Is It Possible To Do Manaslu Circuit Trek In December?
20 Aug 2026 Mr. Ramesh Gurung
Yes, it is possible to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek in December because it is the start of the winter season and generally safer than other winter months. That said, trekking in Manaslu in December requires proper planning and preparation because of the challenges it brings.
December Manaslu Circuit offers a peaceful time with clear skies, mountain views, crisp mountain air & fewer trekkers on the route. However, cold weather is a major drawback. Temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at high altitude. Likewise, snow and icy conditions make the Larkya La Pass crossing more challenging than usual.
What makes the Manaslu Circuit trek exceptionally beautiful in December is the snowy landscape. It gives the region a completely different look, covering surrounding peaks, forests, trails, and houses with fresh snow. This creates a peaceful yet magical Himalayan atmosphere, making it an ideal time for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful trekking experience.
Weather & Temperature During Manaslu Circuit Trek In December
December experiences pleasant weather in the early part of the month, with temperatures slowly decreasing by late December. During the month, days are dry and sunny with crystal-clear blue skies. Thus, the month offers the clearest sight of mountain peaks. But by mid-month or later, snow may arrive, temperatures drop, and teahouses may close, especially in Samdo and Dharamsala. Yet the views stay clear, motivating you to continue walking.
| Areas/Altitude | Villages | Daytime Temperature | Night Temperature | Notes |
| Lower elevations (800-1,300 meters) | Machha Khola, Jagat, Philim | 10°C to 18°C | 0°C to 5°C | Moderate and comfortable trekking conditions |
| Mid-hills (1,300-3,000 meters) | Namrung, Lho | 5°C to 15°C | -5°C to 0°C | Crisp mornings and pleasant days |
| High villages (3,500-3,800 meters) | Samagaun, Samdo | 0°C to 5°C | -10°C to -18°C | Cold and windy conditions and some teahouses start closing late Dec |
| Larkya La Pass area (4,500-5,160 meters) | Dharamsala, Larkya La | -5°C to -10°C | -15°C to -20°C or lower | Highest risk zone due to snow, frostbite risk |
Difficulty of Manaslu Circuit Trek in December
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a strenuous to challenging journey, and your chosen trekking season largely determines how easy, challenging, or demanding it will be. Honestly, December adds to your adventure’s difficulty and takes it to an advanced level.
The biggest challenge of trekking the Manaslu Circuit in December is sudden weather changes. The day may start with clear skies, but heavy snow can begin suddenly, especially around Larkya La Pass. When this happens, visibility drops and the route becomes slippery, making trekking harder. Yet the real danger is getting stuck on the pass when the weather suddenly worsens.
Another challenge of trekking the Manaslu Circuit in December is short winter days. The month experiences fewer daylight hours, so trekkers need to start very early in the morning during the coldest time. Snow and avalanche risks can also be present around the Dharamsala and higher sections near Larkya La in December. Unstable, heavy snow also makes the pass crossing unsafe.
Winter cold also affects equipment, like phone, camera, and headlamp batteries, which drain faster. Another less-talked-about but challenging problem when trekking in December is the teahouse closures. Teahouse owners in high-altitude villages, including Samdo and Dharamsala, move to lower areas to avoid the extreme cold. As a result, accommodation may not always be available as planned, so you should pre-book.
How To Prepare For Manaslu Circuit Trek In December?
Preparing for Manaslu Circuit in December means getting ready for winter conditions. Start by choosing the first week for the trek, as later weeks are colder and can bring snow, making the trek more challenging. Here are other preparation tips:
- Prepare specifically for Larkya La Pass: Be mentally prepared for snow, ice, strong winds, and sudden changes in weather and visibility. To tackle the challenges, hire an experienced guide.
- Carry proper winter gear: Pack warm thermal layers, a down jacket, waterproof outer layers, insulated gloves, warm socks, and footwear with good grip for snowy and icy sections. Also,Microspikes or crampons are highly recommended for snowy and icy sections in December.
- Be ready for early starts: Since the daylight is short during December, be prepared to start your day early. On the Larkya La crossing day, you have to start before sunrise. For this, carry a reliable headlamp and spare batteries.
- Carry enough high-energy foods: Cold and long trekking days in December need lots of energy. So pack snacks like chocolate, nuts, or energy bars.
- Don’t forget sleeping gear: Carry sleeping bags rated to at least -20°C, as nighttime temperatures in Samdo and Dharamsala can drop to -15°C to -18°C.
- Check teahouse availability: Do not assume every teahouse will be open in December. Confirm teahouse status at Samdo and Dharamsala directly with your agency before departure.
- Keep your itinerary flexible: Snowfall can happen anytime, especially at Larkya La, and can make the pass temporarily unsafe. So, make sure your itinerary is flexible enough not to force you to cross in bad weather.
- Insurance: With fewer trekkers on the route and limited medical facilities, you won’t get immediate rescue in the region. So make sure your insurance covers helicopter evacuation and confirm your guide has a satellite communication device.
Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Package Cheaper In December?
Yes, the Manaslu Circuit Trek package is cheaper in December compared with the busy autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May). Here’s why the trek is cheaper in December:
Lower Restricted Area Permit (RAP) fees
Permit fees play a crucial role in making the Manaslu Trek less costly in December. While the cost of the national park permit fee will remain the same, the Restricted Area Permit costs less and depends on the season you travel:
- Sept-Nov cost: $100 for the first 7 days + an additional $15/day after
- Dec-Aug cost: $75 for the first seven days and an additional $10 per extra day
Trekking in December saves $25 on the permit fee, plus another $5 for each additional day. The lower price is mainly because there are fewer trekkers than during peak season.
Lower Demand for Guides and Porters
Many trekkers don’t prefer off-season trekking, so fewer people are on the route. During this time, guides and porters are also available, and their rates are negotiable due to lower demand, making your trek costs lower than in peak season.
Teahouse and accommodation costs decrease
Like guide and porter costs, accommodation prices along the Manaslu Circuit decrease because of lower demand. As a result, trekkers can get more flexible prices for rooms and meals than during peak seasons.
How to Choose the Right Time For Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Choosing the right time for the Manaslu Circuit trek depends on your preferred weather, experience level, ability to handle high-altitude challenges, and priorities for the overall trek.
- If you want the best weather: Choose October to November, which offers the best weather with no compromise. These months offer the clearest skies, most stable trails, and warm, comfortable temperatures.
- Want good weather but fewer crowds: Choose spring (March to May), which offers similar weather to autumn with fewer crowds. The season is also popular for the lower region’s rhododendron bloom.
- Want a peaceful route, snowy scenery, and lower price: Go for early December.
- For easier pass crossing: Choose the spring or autumn season and avoid winter and monsoon.
Season-by-Season Snapshot For Manaslu Circuit Trek
| Season | Months | Weather | Best For |
| Autumn | September-November | Clear, stable, mild days | Best mountain views, easiest logistics, peak trekking season |
| Spring | March-May | Warm days, rhododendron blooms, some afternoon clouds | Good weather + flowers, and less crowd than autumn |
| Winter | December-February | Cold, dry, clear skies and heavy snow by Jan-Feb | Peace, snow scenery, budget savings, experienced trekkers |
| Monsoon/Summer | June-August | Heavy rain, leeches, landslide risk, poor visibility | Not recommended in any condition |
Early December vs Late December Trek to Manaslu Circuit
As mentioned several times, early December is best for the Manaslu Circuit Trek rather than late December. In early December, you can enjoy clear winter skies, beautiful snowy mountain peaks, and peaceful routes, while logistics remain manageable. On the other hand, late December is the coldest time with more challenges. Trekking is still possible, but only for experienced trekkers prepared for heavy snow, icy sections, and unpredictable weather changes.
| Factor | Early December (1st-15th) | Late December (16th-31st) |
| Weather | Clear, dry, and moderate | Much cold with higher chance of snowfall |
| Daytime temp (mid-altitude) | 5°C to 15°C | Colder, closer to 0°C or below |
| Night temp (high villages) | -10°C to -15°C | -15°C to -20°C or lower |
| Mountain Views | Excellent | Amazing due to full snow but clouds or snow may reduce visibility |
| Larkya La Pass | Challenging but generally easier to plan | Higher risk of heavy snow and crampons are necessary for a safe crossing |
| Teahouses (Samdo, Dharamsala) | Mostly open | Mostly closed |
| Difficulty | Moderate to hard yet achievable | Hard and recommended only to experienced trekkers |
| Overall Risk | Moderate | Higher |
Is December Manaslu Suitable for First-Time Trekkers?
No, the December Manaslu Circuit trek is not suitable for first-time trekkers and is strongly discouraged. The main reason is not just cold but the winter conditions that make the Larkya La Pass crossing much more challenging. Also, first-time trekkers may struggle with snow and ice on the trail, sudden weather changes, and strong winds around Larkya La Pass.
Another problem beginners face while trekking the Manaslu Circuit in December is the very cold early-morning walking. Those with no previous trekking experience may find it difficult to start early in the morning and walk through varied terrain in low-oxygen environments. So for first-time trekkers, choose peak season (autumn) for a safe journey.
FAQs For Manaslu Circuit Trek in December
Q: Is December a good time to trek the Manaslu Circuit?
A: Yes, December is a good time to trek the Manaslu Circuit, although it is not the best month. However, we recommend trekking in early December because late or even mid-December has a high chance of snowfall and teahouse closures.
Q: Is it safe to cross Larkya La Pass in December?
A: Yes, it is safe to cross Larkya La Pass in December, but only for experienced trekkers with proper preparation and knowledge of walking on snowy and icy trails where temperatures drop below zero degrees. So, crossing Larkya La in December may not be completely safe for everyone.
Q: How cold does it get on the Manaslu Circuit in December?
A: Manaslu Circuit in December: -20°C or lower at Larkya La Pass. But temperatures vary by elevation. The lower regions like Machha Khola and Jagat get 0°C to 10°C, Mid-hills like Namrung and Lho get -5°C to 15°C, and high villages like Samagaun and Samdo experience temperatures between -18°C and 5°C.
Q: Are permit costs different in December compared to autumn?
A: Yes, permit costs differ in December and autumn, as they are less expensive. However, only the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) varies by season; other permits, including the Manaslu Conservation Area permit, remain the same year-round.
Q: Is December better early or late in the month for this trek?
A: Early December is better than later in the month for the Manaslu Circuit trek because it offers stable weather, milder daytime temperatures, and a lower risk of heavy snowfall.
Q: How crowded is the Manaslu Circuit in December?
A: The Manaslu Circuit in December is 80% less crowded than peak season, and most routes are empty. Likewise, daily numbers drop from 200-300 hikers down to roughly 20-30 people on the route.
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