Best Time to Trek Manaslu Circuit: A Complete Seasonal Guide 2025

Best Time to Trek Manaslu Circuit: A Complete Seasonal Guide 2025 

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit is a dream for many adventurers seeking a less-crowded alternative to the Everest and Annapurna regions. With remote villages, towering Himalayan peaks, lush forests, and the challenging Larkya La Pass, it’s a journey of both physical challenge and natural beauty. But timing is everything. Choosing the best season to trek can make a significant difference in safety, scenery, and overall experience. This guide will help you determine the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit in 2025 by breaking down each season with pros, cons, climate data, and trekking tips.

Winter Trekking (December to February)

1.Weather Overview

• Temperatures: -10°C to 10°C
• Conditions : Cold and dry, especially above 3,000m
• Larkya La Pass: Often closed or dangerous due to heavy snow

2. Pros:

• Extremely quiet trails — ideal for solitude lovers
•  Crystal-clear skies for photography
•  Discounts on permits and accommodation

3. Cons:

• Very cold nights and mornings
•  High passes may be impassable
•  Risk of avalanches or icy trails

4. Recommended For:

•  Experienced trekkers with winter hiking experience
•  Trekkers equipped with proper cold-weather gear

5. Trekking Tip :

•   Always check with local guides or agencies about snow conditions before committing to a winter trek.

Spring Season (March to May)

1. Weather Overview

• Temperatures: 6°C to 20°C
• Conditions: Stable and warm during the day; cold at night
• Trail Features: Blooming rhododendrons, lush greenery

2. Pros:

•  Best for photography — colorful forests and clear skies
•  Comfortable temperatures for trekking
•  Ideal for crossing Larkya La Pass

3. Cons:

•  Growing crowds in late April and May
•  Dusty trails at lower altitudes

4. Recommended For:

•  First-time trekkers in Nepal
•  Nature and photography enthusiasts

5. Trekking Tip:

•  March and early April offer a perfect balance between mild weather and fewer crowds.

 Monsoon/Summer Season (June to August)

1. Weather Overview

• Temperatures: 10°C to 25°C
• Conditions: Hot, humid, and very rainy
• Trail Features: Slippery trails, leeches, landslides

2. Pros:

•  Greenest landscapes — rice fields and waterfalls
•  Very few other trekkers

3. Cons:

•  Continuous rain and poor trail conditions
•  Cloudy skies with limited mountain views
• Transportation delays due to landslides

4. Recommended For:

•  Monsoon lovers or off-season travelers
•  Researchers, photographers looking for unique scenes

5.Trekking Tip:

• Bring waterproof gear and avoid landslide-prone areas; plan extra days for delays.

Autumn Season (September to November)

1. Weather Overview

• Temperatures: 5°C to 20°C
• Conditions: Dry, clear skies, stable weather
• Visibility: Best mountain views in Nepal

2. Pros:

•  Peak trekking season — perfect weather
•  Larkya La Pass is fully accessible
•  Vibrant cultural festivals like Dashain & Tihar

3. Cons:

•  More crowded than other seasons
•  Higher prices for accommodation and guides

4. Recommended For:

•  All types of trekkers (beginners to pros)
• Anyone seeking the most scenic experience

5. Trekking Tip:

•  Book accommodation and permits in advance during October — it’s the busiest month.

Seasonal Comparison Table

Climate Breakdown by Key Locations

1. Kathmandu (1,400m)

•  Spring: 10–25°C, dry
•  Autumn: 12–28°C, clear

 2. Samagaon (3,500m)

•  Spring: -2 to 10°C
•  Autumn: 0 to 12°C

3. Larkya La Pass (5,160m)

•  Spring/Autumn: -10 to -5°C
•  Winter: Can drop below -20°C

 Final Recommendations

• Best Overall Time:  Late September to Early November — Perfect for weather, views, and safety.
• Second-Best Time:  Mid-March to Mid-April — Beautiful forests and comfortable trekking conditions.
• Avoid:  Monsoon season unless you’re highly experienced and comfortable with leech-ridden, muddy terrain.

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit at the right time can elevate your experience from good to unforgettable. Always check weather updates, prepare your gear according to the season, and consult a licensed trekking agency for guidance. The right season can be the difference between a scenic, smooth trek and a soggy struggle.

Happy trekking in 2025 !