or autumn seasons to ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.

Manaslu Trek in the Winter Season

The winter season in the Manaslu region, spanning from December to February, offers a unique but challenging trekking experience, as it transforms the landscape into a captivating winter wonderland with heavy snowfall. However, it’s important to note that crossing the Larkya La Pass becomes infeasible due to heavy snow obstructing the trail during this time, presenting a significant challenge.

Manaslu Trek in December:

• December marks the arrival of winter, with dropping temperatures.
• Daytime temperatures typically range from 10 to 12°C.
• In higher places like Samagaun, Samdo, and Dharamasala, temperatures plummet to sub-zero levels, reaching as low as minus 8°C.
• Despite the chill, clear skies provide opportunities to enjoy the stunning Himalayan panorama.

Manaslu Trek in January:

• January brings the chilliest weather to the Manaslu Circuit, with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.
• Daytime temperatures reach about 6 to 8°C, while nights and mornings drop to a frigid minus 10°C.
• Villagers from higher areas often migrate to warmer places, resulting in quieter villages with some tea houses and shops closed.

Manaslu Trek in February:

• In February, the winter season begins to wane, with milder temperatures ranging from 6 to 8°C during sunny days.
• Mornings and nights still experience freezing temperatures.

Pros and Cons of Trekking in the Manaslu Winter:

Pros:

• The landscape transforms into a magical winter wonderland, offering breathtaking snowy vistas.
• Winter sees fewer trekkers, providing a sense of solitude and tranquility on the trails.
• Crisp winter air often results in excellent visibility, showcasing stunning mountain panoramas.
• For those comfortable with colder conditions, trekking in winter offers a distinct adventure and a chance to experience the region in a different light.

Cons:

• Extremely low temperatures necessitate appropriate cold-weather gear.
• Inhabitants of higher altitudes often migrate to warmer areas, leaving some villages quiet with many facilities closed.
• Heavy snowfall can block passes like Larkya La, making certain routes impassable and potentially unsafe.
• Due to fewer trekkers, some lodges, teahouses, and shops might be closed, limiting accommodation and supply options.

Trekking in the Manaslu region during winter is a choice for those seeking a unique and challenging experience. While the landscape is stunning, trekkers should be well-prepared for the cold and potential logistical challenges that come with fewer facilities and trail closures.

In conclusion

The Manaslu Circuit trek offers enticing opportunities throughout the year, each season with its unique charms and challenges. Ultimately, the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit depends on your individual preferences, tolerance for weather conditions, and the kind of experience you desire.

Whether you opt for the popular seasons of spring and autumn, or you’re drawn to the less-traveled paths of summer and winter, the captivating beauty and rich culture of Manaslu’s region await your exploration. Whichever season you choose, Manaslu promises a memorable adventure for those who are up for the challenge.