Manaslu Circuit Trek in March is an adventure that takes us into the deep beautiful Himalayas, and connects us with ancient cultures. The beautiful Himalayas like the Ganesh Himal, Himal Chuli, and Mount Manaslu, the eight-highest peak in the world (8,163m) can be seen. The clear skies of spring brought me the flavour of astonishing views of those mountains. At this time, flowers such as rhododendrons bloom in their bright red colors.
The adventure starts from Macchakhola or Soti Khola, progressing to green forests beside the Budhi Gandaki River. It went further together with traditional villages like Salleri, Lokpa, Ghap, Lho and Sho. At mid-way, we had an acclimatization day in Samagaon, where I had some rest and took side trips to sacred Pungyen Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp, and Birendra Tal .
Right after the acclimatizing day, we meet the Larkya La Pass (5,106m), a challenging section with mesmerizing views of Mount Manaslu. The trek also passed through amazing traditional villages like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Samagaon, Dharapani and soon on, where majority are the Gurung community. Their culture and tradition enhanced our time in the Manaslu Region.
March does fall under the peak season time but compared to routes of Annapurna and Everest, it offers a serene and peaceful experience to trekkers. Along the route, I came across many rare animal species such as red pandas and snow leopards, and floras like rhododendrons, oaks and pines. This natural beauty of Manaslu comes together with the unique culture of Gurung, which is connected to ancient Tibetan-Buddhist culture.
Manaslu Circuit Trek in March was the best time to get the beauty of nature, as the skies get clearer, weather becomes stable, and temperatures are suitable for trekking. This moderate difficult trek along the Gurung and Tibetan culture also allows for cultural immersion.
Why Choose March for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Falling in the spring season, Manaslu Circuit Trek in March became a colorful paradise for me. The heart of Manaslu Circuit Trek is lit by the blooming rhododendron forests, while the views are undisturbed giving you the view of mountains like Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli (7,139m), Ganesh I (7,422m), Ganesh II (7,118m), Annapurna (8,091m), Shringi Himal (7,161m).
March had mild temperatures of 5°C to 20°C, suitable for trekking. This is generally the ideal time, as it’s right after winter, when we are still hit by winter’s cold and also with spring’s warmth.
You don’t want to miss the highlight of the trek at Larkya La Pass (5,106m). Although challenging and difficult, with the right preparation, I was rewarded with views of Manaslu, Himalchuli and valleys such as Samagaon, Dharamsala, and Bimthang.
While it is considered as peak season for trekking, the fact that the trek route itself is less crowded, allowed for peaceful time at the Manaslu. Unlike trekking to Manaslu during crowded peak months like April or October, March personally was a favorable time to have the best scenery without the trails being populated.
We get a chance to view their lively festivals like Lhosar, the Tibetan New Year. You get a glimpse of their traditional dances and rituals that are deeply connected to Tibetan cultures.
Manaslu Circuit Trek in March is full of various terrains from thick forests of Budhi Gandaki Valley to dry lands at high altitudes of Larkya La Pass (5,106m). In addition to natural scenery and cultural immersion from Lhosar festivals, the weather of March conditions makes it perfect for photographers to click beautiful scenes. We got to snap wide views of valleys like Samagaon, Bimthang, and Dharapani from high altitudes like Larkya La Pass.
Weather and Temperature Details
Manaslu Circuit Trek in March offers the perfect mix of mild and stable weather, and is considered one of the best months to trek.
Day temperatures are warm, ranging from 5°C to 15°C in the lower region 5°C like Macchakhola, coldest in higher altitudes like Samagaon and Larkya La Pass and at night, it can drop below freezing around -6°C. Temperatures are mild, but we still feel the chill of winter’s cold and only the beginning of the warmth. The conditions during March aren’t tough as they are in off-seasons like Monsoon or Winter.
I rarely saw any rain or snowfalls in comparison to those in Monsoon and Winter. We completely avoided any slippery trails and risk of landslides, and got to trek through dry and safer trails. The stability of weather ensures that our adventure is smooth and free of interruptions
As opposed to peak Monsoon’s, March weather in Manaslu is cooler, good for a refreshing trek. Suitable conditions and clear sky views of March just removes the fatigue from your mind. We also don’t face any extreme cold of winter, meaning clothing can be lighter and comfortable.
We recommend bringing moisture wicking layers to keep yourself dry, insulating layers for warmth. On top of that add a waterproof and windproof jacket for any rains or snow falls that can occasionally occur.
March weather in Manaslu is full of clear skies, dry tails, and mild temperatures. This time of the year keeps us away from discomforts of extreme cold and snowfall of winter as well as from heavy rainfall and heat from Monsoon. So, Manaslu Circuit Trek in March is a time when weather and temperature supports trekking, and a time we get a smooth adventure.
Packing Essentials for March
If you are wondering what to pack for Manaslu Circuit Trek in March, you don’t need to make it complex, just pack smart.
You need to first pack everything in a strong and durable backpack that has a capacity of 40L to 50L. This ensures every small item you have can be stored safely including items like water bottles, snacks, clothes, etc.
We need to layer in clothing for the inconsistent temperatures. Start with moisture wicking base layers to keep yourself dry from sweat, insulating layers like fleece or down jackets for warmth, waterproof and windproof jackets or poncho for unexpected rain or cold. To be comfortable while trekking, wear comfortable trekking pants and shirts for warmth.
Adding accessories for warmth such as beanies, gloves, and thermal wears will be helpful for colds. Bring underwears and thick wool socks that can dry quickly while also providing enough comfort. As we are trekking both uphill and downhill with uneven terrains, standard waterproof trekking boots are important to have. That would help us balance and hike easily without worrying about the terrain difficulty.
Along the trek, you have plenty of accommodation available, but their facilities won’t always satisfy us. Even the basic beddings and blankets can not be reliable for warmth and the cold, so it is suggested to bring a sleeping bag of your own rated for cold temperatures of -10°C. During steep ascents and descents, our balance is the key, for which we can add trekking poles that provide more stability.
At high altitudes, UV rays are intense, and you are recommended to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat, and SPF lip balm. Pack toiletries for hygiene, extra batteries, power bank and headlamps for electricity scarce places.
Permits and Entry Requirements
For Manaslu Circuit Trek in March, we are required to have specific permits to have entry access to restricted areas like Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area. The permits were established so that our movement in the region doesn’t impact the environments, culture, and tourism. When going to protected areas like this, we must have the restricted area trekking permits.
One of the Manaslu Trek Permits is the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). The Manaslu Conservation Area covers 1,663 square kilometers with thick forests and high altitude mountain regions. Within this region there are valleys such as Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Samagaon, a place for preserving the traditions of Gurung and Tibetan communities from ancient times. We need to have $30 for MCAP if you are a foreigner and only $10 if SAARC nationals.
Second is the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which is mandatory for Manaslu Circuit Trek in March. For the first seven days we need to pay $100 and later $15 for each additional day. Our pay to RAP contributes to the protection of endangered species like red panda and snow leopard, controlling the flow of trekkers and their impact on the environment.
The third permit is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) because we will cross the lands of Annapurna region. It measures over 7,600 square kilometers and is the largest protected area of Nepal. It costs us $30 for the ACAP which also supports biodiversity, sustainable tourism, and the development of local communities.
We are helping Nepal maintain its unique ecosystem and cultural heritage by obtaining these permits. All of the three permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu.
Difficulty Level and Preparation Tips
Is Manaslu Circuit Trek in March difficult?
Generally speaking, Manaslu Circuit Trek in March is considered a moderately difficult trek. We do face challenging and high altitude places at Larkya La Pass, but at least there is no necessity for mountaineering skills. In March, we only face dry and mild climate but melting snow of winter can occasionally cause muddy and slippery trails.
We have our most difficult section with steep ascents and descents and Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters). This high altitude place needs careful navigation, as most of the trails are covered in snow and are also uneven. This is the highest point during the Manaslu Circuit Trek in March, the most difficult but also rewarding with the most beautiful views.
How to prepare for high-altitude trekking?
Preparation is needed physically and mentally. To complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek in March, you need at least basic fitness requirements and cardiovascular endurance. We can first prepare by doing strength training focusing on leg and core to support your balance on the trek. Then, improving cardiovascular endurance by engaging in exercises like running, cycling, and swimming.
Acclimatization is essential for making our trek a successful one. Popular spots like Samagaon, other spots like Samdo and Dharamsala are places to rest before continuing. Moving further without having proper rest and sleep for fatigue can wear you down considerably.
When we reach Larkya La Pass, it is important that we understand the terrain difficulty and navigate any dangerous parts before going forward. Having a guide during such sections is like finding a key to the lock, they will have your back without much issues.
We should start with your preparation 2 to 3 months prior to the actual trek. Try to have similar trekking conditions by training uphill with a weighted backpack. Practicing hikes with a loaded backpack helps stimulate the trekking conditions and allows our body to be used to the stress.
Training uphill also makes your body have an easier time with altitude sickness. After the sun sets, the Manaslu Circuit Trek in March is cold, even less than 0°C, which needs warm layers and waterproof gears to stay warm.
It is also important that your mindset stays positive and you don’t lose motivation. Celebrate each and every section of the accomplishment and enjoy the views of the surrounding. Always prioritize safety over the trek accomplishment, as we are the essential part as well.
Accommodation and Food on the Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek in March is the start of the peak Spring season. The availability of accommodation and their luxuries are high. Accommodation in Manaslu Circuit is mostly teahouses which serve traditional food like Dal Bhat and momos.
Early in the trek, at Macchakhola, Larkey Guest House and Hilltop Guest House are your first places to spend the night. Jagat has traditional tea houses like Rubi Nala Guest House, and Namrung has facilities of hot showers and Wi-Fi in Namrung Thakalim.
At the popular acclimatization stops like Samagaon and Samdo, we get to have modern accommodation and facilities like proper beddings and warm blankets. Mount Manaslu Guest House at Samagaon and Yak Hotel in Samdo are the accommodations with Wi-Fi, hot showers and other modern amenities.
Food options are various from vegetarian to non-vegetarian. We first have our traditional Nepalese food, Dal bhat (rice and lentils), Tibetan bread, and soups such as Thukpa. We can see other Tibetan food like momos (dumplings) known for its taste.
Out of all the various Guest Houses and Tea Houses, most of them offer traditional Nepalese food, Dal bhat, Western style foods such as pizza, burger, sandwich, and also Tibetan food like momos and thukpa.
Aside from the food eaten at teahouses, you should grab snacks such as nuts, dried fruits, and chocolates. We recommend bringing snacks from lower altitude as high altitude only hikes the prices. It is best if you avoid alcohol and excess caffeine since they cause even more dehydration. For refreshments, you take sips of water, tea, and coffee.
Trekking Routes and Itinerary
Our Manaslu Circuit Trek in March of 14 days began when our Radiant Trek representative picked us up after we arrived in Kathmandu and transferred us to the lovely hotels for the night. We enjoyed the arrival with a welcome dinner at the hotel.
On the next day, it was solely for preparation. Representatives provided necessary gear, equipment, and insights on the trek routes. In our spare time, we explored Kathmandu’s cultural sites like Swayambhunth and Pashupatinath Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Sites). I also loved the colorful and lively night streets at Thamel, with its standard restaurants and cafes. The art and craft shops for souvenirs like pashmina shawls and painting made the day even better.
The actual trek started, with a drive to Macchakhola where I could see changing terrains from green forests to towering cliffs such as Manaslu, Annapurna and Ganesh Himal. There the Gurung communities were friendly and provided a warm welcome to us.
From there, the trip progressed to Jagat with visits to valleys like Tatopani, which had amazing natural hot springs. Villages like Dobhan, Louri has locals influenced by the Tibetan Budhhist culture. The Tibetan culture in the mani walls, traditional houses had got my eyes fixed
After lunch at Chisapani Village, the trip continued to Deng, where the suspension bridges over the beautiful Budhi Gandaki River gave a thrilling moment. The surroundings were filled with amazing flora like the colorful rhododendrons and the bamboo forests towards Ekle Bhatti.
As I moved towards Namrung, the culture of the region was seen from the gompas and mani walls. From traditional villages like Rana Village, Ghap Village and Prok Village, the closeup views of Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal become even more beautiful.
Continuing to Lho, the closeup views of surrounding mountains like Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal and Manaslu struck my eyes with its beauty. Here the villages such as Lihi Village and Sho Village have numerous chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Tibetan Buddhist. On the trail, I came across a stream flowing from the Lindana Glacier, it was an amazing beauty of nature.
While going to Samagaon, a popular stop for acclimatization, the mountain views became even clearer and religious monasteries like Ribung Gompa could be seen. During the rest at Samagaon, side trips to Manaslu Base Camp, Pungyen Gompa, and sacred Birendra Tal was a highlight of the trek. The traditional settlements of Nubri people and wide views of Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, Himal Chuli, Annapurna, Kang Guru provided both cultural and natural scenery.
From Samagaon, it was a trip along the Budhi Gandaki River to Samdo, which is only 4 km far from the Tibetan border. Moving to Dharamsala where unique architecture and stupas could be seen, I also got to see Larkya Bazaar, a place historically known for trading posts.
The main highlight of the trek was during Dharamsala to Bimthang, which goes via Larkya La Pass (5,106m). Trail entirely covered in snow, and difficult uneven terrains were challenging but easy with the help of a guide. This high altitude place had the best views of surrounding mountains like Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Ngadi Chuli, Kang Guru, Annapurna II.
After the challenging section, it was a descent back to Bimthang and to Dharapani. Although Larkya was crossed, the steep declines were steep, an issue where I had to be cautious and go slowly.
Reaching back to Dharapani after crossing numerous wooden bridges to Hompuk Village, it was the final time for me to witness the beauty of Manaslu. Later the drive back to Kathmandu was pretty much a smooth trip along the Prithvi Highway and the banks of Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers.
Safety Considerations
Manaslu Circuit Trek in March is truly an amazing piece of beauty. But safety on Manaslu trek is required for us to have an easy accomplishment.
Common problems with hiking high altitude is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or altitude sickness, which happens when the body has not adjusted to the elevation gain. We can avoid such conditions if we take the hike slowly, take enough acclimatization days, at Samagaon or Samdo. You can face symptoms like headache, dizziness, nausea or fatigue.
We should be hydrated often, and avoid taking alcohol or caffeine which only causes dehydration. So, if you do face any symptoms, it is better to go to lower altitudes, and let your body acclimate. In emergencies, you can take medications such as Diamox, and in even severe cases, descend immediately for medical help.
During the hike at the Larkya La Pass, we must hire an expert guide and have proper gear equipment. We won’t face much weather risks in March but there can be certain times or spots like Larkya where the weather isn’t stable. Larkya La Pass trails are covered in snow and you will face difficult uneven terrains here. At high altitudes like this, the weather risks in March can be there with occasional rainfalls and snowfalls, which can further affect your trek.
To deal with challenges at Larkya, we first need to hire an experienced guide who has been there numerous times. An experienced guide will have knowledge about all parts of the trail, meaning navigation even in the snow and necessary weather precautions will be easy.
We are also recommended to have proper trekking gear such as base layers, insulating layers for warmth, trekking boots and trekking poles for comfort and stability, water bottles, and first aid kit for emergencies.
Cost and Budget Planning
The Manaslu Circuit Trek in March was around $1000. We reduced most of the costs by simply going on group treks and sharing the expenses of guides and porters.
You need to first hire a guide which is a necessity as of Nepalese government rule since April 1, 2023, stating that independent trekking is banned. Guides will charge $25 to $35 per day which was split among the group, and their expertise will guide you throughout the trek. They can easily navigate the terrains and spot difficulties during trekking.
We can’t forget important permits like MCAP and ACAP which cost $30, and RAP costing $100 for the first seven days and $15 per day after that.
Accommodations were teahouses with basic services costs $5 to $7 per night, which includes basic bed, blankets, and a shared bathroom. Facilities such as hot showers come at an extra of $2 to $5 and Wi-Fi at $8 per day.
I tasted some delicious traditional Nepali foods like Dal bhat, noodles for lunch and dinner, which cost $6 to $8, and for breakfast, had porridge and toast, which cost $5 to $6. Additions are snacks and beverages like tea and coffee, or energy bars that cost another $2 to $5.
Optional costs come from porters who carried our loads making our trek comfortable. They cost $20 to $25 per day and carry 20 to 25 kilograms. Side trips and upgrades such as the popular extended trip to Tsum Valley, will cost around $1390, and provide one of the best views of Tsum Valley with sacred sites like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa.
Final Say
As I did the Manaslu Circuit Trek in March, I got to feel the thrill of adventure without over straining myself. When trekking to Manaslu, I had thought of getting the views of tall peaks and wildlife. The peaks such as Mount Manaslu, Annapurna, Himal Chuli, and Ganesh Himal had fulfilled it. In addition, floras like rhododendrons, pines and animals such as red panda, snow leopard did not disappoint me at all.
March became my season buddy, as it provided me with clear views of surroundings, and blooming time of flowers. The Gurung locals around here and the festivals like Lhosar in the monasteries like Ribung Gompa and Pungyen Gompa were perfect times for me to interact and immerse myself in their culture.
So, you are seeking a safe and unhindered trek to Manaslu, where clear views of natural beauties are combined with culture and traditions, then take the visit in March.
