Best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Best time Manaslu Circuit Trek can be done throughout the year. Trekkers can undertake the Manaslu Trekking at any time of year. So, the best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek should be as you see yourself fit and ready. Here, we will demonstrate what different times of the year brings in the Manaslu region. By understanding these ideas, you will be able to conclude what is the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a popular trekking destination among local and foreign tourists in Nepal. Manaslu Circuit is located around the northern Tibetan borders of Nepal. People usually visit Manaslu to get views of beautiful snow-capped mountains. To achieve the region’s best vistas, you should plan to do this trek soon.

Let us break down the suitability of the Manaslu Circuit Trek based on the month.

Manaslu Trek in Spring – Best Season

Manaslu Circuit Trek in March

Temperature range: 2 degrees Celsius to 8 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: Less likely
Snowfall: Less Likely
Significant traits: Official start of spring and stable weather

March is also one of the best times for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. March will mark the beginning of spring. It will also mark the beginning of trekking season in Nepal. The temperature becomes more suitable, the skies will be clear, and the roads will be drier. You will see vegetation and plants blooming during this season. The days become enchanting with the nearby forest’s colorful flowers blooming. You will see Rhododendrons blooming to their finest along the trails.

The temperature will not be very cold or sweltering hot. The snow-capped mountain will still be visible. But the slippery slopes on the lower roads will get drier. It will be the most spectacular time for the trek. You will find a lot of fellow trekkers as spring will mark the trekking season in Nepal. The tea houses will be up and running, providing proper accommodation and food. Sometimes they could even be overbooked. So, you must ensure they are available before heading on the trek.

The vistas of this season will be immaculate. Hence, doing the Manaslu Circuit Trek is highly recommended during March.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in April

Temperature range: 4 degrees Celsius to 5 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: Less likely
Snowfall: Not Likely
Significant traits: Second month of spring, Stable weather, and Nepali New Year

Trekkers consider April another best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The temperature is fully adjusted to spring season weather. April, along with March, is a peak trekking month in Nepal. These months bring trekkers and mountaineers from all around the globe. The trekking trails get crowded. Once again, tea houses are fully in business. They get very crowded and need early reservations.

The floras and faunas are at their peak this season. The forests are a fresh shade of green, and the flowers show off the brightest colors. The Rhododendron flowers are again most mesmerizing in April.

Along with these specialties of April, the month also brings the Nepali new year. The mid of April marks the commencement of the Nepali month of Baisakh. The Nepali new year will make the trek more wholesome. The locals will be celebrating amongst themselves. You can be a part of the national celebration as well.

Once again, the month of April is highly recommended for a trek in Nepal. The Manaslu Circuit Trek in April will be a success for sure.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in May

Temperature range: 4 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: Less likely
Snowfall: Not Likely
Significant traits: Last month of spring, the start of a comparatively warmer climate

May will mark the end of spring in Nepal. It will also be the start or the end of the seasonal trekking. The trails are getting less crowded, but tea houses will run well. You won’t have trouble finding accommodation or food. The days get longer, and you will have more time to observe nature and spring blossoms.

On the downside, the latter of May will get significantly hotter. The lower trails of Manaslu get hotter and more dustier. Trekking the whole day will be very exhausting. You could get sunstrokes due to walking under the sunlight for hours. Carrying an umbrella to shade the sun-sunglasses, and lighter cotton summer wear is a good idea.

Although not very popular, May is still a good time to trek the Manaslu Circuit. It is unorthodox but not life-threatening. Proper planning and a good team could make the trek enjoyable during May.

Manaslu Trek in Autumn – Best Season

Manaslu Circuit Trek in September

Temperature range: 7 degrees Celsius to 21 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: Likely
Snowfall: Not Likely
Significant traits: End of monsoon, much drier, beginning of autumn

September is the best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal. September marks the official end of the monsoon and the start of autumn. The autumn season is the peak climbing and trekking season in Nepal. The Manaslu circuit becomes more and more suitable this month. The transportation issues caused by the monsoon get better. The trails get significantly drier, and the skies start clearing.

Although the beginning of September will likely face some rainfall, the overall month is drier. The temperature drops down significantly but still will not be freezing. You won’t have to walk in the sweltering heat, and the trek will be more convenient.

The clear blue skies will once again allow the vistas of the Manaslu region to be more visible. The trails slowly start filling up, so you will not be alone if you trek in September. Despite the trails receiving trekkers, there will not be a heavy crowd. Hence, you don’t need to be insecure about your accommodations. The tea houses will be running and not overbooked.

Hence, if you plan to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek in September, go for it. For some trekkers, September is the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. But do be cautious if you plan to trek at the month’s start. Carry essentials for rainy weather and watch the trails. However, high cautions like that of peak monsoon will not be necessary.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in October

Temperature range: 12 degrees Celsius to 18 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: Not Likely
Snowfall: Not Likely
Significant traits: Peak autumn, Very dry climate, Festival months of Nepal

October is the busiest trekking season in Nepal and, consequently, the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The dry and temperate climate accounts for the hike in trekkers this month. The weather gets very cool, allowing a smooth trek. The extremely cold weather of winter and the swelting heat of summer won’t be experienced this month. The mountain vistas will be mesmerizing without any blockage from the clouds. The birds will fly high, waterfalls will be quaint, and the forests will turn a shade of brown. The overall atmosphere will be very peaceful and the cost spent on this trek will be totally worth it.

However, the trails will be very crowded, and tea houses will be fully booked. You must make early reservations when doing the Manaslu circuit trek in October. But you could still sleep in communal dining rooms if you do not get comfortable rooms. Tea houses try to accommodate you to the best of their abilities. This would be a great time to build bonds with fellow trekkers.

Moreover, the month of October with November will bring festivals of Dashain and Tihar in Nepal. It will bring a very joyful environment to the country, and traveling to Nepal will be great this season. You are likely to experience authentic Nepali culture and have a chance to taste festival delicacies.

Hence, without a doubt, this is the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek and general Nepali trekking.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in November

Temperature range: -6 degrees Celsius to 13 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: Not Likely
Snowfall: Not Likely
Significant traits: End of autumn, dry climate, Festival months of Nepal, Significant drop in temperature, The annual Manaslu trail race

November, like October, is another best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek as it is a continuation of the autumn trekking season. November is much like October in the sense of crowds along the trails. It is the peak trekking season, so accommodation management will be hectic. Early November brings suitability for the Manaslu treks like October. The weather is comparatively dry, the skies are clear, and the vistas are more beautiful.

October again brings festival seasons to Nepal. The Dashain and Tihar festivals occur within a span of a month. So it is likely you might observe these festivals in November too.

You will also notice a significant drop in temperature during late November. Although November is the ideal time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it requires some planning.

Carry extra thermal wear for overcoming the cold temperatures of the night. Pre-book your flights and lodgings for a more comfortable trek during November.

Winter Season Ideas – Cold Season

Manaslu Circuit Trek in December

Temperature range: -8 degrees Celsius to 12 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: Not Likely
Snowfall: Very Likely
Significant traits: Start of winter, Snowfall, freezing weather, very short days

December marks the start of winter in Nepal. The weather in the Manaslu circuit gets extremely cold during winter. Like January, most businesses close during winter due to short days and fewer customers. You are less likely to find good accommodations in winter. The tea houses close due to the extreme winter weather. The trails are empty during winter, so you will likely be alone.

The higher altitudes will receive heavy snowfall, especially at the end of December. Once again, passing the trails will be gruesome due to cold or slippery icy trails. Passing the Larkey La pass will be very difficult, and cold seasons will likely trigger other forms of sickness.

The mountains, however, receive a lot of snowfall and look mesmerizing. Despite the extreme cold, nature will look very enchanting this month. If you wish to trek the Manaslu circuit this season, you could still do it. However, you will need extreme planning and preparation.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in January

Temperature range: -16 degrees Celsius to 8 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: Less likely
Snowfall: Very Likely
Significant traits: Snowfall and freezing weather

January is the coldest season in Nepal. The Manalsu region also experiences many chills during this season. There are fewer chances of heat and higher chances of winter storms—such cold weather results in fewer trekkers around the circuit. January’s winter is off-season for the Nepali trekking industry. Although the temperature is dropping, the sky will be clear. There are slim to no chances of heavy rainfall. The mountains will be all white due to the snow, and the waterfalls, lakes, and streams will be wonderful.

January’s weather does possess a lot of dangers, though. An elevation above 3000 meters is likely to receive heavy snowfall. Such extreme cold will likely cause the tea houses to shut down. So passing the high-altitude places will be tough.

Crossing the Larkey La pass will also be quite strenuous this season. The Larkay La pass camps are also likely to close during such weather. You have to cross the pass within a day. But the unpredictable weather and likelihood of snowfall and snowstorms could make it difficult.

Even if the Manaslu Circuit Trek is possible in January, you must take some preventive measures for the successful completion of the trek. Carrying heavy thermal clothing, choosing a good trekking agency, packing trekking tools needed for snowy weather, etc. is a good idea.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in February

Temperature range: 6 degrees Celsius to 18 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: Less likely
Snowfall: Likely
Significant traits: Snowfall and Unpredictable weather

February month has a dual climate. The first half of February is still very cold and brings snowfall. But the second half of February is almost the start of spring. The early days of February bring in high chances of snowfall. The snowfall, if heavy, will likely cause trouble in your trek. Once again, the camps might close, and tea houses might shut down. You will have typical winter troubles during the early days of February.

The last half of February, however, is a fresh spring. It brings a beautiful blue sky and blossoms of wildlife and vegetation. You will likely see fresh Rhododendron along your road. The snow and icy trails will start to melt, and the roads could be slippery.

If you’re traveling to Manaslu during February, ensure you have packed for dual weather. Carry clothes and gear for a snowy winter climate along with spring essentials. Make sure you have an idea about the local businesses for accommodation and food beforehand. The teahouses might not open till early spring due to unpredictable weather.

Monsoon Season Ideas – Rainy Season

Manaslu Circuit Trek in June

Temperature range: 10 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: Very Likely
Snowfall: Not Likely
Significant traits: The beginning month of spring, the start of monsoon, and sweltering weather

June is the commencement of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. The Manaslu region is experiencing sweltering heat this month. The beginning of June has similar weather as the end of May. The end of June, however, will mark the start of the monsoon. Rainfall of 30mm to 460mm is likely to occur.

Despite the hot weather, the business around the trails is still running. So you won’t have to fret about achieving accommodation or food this time.

The monsoon at the end of the month could be a problem. Monsoon’s heavy rains make it difficult for businesses to run. High-altitude places will not be able to bring commissariats due to transportation issues. The trails get slippery, and carrying goods higher is very difficult.

Moreover, this month will also bring various insects and pests. They will be a hassle on long treks.

Hence, if you want to travel in June, you must consider many factors. We recommend you carry rain gear and insect repellent and bring light summer clothes. Although trekking in the latter half of June needs a lot of planning, treks at the beginning of June are a piece of cake.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in July

Temperature range: 5 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: Very Likely
Snowfall: Not Likely
Significant traits: Monsoon, very wet, the likelihood of landslides and road blockages

July is the peak monsoon month in Nepal. The Manalsu region will face heavy rainfall this month. The heavy rainfall will make the thick forests and vegetation of Manalsu appear immensely beautiful. The waterfalls, streams, and springs come to life due to the rain. The landscapes seem quite dramatic, with heavy clouds among the mountains.

The season will likely not have clear skies. So you will not see great vistas along the trails this season. This season’s accommodation and food will not be top-notch like during the trekking season. Transportation to remote places is a great hassle. The likelihood of landslides is very high this month. It might also cause blockage of roads.

The roads will be very slippery and increase the risk of falls and accidents. The cloudy weather of the monsoon will likely cause flight delays too. The insects will start attacking you evidently this month. You will not be comfortable without insect repellent.

Moreover, the trails will be empty, and you will not have much company. Trekking in July would be successful only if you plan a lot. Carry rain gear and insect repellent and make sure accommodations are open during your trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in August

Temperature range: 5 degrees Celsius to 18 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: Very Likely
Snowfall: Not Likely
Significant traits: Monsoon, Most wet season, the likelihood of landslides and road blockages

The month of August is also the peak monsoon season in Nepal. The Manaslu circuit gets the wettest in August. Only the shadow part of the Himalayas does not face heavy rainfall. Even though it is not the best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek, parts of the Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, and Annapurna circuits are only suitable to hike in August.

August is the extreme of July’s monsoon. Hence, the rains will be heavier, which means trekking will be more difficult. The risks of landslides get worse, and good transportation facilities in remote areas are rare. The tea houses in higher altitude regions will likely be closed. The monsoon makes transporting goods very difficult. Moreover, there won’t be many trekkers this season, so business will not be at its peak. Shutting tea houses is the local’s best option.

On the brighter side, the vegetation will prosper. The monsoon rains give the forests and vegetation in the region much-needed rainwater. The forests get thicker and more radiant.

If you wish to trek the Manaslu trail in the monsoon, you have two options. Either trek the shadow parts of the Himalayas that will have fewer monsoon risks. Or do a very cautious and highly planned trek in the general route.

Final Say – The best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Spring and autumn are the peak trekking seasons in Nepal. Hence, these seasons also make for the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Even among the months of spring and autumn, there are the best times to choose. Mid-spring and mid-autumn bring the best experience for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Moreover, this trek can be done at any time of the year rather than a particular best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. We have broken down the suitability and happenings of all months of the year.

Understanding these details can easily help you plan your trek to the Manaslu region. Plan ahead, ensure you get the best trekking gear, and adjust for accommodation and food. You could even trek the Manaslu region in the peak monsoon or winter without any danger.