Manaslu circuit trek in May is one of the most wonderful things you can do. Trekking during this time of the month allows you to explore the beautiful Himalayan ranges, interact with the locals, and make new friends from different countries, as lots of trekkers come for trekking here. You will witness the various kinds of wildlife animals like snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, and musk deer, which you will see all over the trails starting from Samagaun.
You will witness the red panda, bears, aquatic animals, birds, water streams, and many more interesting things yet to be explored. You can also witness the beautiful stars shining in the night, which is often called stargazing, which looks beautiful and awesome. Manaslu in May is also the best time to experience the local cuisines, customs, and traditions.
Why trek the Manaslu Circuit in May?
Various reasons say why trekking in the Manaslu circuit during May is best. The first reason why May is best for trekking in Manaslu is that the skies are blue and clear, offering beauty to the eyes. The trials are well-managed and peaceful, which gives solitude to the heart. When you are trekking here, you will feel the beauty of the region as the cold breeze of the air will touch your face, and you will know how it feels to experience the cold breeze of the mountains.
The people are very welcoming. Did you know that the region’s local people are the ones who contribute to the trail, making it eco-friendly and safe for the trekkers? The foods and cuisine that are found here are the best part of the Manaslu circuit trek. You will be enjoying various kinds of foods, from dal bhat to pizza and pasta. The locals help the trekkers in everything. You can also visit the chortens, monasteries, and Gumba, which is a sacred place for the Buddhists, and you can interact with them and learn about their daily rituals and customs.
You can also celebrate the festivals during the trek, as during this time they celebrate Buddha Jayanti, the birthday of Lord Buddha, who plays a significant role in Buddhism. You can also play with the waters that come directly from the melting glaciers of the Manaslu peaks, which are cold but still give a sense of peace and harmony.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Distance in May
The Manaslu Circuit trekking distance in May will be similar to March and April. Due to this reason, you will not need to add or subtract days from your itinerary. You can follow the normal itinerary of trekking agencies like Adventure Vision Treks. The normal itinerary for the Manaslu circuit trek starts from Soti Khola, Macha Khola, and Jagat.
The total round trip is about 177 km, which is 110 miles, starting from Soti Khola. However, the distance may change between 20 and 30 km up and down if you prefer other trekking starting points like Jagat. Your distance may increase if you are doing side trips to Manaslu base camp, visiting any places near the teahouses, or hiking to some of the viewpoints.
Manaslu Circuit Trek costs in May.
Trekking in the Manaslu Circuit during May can also give a load to your pocket. As this is the peak season, everything seems to be on the slightly higher side. From transportation to accommodation, everything will be expensive due to the higher demands. You will need to book everything related to the trek in advance, like a guide, porter, accommodations, transportation, packing list, rental gear, and everything. The cost of the trek is 5 to 7 USD for food per day, and the guide and porter will charge you around 30 to 50 USD per day. The accommodations may charge you 20 to 25 USD.
You will also need gear rentals, which can cost up to 5 USD per day. However, if you are trekking with authorized trekking agencies like us, then the cost may be on the lower side because we have trekking groups every day in the peak seasons, and in the group, everything goes on the lower side.
Recommended Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek permits and costs
Vehicle cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in May
Vehicle cost for the Manaslu circuit trek in May will be on the higher side no matter what vehicle you choose. If you are using a public bus, then the costs will be around 20 to 25 USD from Kathmandu to your trek starting point. If you are using AWD (all-wheel drive) vehicles or renting an SUV like a Scorpio or Jeep, then your cost will go from around 200 USD to 300 USD, depending upon the vehicle’s condition. However, the private vehicle cost can be divided among your fellow trekkers. If not, then we can send you to the joining group, making your private transportation more affordable.
Another Read: How to reach Manaslu Region for trek?
Additional Packing List for the Manaslu Circuit Trek During May
The packing list for the Manaslu circuit trek during May is crucial, as May is the pre-monsoon month, so you will need to prepare for warm days, cold nights, and rainy seasons, as well as the possibility of rain in the higher altitudes or the weather changing without any warnings. So pack wisely. You can check our Manaslu trek packing list. Let’s discuss other things that you may need while packing such as a raincoat or Poncho, a waterproof back cover, quick-drying towels, and water-resistant trekking boots. Pack some seasonal clothes like jackets, warm socks, caps, and gloves. Also, don’t forget to pack silica gel or dry sacks to protect your documents and electronic items in case of humidity.
What are the weather conditions of the Manaslu Circuit Trek during May?
The weather conditions of the Manaslu circuit trek during May are clear, and it gives the perfect vibe of spring and warmth. The temperatures are mild to warm in the lower regions like Macha Khola and Jagat Samagaun. As the month is the pre-monsoons, the trails may be wet due to the sudden rains, storms, or social thunderstorms. Otherwise, the whole day is clear, crisp, and perfect for trekking. Also, you can check the real-time temperature at the weather forecast on the Manaslu weather forecast.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Map for May
The Manaslu Circuit Trek map for May is the same as the April one. There is no change to the trekking routes or directions. In case of emergency, the routes and trails can be changed. You will follow the same itinerary other trekking agencies and we provide. If you want to do a thrilling adventure or any kind of customization, in that case, we change your map and itinerary for a better experience. Or else it’s a normal one, which can be seen below.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Detailed Itinerary in May
The Manaslu Circuit Trek detailed itinerary is the same for every season as well. You will be starting from Macha Khola and ending in Darapani. The itinerary goes like this:
Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu (1,400m)
Namaste! You’ll be greeted at Tribhuvan International Airport and transferred to your hotel—take it easy, soak in the vibe of this ancient city, and maybe explore the bustling streets of Thamel in the evening.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (930m)
It’s a long but scenic drive today as you leave the city behind and head toward the hills. Passing through riverside towns and lush countryside, you’ll finally reach the riverside village of Machha Khola, your first step into the remote Manaslu region.
Day 3: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340 m)
The trail follows the Budi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and passing through warm villages like Tatopani. As you reach Jagat, the trail officially enters the restricted Manaslu Conservation Area.
Day 4: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,860 m)
Walk through lush forests, terraced hillsides, and stone staircases as you climb higher into the mountains. You’ll cross several small villages and reach Deng, a cozy settlement with increasing Tibetan influence.
Day 5: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630 m)
Today’s route winds through dense pine forests and beautiful mani walls carved with Buddhist prayers. Namrung is a lovely village where you’ll catch your first jaw-dropping views of Manaslu and other snow-capped peaks.
Day 6: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3,180 m)
The air gets cooler as you head higher into the highlands. Lho is a traditional Tibetan village with a stunning monastery and epic views of Mt. Manaslu sunset here is pure magic.
Day 7: Trek from Lho to Samagaon (3,530 m)
You’ll pass through Shyala, surrounded by towering peaks on all sides—it feels like you’ve stepped into a painting. Samagaun is a beautiful mountain village nestled in a wide glacial valley, perfect for slowing down and soaking it all in.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon
Take it easy today to let your body adjust to the altitude. Explore the village, visit the serene Pungyen Gompa, or hike up toward Manaslu Base Camp if you’re feeling strong—either way, the views are unforgettable.
Day 9: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3,860 m)
Today is a shorter trek with wide-open alpine scenery and distant peaks lining the horizon. Samdo is a windswept village close to the Tibetan border, rich in culture and calm mountain vibes.
Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460 m)
A steep but steady climb takes you to Dharamsala, the last resting point before crossing the high pass. It’s a quiet spot surrounded by big skies and the sound of the wind brushing through the mountains.
Day 11: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m) and Trek to Bimthang (3,720 m)
Today’s the big day! You’ll start early, cross the dramatic Larkya La Pass with jaw-dropping views of Himlung and Annapurna II, then descend into the beautiful valley of Bimthang—a long but incredibly rewarding day.
Day 12: Trek from Bimthang to Tilije (2,300 m)
As you descend, the landscape turns greener and more lush—rhododendron forests, waterfalls, and peaceful meadows greet you. Tilije is a charming Gurung village where you can finally catch your breath after the high pass.
Day 13: Trek from Tilije to Dharapani (1,860 m)
The trail continues downhill through rice fields and friendly settlements until you reach Dharapani. This is where the Manaslu Circuit meets the Annapurna Circuit—and where your trek officially ends.
Day 14: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu—9 to 10 hours
Say goodbye to the mountains as you drive back through Besisahar and along scenic riversides to return to Kathmandu. It’s the perfect time to scroll through your photos and reflect on the wild beauty you just experienced.
Day 15: Departure Day
Your Himalayan journey comes to an end. Depending on your flight time, you can do some last-minute souvenir shopping or simply relax before your airport transfer.
Why not trek the Manaslu Circuit in May?
As May is the peak season for the Manaslu circuit trek, there are still some things to consider, like it being the pre-monsoon month in Nepal, making it the risk of rainfall and leeches and bugs over the trails in case of rain. The afternoons may become cloudy in the higher regions. The higher altitudes temperature may be decreased till in the minus. Due to the unpredictable rains, the trails may be slippery, and water streams may overflow, making it difficult to trek. The tea houses may be colder in the higher altitudes. The tea houses need to book in advance for safe trekking, as peak seasons result in less availability of accommodations.
Read our previous blog on topic: Manaslu Circuit Trek in January
Read our previous blog on topic: Manaslu Circuit Trek in February
Read our previous blog on topic: Manaslu Circuit Trek in March
Read our previous blog on topic: Manaslu Circuit Trek in April
Tags: Hiking, larkya la pass, manaslu, manaslu circuit trek, nepal, region, trekking
