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Manaslu Circuit Trek in October
The Manaslu Circuit trek in October is an incredible opportunity to experience the Himalayan wilderness at its best. It is considered one of the best months to travel to Nepal. The reason is the clear, expansive post-monsoon skies, which reveal the snow-capped peaks of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli in all their glory. Additionally, a festive atmosphere prevails in the Ghale, Gurung, and Brahmin villages en route as they prepare for Dashain and Tihar, Nepal’s grandest festivals.
With the pleasant weather and cultural buzz, October naturally draws a large number of trekkers. Trails are lively but well-maintained, and teahouses along the route are fully operational. Lodges can get busy in popular stops like Samagaun or Lho; however, the energy of the autumn season adds a special touch to the experience. You’ll meet your alikes, all chasing the same high-altitude thrill. You need a bit of planning, like advance room booking, which goes a long way in making the journey smooth and enjoyable.
That’s where we come in. With over 15 years of experience in the field, we at Action Nepal Treks will take care of your permits, transportation, and lodge bookings to ensure your Manaslu Circuit trek in October runs smoothly from day one to its end.
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Top Reasons to Trek the Manaslu Circuit in October
Although autumn is often seen as a fading season in many countries, it’s quite the opposite in Nepal. October, being an autumn month, brings life to the trails and is one of the best times to trek the Manaslu region. Here are the top reasons why October is the best month for your Manaslu Circuit adventure:
- Clear and Unobstructed Views of the Himalayas: October starts right after the monsoon season clears. Hence, the skies are not only clear but the air is crisp, offering the clearest possible views of the Himalayan giants like Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli. This period is crucial for trekkers who want the best visibility and the chance to capture unparalleled photographs.
- Ideal Trekking Conditions and Mild Temperatures: With daytime temperatures averaging between 15°C and 20°C and cool nights at higher altitudes, October provides perfect conditions for trekking. This mild weather is comfortable for hiking, especially on the more strenuous sections of the Manaslu Circuit trail.
- Witness Traditional Ways of Life in Mountainous Villages: As you trek through Gurung, Tamang, and other Tibetan-influenced villages, you’ll get a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of mountain communities. From farming practices to spiritual customs, the way of life in these remote villages offers a unique cultural experience.
- Fewer Monsoon Hazards and Clear Trails: The trekking routes are clear of mudslides and flooding that often occur during the monsoon months. The path is well-maintained for a safer and more enjoyable journey.
- The Thriving Festive Atmosphere of Dashain and Tihar: The Ghale, Gurung, and Brahmin villages along the Manaslu route celebrate Dashain and Tihar. Locals perform puja rituals, put on new clothes, wear tikas, receive blessings, and eat delicious food. They also fly kites and play on swings, made especially for Dashain. More importantly, you can participate in these activities too.
- A Perfect Balance Between Serenity and Social Atmosphere: Although October is the peak trekking season, the trail remains manageable. The atmosphere is energetic and full of excitement with fellow trekkers from around the world, but not overwhelming.
What Kind of Cultural Experiences Can You Expect?
During the Manaslu Circuit trip in October, you’ll not only be immersed in stunning natural beauty but also in the vibrant local cultures that call this region home. The communities along the Manaslu Circuit each have their own traditions, beliefs, and way of life.
In the lower regions of the trek, such as Soti Khola and Arughat, the Gurung and Brahmin communities primarily follow Hindu customs. The traditional stone houses with terraced fields are a common sight in this area. You’ll often see locals busy with farming, animal husbandry, and weaving. During Dashain and Tihar, locals celebrate these festivals with rituals, the exchange of blessings, new clothes, festive meals, kite flying, and swinging.
However, in higher-altitude villages like Samagaun, Samdo, and Dharmashala, you’ll encounter Tibetan-influenced communities. The homes here are typically stone-built with flat roofs, designed to withstand the harsher mountain climate. There are monasteries such as the Pungyen Gompa and the Samagaun Monastery. You can even observe monks performing daily rituals and locals making offerings at sacred sites. Chortens, prayer flags, and prayer wheels become the primary decorations for these villages up to the Manaslu Base Camp.
As you trek through these remote villages, the warmth of the locals, their traditional ways of life, and their reverence for nature and spirituality will leave a lasting impression, offering you a deep cultural connection to the land and people of the Manaslu Circuit.
Short Itinerary Guide for Manaslu Circuit Trek
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Drive from Kathmandu to Machhikhola |
| Day 2 | Trek from Machhikhola to Jagat |
| Day 3 | Trek from Jagat to Deng |
| Day 4 | Trek from Deng to Namrong |
| Day 5 | Trek from Namrong to Samagaun |
| Day 6 | Acclimatization Day in Samagaun |
| Day 7 | Trek from Samagaun to Samdo |
| Day 8 | Trek from Samdo to Dharmashala |
| Day 9 | Cross Larkya Pass to Bhimtang |
| Day 10 | Trek from Bhimtang to Tilche Village |
| Day 11 | Jeep Ride from Tilche to Besisahar |
| Day 12 | Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu |
Weather and Temperature During the Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary takes you to a variety of altitudes, from the subtropical lower regions to the cold Larkya Pass. October provides some of the best trekking conditions, with post-monsoon skies offering clear views and crisp, cool temperatures.
At the beginning of the trek, in lower altitudes like Machhikhola and Jagat, the temperatures are mild, ranging from 20°C to 25°C during the day and cooling to around 10°C to 15°C at night. As you ascend, temperatures drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. By the time you reach Samagaun and Samdo, daytime temperatures hover between 8°C and 12°C, with chilly nights falling as low as -5°C to -2°C.
The highest point of the trek, Larkya Pass, can be very cold, with daytime temperatures rarely exceeding 2°C to 3°C and nights dropping to -10°C to -5°C. The weather at this altitude can be unpredictable. Snowstorms and strong winds can surprise you at any time. After crossing the pass, temperatures slowly warm up as you descend into Bhimtang and further to Tilche Village and Besisahar.
Overall, October offers perfect conditions for trekking. Still, you should be prepared for colder nights and the potential for snow at higher elevations.
| Location (Elevation) | Average Day Temperature | Average Night Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Machhikhola (900 m) | 20°C to 25°C | 10°C to 15°C |
| Jagat (1,400 m) | 18°C to 22°C | 8°C to 12°C |
| Samagaun (3,500 m) | 8°C to 12°C | -2°C to 2°C |
| Samdo (3,900 m) | 5°C to 8°C | -5°C to 0°C |
| Dharmashala (4,460 m) | 2°C to 5°C | -7°C to -3°C |
| Larkya Pass (5,160 m) | -2°C to 3°C | -10°C to -5°C |
| Bhimtang (3,700 m) | 5°C to 8°C | -3°C to 1°C |
| Tilche Village (2,200 m) | 12°C to 15°C | 2°C to 6°C |
Cost and Accommodation for Manaslu Circuit Trek in October
Action Nepal Treks provides a comprehensive Manaslu Circuit Trek Package, offering a unique trekking experience at an affordable price. The price starts with US$950 and covers all essential services, including permits, transportation, accommodation, and a professional guide. We also offer group discounts, which vary depending on the size of your group. Larger parties equal larger discounts.
Quick insight: If you’re traveling solo or with a small group, you can also join other trekkers to benefit from these group rates, making it even more cost-effective.
| Number of People | Price Per Person (US$) |
|---|---|
| 2 – 3 | $950 |
| 4 – 4 | $870 |
| 5 – 8 | $850 |
| 9 – 15 | $830 |
Accommodation around the Manaslu Area
In the month of October, the accommodation options for the Manaslu trek also become more diverse. Mainly because autumn is the best season, and there is a significant number of trekkers who hike to Mount Manaslu. Many teahouses and lodges reopen fully, especially in busy stopovers like Namrung, Samagaun, and Lho. These are mostly family-run guesthouses that offer basic yet cozy lodging for trekkers throughout the route.
Most teahouses and lodges along the Manaslu Circuit provide the following features:
- Rooms are typically twin-share, furnished with two simple beds and warm blankets to help you stay cozy at night.
- Each teahouse has a communal dining area, usually heated by a central stove, where trekkers gather to eat and warm up.
- Meals are traditional and filling. Example: dal bhat, handmade naans or chapatis, soups, pancakes, and basic snacks.
- In lower-altitude villages, hot showers are often available in the form of solar- or gas-heated buckets.
- Charging your devices is only possible in limited locations, and often comes with a small additional fee. Therefore, it’s wise to carry a power bank.
- Some villages, such as Samagaun, offer basic Wi-Fi, although the connection can be unreliable and very slow.
Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek in October
When trekking in the Manaslu region, you’ll need to acquire specific permits to ensure a safe and legal journey through the region. These permits include the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), as the trek passes through areas that require special permission.
Here’s a breakdown of the necessary permits for the Manaslu trek and their respective costs:
1. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): This permit is required to trek through the Manaslu Conservation Area. The cost is generally US$30 per person for 7 days, with an additional daily fee for each extra day after that. The MCAP helps preserve the region’s unique wildlife, environment, and cultural heritage.
2. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): As part of the Annapurna Conservation Area, trekkers also need an ACAP, which costs around US$30 per person. This permit is required for entry into the Annapurna region and remains valid for the duration of your trek.
3. Restricted Area Permit (RAP): The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is mandatory for entering Manaslu’s restricted zones, which include the higher altitudes and border areas. The RAP costs approximately US$100 for the first 7 days, with an additional US$15 per day for each subsequent day.
Permits Cost Summary Table
| Permit | Cost (US$) | Validity/Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) | US$30 | 7 days, Additional daily fees apply after 7 days |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | US$30 | The entire duration of the trek |
| Restricted Area Permit (RAP) | US$100 (First 7 days) | US$15 per additional day |
| Trekking Insurance | Varies | Covers emergency evacuation and trekking issues |
Other Required Documents
- Passport: A valid passport is required for obtaining permits.
- Trekking Agency: You’ll need to arrange these permits through a licensed trekking agency, as individual trekkers can’t obtain the RAP and other permits.
- Trekking Insurance: It is recommended to have trekking insurance that covers emergency evacuation and other incidents related to trekking.
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17 Days Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley Trek
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Manaslu Circuit Trek
Challenges and Tips for Manaslu Circuit Trek in October
While October is one of the best months for trekking the Manaslu Circuit, it still presents a few challenges that trekkers should be aware of. Understanding these potential difficulties will help you prepare better and make your trek more enjoyable.
Crowded Trails and Teahouses
October is also peak trekking season for the Manaslu Trek in Nepal. While the lively atmosphere can be exciting, it also means that crowds in teahouses and lodges. Popular spots like Samagaun and Bhimtang may have limited rooms available. So, you need to book in advance or share dorm-style rooms.
Tip: Pre-book accommodations for a smooth stay, particularly in the more crowded areas of the trek.
Rapid Weather Changes and High Altitudes
Although the weather in October usually offers clear skies, it can be unpredictable in the high-altitude sections. As you ascend, temperatures drop significantly, and the risk of sudden snow or rain increases. More importantly, crossing the Larkya Pass (5,160 m) can be particularly challenging due to freezing temperatures, strong winds, and the potential for snowstorms.
Tip: Trekking with an experienced guide and being prepared with the right gear (such as warm clothing, rain gear, and layers) in order to deal with changing weather conditions.
Altitude Sickness
When hiking up to Samagaun, Samdo, and Larkya Pass, you are at risk of altitude sickness. Watch out for symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Inform the guide immediately if you don’t feel well. It can hit anyone, even the fit trekkers. Altitude sickness worsens quickly and leads to life-threatening conditions like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). Therefore, you should take acclimatization seriously.
Tip: Follow the “climb high, sleep low” rule and take extra rest days if necessary. Always listen to your body and consult your guide if you experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
Limited Food and Water Options
While there are teahouses en route, food options can be limited and may not always cater to specific dietary preferences. The higher you go, the less variety of food there is, and it often becomes repetitive. Water is available, but you will need to carry purification tablets or a water filter for use in remote areas.
Tip: Carry your own snacks, energy bars, and a reliable water purification system to avoid any inconvenience.
The Physical Demands of the Trek
The Manaslu Circuit is a physically demanding trek. With long days of walking at high altitudes, the route involves substantial elevation gains, particularly when crossing Larkya Pass. Trekking for 8-10 hours a day can be challenging, especially for those who are not well-prepared or used to mountainous terrain.
Tip: Proper physical preparation before your trek is key. Focus on strength training and cardio exercises to build stamina, and consider shorter treks leading up to your Manaslu Circuit adventure.
How Can You Prepare for a Manaslu Circuit Trek in October?
Preparing for the 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek requires careful planning, both physically and logistically. Sure, October is one of the best months for trekking in Nepal, but it can also be demanding due to the high altitudes and changing weather conditions. Here are some key ways to ensure you’re well-prepared for your trek:
Physical Preparation: Get Trek-Ready
Trekking in the Manaslu Circuit is challenging. It has significant elevation gain, particularly when crossing Larkya Pass. You can do the following to ease the Manaslu trek difficulty:
- Focus on cardio exercises such as walking, running, or cycling, along with strength training to build leg and core muscles.
- If possible, try to hike in hilly or mountainous terrain to get used to the uphill and downhill climbs.
- Walk with a weighted backpack to simulate the trekking experience.
Packing the Right Gear
October is post-monsoon, which means the weather will be clear but can change quickly, especially at higher altitudes. Proper gear is essential:
- Pack thermal layers, a down jacket, gloves, and warm socks. Temperatures can drop to below freezing at night in areas such as Samagaun, Samdo, and Larkya Pass.
- Even though it’s a dry season, it’s good to carry a rain jacket and pants, as the weather can be unpredictable.
- A sturdy pair of comfortable and waterproof trekking boots to endure long days of walking.
- A four-season sleeping bag that can handle temperatures as low as -10°C is a good investment for colder nights.
Acclimatization and Plan for Rest Days
Altitude sickness is a significant risk, especially as you ascend above 3,500 meters. To avoid it, make sure to take rest days and acclimatize properly:
- Follow the “climb high, sleep low” principle. Trek higher during the day, but return to a lower altitude to sleep (for example, Samagaun to Samdo and back down to Samagaun).
- Plan a full acclimatization day in Samagaun (Day 6) to allow your body to adjust to the increasing altitude.
- Aim for at least 3 to 4 liters of water daily. Staying well-hydrated helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness and keeps you energized in a dry mountain environment.
- Avoid consuming alcohol or smoking during the trek to ensure your body functions optimally at high altitudes.
Snacks and Water Purification Gear
Although the trek to Manaslu has teahouses to provide meals, the food options can become repetitive. So, pack extra snacks, such as energy bars, dried or seasonal fruits, and nuts, to keep your energy levels up. Additionally, take a water purification system (tablets, filter, or UV device) for safe drinking water.
Mental Preparation: Be Ready for the Adventure
Trekking in the Manaslu Circuit requires mental resilience:
- The trek can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in weather or trail conditions. Stay adaptable and be prepared to face challenges.
- This is a strenuous trek with many days of walking, so take it slow and listen to your body.
- Embrace the journey and witness the changing season, enjoy local festivals, and connect with other trekkers and local communities.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek in October is truly an adventure of a lifetime. You get the all-in-one experience through breathtaking landscapes, grand festivals, and Himalayan culture. The combination of clear skies, comfortable accommodation, and fewer crowds than the Everest Base Camp trek makes the challenging Manaslu trip absolutely worth all the effort. By preparing physically, packing the right gear, and staying informed about the necessary permits, you can fully enjoy the Manaslu trip without unnecessary stress.
FAQs for Manaslu Circuit Trek in October
