Manaslu Circuit Trek during Autumn 2025 and 2026

Manaslu in Autumn Season: Month-by-Month Overview

Autumn in the Manaslu Circuit represents a new aura and a new beginning, and a great, marvelous transformation of nature, in terms of Himalayan views, and meets the safe and easy expectation at the same time, ending the bizarre season of monsoon. If you ask us personally, then autumn has got to be our favourite as well, as it offers the mild temperature, humidity, and the favourable climatic situation to head out with 0 chances of precipitation.

Autumn hits here in Nepal - during the months from mid-September to November, when the autumn golden glow starts to rise, and summer leaves its perks, and the heavy snow pathways start to melt, opening the gateway to every individual across the globe for good freaking reason. While the high snowfalls go away, the heavy rain also dusts away the airy foggy pollution at the lower elevation, and unveils the wide 360-degree vista of the Lower Budhi Gandakui Valley to the iconic mountains above 7000 meters, in each stride. 

From morning till afternoon, the humidity remains mild with pleasant temperatures ranging from 8°C to 14°C, perfect to head out for a straight 5 to 7 hours of hiking, without draining yourself completely, and enjoy the soothing air and calming surroundings. On the other hand, even though during peak season - Autumn, it captivates all adventure seekers, craving to ace the wild, and adreline boasting, Himalayan treks, in Nepal, the crowd remains moderate compared to the famous ones, like the Everest Base Camp Trek, without making you feel like wandering around Disney land lol, without the trails being too covered, and congested throughout the day. Whereas, with the explorers, one can have a chitchat, crack jokes, and learn distinct cultures, without compromising the social connection as well. 

Each month, September, October, and November, brings a unique perspective and temperature variation, month to month, that highly sets a distinct effect on the surrounding views of the highlands and weather conditions to change, setting an entirely different overall experience. Here is an insight into what to expect in the Autumn season every month, so you can idyllically choose the one that fits you and set the holiday dates accordingly.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in September

September marks the starting (beginning of Autumn, where the clear, bright skies start to show up, with the prominent view of mountains and landscapes, with chill, fresh air, and ending the rainy season, making out one of the best months to trek Manaslu. Due to the low chance or zero chance of any kind of rainfall and snowfall, the route becomes clear, free from muddy and snowy blockage. In early September, some light, tiny rainfall, and comparatively, other autumn months, humidity still tends to be high; however, as the days pass by or months progress, the terrain condition improves and becomes drier, offering a safe ascent and hiking trailhead. 

In the lower elevation, below 3000 meters, the temperature lies between 14°C to 22°C, whereas, at the higher section (elevation), above 3500 meters, for instance, from Sama gaon, or Samdo near Larkya La Pass, it ranges from 4 to 10°C and drops down to -5 degree celsius at night time, which is bearable, with sleeping bag or just the natural heating of tea house, without making you freezy and causing any frosty bites, that usually happens at winter time. Meanwhile, the beginning of Autumn - September- attracts a very few number of trekkers, where the route tends to be less covered than in other months, offering a serene environment, and wide options in accommodations as well, making it the best month of Autumn trekking season, who crave solitude and the view of great mountains and landscapes blending with the lush green surroundings.

Pro Tip: Ensure to carry rain gear, such as windproof-waterproof jackets, a light raincoat, and a backpack cover, as light rainfall is expected along the trailhead during early to mid-September.

Here is a quick glance and summary table of what to expect in September along the trailhead:

Manaslu Circuit Trek in October

The October span of the Autumn trekking season in the Manaslu circuit hits the highest number of trekkers across the world, throughout the year, as it offers less humidity, with zero chance of precipitation and foggy clouds in the sky, making the route dry and rewarding with the prominent Himalayan panorama views of mountains.

As October comes in, the snowy sections have already been swept away due to the sunlight of September, where you can begin the long hour duration hike, without any strenuous challenges such as natural hazards - landslides and avalanches. This span of the year is famous for the short Manaslu Trek as well, who are willing to complete the trip, in a short time bounded by time, but wants a safety on the 1st hand, with the reliable weather and climatic condition, which october offers, with a himid of neither cold or hot with 0 chance of rainfall, adding comfort as well.

The day remains warm with longer sunlight, providing a great chance to explore in depth and slow the pace, without hurrying up, perfect for beginners as well. The temperature ranges from 14°C to 18°C at the lower elevations, and doesn't exceed 20°C at the lower elevation below 3500 meters; however, it drops down to 5 to 10 degrees Celsius at the higher altitude above Sama gaun (3530 meters), which is quite doable, to ascend higher without any risk of altitude sickness. Meanwhile, at night, it falls to 0°C to -5°C, near Larke Pass; hence, warm gear and a heating jacket (such as a down jacket) are required in such cold weather conditions. 

Besides, as it is a harvesting season here in the land of the Himalayas - Nepal, the hills are thrived in the vibrant orange and golden shade, with the farmers engaging in harvesting the plantation in the terraced fields, which gives another insight into the remote valley, and locals' lifestyle as well. At the same time, when you are venturing on the Manaslu circuit in October, rather than just mountains, one can get to celebrate the celebration of festive season of Dashain, Tihar, and Chaath, perfect for enthusiastic hikers, and unveil the religious beliefs, myths, and rich culture and traditions of locals here. Hence, with the favourable weather and climatic conditions, great mountain views, and the diverse cultural exploration, October is the best month to explore Manaslu. 

Pro Tip: It is highly suggested to book the accommodations or book the trip package as soon as possible, before the peak season actually hits, as it is the most visited time of the year, and it might be difficult to get lodges or a proper tea house.

Here is a glance and summary table of what to expect in September along the trailhead:

Manaslu Circuit Trek in November

November marks the conclusion of the Autumn season, with some fluctuations in the weather conditions, especially at the end of November; however, it stands out being stable for trekking. The temperature usually ranges from 10°C to 12°C, at the lower elevation, and might drop to -8 to -10 degrees Celsius at nighttime, however, the trekking route remains dry with a fresh air, as the winter starts to kick in, offering a cool and low humidity sets as one of the top months, who crave for adventure, and ascend along with ease, without sunny light mentally daunting heat.

However, as the winter gets to starts from mid-November, it is suggested to be prepared, in terms of physical stamina and packing the right gear to cross over the high mountain passes, as snowfalls are expected from mid-November in the Manaslu region. Meanwhile, if that sounds too bizzare for beginners, especially, then, with our experience, we recommend, you to set your itinerary from early november and gets it finished till mid november, so, you can slightly avoid the snowfall, and the snowy pathways, that's what we do to our adventure seekers' groups or solo from all around the world, ensuring safety and gradual ascent.

Looking at the brighter side, November in the Manaslu circuit experiences a very minimal number of hikers, and due to early snowfall, it swipes away the dusty air, bringing in the fresh air and soothing surroundings, offering serenity and wilderness of self-reflection. The fall features the golden larches blending in the lush green valley and whole-grown crops in the terraced fields, in the crystal clear views of the mountains, making it one of the most captivating months of the year, offering a visual feast and a once-in-a-while experience.

Pro Tip: Customize your itinerary that match your experience and head out to the remote and isolated region with proper planning and set the pace and elevation gain while tailoring the package. We at Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition have experienced team members from local trekking guides to crafting the package team, who have assisted more than 200+ groups in the region, so let us be your adventure partner, from creating the package to leading you along the route with all logistic management.

Here is a glance and summary table of what to expect in November along the trailhead:

Autumn Insights: Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures Across Altitudes

Weather stability stands out being one of the major perks of trekking to the Manaslu Circuit in Autumn, where the daytime temperature usually ranges from 12°C to 20°C below 3000 meters, from Macchakhola, Jagat, before reaching Samagaon, meanwhile only drops to 5 to -5 degrees Celsius, near Larkya la Pass (5106 meters), with less chance of less precipitation, showing the clear views of mountains and landscapes. Unlike, monsoon season, the weather remains stable, with a dry trekking route, and clear views of mountains and golden grasslands, and terraced fields. 

However, the temperature and weather in Manaslu vary greatly, from altitude to altitude. As the day passes by, you will experience a drop in temperature and a rise in elevation with thinning air.

Day Time Temperature

The temperature below 2500 meters, from Machha Khola, Soti Khola to Jagat, usually lies somewhere between 14 to 21 degrees Celsius; however, it can reach up to 28°C in early September, which offers mild humidity to venture out for long hours, without worrying much about tiring heat draining the energy out.

Meanwhile, the temperature above 3000 to 4200 meters might take a rapid fall to 4°C to 13°C, which stands out to be the best period to venture out, without any heating high climatic conditions, whereas, at the upper terrains, for instance, Samdo, Dharamsala, you will experience high wind, at the afternoon, but the rainfall/snowfall chance remains zero, so it won't bother you much. On the other hand, near Larkya La Pass - 5106 meters, or above 4500 meters, it ranges somewhere between -5°C to 5°C, which is considered safe, and not so scarily freezing, at such high elevation.

Night Time Temperature 

During the nighttime, you will experience rapid changes in the weather, climate, and temperature variations from lower altitudes to higher elevations, while at lower elevations below 1500 meters (till Jagat), it doesn't go below 5 degrees Celsius, offering chill nights. Whereas, after crossing 3000 meters and until 4000 meters, the nighttime temperature ranges from 0°C to 5°C in the notable stops such as Samdo, Dharamsala, and takes a drop to -10 to -12 degree celsius at Larke Pass in November (the end of Autumn), however stays in between -5 to 0 degree celsius, in August and September.

Perks of trekking the Manaslu Circuit in Autumn

Trekking to Manaslu in Autumn lets you immerse yourself and be fully captivated by the thriving surroundings with goldenly dotted landscapes, by the wild foliage, and fully grown crops in the terraced fields, with the great unhindered views of mountains, along the rich tapestry of Tibtean Buddhism culture, from little exposure to the wild adventure, everything that the himalayan adventure has to offer, that's what make Autumn (September to November), one of the best time for the trek to Manaslu.

Here are some of the highlighted features that this trek has to reward you with while trekking in September, October, and November, making it special and worth undertaking:

Colorful Himalayan Flora: Season of Vibrant and Golden Hues 

The major speciality of the autumn season comes with the vivid and serene atmosphere, where the colorful Himalayan flora thrives, adorned throughout the trailhead, like a painting and a visual representation of heaven on earth. As the monsoon ends, the post-monsoon leaves the mark of a lush green valley atmosphere, but comes with a blooming fiery rhododendrons, with a kaleidoscope of colors straight from the golden briches and the terraced fields of the locals in the village areas. Due to the stable, climatic conditions, the mountains look enchantingly beautiful, where the Himalayan flowers add colors to nature, whereas, reaching higher elevation, the Himalayan poppy on the rocky landscapes and wild flowers like yellow primulas, create an astonishing view, in the glacial valleys above 3500 meters, making the overall trekking experience.

Dry Route and Trustable Weather Conditions

As the monsoon - high level of precipitation bids a goodbye, the Autumn trekking to Manaslu represents the stable and pleasant weather conditions, without the rapid fluctuations, which usually happen in summer, monsoon, and winter spans of the year. The humidity remains mild, and the climate situation favours the long-hour trekking trail, with almost zero chance of rainfall and snowfall, and the sunny days, creating a chance to explore more in depth, without hassling about what might happen, or how can i reach the tea houses, faster than i possibly can before it gets dark, as the weather stands out being trustable.

Due to the less and minimal rainfall, the impact on the trekking route won't be much affected and will stay dry without any possible chances of landslides, floods, avalanches, or the risk of slips and falls, avoiding a bizarre situation, providing safety, comfort, and a great trekking experience overall.

Unmatched Clear Mountain Views

Trust me, when I say, about the clear views of the mountains, then, it is more than just gazing at the mountains, but much more to it, where the vista of the snowcapped peaks, seem like we are about to touch it, or the tip of nose, will generally touch it and feel the realm of the enchanting nature. After the heavy downpour of the monsoon rain, the Autumn in the Manaslu region marks a new beginning, dusting away all the fogginess and bringing a new aura, resulting in the unhindered views of the great Himalayan panorama, including Sringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, Samdo Peak, Himlung Himal, Larke Peak, along with the eighth highest peak in the world - Mount Manaslu, sounds unreal right?  Well, that's what every hiker thinks, and the assumption with words tends to prove its beauty after experiencing the trail route itself.

Nature’s Palette Photography

If you love to capture moments, as an adventure seeker or nature lover, or a professional photographer, then, well, autumn in the Manaslu circuit is a visual feast representation that resembles the paradisal beauty, where every hour offers an aesthetically pleasing photograph. The morning, sunrise, brings the golden hues over the Himalayan range, and sunset brings a pink and yellow, ochre shade creating a vintage and monography effect, especially at the Budhi Gandaki valley. The lush green forest, with adorningly, decorated by the colorful wild flowers, offers a distinct insight, whereas the transition of diverse landscapes, from woodlands to rugged to rocky and finally to the alpine glacial valleys with the accompany of several mountains over 7000 meters, shows the beauty of mother nature, where the experience and captured in photographs, cannot be bought even in million bucks.

Cross-Cultural Connections

The autumn season in Manaslu experiences a larger number of hikers than any other season, even more than spring - another peak season for the trek; however remains quieter and serene than other popular treks like Everest Base Camp. With the booming trend of this trek, it attracts many adventure seekers, across from every corner of the world, which provides you an opportunity to mingle with other fellas (keen-minded like you), learn about their cultures and languages so on. However, it is suggested to start the trek before 7:30 AM to secure your best spot at the viewpoints like Birendra Lake, Samagaon, or even Larke Pass, other than, that, you will absolutely love mingling with hikers, playing UNOS, musics, dances at afternoon in dining area creating new memories to hold on forever and make friends from all around the world.

Boastful Festival Celebrations

One of the most remarkable parts that makes Autumn the best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek is that many thriving festivals, such as Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath, fall from September to November, where you can celebrate the rich culture and tradition of the locals, which is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as it comes only once a year. During such an auspicious, festive season, several monasteries hold prayers, meditations, mask dances, and songs played on musical instruments, dressed up in traditional attire, showcasing their historical significance, preserved from generation to generation.

At the same time, the main festival of Tibetan communities, Lhosar - Tibetan New Year, comes right in November, where you get to learn about the local celebrations, foods prepared at such occasions, and enhance the overall journey rather than just mountain gazing. To enhance the deep cultural exploration, consider combining a trek to Tsum Valley with Manaslu as well, which visits the hidden monasteries, temples, gompas, and meditative palaces so on.

Challenges in Manaslu during the Autumn 

Even though trekking to the Manaslu circuit in Autumn - peak season offers several perks and advantages, which make the trip worth venturing out with the best scenic views of mountains and landscapes, there are several challenges to expect along the trailhead:

Crowded Trail Heads and Tea Houses

As autumn is the peak season for any Himalayan adventure, which remains the same along the Manaslu region, the routes are generally crowded, especially at many viewpoints, especially at high elevations, which can be a bit disturbing for hikers who are looking for a serene, peaceful environment. Due to the large no. of hikers, the accommodation availability remains a big question when hiking independently, without any pre-bookings done beforehand, with limited amenities, such as bedding configuration options, single bedrooms availability with attached washrooms, even at lower elevations. There are only limited accommodation options to cater to the huge flow of hikers, and also, a lower possibility of finding great amenities. So, it is highly suggested to make your bookings prior to 1 to 2 months, so you get the hygienic, well-maintained lodging options, without compromising your comfort and feasibility at the same time, to avoid the last-minute hassle.

Diverse Route Navigation

Starting the trek from the lower elevation, right from the very beginning, the route enters the forested trailhead, through some of the steep sections, passing several slippery terrains, crossing bridges, and so on, whereas, the main challenge tends to be over 3000 meters, when the route begins to open up to more rugged, rocky and rough pathways, for straight 5 to 6 hours of duration. Well, if you are wondering, why such terrains, even at the peak best seasonal time, unlike any other treks, the route to Manaslu is not well facilitated, and diverse, which remains the same throughout any span of the year. But, yes! The advantage of autumn is that the terrains remain dry, without being slippery, and in natural hazards situations.

However, one must have some preparations and pack correctly to ascend to higher elevations. Besides, the main challenging factor of the route is the cross over the high mountain pass of Larkya La Pass - 5106 meters, where one must take an uphill and downhill walk for a straight 8 - 9 hours, other than that, due to dry route and stable weather, Manaslu Trek in Autum offers easier trailhead to pass through. 

Higher Cost in Peak Season

After the peak seasons, Spring and Autumn kick in, which are only the best seasons to visit Manaslu, attracting a wide number of hikers, unexpectedly, due to which the cost goes higher on the expensive side, because of large demand, just take an example of launch of iphone, with higher pricing just beause people wait for updating their gadget. Well, just like that, the cost of overall logistics from meals to lodges (accommodations), trekking guides, porters, and overall packages gets higher than it is in other seasons, with the increment of permit cost at the same time. However, to minimize the cost, you can choose early bookings, before 3-4 months, and get an affordable cost, as last-minute booking goes on the costlier side, even though, the cost might exceed USD 1000/-, the scenic views, mountain and culture explorations and the insight of local lifestyle, are worth more than diamonds and golds.

Route Accessibility and Safety during the Autumn season

Referring to the Manaslu Circuit route during the autumn season, it is easily accessible and considered safe due to the favourable weather conditions, climatic situations that open the gateway to every enthusiastic hiker with any experience. Here is a quick overview of what kind of trailhead to expect and be prepared accordingly.

Route Condition and Accessibility in Autumn 

Due to the fewer chances and minimum amount of precipitation (snowfall and rainfall) during the autumn season from September to November, the trailhead usually remains dry and free from muddy and snowy pathways, when compared to other seasons like the monsoon.

The dryness creates terrains to take a grip easily, without being too slippery, and hassle-free, which suits every pace of hikers, even beginners, whereas it is suggested to carry proper footwear, which works well with comfortable shoes as well, which have a strong grip. While early September brings minimal rainfall, by the mid or end of September to the end of October, the route becomes well-marked, and passage becomes clear, without any blockage to the Larkya La Pass.

Meanwhile, from mid-November, the route in some sections is covered with icy patches, glacial sections, and a little snowfall near the high mountain pass, but it doesn't block the pathway to the Larke Pass completely. 

Safety Considerations in Autumn

Autumn is considered comparatively safer and easier than any other season, like monsoon and winter, with stable weather conditions and less precipitation, snowfall, and rainfall, with clear skies, without letting you compromising the captivating views. Unlike other seasons, like monsoon, the possibility of rainfall becomes minimal, which minimizes the chance of natural hazard conditions such as landslides, floods, avalanches, and so on.

On the other hand, the quick accessibility of medical facilities remains less due to the remote medical access, which is why trekking with experienced local guides highly contributes to safety, but it is suggested to opt for travel insurance for emergency helicopter evacuation. Another concerning part remains the risk of altitude sickness at higher elevations; however, it becomes minimal if proper preventive guidelines and safety tips are considered beforehand. 

Essential Things to Consider for Manaslu Circuit Trek during Autumn: Good to Know

1. Follow the Permit Regulation: As solo trekking is banned within this restricted area, one must hire an experienced local trekking guide through a registered local trekking agency to obtain permits. A Restricted Area Permit and a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit are required for this trip, which can only be attained through a locally based tour and trekking operator.
2. Make the Pre-Bookings: If you are willing to hike during the peak season, then it is highly suggested to make your bookings earlier before the season hits, to grab early booking discounts and also have the choice to select the lodges as per your preference. Last-minute booking is expensive and also has limited facilities and amenities.
3. Pack Adequately: While packing, consider all four seasonal variations, as the weather can change anytime, pack intelligently and smartly, but avoid overpacking. At the same time, it is suggested to bring a sleeping bag rated for -10 to -15 degrees Celsius, especially in November, for higher elevations.
4. Make Budget Planning and Estimation: Before opting for the trip and making the booking, ensure to check the cost inclusive and exclusive to overview in detailed on what to expect and unexpected, as there are several packages from luxury to budget Manaslu Trek, so check thoroughly before paying the advance. 
5. Tailor your itinerary as per your pace: Know your limitations, and set the itinerary according to your experience. For instance, if you are a beginner, then it is suggested to stretch the trek for a long duration, for at least 13 days starting from Kathmandu, with 2 acclimatization days set. Whereas experienced hikers opt for rapid treks for 8 to 10 days.
6. Grab Good Policy Travel Insurance: As the medical accessibility is less, with limited amenities and facilities, it is suggested to grab travel insurance with a proper policy, which includes theft, trip cancellation, delays, and heli evacuation over 3000 meters.
7. Physical and Mental Preparedness: For the long-hour duration hike of 6 to 7 hours through varied terrains, and limited amenities with facilities, be mentally and physically prepared.

Suggested Packing List for Autumn Trekkers

Even though Autumn is the best season to visit Manaslu, which offers stable, mild, and moderate temperatures and climatic conditions, it is highly suggested to pack essential gear and equipment considering every seasonal variation:

Clothing

• Dry Fit T-shirts and Shirts
• Breathable Jackets (windproof and waterproof ones)
• Comfortable and Light Hiking pants
• Down Jacket or Puffer Jacket
• Moisture-wicking t-shirt - long sleeves and short ones 
• Thermal Layer and jackets with fleece
• 2 pairs of gloves - screen touchable and woolen 
• Cap and Sun hat brimmed ones

Footwear

• 8-9 pairs of socks and long socks
• Hiking boots (long ones) with proper grip
• Comfy shoes and scandals

Accessories

• Two Trekking poles (adjustable)
• Sleeping bags (10 to 15 degrees Celsius)
• Camera, Batteries, and chargers
• Power bank and head lamp
• Reusable bottles with a water purification tablet
• Toothpaste and a brush
• First aid kit with precautionary medications
• UV sunglasses
• Oximeter - to check pulse rate

Conclusion: Is Autumn the best season for Manaslu?

Well, autumn stands out as one of the best times to visit the Manaslu circuit, with stable weather conditions, mild temperatures, and the rewarding clear skies and the vibrant celebrations of festivals with the prominent views of mountains and landscapes. From September to November, the weather remains stable, with zero and minimal precipitation (rainfall - snowfall), rewarding hikers with the perfect blend of nature and culture in one, ensuring safety, comfort, and the unobstructed views of the Himalayan panorama range. The long daylight and easy accessibility to Larke Pass - 5106 meters, which becomes one of the best highlighted features of trekking during autumn, and attain the lap of the world's eighth highest peak - Mount Manaslu.

If you are someone who loves the thriving golden hues of the blooming farmlands, and the lush green valley, with the unhidden views of mountains and surroundings, with an once in once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, to celebrate the rich festivals, then, Manasu Circuit Trek in Autumn fits perfectly for you. Ready to venture out to the Himalayan adventure, we at  Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition offer the best itineraries, along with customization as per your preference, time, and budget, as well, with experienced local teams to guide you, taking care of all your Himalayan trekking dreams with expertly guided autumn adventures and personalized service. Contact us via WhatsApp +977 9851016814 or email at info@destinationhimalayatreks.com anytime.

FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)

How cold does it get in Manaslu during the Autumn season?

In autumn (September to November), the temperature in the Manaslu circuit ranges from -5 to -15 degrees Celsius, at night, near Larkya La Pass - 5106 meters; however, during daytime, it ranges from 5 to 12 degrees Celsius, with slow blowing of winds and chill weather conditions.

Do I need to book tea houses in advance for the autumn trek?

Yes, it is highly recommended to book in advance, as autumn brings a large number of trekkers, like Samdo, Sama gaon, and near Larkya La Pass, basically above 4000 meters, to get properly facilitated lodges in the Manaslu region.

Is the Manaslu circuit crowded in autumn?

Yes, the autumn season is the most crowded and the peak season for Manaslu, especially in the month of October.

Do I need a guide and porter in the autumn season?

As it lies within a restricted area, trekking to this region solo isn't allowed, and one must hike with a registered licensed trekking guide.

How long does it take the Manslu Trek in autumn?

The trip to the Manaslu region takes somewhere between 10 to 16 days, depending highly on the route and itinerary.