Choosing the right window for your Himalayan adventure isn't just about comfort - it’s about safety, visibility, and capturing that perfect shot of the "Mountain of the Spirit."
At Best Heritage Tour, we believe that a well-informed traveler is a happy one. The Manaslu Circuit, while gaining popularity as the preferred alternative to the Annapurna Circuit, remains a rugged, high-altitude journey where the weather can shift from a sun-drenched valley afternoon to a freezing blizzard at the Larkya La Pass (5,106m) in a matter of hours.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the month-by-month temperature and weather patterns for 2026 to help you plan your trek with confidence.
Manaslu Circuit Weather at a Glance
The Manaslu region spans six different climatic zones, ranging from tropical lowlands (at 700m) to the arctic conditions of the high passes.
|
Season |
Months |
Daytime Temp (Lower) |
Nighttime Temp (High Pass) |
Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Spring |
Mar - May |
15℃ to 22℃ |
-5℃ to -10℃ |
Blooming forests, clear mornings. |
|
Monsoon |
Jun - Aug |
20℃ to 28℃ |
0℃ to 5℃ |
Lush greenery, wet trails, leeches. |
|
Autumn |
Sep - Nov |
12℃ to 20℃ |
-10℃ to -15℃ |
Crystal clear views, stable weather. |
|
Winter |
Dec - Feb |
8℃ to 12℃ |
-20℃ or lower |
Deep snow, extreme cold, solitude. |
Spring: The Season of Bloom (March to May)
Spring is arguably the most visual season in the Manaslu region. As the winter snow begins to melt, the lower valleys transform into a tapestry of red, pink, and white rhododendrons.
March
-
Temperature: Lower altitudes (Soti Khola to Jagat) hover around 18℃. Higher up in Samdo, nights still feel like winter, dropping to -8℃.
-
The Vibe: It’s a transition month. You might still encounter some lingering snow on the Larkya La, but the trails are waking up. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid the April crowds.
April (Peak Spring)
-
Temperature: Daytime is a comfortable 20℃ in the mid-hills. Night temperatures at higher camps like Dharamsala settle around -5℃.
-
The Vibe: This is the goldilocks month. Not too hot, not too cold. The sky is generally blue, though afternoon clouds are common.
May
-
Temperature: The warmest month before the monsoon. Lower regions can hit 25℃.
-
The Vibe: Visibility can get slightly hazy as the humidity builds, but the high-altitude views remain spectacular. It’s a great time for those who prefer warmer trekking days.
Autumn: The Photographer’s Dream (September to November)
If you ask any guide at Best Heritage Tour when they prefer to trek, they’ll likely say October. The post-monsoon air is washed clean of dust, leaving the sharpest mountain views imaginable.
September
-
Temperature: Mild and humid. Daytime 20℃, nights around 5℃ at mid-altitudes.
-
The Vibe: Early September may still see some tail-end monsoon showers. By mid-month, the skies open up. The waterfalls along the Budhi Gandaki river are at their most thunderous.
October (The Crown Jewel)
-
Temperature: Daytime 15℃ in the sun. However, the high pass (Larkya La) will be cold, often dropping to -12℃ at dawn.
-
The Vibe: This is peak season for a reason. Stability is the name of the game. If you’re looking for high-definition views of Mt. Manaslu, this is your month.
November
-
Temperature: Getting crisp. Lower regions are 12℃; Samagaun nights drop to -10℃.
-
The Vibe: The air is dry and the crowds start to thin out. By late November, you’ll need serious winter layers for the high-altitude evenings.
Winter: The Frozen Frontier (December to February)
Winter trekking isn't for everyone, but for the experienced adventurer, it offers a silence and serenity that the busy months cannot match.
December
-
Temperature: Cold but dry. Pass temperatures can plummet to -20℃.
-
The Vibe: Early December is actually quite pleasant if you have the right gear. The skies are incredibly clear. However, many tea houses in the higher villages start to close as locals migrate to Kathmandu to escape the cold.
January & February
-
Temperature: Extreme arctic conditions above 4,000m.
-
The Vibe: Heavy snowfall often blocks the Larkya La Pass. We generally recommend avoiding this window unless you are part of a specialized expedition with technical gear.
Monsoon: The Green Wilderness (June to August)
While we usually suggest the "dry" seasons, the monsoon has a unique charm - if you don't mind the rain.
-
Weather: Expect daily rainfall, usually in the afternoons.
-
Challenges: The lower trails become slippery, and leeches are active in the forested sections. Landslide risks are higher, and clouds often hide the peaks.
-
The Silver Lining: The valleys are neon-green, and you’ll have the entire trail to yourself.
Expert Packing Tips for Manaslu Weather
Regardless of when you go, "Layering" is the golden rule of Himalayan trekking.
-
The Base Layer: Moisture-wicking thermals (Merino wool is best) to keep sweat away from your skin.
-
The Mid Layer: A fleece or "puffy" down jacket to trap heat.
-
The Outer Shell: A high-quality GORE-TEX jacket that is both windproof and waterproof.
-
Accessories: Don't forget a warm beanie, UV-rated sunglasses (essential for snow glare), and a pair of heavy-duty gloves.
Conclusion
There is no "wrong" time to visit the Manaslu region, but there is a "right" time for your specific goals. If you want the best weather and don’t mind sharing the trail, October is your winner. If you love flora and slightly warmer days, April is spectacular.
At Best Heritage Tour, we specialize in crafting itineraries that respect the mountain's temperament. Whether you're chasing the spring rhododendrons or the autumn clarity, we ensure you have the right guides and the right gear to make your journey safe and unforgettable.
Are you ready to witness the majesty of the world’s eighth-highest mountain?
Phone / WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197 / +977-9810043046
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com
Website: www.bestheritagetour.com
Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Author: Best Heritage Tour
Date: 4th February, 2026
