Manaslu Circuit Trek in March

The Manaslu Circuit trek in March is full of excitement and Himalayan views along with the life time memorable adventures.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the best all around treks in Nepal. Manaslu region is the best trekking region known for its solidarity and preservation.

Manaslu Circuit Trek sees very few visitors which makes the journey a peaceful, natural and beautiful experience.

March is the first month of the spring season and is the season of a new beginning.

During this month you will get the view of the blooming colorful rhododendron flowers esp on the lower hills of the trails. It seems as if the earth has come to life again.

The weather is quite stable during this month in the trekking area. The temperature is neither too hot in the lower elevations nor too cold in the higher elevation.

Moreover, visibility is also good and you will get the best mountain views ever. This trek also offers the high altitude glacier lakes and fascinating flora and fauna.

It is a unique combination of rich cultural heritage and adventure. The hospitality and the respect of the local communities make the trip so memorable and pleasing.

The highest point of the trek is the Larkya La Pass which is one of the most dramatic and serious passes.

However, choosing suitable weather will make your trekking experience comfortable and smooth. And will save you to a certain extent from various difficulties caused by weather.

Highlights of Trekking to Manaslu in March

• Best clear view of the snow-capped mountains including Mt. Manaslu 8118 meter / 26634 feet
• Beautiful rhododendrons from Deng up to Shyala
• More stable weather conditions
• Cool temperatures, warm and bright days
• Traditional village lifestyle and culture
• Tibetan culture and high pass crossing Larkya la (5106 meter / 16752 feet)
• Enjoy waterfalls and hot springs, while walking along one of Nepal’s longest rivers – the Marsyangdi

Weather info for doing Manaslu Circuit Trek in March

March is great for those who want to experience the best of the tranquility as well as the scenery of the trail. The cool temperatures and bright days are perfect for treks.

The temperatures continue rising to a cool 2-8 degrees Celsius in the higher altitude. The lower altitude, however, enjoys clear blue skies and warm days. You can enjoy the walks with just a t-shirt and shorts.

Moreover, during this time frozen lakes begin to thaw out. Streams begin to fill, new buds begin to sprout.

As such this month offers a picturesque view of the nature that will allow you to capture amazing pictures.

The best part of the season is that it is the safest of all seasons for a trekking expedition. There are very low risks of snowstorms and avalanches, landslides and other climatic hazards.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

March is a good time to take the Manaslu Circuit trek. The weather is pleasant which makes 50 percent of the trekking experience easier.

However, the weather in the mountains is unpredictable. Hence it is important that you learn about the weather forecast before the trek. Moreover, the temperature drops with the increase in altitude.

As you go higher there is one more factor at play than just the weather and i.e the altitude. The Manaslu Circuit trek takes you from just 700 meter altitude at Soti Khola up to 5106 meter (16752 feet) at Larkya La Pass.

Hence there is a risk of altitude sickness and you will be walking about 6-8 hrs per day. Due to the altitude, the walking becomes is more difficult in the high altitude.

For this, it is important that you prepare yourselves physically and mentally. You should work on your stamina because you will be walking through rough terrains, uphill, and downhill.

To develop your strength and stamina you can do some exercises like jogging, hiking with a small backpack, climbing stairs etc.

Check detailed article on Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty.

Food and Accommodation

March is the beginning of the spring season and end of the winter season. The local of this region gradually return after spending their winters in a place with more forgiving temperature.

Most of the lodges and tea houses that stayed closed during the peak of the winter season start to re-open. Hence you will have no problem with accommodation and food.

The accommodation in the tea houses is on twin sharing basis. If you want you can stay single upon request. But for that, you will have pay the price of the full room. And since March experiences more tourists it can be a little difficult to get a room all to yourself.

The teahouse provides you with all the basic facilities with bed, pillow, and blanket. And you will have a sharing toilet. As for food, you will get them in these tea houses. The most staple food you will get is Dal Bhat.

You will also get continental food like pizza, sandwich, spaghetti. However please do not expect them to taste like the ones you eat at home or in the city area. These are only to kill your hunger.

For cold nights you can try the local hot soup noodle which will be available both in veg and non-veg.

Solo Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek without guide is not yet possible as Nepal goverment require you to get permits through registered trekking agency.  You have to trek in a group or with a partner. And you must hire a guide.

Moreover, the trails are not well marked. The guide will help you through the navigation during emergencies and for negotiations.

Having a guide will also serve as a fantastic resource that will be beyond the information that you will gain from the book.

Since the guide will have experience in this trekking field he has the knowledge of all the places you will go. As such he can explain to you about their importance and their highlights

Hence having a guide will make your trip much more enjoyable. You can hire a guide for USD 35 to 40 per day.

Do you offer group joining options for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2024 or 2025?

Here at Mosaic Adventure, we organize group tours for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. You can join one of our fixed departure dates for 2024 and 2025. Please feel free to get in touch with us to learn more about it.

Recommended Itinerary for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in March

If you are in the planning phase and are not sure which itinerary is best for you, look no further, as we have put together the following 11-day itinerary that is suitable for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in March.

Day 1: Trek to Machha Khola (890m / 2,920ft)

Trekking to Machha Khola, an elevation of approximately 890 meters, will take around 10 hours on local bus.

Day 2: Trek to Jagat (1350m / 4,429ft)

Trekking to Jagat, situated at an altitude of about 1350 meters, is estimated to take 6 hours.

Day 3: Trek to Deng (1860m / 6,102ft)

Trekking to Deng, reaching an altitude of approximately 1860 meters, will take around 7.5 hours.

Day 4: Trek to Namrung (2660m / 8,727ft)

Trekking to Namrung, at an elevation of approximately 2660 meters, is estimated to take 6 hours.

Day 5: Trek to Samagaon (3525m / 11,565ft)

Trekking to Samagaon, located at an altitude of approximately 3525 meters, will take about 7 hours.

Day 6: Acclimatization Day

Day 7: Trek to Samdo (3860m / 12,664ft)

Trekking to Samdo, situated at an altitude of approximately 3860 meters, is estimated to take 4 hours.

Day 8: Trek to Larka La Phedi (4460m / 14,632ft)

Trekking to Larka La Phedi, reaching an altitude of about 4460 meters, will take approximately 4 hours.

Day 9: Trek to Bimthang (3610m / 11,844ft), Crossing Larkya La (5106m / 16,752ft)

Trekking to Bimthang, at an elevation of approximately 3610 meters, involves crossing Larkya La, which stands at 5106 meters. This challenging day will require around 8 hours.

Day 10: Trek to Dharapani (1920m / 6,299ft)

Trekking to Dharapani, situated at an altitude of approximately 1920 meters, is estimated to take 7 hours.

Day 11: Return to Kathmandu via Besi Sahar

Depart for Kathmandu with a local vehicle, an approximate 9-hour ride. Private jeep rental is available for an additional fee.

We operate this tour with the exact 11-day itinerary mentioned above. To learn more about our 11-day Manaslu Circuit trek, please visit the trip page.

You will find a detailed overview, a comprehensive daily itinerary, frequently asked questions and additional general information.

Trekking Permits

Manaslu being the special zone, you need to get the restricted permit to trek in this region. Hence there are several permits you need and they are

• Restricted Area Permit
• Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)

During March the cost of Restricted Area permit fee is cheaper compared to months like September, October, and November.

You will get the permit for USD 100 per person for the first week. While you pay extra USD 7 per person per day after the first seven days. This means that you save USD 20 compared to other months mentioned above.

For MCAP the cost is Nepali currency 1000 for SAARC nationals and Rs 3000 or USD 30 for other nationals.

And ACAP costs Nrs 1000 for SAARC nationals and NRs 3000 or USD 30 for other nationals.

You can get these permits through a registered trekking agent or you can get it yourself from the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu.

Packing Tips for March

Packing wisely is very important to make your trekking experience smooth and comfortable. To take Manaslu trek you will need various equipment. Also, the quality of the equipment determines the experience of your trek.

You can buy the equipment from your hometown or you can purchase them in Nepal. Nepal has many stores that sell trekking gears. You will find many international and local brands. You can also rent them if you want.

Trekking in March experiences pleasant weather compared to other harsh months. It is easier to pack things unlike in winter where you will need to pack a lot to keep yourself warm.

During March, the lower altitudes will be warm and as you go higher the temperature will slowly start to decrease. Hence dressing in layers is the best way to go. Doing so will allow you to put on and take off clothes according to the situation.

Make sure to carry one sleeping bag for cold nights and mornings at higher elevations. A good pair of sturdy trekking boot is a must that will either make or break your trekking experience. Avoid carrying heavy boots.

Also, keep in mind to not exceed the luggage above 20 kilos. This can be for you and porter because carrying a lot can be a huge burden.

Some useful tips for Manaslu Circuit Trek in March

• Always check the weather condition before the trek and pack accordingly.
• Since March is a peak season, it is important to pre-book your trek.
• A little bit of preparation such as physical training prior to the trek will always come in handy.
• Hire a guide and porter for a better and comfortable trekking experience.
• Walk on your own pace and do not rush.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while trekking. This will cause dehydration.
• During the daytime in March, the sun can be scorching hot. Take and apply high SPF sunscreen along with sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.
• In case of emergencies or Acute Mountain Sickness, always reach out for help from the guide or the team leader.
• Keep buffer days in case of any delays or unplanned situation.

Conclusion

The Manaslu Circuit trek is the best-recommended trek during March. The weather is pleasant with spectacular clear views of the mountains.

Moreover, if you are a trekker searching solitude and wilderness, Manaslu Circuit trek suits you the best.

For further question and queries, please feel free to contact us. It is our pleasure to guide and assist you with the best of our knowledge.