Best Time for Manaslu Trek

Best Time for Manaslu Trek

Blog Article

Are you planning to hike in the exotic Manaslu region? When is the best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek? This blog post provides in-depth information on each season, with all difficulties and challenges you may face during the Manaslu trip. Many travelers find spring and fall seasons are the best time to go to the Manaslu region. 

Spring and Autumn are the primary seasons for trekking in Nepal. Travelers prefer these seasons because of weather stability and clear views of nature. You will learn about the best time for the Manaslu Circuit trek here. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview

Manaslu Circuit Trek, a less popular Trekking route in Nepal, is a restricted trekking region. This trek takes you on a circuit around Killer mountain, Mount Manaslu, and surrounding areas. 

Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, is also famous as the Killer Mountain. It has killed more than 60 mountaineers, so it is referred to as the 'Killer Mountain.' 

The main attraction of the Manaslu round trek, Mount Manaslu, lies in the Gorkha district. Its elevation is 8163 m above sea level.

You may experience Larkya La Pass strenuous during the Manaslu round trip. Larke Pass is one of the highest passes, lying at 5106 meters. The Manaslu journey follows through Manaslu Conservation Area and touches Annapurna Conservation Area at the end. 

En route to Manaslu, trekkers can enjoy magical views of several peaks like Mount Manaslu, Baudha, Nagadi Chuli, and Himalchuli. Likewise, hikers also see a variety of flora and fauna. 

Manaslu region is rich in culture. The locals facilitate warm hospitality and authentic food to their guests. Many people travel to this area to explore the culture and traditions of the locals. Manaslu Circuit trip gives you an unforgettable experience for a lifetime. But, prepare enough before walking in the Himalayas and opt for Nepal trekking at your best time. 

Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring Season (March-May)

Spring season (Basanta Ritu) is the starting season of the year for trekking in Nepal. It is a new start for mother nature that is revived with forest paths and buds of flowers. 

Spring season (March to May) is one peak time for trekking in Nepal. Manaslu region is filled with a wide variety of biodiversity. Travelers can witness beautiful rhododendron flowers during the spring months of March, April, and May. At this time, greenery covers nature. Manaslu rewards with lush greenery and fantastic mountain views in the spring season.

You also find brighter days and cozy weather in the Manaslu region. From early March, humidity starts to decrease then homestays prepare for the peak season.

Maximum people visit Manaslu in April, the peak time of the spring season. During April, the temperature increases up to 12oC (53.6 °F). The golden time remains until mid-May. 

Manaslu is a less popular trekking route in Nepal, but spring welcomes thousands of hikers in the Manaslu region. The glorifying Himalayan ranges and rural landscapes attract many aspiring trekkers and mountaineers. Apart from this, you can see glimpses of local lifestyles and traditional cultures during your trek to the Manaslu region. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek in Monsoon Season (June-August)

The monsoon season consists of three months: June, July, and August. In summer, there is a maximum probability of rainfall. Nepal trekking routes have very few folks in the summer because of rainfall. Nepal Trekking trails are also muddy and slippery in summer due to rain. Besides, people experience landslides and avalanches in the summer season.

You can expect mosquitoes, leeches, and bugs all around the trails. In the early routes, you experience rainfall.

Meanwhile, the weather is a bit warm and hot at Manaslu during monsoon. A limited number of people visit Manaslu in the summer season. You can also find an adequate number of accommodation places. Summer is the best time for the adventure seeker who wants peace and a tranquil journey. Furthermore, you get a heavy discount from local teahouses on food and accommodations during the summer season.

Trekkers get a chance to see a clear picture of mountains en route to Manaslu. Summer is also a harvesting time in Nepal, and you can expect greenery on a terraced farm. The weather in summer is relatively stable, and there is less chance of cancellations or delays.

June is the starting month of the monsoon season. The days are bright, sunny, and hot during this time. And the temperature goes up to 25 degree Celsius in highland areas. At the end of June, rainfall will start in the lower parts of the region.

Similarly, in July, humidity increases across the Manaslu region. July is the hottest and wettest time of the year. The temperature rises to 30 degrees in high hills. You can see clear visibility of skies in the morning but chances of rainfall in the evening and nighttime. The climate of August and July are similar.

There is a high probability of rain during this time for trekking in Nepal. If you plan to opt for a monsoon trek, keep a waterproof jacket and other tools to be safe from rainfall. If you want to avoid rainfalls, hike to rain shadow areas like Upper Mustang, Annapurna Circuit, and Upper Dolpo Trek.

Best Time for Manaslu trek in the Autumn season: (September-November)

The autumn season is the second-best season for trekking in Nepal after Spring. The Autumn season covers three months: September, October, and November. The fall season commences in September month- a bridge between the off-season and peak season of trekking in Nepal. People celebrate the main festival in the country. During Autumn, farmers are also free from farming as there is no harvesting time. You can expect mild weather and dramatic mountain landscapes in the Manaslu region. 

September

The internet says September is the best time to trek in Nepal. But for a few years, the rainfall doesn't stop until the end of September. And there is no problem with transportation for the Manaslu region since its trailhead is near the permanent road. After the third week of September, the monsoon finishes, and the autumn season starts. In the high-altitude area, the temperature goes up to seven and twenty-one in the lower area. In September, you can witness unique flora and fauna on the Manaslu terrain. You can also find a rejuvenating environment after washing pollution by heavy rainfall. Nevertheless, there will be a limited number of trekkers visiting Manalsu. So, you can find decent accommodation and food services easily.

Trekkers can also enjoy clear views of mountain ranges from the high altitude area. 

October

October is perhaps the best time for hiking in Nepal. The mild temperature ranges between 12–18 degrees this month.

Similarly, a brighter day and clear views of the surrounding area give good experiences to travelers. You can mesmerize by the beauty of mountains, forests, waterfalls, flora, fauna, and chilling weather. However, you can expect some ques on terrain due to peak season. We suggest pre-booking tea houses and homestays before going to the Manaslu region.

November

November is the last month of the Autumn season. At this time, the days are cool. The temperature starts to lower in Nepal. November is best for those who want to see the Manaslu trail race. Manaslu trail race is an annual marathon competition that runs from the first to the third week of November. Trekkers need to walk on a dry path during this month. Additionally, travelers can witness the Diwali celebration in the Manaslu region. 

Manaslu Trek Best Time in the winter season (December-February)

Winter is the off-season for trekking in Nepal. Winter is a comparatively strenuous month to complete a hike in the Himalayas. From December to February, Manaslu trekking trails transfer into snowy land. The days are also relatively shorter in winter. The temperature is mild during the day and cooler at night. 

Some people travel to the Manaslu region with additional precautions to enjoy snowy peaks and tranquil trips. During winter, Altitude sickness can easily catch in the highlands. Larke pass also gets closed due to heavy snowfall in the winter. 

December

December is the first month of the winter season. The temperature starts descending up to zero or minus in December. As you go higher, morning and nighttime are colder than daytime. Despite it, travelers can see mystical Manaslu and other surrounding peaks during Manaslu round trip. 

Similarly, by the last week of December, the upper region people of Samdo and Dharamshala move to lower areas due to unfavorable climates. Therefore, many teahouses and homestays are closed during the winter season. 

January

January is also the coldest month in Nepal. You can experience heavy snowfall in trekking terrain. Only a few people attempt the Manaslu trek during this month. Due to heavy snowfall and a rugged trail, you can not cross Larke Pass. Travelers should pass Larke in a single day, which might be trouble for you. If you have already decided to hike in January, use mountaineering gear like crampons.

February

February is the end of the winter season. The weather starts to get warm during sunny days. But, you may feel cold during the night and morning. The tea houses will return in the upper region to welcome tourists at the end of February. If you are lucky enough, you will get a chance to see crystal-clear mountain vistas from the Manaslu circuit terrain. Hikers need to prepare enough while walking in February. You also get a good deal on travel packages this month. 

Conclusion: Best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu region trek offers splendid views in the changing seasons. Each season offers a unique and precious experience to travel enthusiasts. Spring and Fall are our busiest seasons, still never get busy, as Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek. Manaslu is an emerging destination, so limited numbers of travelers come to visit. Manaslu is rich in culture and nature. And decent weather makes spring and fall the best time for a Manaslu circuit trip. 

Further, book a trip with a trusted agency like Nepal Trekking Routes to fulfill your Manaslu dream. Our teams are always on hand to answer any specific queries about the trip you have. You can still contact us for other popular tours and treks in Nepal.  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Manaslu a restricted region?

Yes, the Manaslu region is a restricted area. You can not hike easily. You require a restricted area permit (RAP) to travel in the Manaslu region. 

How long is the Manaslu Trek Itinerary?

Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary can change as per the needs and desires of travelers. Experienced trekkers can complete Manaslu round trip in two weeks, but newcomers need an extra 1–2 days to acclimatize properly. Nepal Trekking Routes standard time is 17 days for the Manaslu round trek. On this trip, you have to walk 20 km daily on average.

Is Manaslu round trek Difficult?

Nepal trekking difficulties depend solely on travelers. It depends on their personal experience, fitness level, and altitude problem. Like other Himalayan treks, you can experience landslides, high wind, rain, and snowfall. However, if you take the time to train and prepare yourself before trekking, you can conquer it. Meanwhile, Manaslu Expedition is very dangerous, and you need rigorous preparation and technical gears to combat it.

How long is the trail of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit trail is 110 miles (177 km) long. The trail follows a less crowded path with ethnic communities of the Manaslu region. During the Manaslu walk, you travel in Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation Areas. 

Is it possible to combine Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley Trek?

Yes, Many aspirants combine the Manaslu round trek with Tsum Valley Trek. Tsum is one of the hidden valleys of the Manaslu region that protects authentic Tibetan culture and tradition. 

If you hike to Tsum Valley, you can witness culturally rich Tsumba people and their traditional lifestyle. They still wear handmade clothing. Tsum Valley is a beautiful village of serenity covered by several peaks in a 360-degree form. The main assets of Tsum valley are stone-mud houses, snow mountains, terraced fields, and dense forests. Tsum has centuries-old monasteries and shrines including Milarepa Cave, Mu Gumpa, and Ruchen Nunnery. They follow Tibetan culture, and the locals of Tsum don't allow animal sacrifice. If you have a few additional days in the Manaslu region, a hike to the Tsum Valley is a great choice. 

Is Larkya La Pass the highest point of the Manaslu round trip?

Yes, Larke Pass is the highest point in the Manaslu region. From the Larkya pass, you can see 360-degree views of numerous mountain ranges. Larke is closed in winter due to heavy snowfall on its trails. 

Does AMS catch us during the Manaslu trek?

AMS can affect trekkers over 4,000-meter walks. Some experience its symptoms even in the 3000-meter walk. It also depends on travelers' fitness and endurance level. We suggest you take proper acclimation to reduce the risk of HIMS during high-altitude walks. 

Can I travel solo to the Manaslu region?

The Manaslu region is a restricted zone protected by the Manaslu Conservation Area. Its routes opened only after 1991. Thus, you are not allowed to walk solo in the Manaslu region. It mandates RAP and two people in your team to travel in the Manaslu region. And until a couple of years ago, there were limited numbers of homestays and tea houses. Trekking companies used to manage food and accommodations in a camping way. If you want to solo travel, if yes, attempt for Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek. 

Can I travel without a Guide?

Manaslu is the least-explored place, so you need to hire a guide to travel. Additionally, you can enter a restricted area only with a guide. However, you don't need a porter if you can carry your luggage bag. We suggest hiring a porter to make your journey hassle-free and safe. 

How to access the Manaslu Circuit trek trailhead?

The starting point of the Manaslu Circuit trek is near Kathmandu city. It takes around 7 hours to reach its trailhead Soti Khola from Kathmandu. Private vehicle and Tourist bus will take you to Soti Khola. Your travel partner agency will arrange a private cab to reach there. The Jeep picks you up from your hotel and takes you to Soti Khola. The journey of the Manaslu region starts at the bank of the Trishuli River and then follows the Marshyangdi River. 

What to expect in Food and Accommodations?

You can expect local and traditional food options on the menu during the Manaslu visit. The local homestay may serve you authentic local rice meals (Dal Bhat) and other dishes. These homestays are in remote areas, and they feature cozy sharing rooms. You can not get a luxurious service yet a comfortable sleep. If you love drinking, you can try their homemade alcoholic drinks. Furthermore, we request you carry dry items from Kathmandu itself. Manaslu trip is one of the cheapest treks in Nepal, and you need $20-$25 per day to spend on food and lodging costs.

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