Understanding the Manaslu Region’s Weather Patterns

Out of many extraordinary places, the Manaslu circuit trek is one adventure that takes you through different landscapes that feel out of this world.

You will traverse the diverse Manaslu trek route, ranging from warm, green valleys to cold, high mountain passes. 

That’s why the Manaslu Circuit trek weather can change quickly depending on altitude and time of year.

At lower altitudes, which range between 800 and 2,000 meters, the weather is typically warmer and more stable.

But once you venture above 3,000 meters and higher, thing moves fast. 

It could be sunny in the morning.

By afternoon, the clouds can roll in (which is more common in summer).

Nights are always colder, especially at elevations like Samagaun, Dharamsala or near Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters.

That is why the weather in Manaslu region is often referred to as unpredictable. 

The region is very close to the northern border of the Himalayas, which means it’s significantly affected by the monsoon, dry winter winds and changing air pressure at high altitude.

Even with the best weather trekking months, you may find yourself facing unexpected rain, wind or snow at higher altitudes.

Therefore, it is essential to understand the weather patterns before deciding on your trekking dates.

In the next section of this Nepal Base Camp Treks blog, we will discuss the Manaslu Circuit temperature range by month so that you know what to expect, whether you trek in spring, summer, autumn or winter.

Monthly Breakdown – Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather by Season

When considering a trek in the Himalayas, physical and mental preparation and equipment are only part of the picture; timing is just as important. 

Every season on the Manaslu trail brings unique challenges and opportunities.

For this reason, it’s crucial to understand the Manaslu Circuit trek weather by season. 

Below you’ll find a month-to-month guide to help you plan with confidence, whenever you decide to go.

September to November – Best Weather for the Manaslu Circuit

September to November are considered the best months for Manaslu Circuit trek.

These are the dry season after the monsoon rain, so the rains have stopped, the skies are clear and the trails are dry.

If you are interested in stunning mountain views, pleasant walking temperatures and less risk, this is the best period.

In September, there is still some lingering rain from the monsoon, especially in the first week.

However, by the second week of September, the weather is stabilized.

Trails become easier underfoot and the greenery after the rains looks fresh and beautiful.

October is the most popular month for trekking.

The days are sunny and the visibility is excellent, making it the best time for photography or getting high mountain vistas or panoramas.

So, is October a good month for Manaslu Circuit Weather?

Yes, absolutely.

October is rated #1 trekking month in Nepal for the Manaslu region.

In November, the air begins to cool down, especially at the highest elevations, but it is still a great month to trek Manaslu.

The Manaslu Circuit trek weather in this season offers clear skies; however, the evenings or mornings are colder than October, particularly in the Larkya La Pass region.

The daytime temperatures will typically vary from:

18 to 22°C in the lower elevations (e.g., Machha Khola, Philim)

5 to 15°C in the mid-hills (e.g., Namrung, Lho, Samagaun)

-5 to 5°C near the pass and Dharamsala

If you’re after a bit of comfort and a healthy challenge in beautiful scenery, this is your window.  

The Manaslu trek weather during these months sets the gold standard for Himalayan trekking.

December to February – Trekking in Harsh Winter

The Manslu Circuit trek weather in winter, between December and February, is extremely cold, particularly in the upper parts of the trek.

You can still complete the circuit, but we recommend this season only for experienced trekkers with adequate gear and trekking skills.

December weather is often dry and clear, particularly in early December.

As we move deeper into winter, the temperature drops significantly in January and February.

Snow starts to cover villages and higher parts of the trek, especially in Samdo, Dharamsala and the Larkya La Pass area.

And snow means hard-to-navigate trails and sometimes impassable conditions.

Daytime temperatures in lower regions linger between 10 to -15°C.

But in high-altitude places, particularly Samagaun and Larkya La, they’ll be below zero, the extremes being:

-10 to -20°C at night near Larkya La Pass.

0 to 5°C during the day in Lho and Samagaun.

Many teahouses above 3,500m will likely shut down during the winter season, leaving you short of accommodation and food.

Also, with short days and lots of snow covering the trails, you’ll need to take extra supplies and a four-season sleeping bag to survive the cold nights.

Though the weather is clear with fewer crowds, the likelihood of frostbite, snow-obstructed trails and altitude-related issues is high. 

If you’re trekking in winter, make sure you’re prepared, acclimatized and with a guide that knows the trail well in those snowy conditions.

March to May – Springtime Adventure in the Manaslu Region

Spring in the Manaslu region, from March to May, is another peak trekking season for the Manaslu Circuit. 

In this time, winter melts down, the skies open up and as you pass through villages on Manaslu trek, you will witness colorful blooming rhododendrons.

Winter snow melts down, the skies open up and the trails are lined with blooming rhododendrons, particularly in the lower and mid-altitude forests.   

If you want to see colorful scenery, enjoy balanced weather and have clear mountain views, this is the best season to target. 

Manaslu trek weather in May is warm in the lower areas and cool but stable at higher altitudes.  

March starts cold, especially in the mornings, but quickly improves from then on.

By April, the days are longer and warmer and in May, the temperatures are optimally pleasant just before the summer monsoon begins.

Mild temperatures can then be expected across most parts of the trail as follows:

In lower villages like Soti Khola and Philim, the temperatures may be 15 to 25°C 

In places like Lho and Samagaun, the temperatures may be 5 to 15°C 

Near Larkya La Pass, early in the morning, the temperatures may be -5 to 5°C

You will find the trekking experience during this season to be rewarding and extraordinary.

The tea houses are open for accommodations, trails are beautiful with not too many crowds and the weather is generally stable. 

You can see some snowfall in early spring around high passes.

Overall, it is an amazing time for first-time trekkers and photographers who want a beautiful yet manageable journey. 

June to August – Monsoon Challenges and Trail Risks

The months from June to August are the monsoon months in Nepal, covering the entire Manaslu Circuit Trek route.

During these months, this area usually gets rainfall almost every day, especially in the afternoons and evenings.

The trail will be wet, muddy and in some places quite dangerous. 

Rain clouds will block views of the mountains, so you may not enjoy the scenery of your trek.

You can expect landscapes to be sliding with a risk of landslides and loss of grip, especially in the lower sections of the trek, particularly from Soti Khola to Jagat. 

You should also expect leeches in the forested areas.

Although trekking is possible during the monsoon, it is not ideal unless you’re an experienced trekker and are comfortable in these wet trekking conditions. 

From June through August, the Manaslu Circuit trek weather will be warm and humid at the lower elevations. 

For temperatures, you can expect the following: 

20 to 30 degrees Celsius in the lowlands

10 to 20 degrees Celsius in mid-altitudes

0 to 10 degrees Celsius at the highest points near Larkya La Pass

The heavy rain can cause a delay in your flights, road transport and overall Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary.

If you decide to trek this season, take a high-quality rain jacket, a good pair of waterproof boots and prepare to spend time in the rain.

What’s the Best Time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May).

These months have the most consistent weather patterns, the best trail conditions and stunning views of the mountains.

During autumn, the skies are often clear after the monsoon.

You’ll get dry trails, crisp air and long days with good visibility, which is great for walking and taking photographs.

Additionally, the autumn is the most popular time of year, so the teahouses and other services are fully open.

Spring is also a great time of year.

You will have longer, warmer days and the hills will be full of blossoming rhododendron flowers.

While there may be some haze, you can expect calm weather and comfortable trekking conditions, offering a scenic and enjoyable experience.

Monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rain, leeches and slippery trails, while winter (December to February) brings snow, ice and freezing temperatures, which are unreliable unless you are fit and experienced in winter conditions.

If you are trying to plan around the Manaslu Circuit trek weather, aim for late March to mid-May or early October to late November for good and reasonable weather.

Note: Before fixing your trekking dates for Manaslu Circuit, ensure you understand the permits required for trekking in Manaslu and seasonal rules.

Does Weather Affect Altitude Sickness on Manaslu Trek?

Yes, the Manaslu trek weather and altitude sickness are intimately connected. 

As you go higher, especially above 3,000, you need time for your body to acclimate to the lower oxygen levels.

However, when weather conditions deteriorate, i.e., become cold, wet or windy, it can greatly increase your risk of altitude sickness. 

Cold air can cause your blood vessels to tighten, which can impact circulation in the body.

Furthermore, deteriorating Manaslu Circuit trek weather can cause trekkers to act hastily and therefore skip rest days and ignore the symptoms. Especially, around the highest point of the trek, Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters.

Heavy snow, strong winds or freezing rain, all at higher elevations, can cause exhaustion and ultimately lead to poor decision-making.

Although many trekkers assume that the altitude of Manaslu trek is the only challenge, poor weather will significantly affect your experience.

Poor weather will cause you to deviate from your schedule, which gives you less time to rest and makes emergency rescue harder. 

Additionally, that is why it is crucial to plan for additional days of acclimatization as well as monitor and consider the Manaslu trek weather forecast and how your body is feeling.

So, to the question, does the weather affect altitude sickness on the Manaslu trek?

That’s a definite yes.

While there are many factors to consider, ensuring that you are prepared and thinking ahead while listening to your body will be your best method to remain safe regardless of the season.

Weather Tips for Each Season: What to Pack & Wear

Knowing how to pack correctly for the Manaslu Circuit Trek weather is as important as knowing when the best time to trek is.

As you gain altitude from under 1,000 meters to over 5,000 meters at Larkya La Pass, you will experience quite a variety of climate zones.

Each season has its challenges and you must match your gear to the expected weather patterns, temperature ranges and terrain risks. 

Autumn (September – November) 

This is the most stable season.

You will need to be prepared with several layers of clothing to cope with warm days, cooler mornings at the highest altitudes.

A fleece or down jacket, thermal layers and some warm sleeping gear will be needed by the time you reach Samagaun or Dharamsala.

Daytime temperature: 10°C to 20°C 

Nighttime (at high altitude): -5°

Condition: Clear Skies, great mountain views, warm days and cold nights. 

Winter (December – February)

The winter season is beautiful but can be harsh. 

Yes, the air is dry, visibility is high, and potentially no competition for those dazzling mountain views, but the cold is penetrating. 

Trekkers need to prepare for some really cold nights and possible snow. 

If doing winter trekking, you will need to take a four-season sleeping bag, down mittens, thermal socks and insulated layers. 

Daytime temperature: 0°C to 10°C 

Nighttime (above 3,500m): -10° to -20°C

Manaslu Circuit trek weather conditions: Frozen trails, strong winds at higher altitudes and down to almost no competition from the warmer air. 

Spring (March to May)

Spring is an excellent time to trek the Manaslu Circuit, offering great weather conditions.

The days are warmer, longer and filled with blooming scenery. 

Of course, there is still a fair amount of cold air at night in the higher elevations.

A mid-weight down jacket, sun hat, trekking poles and moisture-wicking layers provide the best experience trekking.

Daytime Temperature: 15°C to 25°C

Night Temperature around Larkya La: Approximately -5°C

Conditions: Mild temperatures, active teahouse service, good visibility of mountains.

Monsoon (June to August)

The monsoon season is the least popular time to trek, but not impossible. 

You should be prepared for heavy rainfall at lower levels on the trail.

You’ll need a high-quality rain jacket, rain pants and waterproof boots, making sure to pack gear in dry bags.

The trails will be slippery, especially in the moist areas of the forest and the water supplies are even more compromised.

Daytime Temperature: 20°C to 30°C at low elevations

Manaslu Circuit trek weather conditions: Wet and slippery trails, cloud cover, area prone to landslides and personal schedule disrupted.

Tip: Check the weather daily every morning for the Manaslu trek in June.

Regardless of when and where you are, the best way to enjoy the weather of the Manaslu Circuit trek is to prepare for every change in weather, be it sunny, snowy, windy or rainy!

A good Manaslu trek packing list can help protect you from discomfort and make your trekking experience safe and memorable.

Recommended Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Breakdown

FAQs

Plan Your Manaslu Circuit Trek with a Trusted Guide

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit is more than just walking through amazing scenery; it is about trekking safely, comfortably and confidently. 

With uncertain weather, remote villages and crossing high passes, your trip can be a lot easier with support.

This is where Nepal Base Camp Treks comes into the mix.

We are not just your guide. 

We are your local partner with years of experience navigating the Manaslu trek route. 

We know the ins and outs of the logistics as well as the unpredictable weather that can often impact changes to the itinerary.

Whether you are planning to trek with the vibrant spring flowers, the clear autumn skies or to avoid the monsoon period, our trek team will help you find an ideal window based on your interests, comfort level and available schedule.

This is our job and we want you to have the best experience trekking, regardless of the weather conditions of the Manaslu trek.

Contact our team today to start planning your Manaslu Trek.

You can trust our team to take care of the details, allowing you to focus on the mountains.