Trekking in Nepal is probably the most momentous in comparison to the trekking trails of the world due to the presence of diverse geographical and cultural elements. In addition, the presence of the snowy mountains and mystical valleys make trekking in Nepal overwhelmingly enticing. Out of many trekking trails of the region, the Manaslu Circuit Trek route is at the top of the chart in terms of natural, cultural, and Himalayan attractions. Any trips can be boring or exciting due to the decision of doing the trek in right season or time. Yes, today’s blog is all about the Manaslu Circuit Trek in October.
Deciding the right time to do trekking activities helps to enhance the trekking experiences. In the Himalayan belt of Nepal, the climatic and weather conditions vary drastically. Interestingly, Nepal is among few countries in the world that experiences four different seasons throughout the year. Nepal has four seasons where the climatic and weather conditions differ accordingly.
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Spring Season in Nepal
The months of March to May are in the spring season. This season is best for the blooming flowers and green lush forests environment. In addition, this time of the year is best in terms of day time and night time temperature for trekking activities. The skies are clear and trekkers can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of mountains as well as cascading hills and surrounding landscapes.
Summer/Monsoon Season in Nepal
June to August is the months of the summer or monsoon season here in Nepal. During this time of the year heavy rainfall and cloudy skies make the trekking experiences below standard. Moreover, the risk of the floods and landslides are very high as the trail traverses through water resources and valleys. Additionally, the skies are not clear and making it miserable for trekkers in terms of trekking experiences. However, some prefer to do trekking in the late August when the rainfall chance is low and it is also relatively okay to trek.
Winter Season Trekking in Manaslu
December to February is the time of the year in Nepal when snowfall occurs. The biggest hurdle behind the successful trekking in the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal during the winter season is the snowstorm chances. The trail traverses through high altitude places above 5000 m altitude. Therefore, it is not safe to do trekking in this time of the year. If you wish to do the Manaslu Base Camp Trek and don’t want to include the Larke La Pass crossing, then winter is also okay time to do the trek.
Autumn Trekking in the Manaslu Region of Nepal
September to November is the autumn months here in Nepal. During this time of the year, people are rejoicing while celebrating the country’s two of the biggest festivals. They are the Dashain festival and Tihar festival. Besides the festivals, the season is also ideal for daytime and nighttime temperatures to do high – altitude trekking activities. Therefore, spring and autumn season are considered as the best times to do trekking in the Manaslu conservation area of Nepal.
Why Manaslu Circuit Trek in October is best for overall trekking experiences?
The month of October is the peak autumn season. The trail condition is at the top notch level as it is one of the best dry seasons in Nepal. You don’t have to trek in the muddy and slippery trail. Moreover, the day time temperature ranges from 15 degree Celsius to 21 degree Celsius with steep drop in the night time temperature ranging from 2 degree Celsius to minus 5 degree Celsius.
Panoramic Views and Scenic Highlights in Manaslu Trek route in October
The unobstructed scenery of mountains and cascading hills including the multiple Nubri, Gurung, Magar, Brahmins, Chhetris, Dalits, and Tamang villages are at the peak in this month. Relish the panoramic view of mountains like Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, etc. In addition to the splendid mountain vista, trekkers can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of diverse and vibrant landscapes. Rivers, lakes, gorges, plateaus, and waterfalls make the Manaslu Circuit Trek ideal for trekking activities. Additionally, all these attractions can be experienced or observed interestingly during the time of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in October.
Trail Conditions & Teahouse Availability in October
The most crowded time in the Manaslu Circuit Trek is during the month of October. This is the peak time of trekking season here in Nepal of the autumn season. Therefore, expect more numbers of trekkers even if the trail is under the restricted zone and one of the less explored trekking regions as mentioned in many travel blogs and travel experts. Don’t get fooled! Expect many trekkers in the trekking trail especially in the Manaslu Circuit Trek in October. The trail is full of trekkers and you don’t need to worry about the availability of accommodation and eateries.
Permits, Guides & Rules for October Trekking
The rule for Manaslu Circuit Trek in October or any months is simple. You can’t trek solo or independently. In addition, you are not allowed to do any kinds of trekking activities without obtaining the special restricted area permit. These permits are not given to the individual trekkers rather the trekker must obtain the permit from the Immigration office in Kathmandu with the help of the Nepal Government registered trekking agency.
The special restricted area permit for the Manaslu Circuit Trek costs 100 USD for autumn season with additional 15 USD per day if the trek goes beyond 7 days. The cost of the restricted area permit for months of spring, summer, monsoon, and winter season is 75 $ per person with additional 10 $ if trek exceeds 7 days.
Avoid trekking in the monsoon season as far as possible. The road transportation from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is so bumpy and risky especially from Salyantaar to Machha Khola via Aarkhet during this time of the year. The overall trekking experiences are not on par with the travel investment if you travel in the months of summer / monsoon and winter season. However, the Manaslu Circuit Trek in October is probably the best time for incredible experiences. Therefore, the cost of the permit for the months of autumn season is higher than the permit cost for other trekking seasons.
