Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather in October 2026 | Complete Guide

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and culturally rich journeys. Famous for its dramatic landscapes, snowcapped peaks, and off-the-beaten-path trails, this trek has steadily gained popularity among adventurers worldwide. Among all the months of the year, October is considered the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

If you’re planning for October 2026, you might be wondering: What is the weather like? Will the conditions be favorable? What should I expect during the trek?

This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about the weather on the Manaslu Circuit in October 2026 - so you can prepare properly and make the most of your Himalayan adventure.

Why October is the Best Month for Manaslu Circuit Trek

October falls in Nepal’s autumn trekking season. After the summer monsoon, the skies clear up, the trails dry out, and the Himalayas reveal themselves in all their glory. For the Manaslu Circuit, October consistently delivers:

Stable weather conditions - Clear skies, less chance of rain, and predictable patterns.
Breathtaking mountain views - Crisp air makes peaks like Manaslu (8,163m), Himlung Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Shringi Himal more visible.
Comfortable daytime temperatures - Neither too hot nor freezing cold.
Festive atmosphere - October is festival season in Nepal (Dashain & Tihar), offering trekkers cultural immersion along with adventure.

In short, October is the “golden month” for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Weather Overview in October 2026

Here’s what you can expect in October 2026:

Daytime temperatures: 12°C to 20°C at lower altitudes (Soti Khola, Machha Khola).
Higher altitudes: 5°C to 12°C (Namrung, Samagaon).
Larkya La Pass (5,160m): Can drop below 0°C, especially in the mornings and nights.
Skies: Clear blue skies with panoramic Himalayan views.
Rainfall: Very minimal - October is post-monsoon, so trails are mostly dry.
Humidity: Low, making trekking more comfortable.

These conditions make October ideal for trekkers of all experience levels.

Benefits of Trekking in October

Clear Visibility for Mountain Views
October skies are some of the clearest in the year. Whether you’re gazing at Mt. Manaslu, crossing the Larkya La Pass, or enjoying villages like Samdo and Samagaon, you’ll enjoy postcard-perfect vistas.
Comfortable Climate
You won’t have to deal with the sweltering heat of summer or the freezing chill of winter. The moderate daytime temperatures make walking pleasant.
Cultural Encounters
October coincides with Dashain and Tihar, Nepal’s biggest festivals. Villages along the Manaslu trail come alive with celebrations, giving trekkers unique cultural insights.
Dry Trails
With monsoon rains gone, trails are less muddy and landslides are rare, making walking easier and safer.
Wildlife and Nature
Autumn is a great time to spot wildlife like Himalayan Thars, langurs, and birds. The forests also look fresh and vibrant after the monsoon.

Challenges of Trekking in October

While October is nearly perfect, it’s good to know the challenges too:

Crowded Trails
October is Nepal’s busiest trekking month. Expect more trekkers, especially at popular tea houses. However, the Manaslu Circuit is still far less crowded compared to Everest or Annapurna.
Cold Nights at Higher Altitudes
Although days are warm, nights in Samagaon, Samdo, and Larkya Phedi can drop below freezing. Proper gear is essential.
Booking in Advance
Because October is peak season, you’ll need to book trekking permits, guides, and accommodations early to avoid last-minute stress.

Temperature Breakdown by Region in October 2026

Here’s an approximate look at the temperatures you’ll encounter:

Soti Khola (700m): 18°C to 25°C (warm and pleasant)
Namrung (2,630m): 10°C to 18°C
Samagaon (3,530m): 4°C to 12°C (cool days, chilly nights)
Samdo (3,875m): 2°C to 10°C
Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460m): -2°C to 8°C
Larkya La Pass (5,160m): -6°C to 2°C (coldest section)

This shows that while lower parts of the trek are mild, higher altitudes are significantly colder - especially mornings and nights.

Packing Tips for October

To handle October’s conditions, here’s what you’ll need:

Clothing
- Layered outfits (base layer, fleece, down jacket, windproof shell)
- Thermal wear for nights
- Gloves, hats, and warm socks
Gear
- Sleeping bag (rated -10°C or below)
- Trekking poles for steep climbs
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (high-altitude sun is strong)
Miscellaneous
- Reusable water bottles & purification tablets
- Snacks for higher altitude sections
- Personal medications

Festivals in October 2026 During the Trek

Trekking in October often coincides with Dashain (late September/early October) and Tihar (late October/early November). In 2026, you’ll likely experience:

Dashain Celebrations: Colorful kites, tika ceremonies, and decorated villages.
Tihar (Festival of Lights): Villages lit with candles and oil lamps, celebrations for animals (cows, dogs, crows), and lively songs/dances.

This cultural backdrop adds another layer of richness to your trekking experience.

Why October 2026 is Special

October is not just the best month for weather - it also coincides with high international demand. Many trekkers plan years in advance, meaning October 2026 will be particularly busy.

Booking early with a trusted operator like Best Heritage Tour ensures:

Guaranteed trekking permits (Manaslu is a restricted region).
Pre-arranged accommodations in key villages.
Expert guides who know October’s specific conditions.

Final Thoughts: Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather in October 2026

So, how is the weather for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in October 2026?

It’s nearly perfect. With clear skies, moderate daytime temperatures, and minimal rainfall, October is the best month of the year to take on this Himalayan adventure. While nights at higher altitudes can be cold, proper preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable journey.

For trekkers seeking breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, and ideal trekking conditions, October 2026 is the perfect time to experience the Manaslu Circuit.

Book Your Manaslu Circuit Trek in October 2026

Make the most of the best trekking season in Nepal. Book your Manaslu Circuit Trek with Best Heritage Tour today:

Contact Best Heritage Tour

Phone: +977-9851149197 / +977-9810043046

Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com

Booking & Info: www.bestheritagetour.com

Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal