Manaslu in Winter Season

Manaslu in Winter Season

2 Jan 2023 Chandra Gurung

The Manaslu Region of Nepal, which is often referred to as a synonym for paradise and a destination of natural wonders, is a magical location worth seeing once in a lifetime. The Manaslu Region is situated on the foothills of Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak.

Manaslu is home to several beautiful peaks, historic towns, picturesque landscapes, a diverse array of plants, and more. This is why more individuals are drawn to this region each year.

As its popularity grows, so does the number of inquiries. The most often asked question is about Manaslu in the Winter Season. We have created this in-depth article on Manaslu Weather in Winter. 

Throughout this post, you will find all the weather information about Manaslu Region in Winter. And it will serve as a helpful guide for everyone who wants to trek in the Manaslu in Winter.

Introduction: Manaslu Trek During Winter

Nepal generally experiences four distinct seasons: Autumn, Spring, Summer, and Winter. Most visitors from various countries may be concerned regarding the optimum time of year for trekking in Nepal.

Although spring and autumn are thought to be the best seasons for trekking the Manaslu circuit, it is still possible to do so in the winter. Because of favorable weather conditions, winter is undoubtedly one of the ideal seasons for trekking in Nepal.

Some people prefer to travel when it is cold outside so they won’t be bothered by crowds. There are more places to explore and enjoy because fewer people are around, and you don’t have to adjust to hotels and other accommodations. You also receive things at a lower price than in other seasons.

In Nepal, the winter months are December, January, and February. During the winter season, many people are interested in visiting the Manaslu Circuit Trek. During the winter, the vistas of hills and mountains are breathtaking and glittering. Since there is no risk of rain, the weather is excellent, and trekking can be accomplished. Nepal’s winter treks are charming and alluring in their way.

The breathtaking view in the Manaslu region will fascinate any traveler. On this breathtaking adventure, you will stop at the ancient villages of the Gurung, Magar, and Chettri cultures. You will stay in community-run teahouses and eat meals prepared locally. You will be mesmerized by the gorgeous, snow-capped mountains, enormous valleys, clear rivers, and tranquil waterfalls that line the paths.

This incredible journey is particularly suitable for people who enjoy trekking along the area’s peaceful and serene pathways. As you ascend the mountain foothills from lower heights via subtropical forests, you will eventually arrive at the 5,106-meter-high Larkya la pass.

Additionally, when you wander around the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP), you will discover a diversity of Flora and Fauna. While trekking through the Manaslu region, eight mountains taller than 6,500 meters are visible, and several summits higher than 7,000 meters.

Furthermore, those who prefer difficulties and inclement weather will enjoy trekking Manaslu in winter. As altitude sickness starts to wear you down, the notorious Larkya La Pass will challenge you emotionally and physically to the test. Injuries and bruises are relatively frequent throughout the walk because of the slick pathways brought on by the snow.

How Difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Winter?

Manaslu Trekking is still possible in the winter, even if it can get quite cold. You may encounter snowfall and may experience unpredictably lousy weather sometimes.

You can efficiently complete the trek if you are mentally and physically prepared. Larkya Pass is typically regarded as the most difficult juncture in trekking. You can accomplish the walk even though the weather and temperature may present difficulties if you have the correct mindset and preparation.

The Manaslu trip can be the pinnacle of adventure in December because it marks the beginning of Nepal’s winter season. Compared to other winter months, the weather is excellent, and snowfall is less common. 

Manaslu trekking can be more difficult in January and February because these are Nepal’s prime winter months. Your journey will be more difficult due to the frigid conditions and moderate to heavy snowfall. Even during the day, the temperature will be between -10 and -7 degrees Celsius. Additionally, it will be more challenging to obtain help and support during an emergency because it is the off-season for the Manaslu trek. The Larkya La Pass can be more challenging to cross because the snow will make the trail difficult.

What Are the Pros of Manaslu Circuit Trek in Winter?

  • The sky will be apparent because the possibility of rain in the Manaslu region during winter is close to zero.
  • Snow-covered skies are visible, and when the sun’s rays reach the snowy mountain summits, they sparkle like enormous piles of diamonds.
  • The winter months are less crowded because fewer people hike Manaslu due to the freezing temperatures.
  • The prices are reasonable, making Manaslu hiking in the winter ideal for those on a tight budget.
  • Wintertime brings holidays like Christmas and New Year’s, and you can have a fantastic time because the tea houses will come alive. A journey to the Himalayas might be a rejuvenating way to start the new year.

What Are the Cons of Manaslu Circuit Trek in Winter?

  • If you intend to trek the Manaslu during the winter, you will need additional hiking supplies, and your pack’s weight will undoubtedly rise.
  • The weather will be terrible, which is the main disadvantage of winter trekking.
  • Along with the bone-chilling cold, adverse weather conditions can result in problems, including hypothermia and frostbite.
  • Winter’s long nights and shorter days mean that you will only have a limited time to trek because you will only be able to go out during the day. 

Manaslu Weather in Winter

Manaslu, like every other place, is bitterly cold in the winter. It’s not the best time of year weather-wise to start an expedition in the region. The three seasons are December, January, and February. And expect some freezing temperatures throughout those months. But even at this time of year, Manaslu Region is a comfortable environment for adventures. It implies that you can trek Manaslu in winter season. Read on to learn which winter months are possible and which are not.

Manaslu Trek in December

The most incredible Winter trekking month is December, the first of the three. Up until the first couple of weeks, the temperature is still low. And more conditions are also very doable. It will resemble a hike in the autumn. But as the month progresses, the temperature begins to fall. To avoid extreme weather, residents of upper locations migrate to lower areas.

In higher areas like Samagaun and Samdo, the monthly average temperature can get as low as -8 degrees. As you may anticipate, the low sections are consistently significantly warmer than the high ones. The typical temperature is between 8 and 10 degrees. People go from the upper places to the lower ones for this reason. And as a result, the teahouses in the higher regions close. Some teahouses may still be open. You must be sure of that before embarking on the adventure.

The upper areas experience increasingly sweltering temperatures as the day goes on. By the end of the month, winter has completely engulfed the area—the likelihood of significant snowfall in the vicinity of Larkya La Pass increases. Trekking is more challenging at this time.

Manaslu Trek in January

The month of January is the coldest. Everything is at its peak this month, from snowfall to low temperatures. As a result, the month’s weather is the most extreme. The Manaslu Region’s upper elevations experience -6 to -10 degree temperatures. Like the upper areas, the so-called lower regions have frigid average temperatures between 6 and 8 degrees. The information makes it quite evident that January is an unsuitable month in terms of temperature.

However, the month is appropriate if you want a level-up experience. The routes in the Manaslu Region get more challenging when it occasionally snows in the higher areas. The Winter excursions in the area are not advised for inexperienced climbers. If this is your first time trekking, navigating winter’s difficulties is challenging. You can have the best views of the mountains this month by taking a hike in the upper elevations of the Manaslu Region. The peaks are coated under whitish snow.

Manaslu Trek in February

February’s first half is more like January. Up to that point, occurrences like mountain snowfall and extremely high temperatures are too common. But in the second half of February, the temperature gradually rises to normal. With time, the snow also melts, making the trail easier to navigate. You can already sense the arrival of spring.

As the month draws to a close, we can see the flower beginning to bloom on the paths across the Manaslu region. Even more stunning is the landscape vista when covered with snow. February is the best month to visit the Manaslu Region if you can handle the winter weather. But make sure you only travel after the middle of February.

Conclusion: Manaslu in Winter

Even though trekking Manaslu in winter is difficult, it is still possible with the proper preparation and assistance. You can travel with ease if you have a good guide and porter. Early December and late February can be good times to trek if you do not enjoy the cold. In addition, views of mountain peaks in the winter have a unique flavor, and food and lodging are inexpensive.

The unexplored Manaslu trekking trail offers breathtaking views of numerous minor peaks, including Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna. This journey, regarded as one of the top adventure trekking locations in Nepal, offers breathtaking vistas and passes, lovely alpine valleys, a wide range of species, and incredible natural beauty.

So act quickly and reserve a reasonable Manaslu circuit trek itinerary to avoid missing the upcoming winter’s adventure trekking in Manaslu.