Manaslu Circuit Trek Best Time
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Choosing the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most important decisions before planning the trek. The best time/season can make the experience way better and offer you very good views, stable weather, and be able to cross the Larke La Pass, whereas a wrong timing makes the trek experience a worse experience with the rain, snow, cloud and may not be able to cross the Larke La Pass.
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The 2 best seasons for the Manaslu circuit trek, Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are good for stable weather, clear views and possible access to the Larkya La Pass (5,106m), and you may face less challenge during the trek.
In this guide, we break down the weather, temperature, and trail conditions month-by-month to help you plan your perfect 2026/2027 adventure.
Best Season for Manaslu Circuit Trekking: Detailed Comparison
| Features | Spring (Mar – May) | Autumn (Sept – Nov) | Winter (Dec – Feb) | Monsoon (June – Aug) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Months | April & May | October & November | Early December | Late August |
| Max Temp (Lowlands) | 18°C to 25°C | 20°C to 25°C | 10°C to 15°C | 25°C to 30°C |
| Min Temp (High Altitude) | -5°C to -12°C | -8°C to -15°C | -20°C to -25°C | 0°C to 5°C |
| Visibility | High / Clear | Excellent / Crystal Clear | Clear but Hazy | Low / Cloudy |
| Precipitation | Occasional Showers | Very Low / Stable | Heavy Snowfall | Heavy Rainfall |
| Highlights | Rhododendron blooms, wildlife spotting | Crisp air, festival season, sharp peaks | Frozen lakes, snow-capped landscapes | Lush greenery, massive waterfalls |
| Crowd Level | Medium | High (Peak Season) | Low (Solitude) | Very Low |
| Trail Status | Dry with some snow on Pass | Perfect & Dry | Icy & Risky (Larkya La) | Slippery, Muddy & Leeches |
Manaslu Circuit trek facts
Facts | Figure |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 10 Trek days, 1 days drive to Machhakhola and 1 day Drive to Kathmandu 1 Day Arrival, 1 Day to make permits and 1 Day Departure total 15 days |
| Max. elevation: | 5113 M/16, 751 Feets, Larke La Pass |
| Start | Machha Khola |
| Ends | Dharapani |
| Difficulty: | Moderate to Strenuous |
| Manaslu Circuit Trek distance | 177 kilometers (110 miles) from Machha Khola to Besisahar |
| Manaslu Trek Best Time: | Spring/Autumn Season |
| Permits: | (RAP) Restricted Area Permits, (MCAP) Manaslu Conservation Area Permits and (ACCAP) Annapurna Conservation Area Permits |
| Accommodation | Tea House |
1. Autumn: The excellent time (September – November):
Autumn is considered the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek because it is the most suitable season for the trek, and here is why.
Why Trek in Autumn:
After the monsoon, the landscapes are very stable, green, and the trails are safe and dry. There is no risk of landslides and other natural obstacles, and the view becomes very nice and clear. The monsoon rains have just washed away the dust, leaving the air incredibly crisp and the mountain views sharp.Weather:
The weather is stable, and you can enjoy it normally. At this time, the days are sunny, and the views are crystal clear. There is less chance of snowfall and rainfall during this season.Temperature:
The favourable temperature is another great benefit for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The temperature highs are 12°C to 18°C in the lower regions; nighttime temperatures in Dharmasala can drop to -8°C to -15°C or more. On top of Larke la, it might be cold if there are strong winds. In a lower area of the trek, it is neither hot nor cold.Key Insight:
This is the most popular and favourable time of the year to trek. If you want a social atmosphere and the safest conditions for the Larkya La Pass, October is your month.
2. Spring: The Floral Paradise (March – May)
Spring is the second-best time to trek in the Manaslu Region. The spring offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, warm temperatures, and a wide range of rhododendron blossoms. All this makes spring a perfect time for a trek.
Why Trek in Spring:
After the winter, the snow on the trails melts, and the trails are much more stable, clear and safe to trek. Apart from some exceptional cases, there are fewer chances of snowfall and rainfall during the spring, and you can see perfect views of the landscapes and mountain peaks. The rhododendron in the forests also blossoms in this period of the year.Weather:
Normally, the weather remains good at this time of year. Early in the morning until the afternoon, you can enjoy the mountains very clearly, but in the afternoon, the clouds come. With the longer daylight hours, you will be able to trek longer, but in the lower areas of the Maanslu region, there might be haze sometimes. Small rain/snowfalls may happen sometimes; other than this, the weather is very good to trek.Temperature:
The temperature is suitable for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Even in places like the Dharmasala, the temperatures may reach -5°C to -12°C or more or less at night. Trekkers stay at the Guest House, and the indoor temperatures remain pretty warm, so the trek is manageable. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C in the lowlands, which later decrease in the high-altitude areas.Key Insight:
April is perfect for those who want to avoid the peak October crowds while still enjoying stable weather and warm temperatures. Trekkers will be able to enjoy the rhododendron and other flower blossoms.
⚠️ Are You Physically Prepared for Larkya La Pass?
With maximum elevations reaching 5,106 meters and long daily walking hours, stamina is key. Read our complete Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty guide for detailed daily elevation profiles, training plans, and altitude sickness prevention tips.
3. Winter: (December –February)
Winter poses a challenge for the Manaslu circuit trek. Due to adverse weather conditions, it can stop trekkers from doing the Larke La Pass, and they may not be able to see the mountain ranges as well.
Winter is not recommended for the trek:
The winter is very cold and snowy for trekking in the Manaslu region, though it is still possible to do the Larke La Pass. It can be very challenging if the snowfalls/rainfalls happen, the passes may be blocked and very hard to cross or even sometimes the police stop the trekkers from going through the pass if there is too much risk to cross the Larke la. Due to the snowfalls and cloudy weather, you may not see the peaks and may have to suffer from the cold.Weather:
Normally, the weather remains cloudy and snowy during the winter. The fogs and clouds are very likely to happen.Temperature:
The temperature is another extreme challenge for the trekkers who wish to trek in winter. It can reach -20°C to -25°C, and strong winds may happen during the pass, which makes the pass even more tough, though it is possible to cross.Is winter still possible for the Maanslu Circuit Trek?
Though winter is not recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you may still try your luck because, in recent years, there have been fewer snowfalls, and people are still crossing the Larke La pass. Even during the winter, the days are sunny, and you can still see the good views of the snow-capped peaks in the Manaslu Region. If snow happens and the weather persists, then you need to return without doing the Larke La Pass.
🗺️ Want This Exact Route Fully Handled For You?
We organize all restricted area permits, private transport, expert local guides, and teahouse arrangements. View complete inclusions and pricing on our main Manaslu Circuit Trek Package & Price Details.
4. Monsoon: (June –August)
Monsoon is not a recommended month for the trek, and it is very unsuitable for trek to Manasalu Region.
Monsoon is not recommended for the trek.
Due to the daily rains, the trails become muddy and slippery. There is a chance of the stone falling, and a flash flood makes the trails even more dangerous. Due to the moisture in the soil, there will be a lot of bushes that are full of blood-sucking leeches. Most of the days remains rainny and cloudy that means there is less chance of seeing the peaks even if you trek with risk.Weather:
Most of the days are rainy and cloudy, and sometimes, 2-4 days of continuous rainfall occur. Trekkers may not see the peaks for a week.Temperature:
The temperature is moderate from 0°C to 5°C or even lower if rainfalls happen in high altitude areas like Dharmasala, Samdo and Samagaun.
Manaslu Weather and Temperature Chart
The Manaslu Circuit is unique because it spans six different climatic zones—starting from subtropical lowlands at 700m to Alpine Tundra at the Larkya La Pass (5,106m). Here is the average expected and forecasted temperature of the Maanslu circuit trek.
| Month | Daytime (Lowlands) | Nighttime (High Pass) | Precipitation | Trekking Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8°C to 12°C | -15°C to -25°C | High Snowfall | Deep Winter / Risky |
| February | 10°C to 15°C | -12°C to -20°C | Moderate Snowfall | Cold / Improving |
| March | 16°C to 20°C | -8°C to -15°C | Low | Best (Spring Start) |
| April | 20°C to 25°C | -5°C to -10°C | Low | Best (Peak Spring) |
| May | 25°C to 30°C | -2°C to -8°C | Moderate | Warm / Pre-Monsoon |
| June | 22°C to 28°C | 0°C to 5°C | High Rain | Monsoon / Slippery |
| July | 20°C to 25°C | 2°C to 8°C | Very High Rain | Peak Monsoon / Leeches |
| August | 20°C to 25°C | 2°C to 8°C | Very High Rain | Wet / Lush Greenery |
| September | 18°C to 22°C | -2°C to 5°C | Moderate | Best (Late Sept) |
| October | 15°C to 20°C | -8°C to -12°C | Very Low | Best (Absolute Peak) |
| November | 12°C to 18°C | -12°C to -18°C | Low | Best (Clear Skies) |
| December | 8°C to 12°C | -15°C to -22°C | Low Snowfall | Early Winter / Quiet |
Manaslu Circuit Trek: A Month-by-Month Descriptive Journey
Here is what it looks like in different months for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. We have given what is the temperatures and weather, month by month, and recommendations as well
March:
This is one of the best months for the Maanslu Circuit trek, as winter slowly disappears and the favourable time for the trek arrives. The lower trails become more comfortable and easier to walk on, while the Larkya La Pass may remain covered in snow. One of the biggest merits of trekking during this time is the crystal-clear mountain views, as the air is fresh and sharp before the spring haze arrives. It is also a peaceful season, ideal for trekkers who want to enjoy the mountains in quiet ways. For the best trekking experience, it is recommended to visit in these months.April:
The best month in spring, as you can see the wide variety of Rhododendron blooms in an alpine area of the Manaslu trekking trails. The lower area may be hot, and as you climb the elevations, it gets colder slowly. The sky and weather remain clear mostly, but in the afternoon, it gets cloudy. The weather is predictable most of the time, the days are longer, and the balance between temperature and visibility is near-perfect. There might be small snowfalls, and rainfalls may happen in some cases. It is also a very good month for the trek.May:
The hottest months in Nepal and the pre-monsoon season start as well. It is quite warm to trek in May, but you may see more rain as you trek at the end of May. Most of the time, the weather is good, and you may be able to see the peaks, but rain may likely happen. The temperatures increase and become humid as well. You can often trek in a T-shirt in the lower valleys. While the afternoons may see some “heat haze” or clouds, the mornings offer spectacular sunrises over Mount Manaslu (8,163m).June – August:
Known as the monsoon season, the rains happen each and every day through the 3 months. The landscape becomes green, and the trails become muddy and slippery. There is a High chance of flash floods, leeches, landslides and rock falls as they are building the road there. You will see the many waterfalls, but there is a very high chance of cloudy weather and not being able to see the mountain peaks on your entire trek. For the adventurous soul, it offers a sense of total isolation, but it requires a high tolerance for rain and the occasional leech on the lower forest trails.September:
The post-monsoon season, and still there are high chances of rain in the lower area. From the beginning of September until the 3rd week, there is a very high chance of rain, and by the 4th week, it is expected to become clear and sunny, but there is no guarantee. In recent years, there have always been heavy rainfalls during the 4th week and 1st week of October. From the third week, the skies “wash clean.” The air is remarkably fresh, and the rice terraces in the lower villages turn a brilliant gold, ready for harvest.October:
October is the best month for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The weather is neither hot nor cold, with the crystal clear views of the Himalayas. The visibility is so good, and the trails are very dry and good for trekking. The months are also known as the festival months of Nepal. The temperatures are very suitable for the trek, and you can enjoy your hiking very much as all the factors are very suitable in this month. You can plan your pass crossing with high confidence. Due to the best months, you can experience some crowds during the trek. This is the best month for the trek, but there might be crowds on the trails.November:
November is another transaction month in which temperatures start to drop slowly in the trek trails. The weather is very nice and clear, and you can enjoy the perfect views and cross the lake easily as well. The first and second week of November is pretty good to trek, and the last week of November is pretty cold, especially around the Dharamsala and the Larke La Pass. There will still be tourists on the trails, and the trails offer very favourable conditions for the trek.December:
Early December is a “hidden gem.” The skies are usually deep blue and clear. The temperatures start to drop very significantly as December ends. Sometimes there might be heavy snowfalls, and it is quite hard to cross the Larke La Pass as well, but still possible. The trails become much quieter as the crowds slowly reduce.January & February:
This is the heart of winter. The feature here is intense solitude and deep snow. Many of the higher villages, like Samdo, become quiet as locals migrate to lower altitudes. Crossing the Larkya La becomes a technical feat, often requiring crampons and a true mountaineering spirit. The benefit is seeing the Himalayas in a state of pure, white perfection that few tourists ever witness.
Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek FAQ
Which month is the best for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
October is the best month for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The post-monsoon air is washed clean of dust, providing the sharpest mountain views of Mt. Manaslu and the surrounding peaks. The weather is stable, sunny, and has great visibility. The trails are dry and without snow, making it the safest time to cross the Larkya La Pass (5,106m).
Can I trek the Manaslu Circuit in the Winter (December–February)?
Trekking in early December is possible and offers incredible views. However, from late December through February, it becomes extremely challenging due to freezing temperatures. Heavy snowfall often blocks the Larkya La Pass, and many teahouses in higher villages like Dharmasala close for the season. We only recommend this for professional trekkers with expert-level gear.
What is the weather like at the Larkya La Pass?
The weather at the pass is significantly colder than the rest of the trek. Even in peak months like October and April, dawn temperatures at 5,106m can plummet to -15°C (5°F). Strong winds are common, so high-quality windproof layers and down jackets are essential regardless of the season.
Is the Manaslu Trek possible during the Monsoon (June–August)?
Yes, it is possible, but there are significant risks including landslides, flash floods, leeches, and limited visibility. While you may get lucky with mountain views and a clear crossing of the Larkya La Pass, the monsoon is generally considered an unfavorable time for this trek.
When do the Rhododendrons bloom on the Manaslu trail?
For flower lovers, April is the best time. The forests between Namrung and Lho feature a beautiful variety of rhododendron forests that reach full bloom during the spring season.
How busy are the teahouses during the peak season?
During October and November, the Manaslu Circuit is very busy. Because it is a restricted area with limited accommodation in high spots like Dharmasala and Samdo, it is highly recommended to book through a local agency like Nepal Trek Hub to ensure your rooms are secured in advance.
⚠️ Essential Manaslu Trek Planning Resources:
- All-Inclusive Package Pricing: View our fully guided, fixed-price booking options and commercial details on the main Manaslu Circuit Trek package hub page.
- Detailed Day-by-Day Routes: Compare standard 12-day, 14-day, and acclimatization stops in our comprehensive Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary guide.
- Faster 11-Day Route Alternative: Short on vacation time? Compare the standard timeline against our fast-paced Short Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary.
- Extended Cultural Side Trip: Want to explore the sacred hidden valley? See the day-by-day stops for the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek.
- Itemized Permit & Expense Budget: Calculate your exact permit fees, guide costs, and teahouse budgets in our full Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost guide.
- Trail Difficulty & Pass Training: Prepare for high-altitude gains and the challenging Larkya La Pass crossing in our Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty guide.
- Gear & Layering Checklist: Avoid over-packing or missing high-altitude cold weather gear with our complete Manaslu Circuit Trek Packing List.
