Manaslu Circuit Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the off-beaten track of Nepal’s rough and remote terrains. It is not as highly popular as other treks like Annapurna and Everest Base Camp trek, but if you choose the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit trek, this is the most beautiful trek that will keep you in awe the whole time.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the best opportunities to experience adventure and immerse yourself in different cultures and traditions that you have never seen before. It is one of those treks that falls under the restricted area of Nepal. Moreover, this means you must have at least one more trekker with you, and your trekking agency must issue a special restricted area trekking permit to be eligible for the trek. Trekking to Manaslu Circuit trek is difficult as there are many challenges you will face. Trekking in the best time or season can mitigate some of these challenges. This blog will discuss the ideal time for the MCT and why it is advisable to trek in these perfect seasons. So let’s get into it.
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Best Time To Trek Manaslu Circuit
Spring (March to May):
Spring is among the best times for Manaslu Circuit Trek. It starts in March and ends in May. Spring begins immediately after the end of the winter season, so the early days of March are still very chilly. As the days progresses towards April, the time becomes perfect for trekking. Clear weather, views of skies and mountains, mild temperature, and vibrant flowering atmosphere make the trekking cheerful. The daytime temperature of 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) in lower altitudes is ideal for trekking, whereas at night, it becomes a bit colder and can even reach a freezing point. Throughout the trek, you can enjoy blooming flowers like rhododendrons and magnolias during spring. Throughout the trek, you will visit several remote villages celebrating their culture, rituals, and festivals, which you can participate in and enjoy.
Summer (June to August):
As the end of the Spring season approaches in May, the Summer season begins in June and ends in August. The initial days of Summer are also ideal for trekking the Manaslu region due to the sunshine and colorful vibes on the trails. However, days get warmer and more humid, making trekkers tire more quickly. As the days progress, the Summer season also brings monsoon season. The start of relentless rainfall for several days makes the trail hard to scale as it becomes wet and slippery.
Autumn (September to November):
Autumn is another ideal season to trek Manaslu Circuit Trek. Furthermore, many experts and veterans say that this season is the best season to hike in the mountains, mainly due to less rainfall, mild temperature, clear weather, and stunning views of mountains and skies. It starts in September and ends in November. Early September still suffers from rainfall as it falls in the post-monsoon season. During the day, the temperature is somewhat more relaxed, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in lower altitudes, but for the night, you have to prepare for the cold weather, sometimes reaching even way below freezing point. Autumn is also attractive for trekkers to view traditional farming practices and enjoy the local fresh produce and crops since it is the harvest season in Nepal. The national festival of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar, also occasionally falls in the Autumn season, making your trek even more special.
Winter (December to February):
Winter is among the less ideal seasons for trekking the majestic Manaslu region. The harsh weather, cold temperatures, and continuous changes in the atmosphere make trekking in remote settlements extremely tough. The daytime temperature ranges around five °C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), whereas at night, it reaches way below freezing, reaching -20°C. There is a high chance of snowfall, blizzards, and avalanches all the time, so be careful while you are trekking. During this season, the trails are quiet, and many teahouses are closed due to the fear of avalanches. This forces you to go camping, which becomes highly risky in the mountains.
Factors to Consider:
While the seasons outlined above provide general guidelines for the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit, several factors should be considered when planning your trek:
1. Personal Preferences: Consider your preferences for weather, temperature, and trail conditions when choosing the best time to trek. Some trekkers may prefer the tranquility of the winter months, while others may enjoy the vibrant colors of spring or the clear skies of autumn.
2. Crowds: Peak trekking seasons, such as spring and autumn, tend to attract crowds on the trail and in teahouses. If you prefer a quieter trekking experience, consider trekking during the summer or winter months when there are fewer visitors.
3. Festivals and Events: Nepal celebrates several cultural festivals throughout the year, which can add to the artistic experience of your trek. Consider timing your trek to coincide with festivals such as Dashain or Tihar for a unique cultural experience in the mountain villages.
4. Guide and Porter Availability: During peak trekking seasons, guide and porter services may be in high demand, so it’s advisable to book in advance to secure the services of experienced guides and porters.
Conclusion
The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek depends on the conditions and your preferences. However, certain times are ideal for trekking, which reduces the difficulty and makes your trek more fun. Challenges like dynamic weather, continuous rainfall or snowfall, or the risk of natural disasters are eliminated if you trek in the best seasons, like Autumn and Spring.
But if you want more challenge and are more experienced than beginners, you can also trek in Nepal’s off-season monsoon and winter. Remember that if you are careful, hire a guide, and pack the necessary items, clothing, and equipment, you can succeed in trekking the stunning Manaslu region in less than ideal time.
