"Manaslu Circuit Trek: Which Season is Right for You?"

  • Last Updated on Sep 1, 2023

 

In the heart of the majestic Himalayas lies a hidden treasure, an isolated trekking region that provides a variety of exhilarating trekking routes and mountain adventures. If you are looking for a mesmerizing journey that leaves you with beautiful memories, then the Manaslu Circuit Trek is for you. With the beaten tracks, lush green forest, breathtaking panoramas of the mighty Himalayan peaks, culture and hospitality of the people, oldest monasteries and shrines, and village hiking experience, the Manaslu circuit trek has got it all.

To have an amazing and safe Manaslu circuit trip, choosing the right season is crucial. Below we discuss the good season to travel along with their pros and cons so you can choose the season that suits you the best.

The best and most recommended seasons for the Manaslu Circuit trek are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November).

Table of Contents

 

Why choose the spring (March to May) season?

 

Weather: During spring in the Manaslu region, the weather is clear and stable. As winter is gone, the temperature in the Manaslu region gradually warms up. In lower elevations, days are often pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This pleasant temperature helps trekkers to enjoy their Manaslu circuit trip, as one should not worry about cold, unsuitable clothing, and dehydration. However, higher elevations may still be cooler, especially early in the season. Spring is also known for its sporadic rains, so expect some showers, but the weather will become more consistent as the season unfolds.

 

Crowd: Spring is a popular trekking season in Nepal, and the Manaslu Circuit trip is no exception. Due to ideal weather conditions and the blooming of rhododendron forests, the trails of Manaslu may be more crowded during this period, especially in April and May. If you appreciate meeting other hikers from all over the world and prefer a more dynamic and livelier atmosphere on the path, spring offers more opportunities for interaction. The teahouses and lodges along the route may be busy, so it is always better to book the trip ahead of time.

 

Flora and Fauna: The plants and fauna of the Manaslu region come alive with brilliant colors and renewed activity during the spring season. The flowering of rhododendron forests along the Manaslu Circuit hike is synonymous with spring. These lovely flowering plants give splashes of brilliant color, ranging from red, pink, and white to purples of varying tints. The rhododendrons bloom in the forests, producing a magnificent and charming landscape. Along with rhododendrons, you'll see a variety of other wildflowers along the walk. The variety of wildflowers contributes to the overall splendor of the surroundings. The landscape is rejuvenated as spring follows the winter season. As the vegetation grows, the hills and valleys become lush green. Mosses, ferns, and other green plants thrive in the damp environment, making the woodlands denser and more vibrant. Spring is a good time for birdwatchers along the Manaslu Circuit. While wildlife encounters are infrequent along the walk, you may still see certain mammal species. Spring increases insect activity, including butterflies and other small insects.

 

Trek Difficulty: In terms of paths and elevation, both seasons offer comparable trekking difficulty in the Manaslu region. While spring provides lovely temperatures, you may experience rain showers on your journey. This can cause the trails to become slick and muddy, especially at lower elevations making your trip a little difficult. To manage the damp weather at your Manaslu circuit trip, you must carry proper trekking equipment, such as waterproof clothes and strong footwear.

 

Who can choose the Spring season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek (March to May)?

 

Certain types of hikers are especially well-suited to the spring season. The following persons may favor the spring season for the Manaslu Circuit trek:

 

 

Nature Lovers: The spring season is a great time to visit the Manaslu region if you enjoy vivid and blooming flora. During this season, the rhododendron forests along the Manaslu Circuit trail burst into a riot of color, creating a visually beautiful experience. Spring provides an opportunity to see nature at its most vivid and brilliant.

 

 

Photography Addicts: During the spring in the Manaslu, the mix of flowering flowers, green landscapes, and snow-capped mountains in the background gives fantastic photo opportunities. If you enjoy photography and wish to capture the natural splendor of the Manaslu region, the spring season provides ideal conditions for your circuit trek.

 

 

Sociable Trekkers: Spring is one of the busiest trekking seasons in the Manaslu region; therefore, the routes on the Manaslu Circuit may be busier. If you appreciate meeting fellow trekkers worldwide and prefer a lively and sociable atmosphere on the trail, spring offers more opportunities for interaction.

 

 

Trekkers with Flexible Schedules: Spring can be an excellent choice for Manaslu Circuit Trek if your travel plans are flexible. As the season develops, the weather gets more stable and pleasant, so trekking in late April and May might provide the best scenarios with lower rain chances.

 

 

Why choose the Autumn (September to November) season?

 

Weather: Autumn in the Manaslu region is known for its dry weather, making it an ideal season to go circuit trek. Temperatures are often temperate and pleasant in Autumn in Manaslu Region, making trekking enjoyable. Daytime temperatures in lower elevations range from roughly 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Therefore, one can enjoy a trek without worrying about proper clothing and dehydration. Rainfall is substantially lower than during the monsoon season, resulting in a hassle-free day trek. The clear skies and dry weather provide uninterrupted views of the mountains and landscapes. Temperature can drop dramatically at higher elevations, particularly during the evenings and early mornings. Bring enough layers and warm clothing to keep yourself comfortable in the lower weather at higher elevations.

 

 

Crowd: The autumn season in the Manaslu region is significantly less busy than spring. Autumn may be a great option for a more peaceful Manaslu circuit trekking experience.

 

 

Flora and Fauna: During the autumn season in the Manaslu region, you can expect to encounter diverse flora and fauna. Autumn in the Manaslu region is famous for its spectacular leaf display, in which deciduous tree leaves change color and create a vivid environment. The slopes and woodlands are painted red, orange, and gold, creating a charming and magnificent backdrop. As you climb higher, you'll come across alpine meadows often covered with grasses, mosses, and plants. These meadows stand out against the neighboring mountains and trees. Autumn is an excellent season for birding since many species become more active and visible. You may see Himalayan Monal, Kalij Pheasant, Snow Partridge, Golden Eagle, Himalayan Griffon, and other bird species.

 

Trek Difficulty: In terms of paths and elevation, both seasons offer comparable trekking difficulty. However, in the autumn, the trails of the Manaslu region are generally dry and more stable, making the trekking experience slightly easier.

 

Who can choose the Autumn season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek (September to November)?

 

Mountain View Lovers: Autumn in Manaslu provides exceptional vision and a bright sky, making it a wonderful season to enjoy stunning mountain vistas. During this season, the snow-capped peaks of the Manaslu area, particularly Mount Manaslu, appear crystal clear against the blue sky. Autumn is an excellent time for Manaslu Circuit Trek to enjoy panoramic views of the great Himalayas of the Manaslu region.

 

Landscape and Foliage Lovers: Autumn in Manaslu provides a dramatic shift to the landscapes, as the greenery takes on rich colors of crimson, orange, and gold. The woodlands and slopes transform into a colorful tapestry, providing a magnificent environment for hikers. If you enjoy the magnificence of fall leaves, the Manaslu Circuit hike in October is a must-do.

 

Solitude Seekers: While October remains a popular trekking season for the Manaslu region, it is significantly less crowded than spring. Manaslu circuit trek in Autumn might bring a greater sense of solitude and peace if you prefer a quieter and more pleasant trekking experience with fewer fellow trekkers on the path.

 

Ultimately, choosing the autumn season for the Manaslu Circuit trek depends on personal preferences. The autumn season can provide a fascinating and satisfying trekking experience, whether you are attracted by mountain vistas, autumn colors, isolation, or steady weather.

 

Winter (December to February):

 

In the Manaslu region, winter brings cooler temperatures and a larger probability of snowfall. Trekking paths might be difficult during this season, especially at higher elevations. However, if you've done winter trekking before and are prepared for the lower temps, it may be a unique and more challenging experience. The scenery blanketed in snow may be breathtaking, and the path is much less busy. It's crucial to remember that some portions of the path may be impassable due to severe snowfall, so consult with local authorities and professional guides before organizing a Manaslu circuit trek.

 

It is important to examine the potential difficulties and hazards of hiking outside of the suggested spring and fall seasons. If you decide to trek during the winter or monsoon season, it's critical to check with local guides, secure the right permissions, and ensure you have the proper clothing and expertise to deal with the season's special circumstances.
Birendra Chudal

Birendra Chudal

Hello! Greetings from Nepal. 

Birendra Chudal has been serving in tourism in Nepal for more than 18 years. He has walked on both famous and less-known trekking routes in Nepal. This has helped him become very good at tourism. He has learned much from his time in the field and wants to share that knowledge with others. He owns Adventure Club Trek and hopes that what he knows will be helpful to people who visit Nepal!