14 Days
Moderate
Dharamsala Camp (Larke Phedi) on the Manaslu Circuit Trek – A Comprehensive Guide
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging but rewarding trip around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m). It takes trekkers through remote villages and different climates.
They will also cross the stunning Larke La Pass at 5,106 m. A critical stop on the trek is Dharamsala Camp.
It is also called Larke Phedi or High Camp. This camp is the last stop before crossing the Larke Pass. This guide is made for beginner to intermediate trekkers. It includes a detailed itinerary and permit information.
You will find insights on trek difficulty, accommodation, and food options. There is also a gear checklist, best seasons, travel tips, and cultural and ecological highlights.
Overview of Dharamsala (Larke Phedi High Camp)
Dharamsala (Larke Phedi) is a small village high in the mountains. It is about 4,460 meters (14,632 feet) above sea level, just below the Larke Pass. It is located in the Gandaki Province of Nepal, close to the village of Samdo.
This is the final stop for the night. We will cross the Larkya La Pass next. The pass is 5,106 meters (16,752 feet) high. It is part of the Manaslu Circuit. The camp mainly helps trekkers who want to cross the pass.
It is a “high camp” where everyone rests and gets used to the altitude for the big crossing the next morning. There is no permanent village here; it’s a cluster of seasonal teahouses and tent sites catering to trekkers.
Despite its rugged location, Dharamsala offers stunning surroundings. Trekkers are greeted with close-up views of glaciers and snow-clad peaks from the camp.
Reaching Dharamsala marks an exciting point in the trek: you’ve climbed above the tree line, and the next challenge is the circuit’s highest point. This camp is a place for both physical and mental preparation.
It helps you get ready for the long day over Larke Pass. You can bond with fellow trekkers and enjoy the stunning beauty of the high Himalayas.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
The Manaslu Circuit usually takes 11 to 14 days to complete. This does not include travel days to and from the trailhead. The time can vary based on your pace and any side trips you take.
It usually begins after a drive from Kathmandu to the trail’s start and ends when you exit and drive back to Kathmandu. Below is a full itinerary covering the main route, including key stops and the arrival/departure points:
Day Route Altitude (m) Duration (approx)
- Drive Kathmandu to Soti Khola 700 m 6–8 hours (jeep/bus)
- Trek Soti Khola to Machha Khola ~900 m 5–6 hours trekking
- Trek Machha Khola to Jagat 1,340 m 6–7 hours trekking
- Trek Jagat to Deng ~1,860 m 6–7 hours trekking
- Trek Deng to Namrung ~2,630 m 6–7 hours trekking
- Trek Namrung to Samagaon (via Lho) 3,520 m 6–7 hours trekking
- Acclimatization day in Samagaon – optional side hikes (e.g., Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa) 3,520 m Rest or explore
- Trek Samagaon to Samdo 3,875 m 4–5 hours trekking
- Trek Samdo to Dharamsala (Larke Phedi) 4,460 m 3–4 hours trekking
- Cross Larke La Pass (5,106 m) – Trek from Dharamsala to Bimthang (via Larke Pass) 3,590 m (at Bimthang) 8–10 hours trekking
- Trek Bimthang to Tilije (or Dharapani) 2,300 m 5–6 hours trekking
- Trek Tilije to Dharapani – exit Manaslu area and join Annapurna Circuit trail ~1,860 m (Dharapani) 3–4 hours trekking
- Drive from Dharapani (or Tal) to Besisahar, then onward drive to Kathmandu – 6–7 hours drive (jeep then bus)
Notes: The trek typically starts at Soti Khola (or sometimes further up at Machha Khola) after a drive from Kathmandu. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River valley through rice terraces and subtropical forests, gradually gaining altitude daily.
Having an acclimatization day in Samagaon (3,530 m) is highly recommended. Most itineraries include a rest day here. You can hike to Manaslu Base Camp (about 4,800 m) or Pungyen Gompa (about 4,100 m). This “climb high, sleep low” day helps your body adjust to the elevation before you proceed to Samdo and Dharamsala.
After crossing the Larke Pass, which is 5160 m high, the trail goes down into the Marshyangdi River valley in the Annapurna region. Trekkers usually hike down to Dharapani or Tal, where roads access the area. The journey concludes with a drive back to Kathmandu from the trail end (Dharapani/Tal/Besisahar).
Remember that distances and times are approximate; your actual pace may vary. The route can also be extended with side trips (e.g., the Tsum Valley) or shortened if you take jeep transport further up the trail. It’s essential to allow some buffer days in case of road delays or if you need extra acclimatization time.
Permits Required for the Manaslu Circuit
Trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit must secure several permits, as the region is restricted with special requirements. Here are the licenses you will need and how to obtain them:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
This is a special permit from the Department of Immigration. It is for the restricted part of the trek, from Jagat to Dharapani. You can only get it through a registered trekking agency.
The government requires at least two trekkers in a group. A licensed guide must accompany them, as solo trekking is not allowed. The RAP fee changes with the seasons. From September to November, it costs $100 for the first week.
Each extra day is $15. From December to August, the fee is $75 for the first week. Each additional day costs $10. Your agency will arrange this permit as part of your trek package; you’ll need passport copies and visa details to process it.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
The entry permit for the Manaslu Conservation Area, through which the trail passes. It costs NPR 3,000 per person for foreigners (about $30). The MCAP is a standard permit for conservation areas.
You can get it at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or through your agency. It’s a single-entry permit. There is no daily limit. One fee covers the duration of the whole trek in that area.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
The last part of the circuit begins after you cross Larke Pass. As you go down towards Dharapani, you enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. Thus, you also need an ACAP permit (also NPR 3,000).
Like MCAP, this can be obtained via the Tourism Board or arranged by your trekking company. ACAP is checked when you exit the trail (e.g., in Dharapani/Besisahar).
Chumnubri Rural Municipality Entry Permit
This is a newer local permit (introduced in late 2024) for the region. It costs about NPR 1,000 (around USD 10) per person. The local government usually collects this fee at a checkpoint on the trail.
Your guide will help you pay this fee on the spot. It’s intended to support the Manaslu region’s regional infrastructure and environment projects.
(Optional) Tsum Valley Permit
If you want to visit the Tsum Valley, you need a special permit. This permit costs about USD 35 per person and is valid for up to 7 days. This is only required if Tsum Valley is on your itinerary.
(Optional) TIMS Card
You usually do not need Trekkers’ Information Management System cards for treks in restricted areas. This is true if you already have RAPs and conservation permits.
You do not need a TIMS card for the Manaslu Circuit. This is true unless you want to trek into the Annapurna Circuit past Dharapani. To continue over the Thorung La Pass on the Annapurna Circuit, you need a TIMS. It costs USD 20 for individual trekkers.
Trek Difficulty and Acclimatization Guidance
The Manaslu Circuit is rated moderate to strenuous. It is not a technical climb but involves long walking days, significant altitude gain, and some physically demanding sections. Beginners can certainly tackle it with preparation, but it’s essential to understand the challenges:
High Altitude: The trek starts at about 700 m and goes over 5,100 m at Larke Pass. You will spend several days above 3,000 m. Altitude is an essential factor in difficulty. Thin air and lower oxygen levels can lead to Acute Mountain Sickness if you go up too fast.
Trekkers must acclimatize properly and follow a gradual ascent profile. Having an extra acclimatization day at Samagaon (3,530 m) is highly recommended. Some groups also take a buffer day at Samdo (3,875 m) if necessary. “Climb high, sleep low” means you hike up during the day.
For example, you can hike to Manaslu Base Camp at about 4,800 meters or Pungyen Gompa at about 4,100 meters. Then, you return to sleep in Samagaon. This helps your body adjust to the altitude.
Pass Crossing: The most challenging day is the Larke La Pass crossing. It’s a long, strenuous hike that starts pre-dawn. From Dharamsala (4,460 m), you will climb steeply about 600 meters to the pass summit (5,106 m).
This part is often on snow or ice. After reaching the summit, you will descend about 1,500 meters down to Bimthang. This trek will take a total of 8 to 10 hours that day. This requires good stamina. Trekkers often begin their journey from Dharamsala at 4:00–5:00 AM.
This helps them enjoy firm snow and calm weather in the morning. Later in the day, strong winds or weather can make the pass more dangerous, so an early start is key. The climb to the pass is steep but not too hard.
It is primarily a trail on rocky moraines and some snowfields. You usually do not need crampons in peak season, but micro-spikes can help on icy parts.
The descent on the other side is long and can be hard on the knees – another reason trekking poles are recommended. The high altitude and tiredness make this day tough. However, reaching the top is very rewarding. You can see amazing views of the nearby peaks on clear days.
Trekkers approach the top of Larke La Pass (5,106 m), marked by prayer flags and surrounded by fresh snow. Crossing this high pass is the hardest day of the Manaslu Circuit. It needs an early start, a steady pace, and good acclimatization.
Trail Conditions: The trails on the Manaslu Circuit vary from easy village paths to narrow mountain tracks. Expect humid jungles, stone steps, suspension bridges over rivers, and occasional landslide washouts in the lower sections.
Higher up, the paths go through alpine meadows and rocky moraines. The trail is not as developed as the Annapurna Circuit. However, it has been improved in recent years.
New bridges and some road extensions have been added to the lower half. There are some areas with steep drop-offs and river crossings. However, the route is safe if you walk carefully.
Your guide will help you with any tricky parts. During the summer monsoon, leeches and slippery trails can be problematic at low elevations. In winter, snow can block the pass.
Physical Preparation: A good fitness level is essential, and you don’t need mountaineering experience. You will be trekking for 5–7 hours on most days, with significant elevation gains (500–1000 m) on several days.
Carrying a daypack with water and essentials is standard, while porters (if hired) carry heavier gear. Prior hiking experience, especially multi-day treks, is invaluable.
Beginners should do training hikes and cardio workouts before the trip. Focus on building endurance for climbing and descending for hours.
Acclimatization & Health: Proper acclimatization is critical. Above 3,000 m, ascend no more than ~500 m of sleeping altitude daily, and incorporate rest days. Stay hydrated, eat well, and inform your guide immediately if you feel symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, dizziness, nausea).
Guides usually have a basic first aid kit. They can help if someone shows AMS symptoms. Mild cases may need rest or descent. Severe cases require immediate evacuation.
Carrying preventive medication (like Diamox after consulting a doctor) is wise. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover up to 6,000 meters of high-altitude helicopter rescue. This insurance allows for emergency evacuation if necessary.
Despite the challenges, the Manaslu Circuit is achievable for fit beginners with the right pacing and support. It is often called “moderately challenging.” It is less commercialized than the Everest or Annapurna treks.
This makes it feel rugged. Many first-time trekkers finish it with the proper guidance. Listen to your body, and don’t rush; the trek will be safe and immensely rewarding.
Accommodation on the Trek (Teahouses and the Dharamsala High Camp)
A critical part of trekking in Nepal is the network of teahouses. These local lodges provide meals and a bed. This makes it possible to trek without needing to camp.
The Manaslu Circuit used to be a camping trek. Now, you can find teahouse accommodation at every stop. However, the conditions are often basic. Here’s what to expect:
Simple stone teahouses at Dharamsala (Larke Phedi) high camp. Rooms here are basic and often dormitory-style, offering trekkers a last sheltered night before crossing the pass.
Teahouses Along the Trail
You will find family-run teahouses in the starting villages like Soti Khola, Machha Khola, and Jagat. These teahouses are in each settlement up to Samdo and Bimthang.
These are usually simple buildings made of stone or wood, with a communal dining hall and several small guest rooms. Rooms typically have two single beds (or a double bed) with a foam mattress and pillow.
Bedding, like blankets, may be provided. However, they often aren’t enough at high altitudes. So, a sleeping bag is essential. Toilets are usually shared outhouses or simple toilets on porches. In many areas, especially in higher villages, squat toilets are shared.
You can get hot showers at lower elevations. There is usually an extra fee. These showers may be gas showers or a bucket of hot water. Still, as you rise, showers become rarer or non-existent (and it’s cold at Dharamsala, so most people skip bathing there!).
Dharamsala (Larke Phedi) Accommodations
Dharamsala is an exception because it’s fundamental. At 4,460 m, it has only a few simple lodges and tent camps, all managed by locals. Rooms are often dormitory-style (several beds in one room or a large tent), and during the busy season, they can get crowded.
The Manaslu Conservation Area rules do not allow significant permanent buildings. So, don’t expect comfort. It’s a simple shelter for one night. Beds in DhaDharamsala’s dges can be simple planks or stone platforms with thin mattresses. Some places offer thick blankets.
However, with freezing temperatures, you need a cold-rated sleeping bag. There is no heating (except maybe a stove in the dining tent). Electricity is limited or comes from solar power, if available.
There is usually no Wi-Fi or cell signal in Dharamsala. It is very remote. Because of the limited capacity, rooms often fill up in peak seasons (March-May and Sept–Nov). Guides usually contact ahead to save spots.
However, if the lodges are full, trekkers may have to sleep in basic tents at Dharamsala. It’s a good idea to reach Dharamsala by early afternoon to claim a bed.
Nearby Stops
The villages before and after the pass have more comfortable options. Samdo (just below Dharamsala) has a couple of teahouses where conditions are basic but manageable. Some trekkers stay an extra night in Samdo to adjust better.
They may skip Dharamsala or camp. However, most still choose Dharamsala to make the next day shorter. On the other side of the pass, Bimthang (3,590 m) provides a nice break.
The teahouses are better here because they are lower in elevation and easier to reach. Many trekkers rave about the cozy dining halls and good food in Bimthang after the tough past day!
Cost and Booking
Room costs on the Manaslu Circuit are low (similar to other Nepali treks). A basic twin room in the lower villages might cost NPR 500–800 (USD 4–$7) per night.
Higher up, some lodge owners may include a free room if you eat your meals there (they earn more from food). You should expect to pay more at Dharamsala because it is remote.
They often require you to eat dinner and breakfast there if you use the bed. Booking in advance: your agency/guide usually handles lodge reservations because individual travel is restricted. In peak season, they should call ahead to ensure you have a spot, especially for larger groups.
Amenities
On the trek, you can find electricity in some lodges. They often use solar power. There is an outlet in the dining room for charging devices, usually for a small fee.
Most lodges in Manaslu do not have internet. You can find it in Namrung or Samagaon. There, local SIM card data may work sometimes.
Heating is typically provided by a yak-dung or wood stove in the dining hall in the evening (in higher villages). Trekkers gather around the stove to warm up, chat, and dry their clothes.
Please remember that wood is scarce at high altitudes, so they may only fire it for a few hours. Nights are cold in Dharamsala and places like Samdo. Temperatures can drop below freezing in autumn and spring. So, dress warmly in your sleeping bag.
In summary, accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit is basic but sufficient. Embrace the simple lifestyle – it’s part of the experience. The teahouses may not be fancy, but they offer shelter, warm food, and a look into local life in these remote mountains.
Food and Water on the Trek
Food options on the Manaslu Circuit are surprisingly varied, given the region’s remoteness. Almost all meals are provided by the teahouses you stay in. Here’s what to expect in terms of food and drink:
Local and International Dishes
Teahouse menus in Manaslu offer a mix of Nepali, Tibetan, and some basic Western foods. The Nepali dish dal bhat tarkari (lentil soup, rice, and vegetable curry) is ubiquitous and highly recommended.
It is filling and often comes with free refills. You will also find dishes influenced by Tibetan culture, like momos (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup). This is especially true as you go up into the Nubri Valley.
Typical options include noodle dishes, fried rice, potatoes, eggs, chapati, and porridge. Many lodges can make simple pasta or spaghetti. Some even have pizzas or pancakes on the menu.
These dishes offer a taste of home, but keep your expectations low for “Western” items. You can find many options. One trekking agency says you will get “local Nepali and Tibetan dishes, like lentils, momos, and noodles.”
You might even find pasta or pancakes sometimes. Vegetarian options are widely available at all lodges. Many trekkers choose not to eat meat while trekking. Meat can be less fresh the farther you are from roads. If they do eat meat, it is usually yak or dried meat.
Meals Routine
You will usually have breakfast and dinner at the teahouse where you stay overnight. For lunch, you will stop at a teahouse along the route. A typical breakfast might be porridge or muesli, omelets or fried eggs, Tibetan bread or toast with jam/peanut butter, and tea/coffee.
Try “Sherpa stew” or “Gurung bread,” if available, for local flavors. Lunch often involves soups, dal bhat, or fried noodles/rice. Dinners are similar to lunch (dal bhat is popular for the hearty appetite at day’s end). Dal Bhat is a trekker’s best friend.
It provides “24-hour power,” as the joke says. This dish combines rice and lentils, giving you lots of energy. Plus, the refills ensure you won’t go hungry.
Hydration – Water on the trail
Staying hydrated is crucial at altitude, so drink 3-4 liters of water or fluids daily. You should not drink unpurified water from taps or streams, as they can carry bacteria.
Teahouses usually provide boiled water for a small fee. This is a convenient and safer option than untreated water. Still, water purification tablets or a filter are recommended, even on boiled or straight tap water. Bottled mineral water is sold in some villages.
However, it becomes more expensive as you go higher. This is also a problem for the environment because bottles may not be recycled. To be responsible for trekking, avoid buying bottled water; carry a reusable bottle and purify local water.
Many trekkers use chlorine dioxide tablets or a UV sterilizer like SteriPEN. By Samagaon/Samdo, you’ll mostly rely on boiled or melted snow water from lodges. Always drink plenty of fluids. Besides water, herbal teas can help.
Ginger lemon honey tea is a popular remedy for altitude. Soups and garlic soup are also good options. Garlic soup is a Sherpa remedy for altitude. These drinks can help keep you hydrated and warm.
Snacks and Energy Foods
Packing some of your favorite high-energy snacks for the trek is smart. While teahouses will have basic chocolates or biscuits for sale, options are limited and pricy as you go up. Bringing energy bars, trail mix, nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate is excellent for a mid-hike boost.
Most people bring extra snacks and maybe a thermos of tea when crossing the Larke Pass. It takes a long time to reach lunch in Bimthang. In Samagaon and Samdo, small shops might sell canned drinks, instant noodles, or cookies – but again, there is minimal selection.
Taste and Nutrition
While simple, the food on the Manaslu Circuit is generally hearty and satisfying. Trekkers often find dal bhat particularly delicious when made by local cooks.
Also, try the local Tibetan bread, a puffy fried bread that goes well with curry or jam. Momos (dumplings) are a must-try, usually filled with vegetables, potatoes (or meat in lower villages). Thukpa (noodle soup) or thenthuk (hand-pulled noodle stew) can hit the spot on cold evenings.
If you have dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, etc.), communicate with your guide and the teahouse. Most can accommodate them to some extent (for example, they can make vegetarian versions of most dishes).
The ingredients come primarily from local sources. These valleys include potatoes, rice, lentils, greens, and grains. This means the cuisine fits well with what is available.
Costs
Food prices increase with altitude and distance from supply routes. In lower areas (Machha Khola, Jagat), a meal might be NPR 300–500 (USD 2–4). In higher villages (Samdo, Dharamsala), expect to pay NPR 600–800 (up to ~$6-7) for a meal.
For example, dal bhat might be 700 NPR in Samdo and a plate of fried rice may be 600 NPR. A cup of tea could be 100–200 NPR low down and 300 NPR at Dharamsala.
These prices are still fair by Western standards. They provide essential income for local communities, considering the effort to get supplies there.
Budgeting about $25 to $30 each day for food and drinks on this trek is a good idea. Many packaged trips include meals, but this is a rough estimate if they don’t.
Drinks and Treats
You can get tea, coffee, hot lemon, and hot cocoa at virtually every stop. In the evenings, many trekkers enjoy a mug of ginger-lemon-honey tea. This tea is soothing and helps with acclimatization.
Rehydration salts or sports drink powders can be added to your water for electrolyte balance. Alcohol is usually not recommended at high altitudes. It can dehydrate you and make it harder to adjust.
However, you may find “rakshi” (local rice wine) or even beer for sale in some villages. It’s best to wait until you’ve completed the high part of the trek to celebrate – perhaps in Dharapani or back in Kathmandu.
In summary, you will be well-fed on the Manaslu trek. The food is nourishing but straightforward, and it’s precisely what you need to keep your energy up.
Be open to trying local dishes like dal bhat and momos for an authentic experience. And always make sure you’re drinking enough and treating your water to stay healthy.
Essential Gear Checklist for the Manaslu Circuit
Trekking in the Himalayas, especially in a high-altitude place like Manaslu, needs good gear. This gear helps you stay warm, dry, and safe.
Below is an essential gear checklist emphasizing cold-weather and high-altitude conditions. Ensure you have quality gear, as conditions can range from hot and humid in the lowlands to cold near the pass.
Gear Recommendation
Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots (broken-in, not brand new) with good ankle support. The rocky trails can be wet or snowy, so solid boots are crucial. Please make sure they are comfortable for long walks.
Clothing Layers: Bring layers for all four seasons. Start with moisture-wicking base layers like thermal tops and bottoms. Add insulating mid-layers, such as fleece or a light down Jacket. Finally, wear an outer shell layer that is windproof and waterproof, like a jacket and pants.
Layering allows you to adjust to warm daytime hikes vs. cold nights.
Insulated Jacket: A warm down or synthetic Jacket is necessary for evenings and high altitudes. Nights in Dharamsala can get very cold. A warm jacket for freezing temperatures will keep you comfortable.
Trekking Pants: Durable trekking pants for hiking during the day. Many trekkers use convertible pants (zip-off legs) for flexibility in changing temperatures. Also, pack thermal leggings or fleece pants for cold nights, and consider lightweight waterproof pants or gaiters if there’s snow or rain.
Gloves and Hats: Insulated gloves (with waterproof outer shell) and light inner gloves. You’ll want warm gloves in the early morning and at the pass. Also, pack a warm hat/beanie that covers your ears, plus a sun hat or cap for intense sun at lower altitudes.
Sleeping Bag A four-season sleeping bag rated to around -15°C to -20°C (5°F to -4°F) is highly recommended. Even though teahouses provide blankets, they are not enough at high camp.
A good down sleeping bag will ensure you sleep warmly at Dharamsala and other high villages. A fleece or silk sleeping bag liner can add warmth and keep your bag clean. (If you don’t own one, rent a quality sleeping bag in Kathmandu.)
Trekking Poles: A pair of trekking poles is invaluable, especially on steep ascents/descents and for balance on rough terrain. They reduce stress on the knees during the long downhill from Larke Pass. Collapsible poles are easy to carry when not in use.
A headlamp with new batteries is essential for the early start on summit day. You will be hiking in the dark before dawn. It is also helpful in teahouses at night, where electricity may be limited. Carry spare batteries.
Sunglasses & Sunscreen High-altitude sun is intense. Bring UV-protection sunglasses (Category 3 or 4, or glacier glasses if you can) to guard against snow glare. Also, pack a high SPF sunscreen (50+) and lip balm with SPF. There’s a lot of sun exposure, especially crossing open areas and the glacier at Larke Pass.
Water Purification Water treatment is a must (as discussed above). Pack water purification tablets, drops, or a small filter (Katadyn/Sawyer).
This lets you safely drink tap or stream water and avoid buying bottles. Also, bring two reusable water bottles or a hydration bladder. Aim for a total capacity of about 2-3 liters. This way, you will have enough water between stops.
First Aid & Meds
A personal first aid kit should have blister care items like Band-Aids and moleskine. If prescribed for AMS, it should also include ibuprofen or paracetamol, personal medications, and Diamox. Don’t forget Imodium for diarrhea and antiseptic cream.
Also include hand sanitizer and any toiletries. While guides often have a group first aid kit, having your basics is wise.
Here are some other valuable items:
- A rain cover for your backpack or dry bags to keep your gear dry.
- A quick-dry travel towel.
- Toilet paper is not always available in lodges.
- A multipurpose knife or tool.
- A headscarf or Buff, which is great for dust and sun.
- Earplugs, since teahouses can have thin walls or noisy neighbors!
Don’t forget an insect repellent for lower altitudes (especially if trekking in monsoon season).
Snacks & Extras: Bring some of your favorite energy snacks (protein bars, nuts, chocolate) for long days. A small thermos can be nice for carrying hot tea from the previous day.
A camera or phone for photos (and a power bank to charge them, as electricity can be spotty). And, of course, your trekking permits and copies of essential documents in a waterproof pouch.
Packing Tips: Keep your gear as lightweight as possible, but don’t skimp on cold-weather essentials. Dress in layers so you can adapt to temperature changes.
During the day, you can hike in a shirt and light pants at lower elevations. However, evenings in the mountains require a down jacket and thermal layers. Nights at Dharamsala can be freezing, so ensure warm socks, hats, and gloves are accessible.
If you hire a porter, you usually give them a duffel bag with your heavier items. The usual limit is about 15 kg per trekker. You will carry a daypack with water, snacks, a camera, and any needed layers.
Ensure your boots are broken in to avoid blisters – perhaps the most critical “gear” is comfortable footwear. A good rain jacket, poncho, and pack cover are essential even in dry seasons. The weather can be unpredictable.
Best Time of Year to Trek the Manaslu Circuit
The best seasons for the Manaslu Circuit are spring and autumn, typical for Nepal’s Himalayan treks. Specifically, March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn) are ideal.
You can expect the most stable weather, clear mountain views, and manageable trail conditions during these times. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
Autumn (Sept – Nov)
This is the prime trekking season. The summer monsoon rains happen from June to August. They clear the dust and air by late September and October.
This brings bright blue skies and great views of Manaslu and the nearby peaks. Autumn temperatures are cool but not freezing. In the lower villages, daytime temperatures are about 10–20°C. Higher up, they are around 5–10°C. Nights in Dharamsala can drop below freezing.
The high pass may see occasional snow later in the season (November), but is usually traversable. Autumn also coincides with important Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar.
This can be a cultural bonus if your trek happens during these times. Keep in mind that autumn is a busy time. Trails and teahouses will have more hikers.
However, Manaslu is still much less crowded than Annapurna or Everest. September may still have some rain at the start. November gets colder, and heavy snow can start at the end. The best time is from late September through October.
Spring (March-May)
The second most popular season. After the winter, spring brings warmer temperatures and the blooming of rhododendron forests along the trail. Early spring in March can still be icy at high elevations. Larke Pass may have a lot of snow if winter storms are intense.
However, by April and May, the weather will usually be stable. Daytime temperatures are mild, around 10–20°C in lower areas. It is cooler at higher elevations.
Nights are cold, below zero in Dharamsala, but a bit warmer than autumn nights. One thing to expect in spring is afternoon clouds or rain. The weather can change more than in autumn. However, mornings are usually clear, and the mountain views can be fantastic, especially in April.
The trail sees fewer trekkers in spring than in autumn, but it’s still a well-traveled time. The colorful blossoms and perhaps even wildlife sightings (spring is a good time to see birds and animals) add to the appeal.
Winter (Dec – Feb)
Winter trekking in Manaslu is possible but challenging and only advised for experienced trekkers with proper gear. Heavy snowfall can close the Larke Pass entirely (often from mid-December through mid-February, it’s impassable).
- The extreme cold may cause tea houses in Dharamsala and some higher villages to close.
- They might also have limited services during winter.
Temperatures can plummet to -20°C or below at night at high altitudes. On the plus side, the trails are empty, and the scenery is tranquil.
If you plan a winter trek, be flexible with your schedule. Be ready for harsh conditions, preferably with a guided group for support. For most trekkers, winter is not recommended for Manaslu.
Monsoon (June – August)
The summer brings the monsoon rains. Heavy rainfall makes the lower trail leech-infested, muddy, and at risk of landslides. The Budhi Gandaki Valley has narrow gorges. These areas can be dangerous because of rockfalls or swollen rivers in the monsoon season.
Clouds often obscure views and travel logistics get harder (landslides can block roads). Crossing Larke Pass in heavy snow or rain is dangerous. For these reasons, the monsoon season is generally avoided.
The only upside is that the hills are lush and green, but the discomforts and risks far outweigh that. If you need to hike in summer, consider the Tsum Valley. Be ready with rain gear and stay flexible. Most agencies don’t run Manaslu trips in the monsoon.
Conclusion
Aim for autumn or spring. October is fantastic if you want the best mountain views and don’t mind cooler weather. April is excellent for enjoying wildflowers, fewer crowds, and slightly warmer nights.
Remember that the weather can be unpredictable – always keep a day or two buffer in your schedule for delays. With the right timing, you will see Manaslu at its best. Enjoy clear mornings, bright landscapes, and safe travel over the high pass.
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