One can complete the Manaslu Circuit trek any time/season of the year. However, some seasons have better climates and weather, which makes the trek easier. Likewise, the weather in other seasons adds to the difficulties of the trek.
As trekkers, we want our trek to go as smoothly as possible. The spring season and the Autumn season are the top picks for the Manaslu Circuit trek. For their favorable weather and moderate temperature. On the other hand, the Winter season and rainy/monsoon season are not the perfect pick as the weather is quite harsh. Especially for the trek to the Himalayas.
Spring season
The Spring season (March to May) is the peak season of any trek in Nepal. Views around this time in the Manaslu Circuit’s trail are to die for. The flowers blooming and the birds chirping with the clearest sky you can imagine. This combination remains unbeatable, the reason why spring is so hyped up for being the best trekking season. Likewise, the temperature is moderate ( 10 degrees Celsius / 50 degrees Fahrenheit to 18 degrees Celsius / 64.4 degrees Fahrenheit). During the spring season, days are longer than they are during winter. This gives you more hours to complete the trek. However, the Spring season has lots of travelers, so expect to meet with a crowd now and then throughout the trail.
Summer season
The summer (June, July, and August), also known as the monsoon season, experiences the heaviest and most consistent rainfall in Nepal. This means the trails get really muddy and extremely slippery. Similarly, temperature fluctuates within an hour due to rainfall. The average temperature during this season is 15 degrees Celsius / 59 degrees Fahrenheit to 28 degrees Celsius / 82.4 degrees Fahrenheit. There are risks of natural hazards like floods and landslides. On the brighter side,
the pollution decreases due to rain, and the view after the rainfall is the best. Another plus point is the less crowded trail so peaceful trekking.
Autumn / Fall season
The Autumn season ( September, October, and November ) is the most preferred time for the Manaslu circuit trek. As the weather starts cooling off from the rainfall of the summer season. The temperature is neither too hot nor freezing cold ( 10 degrees Celsius / 50 degrees Fahrenheit to 22 degrees Celsius / 71.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Likewise, the sky gets clearer, and the leaves on the trees get greener before changing browns and finally falling off. In September and October, Nepal is in full swing of two of the greatest festivals, Dashain and Tihar. But of course, with great views and cultural experience comes the crowd. So, do not expect the trails to be packed.
Winter season
The Manaslu circuit trek in the Winter season ( December, January, and February) is beautified by snow. If you love snow and think you can manage trekking well despite the freezing cold, go for it! The temperature is colder in December and January than in February. Jan and Dec have around 5 degrees Celsius / 41 degrees Fahrenheit to -5 degrees Celsius / 23 degrees Fahrenheit) and February has 7 degrees Celsius / 44.6 degrees Fahrenheit to 15 degrees Celsius / 59 degrees Fahrenheit. However, do not forget to carry the trekking equipment to help you walk in the snow. Learn the weather and keep up with weather updates even on the trails to avoid snowstorms and avalanches. Keeping your safety the top priority, if you complete the Manaslu circuit trek in winter, it is perfect for alone time.
Pros and Cons of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring
The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring offers stunning views of the Himalayas, lush forests, and cultural experiences in Tibetan-influenced villages. Ideal weather with clear skies and moderate temperatures makes it perfect for trekking, and vibrant flora adds to the scenery. However, popularity can lead to crowded trails, and melting snow can create slippery sections. Despite challenges, it’s a coveted journey for adventurers seeking natural beauty and cultural immersion in Nepal’s remote landscapes.
Pros:
- Clear sky
- Unobstructed and crisp panoramic views of the surrounding snow-white mountains
- Moderate temperature for the trek
- Days are longer so longer hours to trek per day
- Trek through lush green dense forest
- The best natural vegetation in Spring is the blooming season
- Less probability of unforeseen natural hazards
Cons:
- Since it is a peak season trails are very crowded.
- Difficult to find accommodation on the trail if not booked in advance
- Food and accommodation are a bit more expensive due to high tourist flow
Pros and Cons of The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Rainy Monsoon Or Summer Season
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit during the rainy monsoon or summer season offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds. The vibrant greenery creates picturesque scenes, and accommodations are more accessible. However, navigating muddy trails and slippery sections poses safety risks. Rainfall may also obscure mountain views, limiting the visual experience. Despite challenges, with proper preparation, exploring the Manaslu Circuit in the rainy season can still be a rewarding adventure for those seeking a unique trekking experience in Nepal.
Pros:
- Green landscapes after rainfall are breathtaking
- Stunning views of the forest
- Breathtaking views of the fast-flowing rivers and waterfalls due to continuous rainfall
- Cool temperature after the rainfall
- As it is not a peak trekking season, the trails are less crowded. Perfect for those who want to have some alone time
- Easier to find accommodation
- Food and accommodation are cheaper compared to Spring season and Autumn season
- Some places even have special offers to lure the trekkers in
Cons:
- Trails are muddy and slippery after the very dangerous rainfall
- All the clouds and rainfall decrease the visibility
- Less chance of catching the stunning scenic views
- Unpredictable weather conditions: even if the day starts clear, it can start raining the next minute
- Floods and Landslides can block trails for weeks
Pros and Cons of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in the Autumn or Fall Season
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit in autumn offers clear skies, mild temperatures, and stunning landscapes with colorful foliage. It’s less crowded than in peak seasons, providing a peaceful journey. However, early booking is essential for accommodations and permits. Trekkers should also prepare for colder temperatures at higher altitudes and be mindful of altitude sickness. Overall, autumn promises a rewarding adventure amidst pristine beauty, with proper preparation ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Pros:
- After continuous rainfall in the summer, the clouds clear away, which offers spectacular visibility.
- The temperature drops down relatively. This makes the weather moderate for hours-long trekking.
- Autumn is the harvest season in Nepal. Lowlands with terraced farms are decorated with golden rice, ready to be harvested.
- Moreover, the festivities start with Fall. Nepal’s two main festivals, Dashain and Tihar, are celebrated around this time. So, the best way to explore Nepal’s culture and tradition.
- There is less probability of being caught in unforeseen natural hazards.
Cons:
- Just like the Spring season, trails are jam-packed with trekkers
- Difficult to find good food and accommodation arrangements on the go
- Higher prices than the Summer season and the Winter season.
Pros and Cons of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in the Winter season
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit in winter offers pristine snow-covered landscapes and fewer crowds, providing a quieter and more serene experience. However, harsh weather conditions, including freezing temperatures and the possibility of snowstorms, make trekking more challenging and potentially hazardous. Trails may be icy and some teahouses closed, limiting accommodation options. Despite these challenges, for experienced trekkers prepared for cold weather, the winter season can provide a unique and rewarding adventure amidst the region’s natural beauty.
Pros:
- Peaceful trekking experience due to less tourist flow
- Perfect to experience snow-covered peaks. The Himalayas look like something out of a winter wonderland during the winter season
- The skies are clear, and visibility is good (when it not snowing)
- Easy to find accommodation right on the trials
- Pay less for the same accommodation than you pay in other seasons.
Cons:
- Days are shorter compared to other seasons. So you can not trek for longer hours.
- Life-threatening natural hazards like snow storms and avalanches.
- Just like in the rainy season, in the winter season, climate changes in the blink of an eye
- Temperature is cruelly cold
Final Say
The government’s oversight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek ensures safety, environmental preservation, and responsible tourism. Through permits, infrastructure development, and guidelines enforcement, it fosters sustainable practices. Collaborative efforts are vital to maintain the trek’s integrity and support local communities while safeguarding its natural and cultural heritage.
All seasons have their good and bad. Decide what you want your Manaslu Circuit trek to look and feel like. If you decide to trek during an unideal time of the year, be prepared for the worst. Make sure help is always around. The best way to do that is to be accompanied by experienced guides and porters. They are your saviors amidst the Himalayas. We hope this helped!
