Quick Overview: Manaslu Trekking Seasons
| Season |
Months |
Best For |
| Autumn |
September-November |
Clear views, stable weather |
| Spring |
March-May |
Rhododendrons, warmer days |
| Winter |
December-February |
Solitude, not recommended |
| Monsoon |
June-August |
Not recommended |
In the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you need to cross Larkya La Pass at 5,106m, which is one of the longest passes in the Himalayas. The timing matters more on Manaslu because the Larkya La Pass conditions highly depend on the weather.
Manaslu Region in Autumn (September-November): The Best Season
Autumn is the most popular and beloved season among trekkers in the Manaslu Region. The mountain visibility reaches its peak after months of monsoon rain. During the season, the skies are clear. The mountains stand tall and clear. The trails dry out and welcome trekkers from around the world.
If you've dreamed of seeing Mount Manaslu rising into a clear sky, this is the perfect season. Most trekkers say October mornings in Samagaun feel almost magical.
Why Autumn is the Best Time to Trek in the Manaslu Region
- Clearest mountain views – Best views of Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal
- Stable weather – Predictable conditions
- Larkya La Pass – Best crossing conditions of the year
- Warm days, cold nights – Comfortable trekking temperatures
- Dry trails – Solid footing on the entire route
- Rich cultural experience – Tibetan-Buddhist villages celebrate festivals
Cons:
- The busiest period on the route.
- Teahouses in Samagaon, Samdo, and Dharmasala fill quickly
- Advance booking through a registered agency is essential
Month-by-Month Autumn Breakdown
September:
- Temperatures are still warm
- Slightly fewer trekkers than in October
- Trails may be muddy in the first week
October (Peak Season):
- The best month overall
- Stable weather and clear mountain views
- Highest number of trekkers on the trail
- Larkya La Pass at perfect crossing conditions
- Teahouses fully open
November:
- Fewer trekkers at the end of the month
- Cooler temperatures, especially at altitude
- Clear mountain views
- Last reliable month before winter starts
Best For: First-time trekkers, seeking clear mountain views, stable weather, and safe Larkya La Pass conditions
Manaslu Region in spring (March-May): The Beautiful Season
Spring is the second-best optional season for trekking in the Mansalu Region. It offers a completely different experience compared to Autumn. Lower altitudes, Samagaun, and Samdo are bursting with color as rhododendron forests bloom. The upper altitudes are cold and snowy.
Why Spring is a Great Time for Trekking in the Manaslu Region
- Rhododendron blooms – National flower of Nepal paint the lower forests red, pink, and white
- Warmer temperatures – Days are warmer than in autumn
- Longer day – More time on the trail
- Active wildlife – Birds, butterflies, and animals are more visible
- Fewer crowds than peak October – Quieter trails
Cons of Trekking in the Manaslu Region in spring:
- Snow still on Larkya La Pass (March)
- Crowded Trails - peak trekking season
- Pollen and Allergies
- More Insects at Lower Altitudes
Month-by-Month Spring Breakdown
March:
- Snow still possible on Larkya La Pass
- Cooler days but stable weather
- Rhododendrons start blooming at lower altitudes
- Fewer crowds – peaceful routes
April (Best Spring Month):
- Peak rhododendron blooms
- Warmer days, comfortable nights
- Clear Mountain Views
- Favorite month for Manaslu photographers
May:
- Warmest spring month
- Pre-monsoon clouds begin appearing
- Last reliable month before monsoon
Best For: Photographers, nature lovers, those who prefer warmer weather
Manaslu Region in Monsoon (June-August): Not Recommended
Manaslu Region Trekking in the monsoon season is not highly recommended because it brings leeches and heavy rain. Clouds cover the mountains. It is the most challenging time to trek in the Manaslu Region. Trails turn muddy, clouds hide the mountains for days, and the forest areas are full of leeches.
Why Monsoon is Not Recommended
- Leeches – especially in humid and forested areas
- Heavy rainfall – the trails are muddy
- Landslide risk – the routes can be blocked
- Slippery trails – the trails are slippery, and increase injury risk
- Suspension bridge damage – Some bridges are blocked
- Hidden view - Mountains hidden behind clouds for days
Manaslu Region in Winter (December – February)
Winter trekking in the Manaslu Region is not recommended because the trail is quiet, and the views are stunning, but conditions on Larkya La Pass can be dangerous. During the peak winter months, the Larkya La Pass (5,106m) often becomes completely impassable due to deep snow accumulation of 2-4 feet. Many trekkers reach Dharamsala only to be forced to turn back, losing the entire purpose of the circuit.
Why Winter is Not Recommended?
- Larkya La Pass is closed – Heavy snow can block the crossing for days
- Extreme cold - Night temperatures drop below – 20 degrees at high altitude
- Limited teahouses open – Some villages close completely
- Need extra equipment – Microspikes, heavier sleeping bag (-30 degrees)
Ready to Trek Manaslu?
The best time to trek the Manaslu Region depends on your preferences — but you can't go wrong with autumn or spring. Whether you want crystal-clear October views or colorful April rhododendrons, the Manaslu Circuit delivers an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best month to trek in the Manaslu Region?
October is the best month for the Manaslu Region because the weather is stable, with the clearest mountain views, comfortable temperatures, and the safest time for crossing the Larkya La Pass.
Can I trek in the Manaslu Region in the monsoon (June-August)?
Trekking in the monsoon is not recommended because it brings heavy rainfall, leeches, and poor visibility.
Is autumn or spring better for the Manaslu Region?
Both seasons are good. You can choose autumn (Sep-Nov) for the better, clearer mountain and more stable weather. Choose spring (March-May) for warmer temperatures and rhododendron blooms.
When does Larkya La Pass close?
Larkya La Pass doesn't officially "close," but it becomes impassable due to snow from mid-December to mid-February.
Are there fewer crowds in spring or autumn?
In spring, there are fewer trekkers than in autumn. October is the peak month with the most crowds, while April offers great conditions with fewer trekkers.
What season is best for beginners on Manaslu?
October and April are best for first-time trekkers. Stable weather, predictable conditions, and warmer-than-winter temperatures make these months ideal for those new to high-altitude trekking.
Related Useful Reading
To plan your perfect Manaslu trek, you can explore other helpful guides:
Monasteries in the Manaslu Region
Hidden and Less-Explored Treks in Nepal
Manaslu Region Packing List
Nepal Solo Trekking Permits Update
Manaslu Region Permits Update
Plan Your Manaslu Trek 2026/2027
Now that you know the best time to trek in the Manaslu Region, the next step is to plan your adventure trek. Please explore the following treks and choose what you prefer.
