The Manaslu Circuit Trek, an off-the-beaten-path Himalayan gem, is one of Nepal’s finest long-distance treks. Circling the eighth-highest mountain in the world,__Mount Manaslu (8163 m.)__this route blends raw alpine wilderness, Buddhist culture, remote villages, and jaw-dropping views. But trekking this majestic trail varies dramatically with each season.

Whether you seek solitude, clear skies, vibrant flowers, or snow-capped splendor, understanding what to expect in each season on the Manaslu Circuit can shape your entire adventure. This guide breaks down the four seasons,__spring, summer (monsoon), autumn, and winter,__highlighting the weather, trail conditions, scenery, cultural experiences, and tips to help you plan the perfect journey.

Let’s dive in.,

SPRING (MARCH TO MAY): BLOOMING BEAUTY AND HIGH ENERGY

Spring is one of the most popular seasons for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. As winter retreats, the region bursts into life with blooming rhododendrons, alpine flowers, and clear blue skies.

Weather:.
Mornings are crisp, days are sunny, and temperatures rise steadily through April and May. Lower altitudes average 10°C—20°C, while higher passes like Larkya La (5160 m.) can still be cold (–6°C to –10°C.), especially in March.

Scenery & Trail Conditions:.
Expect trails flanked with blooming rhododendrons and terraced fields sprouting green. Snow at higher elevations begins to melt, revealing dramatic rock faces and high-mountain terrain. The Larkya La pass remains snowbound in early spring but is generally passable by mid-April.

Wildlife & Flora:.
Forests between Jagat and Samdo glow with rhododendrons, orchids, and pine. Himalayan wildlife like langurs, musk deer, and Himalayan tahr becomes more visible.

Cultural Highlights:.
This is festival season. If you’re lucky, you might witness Lhosar (Tibetan New Year) celebrations in Nubri Valley villages, especially in March. Villagers begin emerging from winter seclusion.

Pros:.
• Excellent visibility
• Floral beauty
• Moderate crowds
• Vibrant villages

Cons:.
• Snow remains at higher passes in March
• It can be windy near Larkya La

 Best For:.
Nature lovers, photographers, and first-time Himalayan trekkers.

SUMMER / MONSOON (JUNE TO MID-SEPTEMBER): LUSH, WET, AND REMOTE

The summer season in Nepal coincides with the monsoon, bringing heavy rain, swollen rivers, and landslides,__but also solitude, vibrant greenery, and a rare glimpse into Himalayan life during the rains.

 Weather:.
Expect humid conditions with frequent afternoon showers. Lower regions receive the most rain, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The higher you go, the drier it gets—Upper Nubri and Larkya La often sit in a rain shadow.

Trail Conditions:.
Trails below 2,500 m can become muddy and leech-infested. Landslides are common near Tatopani, Soti Khola, and Jagat. However, the Manaslu region lies slightly in a rain shadow compared to Annapurna, making trekking possible,__if not always comfortable.

Scenery:.
Lush hills, roaring rivers, and waterfalls everywhere. The foggy, mysterious landscape has a mystical quality. Rivers like Budhi Gandaki surge with glacier-fed force, and terraced farms become emerald green.

Solitude & Culture:.
Few trekkers visit during this season, so you’ll experience true solitude. Locals focus on farming, and tea houses are open but sometimes minimally staffed.

Pros:.
• No crowds
• Verdant, photogenic landscapes
• Intimate cultural encounters

Cons:.
• Slippery trails and landslides
• Limited mountain views
• Leeches in lower altitudes

 Best For:.
Adventure purists, solitude seekers, and repeat trekkers who want a different experience.

AUTUMN (MID-SEPTEMBER TO DECEMBER):. NEPAL’S PEAK TREKKING SEASON

Autumn is widely regarded as the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit. Post-monsoon skies are crystal-clear, mountain views are at their best, and the weather is cool but stable.

Weather:.
September starts wet, but by late September and into October, the skies clear. Days are warm (12°C–20°C.), while nights above 3,000 m dip below freezing. November gets colder but remains dry and stable.

Views & Trail:.
This is the season of postcard-perfect vistas. You’ll see Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and even glimpses of Annapurna II. The Larkya La Pass is usually snow-free and safe to cross.

Culture & Festivals:.
Autumn is festival-rich. Dashain (Nepal’s largest Hindu festival) and Tihar light up villages with kites, music, and candles. In Buddhist regions like Samagaun and Samdo, you may witness Mani Rimdu or mountain rituals tied to the end of the monsoon.

Trekker Volume:.
This is also peak season, so expect moderate to high traffic on the trail. Teahouses are fully staffed, and it’s easier to meet fellow travelers.

Pros:.
• Best mountain views
• Dry, stable weather
• Rich festival culture
• The trail is in optimal condition

Cons:.
• More trekkers
• Need to book tea houses early in October

 Best For:.
First-timers, photographers, festival lovers, and all-around adventure seekers.

WINTER (DECEMBER TO FEBRUARY): SILENCE, SNOW, AND STARK BEAUTY

Winter in the Manaslu region is dramatic, quiet, and freezing,__ideal for trekkers seeking solitude and snow-capped stillness. While the Larkya La Pass becomes challenging or impassable after heavy snowfall, the trail up to Samdo remains accessible.

Weather:.
Lower elevations stay cool (5°C–12°C.), while higher regions like Dharamsala and Larkya La experience harsh cold, with temperatures plummeting to –20°C. Snowfall can block the pass in January and February.

Trail Conditions:.
Snow makes trails above 4,000 m difficult. Icy slopes near Larkya La are risky without proper gear and experience. Many trekkers choose to turn back at Samagaun or hike up to Manaslu Base Camp instead.

Winter Scenery:.
Snow-draped peaks, frozen streams, and frost-covered forests make this season starkly beautiful. If you’re lucky with a clear day, the views are surreal and crowd-free.

Cultural Immersion:.
Villages are quieter. Many locals migrate down to warmer areas, and some tea houses close. However, those that remain open provide deep cultural interaction. Lama-led rituals and evening fires become part of your daily rhythm.

Pros:.
• No crowds
• Stunning snow views
• Quiet, meditative atmosphere

Cons:.
• Harsh cold
• Risk of altitude and weather-related delays
• Larkya La is often impassable

 Best For:.
Experienced trekkers, snow lovers, photographers, and winter adventurers.

COMPARING THE SEASONS AT A GLANCE

TIPS FOR SEASONAL TREKKING SUCCESS

Gear Matters:.
• Spring & Autumn:. Lightweight layers, down jacket, sleeping bag rated to –10°C
• Summer:. Rain gear, leech protection, waterproof boots
• Winter:. Four-season sleeping bag, crampons, and insulated clothing

Plan Your Itinerary Around Conditions:.
In winter and monsoon, allow extra days for delays or bad weather. Always check if the Larkya La Pass is open before setting out.

 Book Smart:.
During peak autumn (Oct) and spring (Apr), pre-book tea houses in Samagaun, Samdo, and Lho. These are high-demand stops near the pass.

Prepare Physically & Mentally:.
Regardless of season, the Manaslu Circuit is a challenging trek. Train for elevation and endurance, and be ready to adapt.

CONCLUSION:. CHOOSE YOUR SEASON, CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE

The Manaslu Circuit is not a one-size-fits-all trek. Your experience will be deeply shaped by the season you choose. Whether it’s the floral poetry of spring, the introspective quiet of winter, the muddy monsoon’s mystery, or autumn’s dazzling clarity, the time of year tells a different story of this remote Himalayan wonder.

Whichever season you pick, remember:. Manaslu rewards those who come with respect, curiosity, and a spirit for adventure.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is the Manaslu Circuit open year-round?
Technically, yes. But in deep winter and heavy monsoon, sections may be blocked or dangerous. Most trekkers go between March,__May or late September__November.,

Do I need special permits in any season?
Yes. You’ll need a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) regardless of season.

Is the Larkya La Pass always passable?
Not in winter. Heavy snow can block it. Always check local conditions and go with a guide.

What’s the quietest time to trek?
Mid-December to February offers maximum solitude, though it comes with harsher weather and fewer open tea houses.

Booking Process for Everest Base Camp Trek by Visit Himalaya Treks * 

To book the Manaslu Circuit Trek through Visit Himalaya Treks, begin by contacting them via email or WhatsApp to discuss your preferred dates, group size, and specific needs. VHT will provide a detailed itinerary covering the duration of the Manaslu Larke Pass Trek, highlights, costs, and inclusions such as a guide, porter, meals, accommodation, and transportation.

We, Visit Himalaya Treks, will finalize all logistical arrangements, including transportation, accommodation, and permits, to ensure everything is in place for your trek. Upon arrival in Nepal, the team will ensure that all aspects of the trek are organized, providing a smooth and unforgettable experience on the trek to Manaslu Circuit, visiting the Base Camp of Mount Manaslu. Our company specializes in pure off-the-beaten-path destinations like the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in eastern Nepal, one of the most beautiful treks in Nepal. Similarly mesmerizing Mount Makalu Base Camp Trek or any other Himalaya Trekking Tours in Nepal.