Manaslu Circuit trek in February

Manaslu Circuit trek is one of the adventurous trekking in Nepal. Manaslu circuit trek in February experiences less tourist flow. So if you wish to walk in the isolated and peaceful trails, Manaslu Circuit trek is a good option.

February is a great time to enjoy the serenity and spectacular view of snow-capped mountains. In February, you will get to walk in solitude and enjoy everything in the route.

Despite the trek’s increase in popularity since many tea houses opened in 2010, the Manaslu trek remains a true remote adventure. This trek features epic scenery, spectacular suspension bridge crossings. And a challenging Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5213m.

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February falls in the winter season and the Manaslu region is definitely cold but you will also witness clear skies and dry weather. The temperature is warm during the daytime but significantly drops as the sun sets. The temperature easily drops down to minus degrees during the night and early morning.

Trekking in Manaslu in February is certainly challenging but it is also rewarding. But with a little bit of preparation, Manaslu circuit trek in February is possible.

Trip Highlights

• Peaceful trekking due to fewer trekkers in February
• Remoteness on mountains at its best
• Challenging and adventurous trekking over the Larke La (5,106m)
• View of snow-capped mountains including Mt. Manaslu (8,156m) – the 8th highest mountain in the world

Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather in February

February is the last month of the winter season in Nepal. During this time the Manaslu region is cold and dry that makes it adventurous.

Trekking during this time is the best time if you want to capture the majestic mountains at its best. The skies are mostly clear and bright which offers uninterrupted views.

Towards the end of February, the temperature starts to increase in the lower regions. And rhododendron begins to bloom in the lower reaches of the forest.

But in the high altitude, the weather is still cold. The daytime is mostly sunny and warm but the nights and mornings demand proper preparation and insulation.

The temperature easily drops to -20 degree Celsius on average at night time. Thus, you will have to prepare yourselves both physically and mentally.

If you are someone who cannot tolerate the cold weather then trekking during winter and in February is not the best time. But if you have previous trekking experience and are looking for adventure and quieter trekking experience then February is a good time.

Difficulty during Manaslu Circuit Trek in February

The Manaslu Circuit trek takes you from just 700m altitude at Soti Khola up to 5160m at Larkya La Pass. On this trek, you will experience a tremendous range of altitude and temperature.

This trek during early February is cold, especially in the mornings and nights. Moreover crossing the Larkya La pass becomes the most difficult due to snowfall. Sometimes there is even possible that the pass will remain closed.

And the same is for the teahouses. But few teahouses are at your service even in the cold. So to be accurate about the situation in higher altitude, you need to know the weather condition before you start your trek.

However, towards the late February, the temperature slowly starts to increase which can be a more suitable time to trek.

All in all Manaslu Circuit trek in February can be very exciting. Challenging yourself to trek during this time will help you know your capabilities and strength.

Altitude Sickness during Manaslu Circuit Trek in February

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and altitude sickness is a major challenge in any high altitude trekking.

Manaslu trek is an adventurous trek due to its great variation. Thus, one of the major difficulty during Manaslu trek is your ability to adjust to high altitude.

And this becomes more difficult during the cold season such as in February. It is a known fact that with the increase in altitude the risk of altitude sickness also increases.

Everyone is at risk of altitude sickness irrespective of age, gender and fitness level. Thus, being well informed about altitude sickness can ease your trekking in February.

Some of the early signs and symptoms of altitude sickness are a headache, fatigue, loss of appetite etc.

When you have mild symptoms such as these it is best to rest until the symptoms go away.

Resting and acclimatization are a must while trekking at higher altitude. And it is best to take your own pace rather than rushing.

Also drinking plenty of water are some of the ways that can help you stay away from Altitude sickness. And during February since the weather is cold, the least you might want to do is drink water.

So for that, you can take a hot water flask to keep your water warm and out from freezing.

And most importantly, always reach out for help from the guide or porter if you have any symptoms of AMS.

This will help you in taking the necessary precautions before it gets fatal.

Food and Accommodation during Manaslu Circuit Trek in February

Due to the cold weather in the winter season, i.e from December to February the major lodges remain closed and people migrate to a lower region to escape the cold.

However, during February and esp towards the late February, some teahouse will remain open for your service. The tea houses are simple and will be on twin sharing basis. There will be two bed with a pillow and a blanket.

And if you want to take shower in February, upon request, the tea house will provide you with a hot water bucket. For this, you will have to pay a couple of dollars.

As for the meals you will have them in these tea houses itself. The staple food that you will get is Dal Bhat which is also the most satisfying meal.

In February, to beat the chills and to stay warm you can try the local soup noodle. And for drinking water, you can ask them to boil which will cost a couple of dollars too.

Since this is the off-season for the trek, you will find the teahouses less crowded. So, you do not have to compete for the room and food during the February trek to Manaslu Circuit.

Trekking Permit for Manaslu Circuit Trek in February

To take Manaslu Circuit trek you need various permits. And during February the trekking permit costs USD 50 per week per person which is cheaper compared to other peak months. And an additional of USD 7 if you want to stay extra days.

Other permits you will need are the Annapurna Conservation area permit. And Manaslu Conservation Area Permit both of which will cost USD 20 each.

Guide or Porter for Manaslu Circuit Trek in February

The restricted region Manaslu is a novice and off-the-beaten route where trekking without a licensed guide is impossible. For the time of extreme weather conditions and cold a guide is a must.

Also, as you will have to pack the winter gears your backpack will be weighty than in other seasons. So, it is a good idea to hire an experienced porter as well. If you plan to walk without porter, then you may have a much difficult time walking in the cold, snow, and the slippery trails.

There are many chances of you to miss the routes due to snow. Also, the unpredictable climatic condition in high places can be dangerous in February. So, it is very important to hire a guide as well as a porter.

An experienced guide will always know what to expect since he has been on the trails. He will know the safer ways and in case of emergency situation, he has the necessary training on what to do.

How to Prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trek in February?

To take the Manaslu trek in February, you need to prepare both mentally and physically. Since you have to cover many kilometers it can be quite hectic for your body. You should be able to walk for 5 to 7 hours daily.

Manaslu trek is a remote route with potential trekking difficulties in the month of February. Talking about the difficulty of the trek, it is a strenuous trek.

The trail leads you towards Budhi Gandaki Gorge which is a harrowing steep. Thus the first couple of days is difficult. Plus you have to walk a lot of uphill and downhill.

Some days you even have to walk across windy trails and cross suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River.

The most challenging part of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5213m. And during February the trails will have snow and the cold can be extreme. This challenge will definitely help you in recognizing your strength and capabilities.

For a novice trekker who wants to trek in February, it is very important that you take the necessary physical training to build your stamina and strength.

Packing for Manaslu Circuit Trek in February

Packing well plays a huge role in making your trekking experience smooth and comfortable. And for trekking in February you will need to pack warm clothes for the high altitude.

To stay warm in cold weather such as in February, dressing in layers is the best way to go. You should pack thermals for a base layer. For the second layer, you need a warm fleece or insulating jacket.

And for the outer layer, you should wear a waterproof jacket to protect yourself from snow and harsh wind. Not to forget warm gloves and headwear such as beanie to keep yourselves warm.

Also trekking in February, you will need a good pair of a hiking boot with firm grip esp for the higher altitudes in snowy trails.

A sleeping bag is a must. Though the tea houses provide with a blanket. The thin walls of the tea houses have poor insulation and hence it can be very cold in the mornings and nights.

Hence a sleeping bag is necessary to give you that extra warmth. Other things you will need are trekking poles or crampons, first aid kit, sturdy backpack etc.

Also, we recommend you not to pack more than 20kg. Overpacking and overloading will only be a burden for not only you but the porter too. Hence it is best to pack wise and light to make the trekking more convenient.

Some Tips for Manaslu Circuit Trek in February

• Since the trail is quite challenging in February, it is wise to train yourself about 3-months prior to your trek.
• The trails can be wet and slippery due to the snow, so carry a good pair of trekking boots and warm clothing gears.
• Hire an experienced guide for your safety since they know everything about the trek.
• Consider hiring a porter because trekking in winter requires more gears which can be a burden for you to carry.
• Stay hydrated to avoid the risk of altitude sickness.
• Take your own pace and do not rush and rest when you feel the need.
• Consult a physician before the trek because the risk of altitude sickness is higher in winter. And take necessary precautions.
• Keep extra days in case of any unplanned situation and delays.

Final Say,

Manaslu Circuit trek is an authentic, adventurous and a truly remote region experience. For someone who enjoys peaceful trails and doesn’t mind the cold weather, Manaslu Circuit Trek in February is an ideal time.

With a little bit of preparation, strong determination and fit body, one can take this trek.

Unlike other months, trekking in February could be difficult. But it is a great opportunity for people who like taking challenges.

For further questions or queries, please feel free to contact us. We are more than happy to help you with any necessary information.

Madhav Prasad

Madhav started working as a porter in 2001 and then moved on to work as a trekking guide. After working in the trekking and tourism industry for eight years, he co-founded Mosaic Adventure in 2009.

Madhav has trekked to most of the trekking destinations in Nepal, including Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Poon Hill Trek, Jomsom Muktinath Trek, Indigenous Peoples Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, and all of the day hikes around Kathmandu.

He has also extensively traveled to other countries such as Australia, the USA, the UK, France, Hong Kong, Japan, China, the Philippines, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Thailand, Turkey, and India. Madhav is the one who answers most of your questions about trekking and tours and helps to plan your trip by giving a personal touch.