The roads less traveled are the most beautiful ones. For Nepal, Manaslu is one such region, the unfrequented and off-the-beaten-track. Despite having so much beauty in its nature, landscapes, people, vegetation, mountains, and more, the Manaslu area doesn’t get enough visitors. That is a sad story about this place.
However, this place is not empty of trekkers at all. You’ll find souls who love the roads less traversed, unexplored, and peaceful areas here. Things are slowly changing as this place is getting the spotlight it deserves. As numbers are increasing, so are the queries about this place. One of the frequently asked inquiries about this region is “Manaslu Trek Weather.”
To answer that query of yours, this blog on Manaslu Trek Weather will become very handy for you.
The Manaslu area lies in the west-central portion of Nepal. This region sees four seasons: Autumn, Monsoon, Summer, and Spring across a year, just like every other area. The weather and conditions in the area are not identical all the time. Sometimes it is freezing and sometimes not. Likewise, some days you will see mountains in the view and some days only the dark clouds. To enjoy a picturesque trek like Manaslu Trek, choosing the right time is incredibly crucial.
If you are having trouble choosing Manaslu Circuit Trek’s right time, this blog is your read. Here we are going to unveil the weather and conditions of the Manaslu Region in all 12 months. After reading all of them, it will be relatively easy for you to choose your time for this expedition.
But before that, it is a must to know the quick facts, geographical backgrounds, and outlined itinerary of the trek. Go through those headings as well.
Quick facts of Manaslu Trek
- Grade: Challenging
- Max Elevation: 5,106m/16,752 ft( Larkya La Pass)
- Duration: 15 to 21 Days
- Accommodation: Tea house
Geographical Background of Manaslu Trek
Manaslu Region, which homes on Nepal’s central-western side, is a promising region for trekking and mountaineering. It is the region known for its unique landscapes, enriched flora and fauna, and lovely people but most of all for the eight tallest peaks – Mt Manaslu(8,136m) itself. The peaks like Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Shringi, Saula also lie in this same region. One can view more than ten peaks above 6,500m on the voyage of this region.
Most of the Manaslu region trekking starts from Arughat(941m) and ends up around Larkya La Pass(5,106m). The number tells it clear that it is a high-altitude trek. Altogether, the Manaslu area has six climatic zones: the tropical and subtropical zone(1,000m-2,000m of altitude), the temperature zone(2,000 to 3,000m), the subalpine zone(3,000m to 4,000m), the alpine zone(4,000m to 5,000m) and the arctic zone(above 5,000m). If you are trekking up to Larke Lya Pass, then you are hitting the arctic zone also.
Moreover, Manaslu Conservation Area is the protected side of the region that has preserved the numerous floras and faunas. The conservation area occupies 1,663 sq km, and every Manaslu region trek has to experience it. Various species of birds, mammals, butterflies, reptiles, and more creatures live around the area. Likewise, the lush forest all over the trail is witnessable.
Outlined Manaslu Trek Itinerary
Great Adventure Treks has been running this 17 days long Manaslu Circuit Trekking successfully for some time now. The 17 days itinerary of the Manaslu Circuit Trekking is as below:
Day 01: Pick up from Kathmandu Airport and Hotel transfer to your hotel (1,300 m/4,264 ft),
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 02: Sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s World Heritage Sites
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola (710 m/2329 ft)
Drive Duration: 8 to 9 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 04: Trek from Soti Khola to Macche Khola (900 m /2952 ft )
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 05: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1410 m/ 4625 ft)
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 06: Trek to Jagat to Deng (7187 m /23,573 ft)
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 07: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2630 m /8626 ft)
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 08: Trek from Namlung to Samagaon (3530 m/11,578 ft)
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 09: Acclimatization Day/Exploring Pungyen gompa (3530 m/11,578 ft)
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 10: Trek from Samagaon — Samdo (3860 m/12,661 ft)
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 11: Rest Day in Samdo (3860 m/12,661 ft),
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 12: Trek from Samdo — Dharamsala/Larkya B. C. (4450 m/14,596 ft)
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 13: Trek from Dharamsala — Larke la pass (5160 m / 16924 ft) Bimthang (3590m / 117776 ft)
Trek Duration: 8 to 9 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 14: Trek from Bimthang — Tilije (2300 m/ 7544 ft)
Trek Duration: 8 to 9 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 15: Trek from Tilije — Dharapani (3–4 hours) and drive to Besisahar (825 m / 2706 ft),
Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 16: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu. 7 – 8 hrs.
Drive Duration: 7 to 8 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel Accommodation
Day 17: Final departure
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Manaslu Trek Weather in Spring
March, April, and May are the three months of the Spring season. It is the time when Nepal’s trekking trails are dotted with trekkers from various countries. Nepal is something else in Spring; the flowers continue blooming, and mountains are clear and snowy. How can the Manaslu region be left out? Manaslu also gets into new colors during Spring.
Spring is an ideal time for trekking in Manaslu Region. The weather is stable all the time, and you can trek under comfortable conditions. The mountains like Manaslu and Himalchuli become more visible and beautiful during these three months. Let’s know the weather of Manaslu Trek in each of the Spring months.
March
March brings the satisfying weather conditions of the Spring season for trekkers along with it in Nepal. However, you’ll still feel the aftermath of the Winter season. It is a bit cold in March compared to other months of Spring. The average temperature is around -6 degrees in the higher parts of the trek. However, you’ll feel warm around the lower parts of the Manaslu region in March.
With March, the floras start to spread colors and fragrances around the trail of Manaslu Trek. The farmlands, forests, and terrain can relate to heaven under the conditions of Spring. You can also witness the snow-loaded mountains of the Manaslu region. The month can be colder than the other months, but you can do the trek easily with proper preparation. You’ll not have one miserable weather experience other than slightly cold temperature.
April
April is the core month of the Spring season in Nepal. The month is a time of year when you’ll see many trekkers around Nepal. The shades of the Spring season get into action in April. You’ll start to see what it is like to trek during this season. By April, the temperature becomes warmer than before. It is around 6 to 12 degrees Celsius through April in the Manaslu region. However, the night hours can bring the temperatures below the freezing level.
The month is also known as the best time for mountaineering. You’ll meet mountaineers along the trail that are full of colorful Spring flowers. The national flower of Nepal, Rhododendron, which turns reddish at its best, can be seen most of the time. It is just an accurate time to experience the Manaslu Region’s natural richness in the Spring Season. As it is a peak season for trekking, you will not have any hassles while finding food and accommodation also. Though it is a high month, the trail of Manaslu does not have as much crowd as the Everest Region and Annapurna Region.
May
May, the last month of Spring, is the hottest of all three Spring months. You can feel the arrival of Summer, which starts from the very next month in Nepal. The temperature begins to rise but not that incredibly. You’ll still feel chilly and cold up in the trails of the Manaslu Region. May can be a month for those who missed it in April but cannot wait until next Spring. This month also has clear and bright sunny days as other Spring months. The breathtaking mountains of the Manaslu Area can still be watched by you all day long.
Moreover, the days of May are longer in comparison to other months. It means you will get longer sunny hours to trek smoothly and slowly. Without rushing, you can take every piece of the Manaslu Region. However, the weather starts to get a bit unfavorable during the last weeks of it. As Summer is due to arrive, you will see dark clouds approaching and may experience slight rainfall.
Manaslu Trek Weather in Summer
Manaslu Trek Weather is considered the riskier in Summer than ever. Summer, which runs through June, July, and August, brings hot and humid temperatures and lots of rainfall. When it is pouring up in the mountains and hills, it is dangerous to be around the trail. You have to use a path that is already wet and slippery. You also have to carry extra rain gear for your expedition. Plus, there are equal chances of landslides during a time like this. However, some adventurers like to do the trek in Summer as well. Let’s discuss each of the months.
June
June is the starter month of Summer in Nepal. But the month is not that wet or rainy, it takes the first few weeks of June to get Summer activated totally. You can plan a short trek in the Manaslu Region before Mid-June. The rainfall will be light, and trails are workable. The temperature is warm as it remains around 25 degrees Celsius. During this month, the courses are less crowded, hence, an unbeatable time for peace lovers.
You can expect an average rainfall of 460mm around the lower area of Manaslu this month. The rainfall amount is lower in the higher regions. However, there are higher chances of snowfall in high places like Larkya La Pass. You can do Manaslu Trek during June, but you have to be quick. You cannot postpone the Manaslu Trek in the last weeks of June. The monsoon becomes fully active during these late weeks.
July
This month is not the best time for trekking in Nepal. July allows the Monsoon to activate totally, and you have the wettest trails to trek. If you can take over the rainy conditions well, this month can give you something not experienced by many. Commonly, rainfall occurs every two days during this month. As it rains and because of dark clouds, the temperature can drop a bit. Otherwise, it is humid and hot in the lower Manaslu areas.
July is one of the most challenging months for trekking in the Himalayas. The weather is not favorable. Snowfall and rainfall can happen at any time. If you do not have a flexible trekking time, it is better not to pick this time. Anything can occur, and you may have to pause for a day or more. That is why; a monsoon trekking time has to be flexible.
August
It is still the Summer season during August in Nepal. The conditions in this month are pretty identical to June and July. Rainfall, wet trails, leeches around the tracks, dark clouds, and obstructed mountain views are typical during this month. It is time for those people who are okay with those conditions. If someone is asking for clear mountain views and rainless days, then August is not the time.
However, the weather gets a little bit stable during late August. The dark clouds finally start to leave the skies of Manaslu to welcome the Autumn season. Yeah, there are still chances of rainfall, but not as in the first weeks. If you can manage the trek during this time, you can experience the Manaslu region in a mixed condition of Summer and Autumn.
Manaslu Trek Weather in Autumn
Autumn is a month of celebration for adventurers around the trails of Nepal. The trekkers can finally get to come out on the trails in Autumn. It is the peak season for outings in Nepal, as you will meet many faces across the tracks. This season is known for its favorable conditions. It is like everything falling in the right place. Autumn conditions are stable weather, clear and transparent mountains, cloudless skies, vivid clarity, and many more. That is why September, October, and November are always busy hosting travelers. Let’s know Manaslu Trek weather in each of the months.
September
September’s conditions are pretty confusing at times. It is Autumn already, but you may have to experience light showers. That is, the Monsoon takes some days of September to leave the surrounding. And that is how you can face conditions of both Monsoon and Autumn. Manaslu Trek is undoubtedly possible in September. The first few weeks of it can be a bit wet, so do not forget to take rain gear.
As it gets to mid, the weather arrives at the perfect point. The views start to get brighter and clear with the days. Likewise, temperatures become warm and cozy. Neither too cold nor too warm, you can have the best Manaslu Experience here onwards. The region’s average temperature is around 7 degrees Celsius in the higher places and near 21°C in the lower ones.
October
This is an unbeatable and unmatchable month for trekking anywhere in Nepal. October, the middlemost month of Autumn, is the best time for Manaslu Trek. During this month in Nepal, traveling gives you unobstructed mountain views, pleasant weather conditions, and clear visibility. The temperature of the region tends to remain around 15 degrees Celsius. Yet, the higher areas are colder during this lovely time also.
October is also the time of celebration for the locals. The grandest festivals of Nepalese people like Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath occur during this month. Alongside trekking, you will learn more about the culture and traditions of Nepalese. Most of all, you can also be part of the celebration. It is an excellent experience to trek in October while locals are happy and in the mood for celebration. As of this also, October is deemed as the best month for trekking in Nepal.
November
Last but not least, November is another Autumn month that you can pick for Manaslu Trek. The Manaslu Trek Weather is still favorable in November. Though it is the last month, you get to experience Autumn’s colors during this month as well. But for that, you have to be in Nepal during the first few weeks. The weather is as stable as October during the first few weeks. But after that, the winter’s cold temperature starts approaching, and you may have to face extreme cold.
November is an ideal month for crisp and clear mountain panoramas. Thanks to its dry weather that keeps dark clouds away from the mountains. By its last weeks, you can feel the difference. There will be a decrease in temperature but not by a significant number. Do not think twice when picking November for Manaslu Trek. With the appropriate gear and clothing, it is relatively easy to travel in November.
Manaslu Trek Weather in Winter
Do you love freezing weather while traveling? If your answer is yes, then do Manaslu Trek in Winter. The Manaslu Trek Weather is coldest during the winter months: December, January, and February. Trekking in the chilliest time of all is not an easy thing to do. You have to be prepared to face the bone-chilling cold, walk on the snowy trails, and all. Trekkers do not prefer Winter for trekking in Nepal. Only a few adventurers like to take on winter challenges. However, it is worth doing in Winter if you can overcome the obstacles. You’ll see mountains and terrains washed with snow.
December
December is the most popular month of Winter for trekking in Nepal. Though it is a Winter month, the conditions are pretty like Autumn until mid-December. You will experience conditions of both Autumn and Winter through this month. The average temperature around the higher places reaches -8 degrees. The lower areas have warm climates.
Manaslu Trek is not the most popular trek. As of that, the teahouses can be closed once Winter reaches its best. The people of the higher areas temporarily migrate to the lower areas to avoid cold weather. So make sure the tea houses are open until you are trekking. Surprisingly, this month is the most comfortable Winter month; the weather is not that hard, and no chances of a massive snowfall. If you have the required winter gear and layered clothing, you can conveniently do the trek this month.
January
This is the peak Winter month, and trekking in the Manaslu region during this time can be extremely challenging. You have to walk the entire long and steep trail under the extreme weather. It is never sure when it will snow heavily. The temperature is below freezing levels most of the time. If those snowfalls are not problems for you, this month can also be an option. Otherwise, you just wait for the Autumn and Spring months; they are better months. The January’s Manaslu Trek is suggested to the highly experienced trekkers only. Beginners cannot endure this much of a challenge in one of the challenging trails of Nepal.
February
This month brings an end to the Winter season. But it is still cold throughout this month. The temperature of the Manaslu area is still below freezing level in February. There are always high chances of heavy snowfall. However, the last weeks of it can be a little easy for trekking. The Winter is less active during those weeks, and you can enjoy the comfortable winter trekking experience. The trekkers get to look at the fresh snow-crafted mountains during this month. The snow around the terrains starts to melt by the last weeks, which is a treat to the eyes to watch.
Similar articles you may like:
- 17 Days Manaslu Trekking Itinerary
- Manaslu Circuit Trek Packing List
- Best Time for Manaslu Trek
- Manaslu Circuit Trek in March, April & May
- Manaslu Trek Without A Guide
Some Tips for Manaslu Trek Weather
- Autumn and Spring are the two most promising times for Manaslu Trek.
- Winter and Summer expeditions of the Manaslu Region are recommended to the extremely experienced trekkers only.
- Early or Late Summer and Winter times can be crowd-less and more comfortable alternatives.
- Six climatic zones lie in the Manaslu Region. The weather is different in each of the zones.
- The arctic zones (above 4,500m) are the highest and chilliest zones in the region.
- Summer or Monsoon is the most treacherous time for doing Manaslu region treks.
- Autumn is the most suitable and most comfortable time of the year for Manaslu Trek.
- Pack the essentials gear as per the time you are traveling in. E.g., enough rain gear for Monsoon Treks and Winter Gear for Winter treks.
- Do not go solo trek during Winter and Spring; it is challenging to do so.
- Get assistance from the experienced guides while doing the trek in a challenging time.
