Manaslu Circuit Trek in April

Celebrate your Manaslu Circuit Trek in April, the best month of the year to cross Larkya Pass( 5106m).
You will never see Mt. Manaslu (8163m) like in April than any other months of the year. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek 

This marvelous adventure will take one through the grand eight-thieth mountain of the world-the Manaslu Circuit Trek-beautiful sights of mountains: Mt. Manaslu at 8,163 meters, coupled with other massive mountain peaks aligned serially.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek involves acquiring special permits; one requires an RAP- Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit-ACAP, Manaslu Local Area Permit and a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit-MCAP.

Manaslu trek starting from Soti Khola/ Machhakhola end at Besisahar/ Tilche/Bimtang would cover about 177 kilometers covering beautiful villages like Deng, Namrung, Samagaon, nice forests of Manaslu Conservation Area, as well as rocky trails.

 Manaslu Circuit combines Panoramic viewpoints are available via the Larkya La Pass, which is approximately 5,160 meters at its highest and requires good physique and proper acclimatization.

A licensed guide must be hired on the Manaslu Trek plus a porter or porters before entering the remote and rugged territories of the Manaslu, which is a Restricted Area.

Read our blog posts related to Manaslu Circuit Trek

1. New Additional Local Area Permit in Manaslu Region
2. Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring
3. Manaslu Circuit Trek Package Cost Details
4. Manaslu Circuit Trek Transportation Service Details
5. Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
6. Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

7.Manaslu Circuit Trek- A Complete Trekker's Guide

8. How Difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek? 
9. Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Worth it? 
10. IS Manaslu Circuit harder than the Everest Base Camp? 
11. How to plan for Manaslu Circuit Trek? 
12. Manaslu Trek in Spring
13. Kathmandu to Machhakhola Bus

Accommodations in Manaslu Circuit are in teahouses, providing simple but comfortable lodging and traditional Nepali meals like dal bhat, breads, soups, vegetable curries, Tibetan bread and momo.

Trekkers should be alert to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and take precautions such as gradual acclimatization, hydration, and avoidance of alcohol at higher elevations in Manaslu Circuit Trekking especially after Samagaon.

The  Manaslu trek usually takes 12-16 days with rest days at places like Samagaon at 3,520m to acclimatize and to visit cultural landmarks including age-old monasteries.

The transportation for Manaslu Circuit Trek is a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola/ Machhakhola to begin the trek and back from Besisahar to Kathmandu after completing the Manaslu circuit at Dharapani or Tilche.

A very thorough preparation will ensure a safe and unforgettable Manaslu adventure through one of Nepal's most beautiful and remote regions.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in April 

Manaslu Trek in April will be an outstanding adventure that offers the trekker a wide variation of Nepal's diversified landscapes and ancient culture and authentic rural life.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in early April presents vibrant rhododendron blooms, converting trails into a stunning natural paradise.

Manaslu Trek in late April offers delightful weather with spotlessly clear skies and marvelous views of the Himalayan peaks including Manaslu and Annapurna ranges.

The trek to the Manaslu Circuit in April takes trekkers through some of the most genuine Nepalese villages, old monasteries, and a variety of ethnic cultures.

Temperatures during the Manaslu Circuit Trek in April ranges from 5°C to 20°C in lower elevations and drop to -6°C to -2°C at the higher altitudes.

April happens to be one of the best months for the Manaslu Trek in terms of weather conditions and because there are not many chances of rain.

Snow may still fall in Larke La Pass (5106m), but the trails are not too bad and not so icy.

In April, the Manaslu Circuit Trek has beautiful views of snow-capped peaks like Manaslu, Himlung, and Annapurna ranges.

The temperature in April for trekkers on the Manaslu circuit is ideal; the trails have just enough lush greenery for an ideal time to trek.

April is a good time to trek the Manaslu Circuit, with fewer crowds than in peak trekking seasons in Nepal.

The Manaslu Trek in April offers the opportunity to experience traditional festivals of local communities in remote mountain regions like Holi and Buddha Jayanti.

April is an excellent month for making photography during the Manaslu Circuit Trek due to clear skies and warm daytime temperatures.

For an adventurous and culturally enriching experience, the Manaslu Circuit trek in April is perfect for anyone.

What is the Temperature like in Manaslu Circuit Trek in April? 

It has been a lovely time in April with the lower altitude having fine weather and at the higher altitudes, relatively cooler.

From Soti Khola at 700m and Jagat at 1,300m to other lower altitudes, the temperatures vary between 10°C to 25°C. It will be warm days and mild nights, springtime sees the greenery in full glory with blooming rhododendrons along the trekking trail.

As you climb to mid-elevations like Namrung (2,630m) and Sama Gaun (3,530m), daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, while nights drop to around 0°C to -5°C.  Multiple Layers are needed to stay comfortable to cope with temperature variations in Manaslu Circuit in April.

Daytime temperatures in Manaslu Circuit in April range from -5°C to 5°C, while nights can drop to -10°C to -15°C in higher elevations like Samdo (3,875m) and Larkya La Pass (5,106m). The weather is colder and windier at higher altitudes, especially at the pass. Proper gear is essential for warmth and safety at these altitudes.

Spring is the best time for Manaslu trek because of moderate temperatures and clear skies.

 Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Trek in April

1. Blossoming Rhododendron Forests

Since it is spring in Nepal during April, the forests of rhododendron lining the trails are in full bloom. In the vicinity of Deng, Namrung, and Lho, the rhododendons make brilliant displays with shades of pink, red, and white flowers as the background of towering peaks.

2. Panoramic Mountain Views

 April's clear skies provide unobstructed views of great peaks such as Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli (7,893m), and Ganesh Himal (7,422m). The Shyala to Samagaun section offers spectacular, unbroken views, with the snowcapped Manaslu massif filling the horizon.

3. Villages with Rich Culture

 Village treks through places like Samagaun and Samdo offer interactions with cultures influenced by Tibetans. During April, villagers prepare for the harvest season, and it's also a good time to glimpse traditional Himalayan lifestyles. Particularly, monasteries situated at Lho and Samagaun, like Pungyen Gompa, make your journey spiritual.

4. Exciting Larkya La Pass Crossing

Larkya La Pass at 5,106m is considered a highlight by many trekkers. Compared to the winter months, April offers more manageable snow, and thus the crossing is both thrilling and safer. From the pass, one can have stunning views of Himlung Himal and Cheo Himal.

5. Diverse Flora and Fauna

The lower altitudes of the trek, such as Jagat and Tatopani, are filled with diverse flora and fauna. Trekkers in April may spot Himalayan monals, langurs, or even blue sheep along the trail in Manaslu Conservation Area.

The combination of vibrant natural beauty, cultural immersion, and ideal weather makes the Manaslu Circuit Trek an incomparable adventure in April.

Pros and Cons of Manaslu Circuit Trek in April

Pros

Ideal Weather Conditions

April is a spring season in Nepal, thus with stable and clear weather ideal for trekking. The weather is pleasant in spring, being from 10 to 20 degrees in the lower reaches and 0 to -10 degrees at high altitude. Such sceneries with snow-clad peaks with a height of 8,163m for example, at Mount Manaslu are unmatched. The climb at Larkya La Pass to an altitude of 5,106m offers splendid views of spring clarity of mountains.

Blooming Rhododendron Forests

The Manaslu Conservation Area is alive with rhododendrons in full bloom in April, making the Manaslu Circuit Trek in April  a feast for the eyes. For instance, between Deng and Namrung, the forests are covered with red, pink, and white rhododendrons, making the hike more scenic and spectacular for Photography.

Fewer Crowds than Annapurna or Everest

Although April is a highly favored trekking month, relatively fewer trekkers visit the Manaslu Circuit compared to Annapurna or the Everest region. This makes for a more serene and authentic experience. For example, the traditional villages of Samagaun and Lho are peaceful so that better cultural immersion can take place.

 Diverse Wildlife Sightings

Spring is an idea season for wildlife in the Manaslu region, in Manaslu Conservation Area. While trekking through the conservation area, you may see Himalayan Tahr, langurs, or even the elusive snow leopard. Cases of sighting wildlife, especially on Bimthang trails, are reported during the month of April.

Cons

Extremely fluctuating weather at high altitudes

Even during favorable weather conditions, the areas of high elevation like Larkya La Pass could face snowstorm or gust of winds that make trekking extremely tough. As recently as in April 2022, trekkers experienced a snowstorm, forcing them to postpone crossing over. You need to pack trickily for your Manaslu Circuit Trek in April.

Permits and Restricted Access

The Manaslu Circuit is not available without a guide and requires special permits, which can create logistical issues. For some trekkers, organizing a guide and group for this circuit is much more restrictive than for independent treks such as the Annapurna Circuit.

Limited Lodging

Though lodges are open in April, with the popularity of the trek increasing, at times, the accommodations are scarce, especially in the smaller villages such as Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi).

Altitude Sickness Hazard

The trek involves considerable altitude gain, especially when crossing Larkya La. Even with acclimatization days, some trekkers experience altitude sickness. For example, symptoms are often reported in Samagaun and Dharamsala.

In conclusion,  Manaslu in April offers excellent trekking conditions, but preparation is key to navigating challenges like weather, logistics, and altitude.

Preparations for Manaslu Circuit Trek in April

Obtain permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, including ACAP, is needed as parts of this trek fall into restricted areas such as Jagat and Tilche.

Guide Service Hire: A guide is necessary to go through the restricted areas. Guides are helpful on challenging paths such as the Larke Pass (5,160m), which is covered with snow in spring.

Physical Fitness Training: Develop stamina for long days of hiking and building endurance for steeper ascents like Deng to Namrung and while crossing Larke Pass.

Acclimatization Plan: Rest days in Namrung or Samagaun (3,530m) are good for acclimatization to avoid AMS. Both these villages are important acclimatization stops.

Pack Layered Clothing: Spring weather can be pretty unpredictable. Pack warm layers for mornings at Larke Pass and lighter clothing for lower trails such as Machha Khola.

Carry Trekking Essentials: The trekking poles will help in balance at steep descents, especially beyond the Larke Pass, where icy and slippery trails exist. Carry rain cover or rain poncho in case it rains on the trail.

Prepare for Limited Connectivity: Network access is pretty rare after Jagat. Inform family about limited communication and bring a satellite device if necessary. Or you can access local SIM Card in your smart phone in Kathmandu before heading towards Machhakhola.

Cash for Expenses: No availability of ATMs after Arughat; therefore, one has to make a budget for the tea houses en route, snacks in Samdo, among others. Bring Nepali Rupees for foods and accommodations.

Respect Local Culture: Manaslu is very rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture. Observe the customs, like walking clockwise around mani walls, Monasteries and chortens on the trail.

Do Research on Trail Conditions: Inquire about the potential landslides or snow hazards in spring, especially between Deng and Ghap or near the pass before heading towards the Manaslu Circuit Trail.

Final Words

Pleasant weather in Manaslu Circuit Trek in April  ranges of 10°C to 20°C at lower regions, dropping down to -6°C to -2°C at higher regions. The April weather is also very stable and offers clear views without much chances of rain with clear views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli snow-capped peaks during Manaslu Circuit.

It is a scenic drive of 8-9 hours from Kathmandu through Machha Khola to begin the Manaslu Trek. The journey does open into the heart of the Himalayas.

The accommodations in Manaslu Circuit Trek in April for the day will be in basic but cozy teahouses, traditional Nepali food, which can give you considerable energy throughout the day, dal bhat and momos.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in April comprises crossing the iconic Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters, lush valleys, ancient monasteries, and villages influenced by Tibetan culture. The month April is the best time of the year to cross Larkya La(5106m).

The trails on Manaslu trek in April are filled with rhododendron flowers, and various wildlife such as Himalayan tahr and snow leopards.

Join the Manaslu Circuit Trek in April for an adventure, culture, and nature all combined at their best.