Spring and autumn season are the best time to do Manaslu Circuit Trek. This west central Himalayan trek is an exicitng journey that is generally popular for the off beaten experience. Distinct from the regular mainstream adventures in the Himalayas, Manaslu Circuit takes you across secluded parts of the region as you slowly circumnavigate the eighth highest peak in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163mn).
This wilderness factor exploration of the Himalayas is certainly an iconic experience. So if you want to secure an exciting and remarkable experience, peak/high seasons (autumn and spring) are the most preferable periods.
During these periods of the year, the climatic conditions are stable, temperatures are pleasant, natural beauty is abundant and the cultural experience is quite immense. That’s why these points of the year are known as the peak seasons for the complete experience they provide.
However, it also doesn’t mean that you cannot take part in this thrilling circuit trek journey during the off/low seasons such as winter and monsoon. Although you will have to make some preparations to tackle the off season weather phenomenons you can do Manaslu Circuit during these periods.
So, without any delays let’s learn more about when is the best time for Manaslu Trek and how is the trekking experience during the off seasons in this tranquil route.
Best Time to Do Manaslu Circuit- Overview of Peak Seasons
When you are looking forward to ensuring the most remarkable experience, you might have been recommended one of the peak seasons, spring and autumn. Both of these seasons are exceptional and best time to do Manaslu Circuit due to the ideal climatic conditions they present.
However, even if you are taking part in this off beaten journey during these peak seasons, depending on the period the experience can vastly differ. So, let’s check out what each of these popular seasons presents to travelers.
Autumn Season (September to November)
Even among two of the peak seasons which are the best time to do Manaslu Circuit Trek, autumn is considered generally number one among the two. This is due to the fact that the autumn season has the most stable weather conditions out of them all.
There is hardly any climate abnormality in this season which ensures a comfortable journey regardless of which corner of the country you are exploring. Similarly, this season which is also known as fall season features stunning foliage color of the landscape that provides a diverse experience to the explorer.
Overall, the conditions that determine an optimum level are met during this season. The skies are generally clear, you will be able to walk around easily on the dry trail, the atmosphere is fresh, temperatures are pleasant and you will be able to enjoy wide Himalayan vistas as far as you eyes can reach.
Besides the Himalayan exploration prospects, you will also have an incredible cultural experience if you take part in this off beaten journey during the autumn season. This fall season is renowned as the hub for the major festivals in the country.
So, during trek in this notably one of the best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will be able to witness and experience some of the biggest celebrations in the country such as Pachali Bhairab, Dashain, Tihar, Sita Bibaha, Mani Rimdu, Chhat, etc.
Thus, your Himalayan adventure in Nepal in this season will be a complete and fulfilling experience that will provide insight into all aspects of the country.
Temperatures of Manaslu Region During Autumn Season
As autumn starts after the monsoon season (core summer period), the temperatures are generally warm during the initial part (September). The temperature of the Manaslu region averages around 7°C to 21°C during the day and can drop upto 3°C.
During the core period of the season (October), the temperature averages around 12°C to 15°C with a drop rate of -2°C at nighttime. As for the latter part of the season (November), the temperature of the region is around 8°C to 13°C on the higher scale and around -6°C on the lower.
Spring Season (March to May)
Like autumn, spring is another beloved and best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal. This point of the year is particularly famous as the core period of nature. During this season, the beauty of nature is at its pinnacle.
The landscape of the country is completely covered with greenery and dotted with colorful flowers. Spring’s incredible natural allurements make it one of the best time to do Manaslu circuit. Especially while taking on the Himalayan trail, the colorful rhododendron flowers will lighten up your trail.
Under the stable weather and climate that features a clear blue sky and across the colorful landscape, the views of the sparkling mountain peaks become a fairytale like experience. The melting snow also adds momentum to waterfalls, rivers and streams.
Thus the babbling sound of the powerful waves under a tranquil environment makes you feel like you may have entered a different universe. Similarly, if you are into wildlife and birdlife exploration, spring is a perfect time to have meaningful insights into the rare species of the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Temperatures of Manaslu Region During Spring Season
This post winter season also features pleasant temperatures that will make your Himalayan journey quite comfortable. In the starting month (March), the temperature of Manaslu is around 7°C to 10°C during the day period and can drop upto -6°C at night.
Similarly, as the season progresses to the middle part (April), the temperature slightly rises and averages around 10°C to 12°C with a drop rate upto -2°C. As for the final part, which is closer to summer, the temperature is around 15°C to 31°C during the day and can drop upto 1°C.
Manaslu Circuit Trek During Low Seasons
The peak/ high seasons are considered the ultimate and best time to do Manaslu Circuit Trek. However, it doesn’t mean that you cannot take part in this off beaten exploration during the other seasons across the year.
You might not be familiar with this, but the trekking adventures are year around adventures in Nepal. Compared to peak season the off seasons are slightly challenging due to the weather phenomenons. That’s why most trekkers go for the comfortable experience of the peak seasons.
But despite having to face weather related challenges, trekkers will also get the chance to experience the unique charms of the unfavorable period for high altitude adventures in Nepal. Thus, the answer to when is the best time for Manaslu Trek also depends on the experience you are looking for.
If you are well prepared you will also be able to secure a remarkable experience during these off seasons. Let’s check out what kind of experience you will have during your west central exploration these off periods.
Winter Season (December to February)
Winter is the coldest point in the Himalayas where temperatures drop to the freezing level. For high altitude treks such as the Manaslu Circuit Trek it can be quite difficult to properly navigate across the marked trails.
As the snow covers the majority part of the high altitude routes and crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,106m) also becomes extremely difficult most trekkers avoid this season. However, like how a winter expedition is possible this circuit trek is also doable if you don’t mind putting extra effort into your winter adventure.
If you don’t mind bypassing the unfavorable climatic conditions of the winter season, you will be able to witness the prime form of the Himalayan region. Thick fur of snow covers the mountain and the entire Himalayan region landscape turns into a winter wonderland.
Due to less crowd, you will also be able to secure a tranquil experience and the challenging prospects of the journey give a sense of accomplishment. Similarly, you will also be able to enjoy special winter festivals such as Maghe Sankranti, Basanta Panchami, Maha Shivaratri, Losar (Tibetan New Year), etc.
So, even though winter is not ranked as part of the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek category, the trekking experience is certainly distinct and unparalleled to other seasons.
Temperatures of Manaslu Region During Winter Season
During this coldest period in the Himalayas, the temperature of Manaslu region averages around 8°C to 12°C at the lower region and can drop upto -8°C (December). As th season proceeds toward the core period (January), the temperature is around 4°C to 8°C with a temperature drop rate upto -12°C.
As for the final period of the season (February), the temperature of the Manaslu area hovers around 5°C to 18°C at the lower region and can also drop upto -11°C at higher altitudes.
Monsoon Season (June to August)
Like winter, Monsoon is also one of the off season that receives a low number of trekkers due to its unfavorable climatic conditions. The weather conditions in Nepal is the most unpredictable during this period of the year.
Due to the unstable weather conditions which can even affect the mode of transportation, it can severely affect the overall itinerary plans. The continuous downpour also causes natural calamities like flooding, landslides, soil erosion, etc which can be quite risky considering the region of exploration.
That’s it is very important to keep a tab on the weather conditions if you are doing the trek in Nepal during this season. Similarly, consistent rainfall also makes it harder to navigate across the trail and you will need footwear with good traction to walk safely on the route.
Although monsoon season is not a top choice as the best time to do Manaslu Circuit Trek and there are several weather related phenomenons that you have to overcome, your trekking experience can be quite unique in this season.
The continuous rainfall nourishes the landscape and you will be able to admire its emerald strewn beauty. Similarly, as there are only fewer tourist are on the trail, you will be able to enjoy a peaceful experience.
Also, the unique puddle landscape, refreshing waterfalls, thrills of river crossing, fruit harvest period, etc are some unique prospects of this monsoon season. Fascinating festivals of this season such as Buddha Jayanti, Naga Panchami, Gai Jatra, Indra Jatra, Teej, etc also add cultural immersion opportunities to your journey.
Temperatures of Manaslu Region During Monsoon Season
As the monsoon season is the core period of summer, temperatures are generally on the warmer side. During the initial month of this season (June), the temperatures of Manaslu is around 18°C to 25°C during the day and can drop upto 5°C at night.
During the middle part (July), the temperature averages around 15°C to 20°C and can drop upto 7°C. As for the final month (August), the temperature is usually around 12°C to 17°C with a dropping rate upto 3°C at higher altitudes.
Best Time to Do Manaslu Circuit: Considerations Based on Trekking Preferences
For Photographers
If you are looking for the best photogenic moments, the top contenders of the best time to do Manaslu Circuit Trek, spring and autumn are the perfect options. Due to the clear and open climatic conditions the clear skies, unobstructed mountain views, vibrant landscape, and stunning sunrise and sunset views create the perfect opportunity to capture the panoramic beautiful pictures of the Himalayan in your lens.
You will be able to take the best shots of nature and the Himalayas due to the perfect lighting conditions and colorful texture.
For Solitude Seekers
For those who want to experience a tranquil journey in solitude the off season like winter and monsoon are the top choices. Due to unfavorable weather conditions of these seasons most trekkers avoid them and wait for the peak periods to enjoy their trip.
Thus if you do this circuit trek during one of the off seasons you will be able to enjoy a tranquil adventure in solitude. If you were curious about when is the best Time for Manaslu Trek to forge an intimate bond with nature and mountains, this is it.
The less crowd on the trail also means that you will be able to take your time with the exploration of the highlights along the route. Similarly, you can also take your time to interact with the locals for meaning conservation and to learn more about their culture.
For Adventurers
Distinct from the regular experience if you are looking for thrills and excitement during your trek the off seasons are period to consider. During the winter the landscape is covered with snow and crossing the Larkya La Pass also becomes physically demanding.
Thus overcoming such a setting does give a sense of accomplishment. The high tide waterfalls and rivers of the monsoon season bring a similar kind of excitement. If you want you will also be able to take part in the thrilling water sports during your visit to Nepal in this season.
For Nature Lovers
The Himalayan flora and fauna are most definitely one of the exhilarating factors to look upto during this circuit trekking adventure. So for diverse and valuable exploration of endangered species of flora and fauna in the Manalsu Conservation Area, monsoon or spring are most certainly the best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Spring season is the peak period of nature and you will see bloom wherever you look. It is also a perfect time to understand more about the Himalayan wildlife. Similarly, during the monsoon season the greenery of nature if at its peak.
Cascading waterfalls at their fullest, colorful fruits and emerald strewn landscape provide an incredible natural experience during the trek.
For Cultural Enthusiast
In case if you want to add the cultural aspects of Nepal to your Himalayan adventure, autumn and spring are two of the exciting points of the year. During this period you will be able to gain experience of major and exciting festivals in the country.
Autumn, which is the core period for the grandest festival in the country is definitely the ultimate period for the immense cultural experience. However, the spring season also does have its own key festive highlights that provide a distinctive experience.
Additional Information
Trekking Permits and Regulations by Season
To do the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will need to collect three permits. Two of the permits are for the conservation area in the region while one is for the restricted area. All of these permits are absolutely necessary for this off beaten exploration.
Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
The cost of the MCAP and ACAP is US$ 30 per person during all seasons. As for the MRAP, if you are doing this trek during the autumn season it will cost around US$ 100 per trekker. For the rest of the seasons like spring, monsoon and winter the cost of this restricted area permit is US$ 75 per trekker.
(Note: NMA Nepal will apply and get all the necessary permits for the trek on your behalf)
Accommodation and Tea House Availability by Season
Manaslu region is generally known as an isolated region that is best suited for off beaten trekking experience. Despite its isolation compared to other mainstream routes you will still be able to relish a good level of food and accommodation services during the trek.
The primary accommodation option in the region is the teahouse option which is maintained and operated mostly by locals of the region. Even if the region itself is isolated you will be able to enjoy a moderate level of service and amenities.
If you are participating in this exploration in one of the best time to do Manaslu Circuit (spring and autumn) pre booking is absolutely necessary. Due to the surge in the number of trekkers, it can be hard to book for the services on arrival.
What About Food and Water?
During your Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will be able to taste a wide variety of delicacies. As this is one of the isolated regions, the traditional menus triumph over the international dishes.
You will mostly find several traditional menus especially those inspired by the Tibetan culture as this region is close to Tibetan border. Similarly, a few of international menus (Western and Indian) are also available at the teahouses.
As for water, you can buy water bottles at the teahouses. These bottled water can be costly depending on the altitude and are not environment friendly as well.
Thus you can buy water at the teahouses ( boiled and filtered) or fill water in your bottles at the clean water stations along the way. Although water at these stations is fresh and clean you should purify it before drinking.
(Note: Teahouses along this circuit route do serve vegetarian and vegan options)
Best Time to Do Manaslu Circuit- Packing Tips for Different Seasons
Packing for the Manaslu Circuit Trek will depend on which season you are taking part in this exploration. If you are doing this trek during any one of the best time to do Manaslu Circuit (spring and autumn) just general packing will be sufficient.
You should pack convenient layers for different altitudes, comfortable footwear, personal hygiene and some helpful trekking equipment such as a sleeping bag, trekking pole, headlamp, reusable water bottle, gps, etc.
In case if you are planning this trip during the off period (monsoon and winter) you will need to bring some extra helpful layers and gear to tackle the unfavorbale climatic conditions. Waterproof outer layers, cover, gaiter, footwear, etc are very essential for monsoon trek.
As for the winter exploration, it is extremely cold on the mountain and even the trekking trails are covered with snow. So warm buff layers, insulated boots, gloves, ski sunglasses, micro spikes for boots, etc are some extra carry on you will have to consider for the trek.
(Note: If you are a beginner trekker and don’t have that much experience in high altitude exploration, you should consider one of the peak seasons for this off beaten trek)
Altitude Sickness
During high altitude adventures the lingering risk of altitude sickness can be quite bothersome. That’s why it is important to keep an eye out for the symptoms of altitude and not overlook the minor signs.
During the Manaslu Circuit Trek you will get start trekking on the route from Machha Khola (870m). The highest point you will reach in this circuit route is Larkya La Pass (5,106m). The total altitude gain in this circuit route is around 4,236m (13,897ft).
So as the altitude gain is quite significant you will need to stick with the acclimatization process quite seriously. Although on the Manaslu Circuit trail there is only a risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) it still can be unpleasant considering the scale.
Thats why NMA Nepal follows all the precautions and safety measures to avoid altitude sickness and ensure that you will enjoy a safe trip. While doing Manaslu Circuit with us you will get enough rest period and it will be an overall slow paced exploration.
(Note: The acclimatizing process is much easier during the warmer season compared to the colder season. Also you need to avoid caffeine, cigarettes and alcohol during your high altitude trek)
Physical and Mental Preparation for Each Season
You need to prepare right for the trek regardless of the season you are taking part in it. Normally, a 3 to 6 weeks training program will be quite sufficient for high altitude treks such as this.
Just basic fitness will be sufficient for taking on this remote trail of the west central Himalayas. So instead of for the top shape you should make your preparation to develop your physical aspects in order to handle rough and steep mountain roads.
The mountain trails will test your endurance and strength level. So you need to properly work on these aspects. Similarly, core strength and stamina will help you a lot while navigating across unbalanced and high altitude routes.
(Note: Practise hikes also have proven to be very efficient in understanding the mountain trails and preparing for them)
