Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather

Manaslu Circuit Trek weather changes dramatically as the trail climbs from Machha Khola at 890 metres to Larkya La Pass at 5,160 metres.

Our 14-day itinerary gradually moves through subtropical river valleys, temperate forests, exposed alpine settlements, and glacial terrain.

This guide provides average temperature figures below, which are practical planning ranges rather than guaranteed forecasts.

Manaslu Circuit Trek by Season

Spring and autumn provide the most dependable conditions for completing the full Manaslu circuit. Temperature generally decreases by about 6°C for every 1,000 metres of elevation gained.

1. Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring

Spring extends from March to May and is one of the strongest periods for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Temperatures rise steadily, daylight becomes longer, and most high-altitude lodges operate normally.

The lower route from Machha Khola to Deng is usually warm during the day. Early starts are comfortable, but the afternoon can feel hot on exposed climbs, particularly between Jagat, Philim, and Deng.

Ghap, Namrung, and Lho remain cooler because much of the trail passes through forest. Morning frost is still possible around Namrung in March, while April and May usually bring milder nights.

Conditions become less predictable after reaching Samagaun. Snow may remain on the Manaslu Base Camp trail, around Dharmashala, and on shaded sections near Larkya La, even when the villages below are dry.

Itinerary section	Typical daytime temperature	Typical nighttime temperature	Expected spring conditions
Machha Khola–Deng	18°C to 28°C	8°C to 15°C	Warm, occasionally humid, with possible afternoon showers
Ghap–Lho	12°C to 22°C	2°C to 10°C	Cool forest mornings, clear intervals, and flowering rhododendrons
Samagaun–Dharmashala	4°C to 15°C	-7°C to 3°C	Frosty mornings, mixed sun and cloud, occasional snowfall
Larkya La crossing	-5°C to 6°C	-14°C to -6°C before sunrise	Snow or ice underfoot, cold wind, and rapid weather changes

March is the coldest part of spring. Trekkers may encounter packed snow above Dharmashala, and microspikes can be useful on the ascent and descent from the pass.

April normally provides the most balanced spring conditions. Lower trails are warm without reaching peak summer humidity, while the upper circuit is cold but generally manageable with proper layers.

May is warmer and cloudier. Early May can still be excellent, but late May brings a greater chance of afternoon rain, obscured mountain views, and pre-monsoon thunderstorms.

Spring weather can change quickly after midday. The acclimatisation hike from Samagaun should therefore begin early, whether you choose Birendra Lake, Pungyen Gompa, or Manaslu Base Camp.

2. Manaslu Circuit Trek in Autumn

Autumn runs from September to November and usually offers the clearest overall conditions. Monsoon moisture gradually leaves the atmosphere, revealing sharper views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and the peaks surrounding Larkya La.

September begins as a transitional month. The lower route can remain wet, especially between Machha Khola and Ghap, while the upper valley often improves earlier because it receives less direct monsoon influence.

October generally delivers the most stable combination of dry trails, clear mornings, and manageable temperatures. It is particularly suitable for the Day 12 pass crossing, although the pre-dawn departure from Dharmashala remains very cold.

November becomes noticeably colder. Skies are often exceptionally clear, but water can freeze overnight at Samdo and Dharmashala, and shaded sections of the pass may retain hard ice.

Itinerary section	Typical daytime temperature	Typical nighttime temperature	Expected autumn conditions
Machha Khola–Deng	17°C to 27°C	7°C to 14°C	Warm days, decreasing rainfall, and improving trail conditions
Ghap–Lho	10°C to 20°C	0°C to 8°C	Dry forest trails, clear mornings, and cool evenings
Samagaun–Dharmashala	3°C to 13°C	-9°C to 1°C	Strong visibility, regular frost, and occasional late-season snow
Larkya La crossing	-7°C to 5°C	-16°C to -8°C before sunrise	Cold but often stable, with ice possible on shaded slopes

October and early November are the safest choices for travellers who want consistent views and a high probability of crossing Larkya La on schedule. Post-monsoon weather in Nepal is generally clearer, while October and November are recognised as prime trekking months.

Autumn’s main disadvantage is the traffic at the limited teahouses. Samagaun, Samdo, and Dharmashala can become busy, so weather delays may create pressure on rooms and meal services.

Clear skies do not mean warm conditions. Once the sun drops behind the valley walls, the temperature can fall rapidly, particularly at Lho, Samagaun and Samdo.

3. Manaslu Circuit Trek in Winter

Winter covers December, January and February. It brings dry air, sharp mountain views and quiet trails, but the upper itinerary becomes significantly more difficult.

Machha Khola, Doban and Philim remain comparatively mild during sunny periods. However, mornings can be foggy in the river gorge, and damp clothing takes longer to dry.

Above Namrung, daytime warmth depends heavily on direct sunlight. Shaded villages, frozen water pipes and unheated bedrooms make nights more demanding than the air-temperature figures suggest.

Samdo and Dharmashala may remain below freezing for long periods. Snow can cover trail markers, fill the spaces between rocks and make the descent toward Bimthang particularly slippery.

Itinerary section	Typical daytime temperature	Typical nighttime temperature	Expected winter conditions
Machha Khola–Deng	12°C to 22°C	2°C to 9°C	Dry days, cool mornings and occasional valley fog
Ghap–Lho	5°C to 15°C	-6°C to 3°C	Frost, shaded ice and limited evening warmth
Samagaun–Dharmashala	-3°C to 8°C	-17°C to -7°C	Frozen water, snow-covered trails and severe overnight cold
Larkya La crossing	-18°C to -5°C	-25°C to -15°C before sunrise	Deep snow, strong wind, poor visibility and possible closure

A winter trek should not be treated as the standard itinerary with warmer clothing. Snow depth, lodge availability and the guide’s assessment may require additional acclimatisation or waiting days.

Dharmashala is the critical point. Its basic dormitory or tent accommodation offers limited protection, and a night there becomes uncomfortable when wind and temperatures remain well below freezing.

The circuit may need to be turned around from Samdo if Larkya La becomes unsafe. A fixed return date leaves little room for this decision, so winter trekkers should add contingency days.

December is generally more manageable than January or early February. As winter progresses, accumulated snow and repeated freeze-thaw cycles can create hard ice on the pass approach.

4. Manaslu Circuit Trek in Summer/Monsoon

Summer and monsoon conditions dominate from June through August. Around 80% of Nepal’s annual rainfall occurs during the June-to-September monsoon period, although rainfall varies considerably with terrain and elevation.

The lower Manaslu trail receives the greatest impact. Machha Khola, Tatopani, Doban and Jagat can experience heavy rain, swollen streams, muddy steps and fresh landslide debris.

The road from Arughat through Soti Khola and Lapubesi is another major concern. Heavy rainfall can damage unpaved sections, extend the Day 1 drive or force passengers to change vehicles.

From Ghap to Namrung, wet roots and stone steps become slippery. Leeches are common in the warmer forest, while cloud frequently hides the mountain views available from Lho and Shyala.

Itinerary section	Typical daytime temperature	Typical nighttime temperature	Expected monsoon conditions
Machha Khola–Deng	22°C to 30°C	16°C to 22°C	Heavy showers, humidity, mud, swollen rivers and landslides
Ghap–Lho, Days	16°C to 24°C	10°C to 16°C	Wet forest, low cloud, leeches and slippery bridges
Samagaun–Dharmashala, Days	7°C to 17°C	1°C to 8°C	Cloudy intervals, light rain or sleet and limited visibility
Larkya La crossing	-2°C to 8°C	-8°C to 0°C before sunrise	Wet snow, cloud, wind and difficult route-finding

The upper Nubri Valley can be drier than the lower Budhi Gandaki gorge, but it is not completely protected from monsoon weather. Cloud, drizzle and wet snow can still affect Samagaun, Samdo and Larkya La.

Rainfall often becomes heavier later in the day. Departing early helps trekkers cross streams and landslide-prone sections before afternoon rainfall intensifies.

Waterproof boots, dry bags and a reliable rain cover are essential. A poncho alone is insufficient because wind-driven rain can enter from the sides and soak insulation stored inside the backpack.

Manaslu Circuit Trek by Month

Let's take about each month in brief.

1. Manaslu Circuit Trek in January

January is one of the coldest and least predictable months for completing the full circuit. The lower route remains walkable in dry weather, but conditions above Lho can be severe.

Samagaun may have snow-covered side trails, making the acclimatisation hike to Manaslu Base Camp unrealistic. Birendra Lake or a shorter walk around the village may be the safer choice.

The greatest uncertainty is Larkya La. Deep snow, hidden ice and strong wind may prevent the Day 12 crossing, while some lodges at Samdo, Dharmashala or Bimthang may operate with reduced services.

Choose January only when you have an experienced guide, winter equipment and several spare days. The route should never be forced simply to protect a transport or international flight schedule.

2. Manaslu Circuit Trek in February

Early February remains fully winter-like, especially between Samdo and Bimthang. Conditions gradually improve toward the end of the month as daylight increases.

Lower villages receive more sunshine, but shaded sections between Ghap and Namrung may remain icy in the morning. Trekking poles are useful where frozen water crosses stone steps.

Snowfall can still block Larkya La. Before leaving Samagaun, the guide should obtain recent information from Samdo, Dharmashala and groups arriving from the Bimthang side.

Late February is more practical than early February, but it still requires a winter sleeping bag, insulated boots or warm trekking footwear, microspikes and flexible timing.

3. Manaslu Circuit Trek in March

March marks the beginning of the spring trekking season. Machha Khola, Doban and Philim become warmer, while rhododendron forests around Ghap, Namrung and Lho begin to show seasonal colour.

The upper trail remains cold. Samagaun nights can fall below freezing, and Manaslu Base Camp may still have deep snow or an icy moraine.

Larkya La commonly retains winter snow in March. The pass may be crossable, but the decision depends on recent snowfall, wind loading and the condition of the descent toward Bimthang.

Mid-to-late March is preferable for this 14-day itinerary. Carry traction devices and do not replace the Samagaun acclimatisation day with an earlier pass attempt.

4. Manaslu Circuit Trek in April

April is one of the best months for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The lower and middle route is comfortably warm, while the upper valley remains cool enough for sustained walking.

Conditions from Namrung through Lho and Shyala are particularly rewarding. Forests are colourful, visibility is often good in the morning and the trail is normally free of monsoon mud.

Snow may remain around Dharmashala and Larkya La, but established tracks are more common than in March. Early departure is still important because snow softens and cloud can build later.

April suits the itinerary well: gradual ascent, a full acclimatisation day in Samagaun and a short approach to Samdo before the final pass preparation.

5. Manaslu Circuit Trek in May

May provides warm conditions and long daylight hours. The lower valley can become hot, so start early on the longer stages to Philim and Deng.

Forest sections offer shade, but humidity rises as the month progresses. Afternoon showers may affect the trail around Jagat, Philim, Ghap and Namrung.

The upper circuit remains suitable, particularly in early May. However, increasing cloud can hide the views from Shyala and reduce visibility during the Samagaun acclimatisation hike.

By late May, pre-monsoon thunderstorms become a greater concern. Cross exposed areas early, avoid standing near isolated trees during electrical storms and protect all insulation from rain.

6. Manaslu Circuit Trek in June

June is a transition from spring to monsoon. Early June can still provide suitable high-pass conditions, but rainfall and transport uncertainty increase as the month advances.

The Day 1 road to Machha Khola is vulnerable to delays once persistent rain begins. Minor landslides, road maintenance and deep mud may extend the journey beyond the planned eight or nine hours.

Lower trekking days become humid, while clouds often form around the ridges above Philim and Deng. In the upper valley, daytime temperatures remain moderate, but rain can become sleet near Dharmashala.

June requires flexible road arrangements and at least one spare day. Early June is generally more dependable than the final two weeks.

7. Manaslu Circuit Trek in July

July is usually the wettest and most difficult month for the lower circuit. Heavy rain affects the road, river crossings and steep trail sections beside the Budhi Gandaki.

The route from Machha Khola to Doban includes narrow riverside paths, waterfalls and suspension bridges. Rain can increase rockfall activity and make the trail surface unstable.

Visibility is often limited around Lho, Shyala and Samagaun. Although temperatures are not as cold as in winter, wet clothing can still cause rapid chilling above the treeline.

July is unsuitable for travellers with rigid schedules. Trekking is possible with specialist local support, but road disruption and landslide exposure can change the itinerary without warning.

8. Manaslu Circuit Trek in August

August remains strongly influenced by the monsoon. Trails are green and waterfalls are powerful, but the lower valley continues to face mud, leeches, cloud and landslide risk.

Repeated rainfall can be more problematic than a single storm because slopes and road surfaces are already saturated. The drive to Machha Khola and the later drive from Tilje to Besisahar may both be delayed.

Higher sections sometimes receive clearer morning windows. However, cloud can close quickly around Larkya La, making trail markers and the descent line harder to follow.

Allow extra days at both ends of the trek. Waterproof packing and careful foot placement are more important than carrying an umbrella or lightweight emergency poncho.

9. Manaslu Circuit Trek in September

September begins with residual monsoon conditions and ends with increasingly stable autumn weather. The difference between early and late September can be substantial.

During the first half, expect mud and occasional transport disruption below Deng. Rivers remain high, waterfalls are active and recent landslide sections require careful assessment.

By late September, visibility improves around Namrung, Lho and Samagaun. The landscape remains green, but mornings become clearer and rainfall less persistent.

Late September is a strong option for travellers who want fewer people than October. Carry full rain protection because a delayed monsoon withdrawal can still affect the lower itinerary.

10. Manaslu Circuit Trek in October

October offers the most consistently favourable weather for the complete 14-day route. Lower trails are usually dry, skies are clearer and the pass is commonly accessible.

Daytime walking from Machha Khola to Lho feels comfortable, although direct sun can be warm. Nights begin cooling quickly after Namrung.

Samagaun, Samdo and Dharmashala require proper cold-weather clothing. Frost is normal, and the Day 12 departure should still be treated as a winter-style alpine start.

The principal challenge is accommodation demand. Keep the planned itinerary, arrive at Dharmashala early and avoid unnecessary changes that may leave the group without confirmed rooms.

11. Manaslu Circuit Trek in November

November is dry, clear and progressively colder. Early November offers excellent pass conditions when no major storm has recently crossed the region.

The lower valley remains pleasant during the day, but temperatures fall quickly in shaded gorges. Above Lho, gloves and a warm hat may be needed from the start of each morning.

Water can freeze at Samdo and Dharmashala. Microspikes become increasingly useful because meltwater refreezes across the trail overnight.

Late November requires more preparation than early November. Check lodge availability beyond Samagaun and keep a contingency day in case snowfall delays the Larkya La crossing.

12. Manaslu Circuit Trek in December

December brings clear air, fewer trekkers and increasingly serious cold. The first half can remain suitable for experienced groups when the pass has not received heavy snow.

Daylight is shorter, so the pace on Day 12 must be efficient. A delayed start from Dharmashala leaves less time for the long descent to Bimthang before darkness.

The acclimatisation day should remain flexible. A shorter hike to Birendra Lake may be more useful than struggling through deep snow toward Manaslu Base Camp.

By late December, lodge closures and frozen facilities become more likely. Confirm operations at Samdo, Dharmashala and Bimthang before committing to the upper circuit.

How does the weather affect the Larkya La Pass Crossing?

Larkya La is the weather-sensitive centre of the itinerary. Day 12 climbs from Dharmashala at 4,480 metres to the 5,160-metre pass before descending to Bimthang at 3,720 metres over approximately 16 kilometres.

The crossing begins before sunrise because mornings are normally calmer and firmer underfoot. As the day warms, snow softens, cloud develops and wind often strengthens across the exposed saddle.

Fresh snow can hide the route through moraine and around the frozen lakes. Even a visible track from the previous day may disappear after overnight snowfall or wind drifting.

Ice creates a separate problem. On the western descent, compacted snow and refrozen meltwater can make the steep trail slippery, increasing the risk of falls when trekkers are already tired.

Wind chill can lower the felt temperature far below the measured air temperature. Exposed skin, damp gloves and slow movement therefore become dangerous even when the forecast does not show extreme cold.

Cloud and snowfall reduce contrast, making it difficult to distinguish firm trail from loose moraine. The group should remain close together and follow the guide’s route rather than spreading out.

A successful crossing depends on conditions across the whole route, not only at the prayer flags. The descent to Bimthang is long, so reaching the pass late does not mean the difficult part is finished.

If the weather deteriorates before departure, waiting at Dharmashala may not always be comfortable or practical because accommodation and supplies are limited. In some cases, returning toward Samdo is the safer decision.

Weather Safety Tips for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Use local trail reports

  Recent information from guides, lodge owners and groups arriving from Bimthang is often more useful than a broad regional forecast for judging snow depth on Larkya La.

• Use the acclimatisation day

  The acclimatisation day gives the body time to adjust before sleeping at Samdo and Dharmashala. It also creates an opportunity to assess the weather without immediately committing to the pass.

• Keep one or two contingency days

  Road damage, snowfall, or poor visibility can delay the itinerary. A spare day is particularly valuable during the monsoon, late autumn, and winter.

• Keep sleeping equipment dry

  Store the sleeping bag, down jacket, electronics and spare base layers in waterproof liners rather than relying only on the backpack’s external rain cover.

• Do not ignore wet cold

  Temperatures above freezing can still cause hypothermia when clothing is soaked and wind is strong. Change into dry layers immediately after reaching the lodge.

• Do not trek alone

  Weather can block trails or make route-finding difficult, particularly above Dharmashala. Trekking with a registered guide also provides access to current local information.

Final Thoughts

Manaslu Circuit Trek weather cannot be described with one temperature or one forecast. The itinerary rises through several climate zones, creating warm river-valley conditions during the first days and severe alpine exposure near the end.

April, October and early November generally provide the strongest balance of stable weather, manageable temperatures and reliable access to Larkya La. March, May, late September and early December can also work with suitable equipment and schedule flexibility.

Winter demands experience and contingency planning, while monsoon requires tolerance for rain, mud, road delays and changing trail conditions. In every season, the most important weather decisions are made at Samagaun, Samdo and Dharmashala before committing to Larkya La.