If you’re planning to embark on the breathtaking Manaslu Circuit Trek, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is when to go. This remote Himalayan journey circles Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters / 26,781 feet)—Nepal’s eighth highest peak—and passes through rugged terrain, vibrant local villages, and dramatic alpine scenery.
But timing is everything. The weather, trail conditions, visibility, and your overall comfort can change drastically depending on the season. As your virtual trekking guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to pick the perfect time to visit.
Quick Look: Best Trekking Seasons for Manaslu
| Season | Months | Trekking Condition | Highlights |
| Spring | March–May | Excellent | Rhododendron blooms, clear skies, pleasant temps |
| Autumn | September–November | Excellent | Crisp views, cultural festivals, dry trails |
| Winter | December–February | Challenging | Peaceful, snowy, cold but beautiful |
| Monsoon | June–August | Risky | Rain, landslides, poor views |
Let’s explore each season in detail and how it affects your experience on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Spring (March to May): Vibrant Trails and Moderate Conditions
Spring is one of the most ideal seasons to trek in Manaslu. Starting at Soti Khola (710 m / 2,329 ft) and ascending through diverse landscapes to the snowy heights of Larke Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft), the trail transforms into a living canvas of wildflowers.
Rhododendrons bloom along the lower slopes, temperatures are moderate, and visibility is usually excellent. In villages like Lho (3,180 m / 10,433 ft) and Samagaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft), you’ll encounter mild days and crisp nights.
Pros:
- Stable weather and clear mountain views
- Colorful forests in bloom
- Comfortable for beginners with basic fitness
Things to Watch:
- Some snow might still linger at higher altitudes
- Busy but not overcrowded
Autumn (September to November): The Gold Standard for Trekkers
If you want the best of everything—weather, visibility, cultural immersion, and trail condition—then plan your trek for autumn. After the monsoon, the air clears up, leaving behind incredibly sharp mountain views.
This is the time to see Mount Manaslu (8,163 m / 26,781 ft) and Himalchuli (7,893 m / 25,896 ft) at their most dramatic. Daytime temps range from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F) in mid-altitude zones, and nights are chilly but manageable.
You’ll also walk through villages like Samdo (3,875 m / 12,713 ft) during their most festive period, especially if your trek coincides with Dashain or Tihar festivals.
Pros:
- Perfect visibility and weather
- Cultural richness and festival season
- Most reliable trail conditions
Things to Watch:
- Peak season—lodging in some areas may book up
- Cold nights above 4,000 meters / 13,100 feet
Winter (December to February): For Solitude Seekers
Winter trekking is an option—but only if you’re well-prepared. The lower regions such as Jagat (1,340 m / 4,396 ft) or Deng (1,860 m / 6,102 ft) are usually accessible, but Larke Pass is often blocked by snow.
The upside? Fewer trekkers, peaceful trails, and stunning snow-capped panoramas. The downside? Temperatures can drop below -15°C (5°F) above 4,000 meters / 13,000 feet, and many teahouses at higher altitudes close for the season.
Pros:
- Ultimate solitude
- Clear skies in early winter
Things to Watch:
- Trail closures due to snow
- Risk of frostbite or hypothermia at night
- Limited food/lodging options above 3,500 meters / 11,500 feet
Monsoon (June to August): Lush But Risky
The monsoon rains bring out the lush green beauty of the Manaslu region, especially in lower zones like Machha Khola (869 m / 2,851 ft) and Tatopani (990 m / 3,248 ft). But it also brings slippery trails, landslides, and heavy clouds that block your mountain views.
Leeches, trail washouts, and transportation disruptions are common during this period. Unless you’re doing research or have a specific reason to trek now, it’s better to avoid these months.
Pros:
- Flourishing flora and fauna
- Extremely few trekkers
Things to Watch:
- Landslide-prone sections, especially before Philim
- Low visibility and almost no mountain views
- Flight and transport delays
High-Altitude Awareness: Acclimatization and Conditions
One of the most crucial parts of trekking in Manaslu is understanding how your body reacts to altitude. Since you’ll cross Larke La Pass at 5,160 meters / 16,929 feet, your body needs time to adjust.
Plan rest days in Samagaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft) and Samdo (3,875 m / 12,713 ft) to allow for acclimatization. Even fit trekkers are vulnerable to altitude sickness if they ascend too quickly.
For a deeper understanding of how challenging the trail can be—especially regarding terrain and elevation—read this guide on Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty.
When Should First-Time Trekkers Go?
If you’re a beginner, your best trekking window is either:
- Late March to early May, or
- Late September to early November
These seasons provide moderate weather, clearer skies, and stable conditions on the high mountain pass. You’ll also find teahouses fully operational, friendly local hosts, and other trekkers to share stories with.
Final Thoughts: Timing is Everything
Choosing the best time to trek Manaslu is about balancing trail conditions, safety, scenery, and personal comfort. Each season offers a different experience—from snowy silence in winter to flower-lined trails in spring and vibrant cultural moments in autumn.
But if you want the most comfortable, scenic, and safe trekking experience—especially as a first-timer—autumn and spring are your go-to seasons.
So, when are you planning your trek? Whenever you decide to go, Manaslu will be waiting with snow-draped peaks, ancient monasteries, and unforgettable memories.
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