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Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather and Temperature
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 12-day adventure that circles Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest peak in the world. The route takes you from Soti Khola’s subtropical forests to the windswept heights of Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). Along the way, you pass remote villages like Samagaun and Samdo. With fewer crowds than the Annapurna Circuit Trek, it offers raw Himalayan landscapes, Tibetan-influenced culture, and a challenging, high-altitude route.
Understanding the Manaslu Circuit Trek weather and temperature is crucial for planning a safe and enjoyable trek. The trek has multiple microclimates, so you’ll experience everything from warm, humid valleys to freezing alpine zones within just 12 days. Here’s a blog to guide you through seasonal conditions, average temperatures, and how the weather affects trail difficulty. It will also help you pack the right gear, avoid dangerous snow or monsoon conditions, and choose the best season to tackle this iconic circuit in Nepal.
Table of Contents
Weather Conditions during each Season
The Manaslu Circuit Trek weather changes drastically by season, affecting visibility, trail conditions, and temperature. Here’s a breakdown:
| Season | Months | Weather Conditions | Trekking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March to May | Clear skies, moderate temperatures, blooming rhododendrons. Snow is melting at high passes. | Popular season; trails are stable, but Larkya La Pass can still have icy sections. |
| Summer/Monsoon | June to August | Heavy rainfall, leeches in lower areas, landslides, and cloud cover. | Not ideal; trails are muddy and risky, verdant greenery, and fewer trekkers. |
| Autumn | September to November | Stable weather, clear skies, warm days, cold nights, and the best mountain views. | Peak season, balance of temperatures and dry trails. |
| Winter | December to February | Very cold, heavy snowfall at high passes, sub-zero nights. | Not ideal trekking time. Some tea houses close due to snow. |
Temperature Breakdown by Elevation
The Manaslu Circuit Trek temperature range changes dramatically as you climb from subtropical valleys to the icy heights of Larkya La Pass. Lower regions, like Soti Khola at 700 m, are warm and humid most of the year. In spring and autumn, daytime temperatures hover between 18 and 25 °C, while nights dip to around 10 and 15 °C. Packing light layers is usually enough. However, sudden rain showers can make things chilly and damp.
By the time you reach Samagaun at 3,530 m (mid elevation), the climate shifts sharply. Days are much cooler, averaging 5 to 12°C during the trekking season, while nights often drop below freezing, ranging from -3 °C to 2 °C. A good down jacket and thermal layers become essential here, especially for acclimatization days when you spend more time resting.
Then, at the highest point of the trek, Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), temperatures are extreme. Even in peak seasons like October, daytime conditions hover between -5 °C and 5°C, with icy winds making it feel even colder. Nighttime temperatures can drop to -10 °C in peak seasons and -20 °C in winter. It’s often windy, which makes it feel even colder. You must wear insulated gloves, windproof jackets, and thermal base layers, especially since you’ll start walking very early in the morning.
| Location | Altitude | Day Temperature | Night Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soti Khola | 700 m | 18°C – 25°C | 10°C – 15°C | Warm and humid. Occasional rain. |
| Samagaun | 3,530 m | 5°C – 12°C | -3°C – 2°C | Much colder. |
| Larkya La Pass | 5,106 m | -5°C – 5°C | -10°C to -20°C | Extremely cold. |
Hence, these sharp temperature fluctuations on the Manaslu trek require layering. Sunny afternoons at lower altitudes can feel deceptively warm, but the moment the sun dips or as you climb above 3,000 m, the cold sets in fast.
How Weather Affects the Trekking Experience
While trekking in the Manaslu Circuit, sudden weather changes can transform your trek from a great experience into a serious challenge. Timing is everything for this trek. Choosing the right season not only decides how comfortable your trek will be but also how safe and rewarding the journey feels.
Being the best times, spring and autumn seasons in Nepal mostly offer crisp air. The skies are clear and the ground is firm beneath your boots. In spring, the weather begins to warm. And in autumn, you can feel the crunch of dried leaves and grasses on the paths. It’ll be just you, the steady rhythm of the trail, and the clear mountain views welcoming you. You stay warm during the day, while cool mornings and evenings remind you to bundle up with a cozy jacket.
However, as summer comes, monsoon rains roll in like clockwork, and suddenly the whole scene changes. The sky darkens, bringing heavy rain and high humidity, so the air feels thick and damp. The nearby rivers grow larger, their currents becoming fierce and unpredictable. Crossing them becomes a test of balance and nerve. Even when you’re wearing rain gear, your clothes can cling damply against your skin. Thus, the usual quiet of the route breaks with the steady patter of raindrops.
Similarly, trekking in winter in the Manaslu region is a whole different challenge. As you climb to higher altitudes, the air turns biting cold, and everything is covered in snow. Even daytime temperatures stay near freezing, so nights become extremely cold. You move carefully on icy paths, your breath visible in the frosty air, knowing one slip could cause serious trouble. Teahouses up high become scarce during the winter months, especially around Samdo and Dharamsala, meaning you’ll likely need to rely on your own gear and preparation.
In the end, the weather shapes your entire journey: the feel of the trail underfoot, the crispness or dampness in the air, your comfort and safety, and even whether you find a warm place to rest at day’s end. So, plan with these weather patterns in mind. You’re not just surviving the Manaslu Circuit. You’re embracing its wild beauty and turning your trek into a glorious adventure.
Perfect Time to Trek the Manaslu Circuit
The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during the months of March to May (spring) or September to November (autumn). Trekking in these months provides stable weather, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures, making the journey safer and far more enjoyable.
Autumn is the most popular time to trek in the Manaslu region. After the monsoon, the air turns crisp and clear, offering uninterrupted views of Manaslu and its neighboring peaks. Dry weather and mild daytime temperatures make long trekking days easier, though mornings and nights stay chilly at higher elevations. Tea houses are fully open, and while the route feels lively, it’s still less crowded than Everest or Annapurna.
Spring also draws many trekkers. When you trek in March to May, the lower hills burst with blooming rhododendrons and fresh greenery, while the weather stays warm but not overly hot. Trekking feels comfortable in the mid-altitudes, though you’ll still need warm clothing as nighttime temperatures near freezing in the higher sections. Most of the snow has melted from the high passes, making trekking safer and easier.
Both these periods make acclimatization smoother. When you trek in spring or autumn, the weather is predictable, so you can stick to your itinerary without worrying about sudden storms, closed passes, or major detours. You avoid the landslides and leeches of summer and the bitter cold and shuttered tea houses of winter.
For the most accessible trails, clear mountain views, and fewer risks and temperature changes, trek during this time for the best Manaslu Circuit trek conditions.
Can You Trek the Manaslu Circuit in Off-Season?
Yes, you can trek the Manaslu Circuit trail in the off-season, but conditions are harsher. Winter (December–February) brings freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and limited tea houses, while summer monsoon (June–August) causes muddy trails, landslides, swollen rivers, and poor visibility. Off-season trekking is possible, but it’s best suited for experienced hikers with proper gear and flexible plans.
In winter season (December to February), the cold can be extreme. Temperatures often drop well below freezing, especially above 4,000 meters. Similarly, heavy snow can block critical sections of the trekking route, like the Larkya La Pass. The icy trails demand careful footing, and chilly winds increase the risk of frostbite. Plus, many tea houses in higher villages such as Samdo and Dharamsala either close or operate very minimally, making food and shelter scarce. You may need to camp above here. Manaslu trek is already a challenging trek, so winter trekking makes it even dangerous.
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On the other hand, the summer monsoon (June to August) brings persistent rains. The trail gets slippery and muddy, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. Sometimes, roads and bridges get washed out by rivers and streams. Landslides are frequent in this region. Hence, the trek can be delayed or route closures may occur, forcing detours or backtracking. Thick clouds and heavy fog usually obscure the stunning mountain views, which can be disappointing for trekkers hoping for clear panoramas. However, the trails are far less crowded during this time of year, offering a rare sense of solitude. Tea houses, while fewer, are still open to welcome the determined few.
Thus, off-season trekking requires excellent preparation, physical fitness, and flexibility in plans to manage unpredictable weather and trail conditions. While it’s not the easiest time to tackle the Manaslu Circuit, experienced trekkers who come prepared can enjoy a unique, quieter, and rewarding trekking adventure.
Essential Gear for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal 2025
Packing the right type of gear, tailored to the season, is a crucial part of planning your trek. It adds safety, comfort, and enjoyment to the trek. Even in the best seasons, temperatures drop sharply at night. This blog will also help you with gear.
Here’s what you’ll need for each season, considering weather patterns:
Spring (March to May)
- Light to medium layers: Moisture-wicking base layers, fleece, and a windproof jacket.
- Warm outer layer: For colder nights at high altitudes.
- Water-resistant boots: Trails can still be damp from melting snow.
- Hat and gloves: Mornings and evenings are chilly.
- Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Trekking poles: For uneven terrain.
Autumn (September to November)
- Layered clothing: Lightweight layers for warm days, insulated jacket for cold mornings and nights.
- Good hiking boots: Dry, firm trails, but temps drop at high passes.
- Warm hat and gloves: For nights near or below freezing.
- Down jacket: Ideal for late autumn when temperatures start to fall.
- Headlamp: Days are shorter by November.
- Sun protection: UV radiation remains strong at higher elevations.
Winter (December to February)
- Insulated down jacket and thermal layers: For extreme cold.
- Cold-weather sleeping bag: Rated at least -20°C.
- Crampons or microspikes: For icy and snowy trails.
- Insulated boots with gaiters: Prevent frostbite and snow entry.
- Heavy gloves, balaclava, and thermal socks: Protect against frostbite.
- Hand and foot warmers: Extra warmth for nights.
- Extra layers: The Weather can shift quickly.
Summer/Monsoon (June to August)
- Breathable rain jacket and pants: Stay dry without overheating.
- Quick-drying clothing: Opt for no cotton, synthetics, and merino.
- Waterproof boots with a good grip: For muddy and slippery trails.
- Backpack rain cover and dry bags: Keep essentials dry.
- Trekking poles: For balance on wet terrain.
- Insect repellent and gaiters: Leeches are common in lower forests.
- Extra socks and liners: To stay comfortable despite constant wetness.
Conclusion
You need to understand the weather and temperature conditions on the Manaslu Circuit trek before going on the trek. The region’s climate changes dramatically with the seasons and elevation, influencing everything from trail conditions to your safety and comfort. By far, spring and autumn months stand out as the best seasons for clear skies, moderate temperatures, and open tea houses, making your trek smoother and more memorable.
While trekking during the off-season is possible, the harsh cold of winter and the heavy rains of the monsoon present serious challenges that require proper gear, experience, and flexibility. By choosing the right time to go and preparing for the mountain’s moods, you set yourself up to fully embrace the natural beauty of Manaslu Circuit without worrying about changing weather and temperatures.
Explore Manaslu Circuit with Action Nepal Treks for the best experience.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather and Temperature FAQs
