Manaslu Circuit Trek in December

The Manaslu Circuit Trek in December is the best time to trek if you are fond of trekking in snowfall, witnessing the majestic mountains, and playing in the snow. During December, everywhere the environment is harsh and cold, with strong cold winds blowing, and the region is filled with snow, making it a white snow wonderland. During December, the temperature is usually in the minus, the teahouses in the higher altitudes are closed, and the locals migrate to the lower altitudes like Macha Khola, Soti Khola, and Jagat. The wind is crisp, and the winter makes the mountains look even more beautiful and snowcapped.

The sunrise over the mountains is a dream that turns the first light as it spills gently over the majestic peaks, turning the snow-capped mountains into shades of soft pink, gold, and fiery orange, which is a once-in-a-lifetime moment to witness. During this time the trails feel peaceful and untouched, where there is silence, making it perfect for you to explore yourself in your inner soul.

During this, the villages at higher altitudes have low populations, as the harsh weather and the nights are freezing. You will also witness the wildlife of animals like snow leopards, bears, and other animals that are in the habitat of the higher altitudes. The trees are typically with no leaves, and you will see everywhere and everything snowy white.

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Why trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek in December?

There are many reasons to trek in the Manaslu circuit in December because it is the month of winter, due to which the trail is empty and silent. The quieter environment helps you connect with your inner soul and explore the raw beauty of nature and the Himalayas. The skies are often clear, which gives the perfect views of the mountain peaks.

The trails convert into snow wonderlands. The waterfalls and river streams are frozen, and the forests are covered in white dust. The Larkya La Pass is covered with heavy snow. You will feel the authentic village life of the trek. When staying in the teahouses, you will feel the warm, cozy vibe of the teahouses and the locals.

Also Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek in February

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Distance in December

Manaslu Circuit trekking distance in December may be longer or shorter due to the weather conditions and trail blockage. The normal trekking distance is 177 km, which is 110 miles, considering starting from Jagat and ending in Dharapani. However, trekking in the Manaslu during December can make your trekking distance more than 200km sometimes or sometimes less, depending upon the snowfall. However, sometimes, if you are not able to cross Larke La Pass, you can trek down and trek the other trekking routes of the Manaslu region, like Tsum Valley.

You will be walking daily for 6 to 8 hours, depending, and the distance will be 10 to 15km each day, sometimes 20km as well. The normal itinerary for the Manaslu circuit trek is 11 to 14 days; however, for trekking in December, the itinerary can start from 15 days to 20 days. As it’s cold there, it’s important to acclimate and listen to your body during the trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost in December

The Manaslu Circuit trek cost in December is usually lower than the other seasons, as it’s the off-season and everything is affordable, from the teahouses to the transportation. The permit costs are also lower on the side due to the off-season. The guides and porters also charge less during this season. The cost for the permits is 100 USD for 1 week, which is 15 USD per day, which is a Restricted Area Permit.

The Manaslu Conservation Area permit (MCAP ) is 30 USD, and the Annapurna Conservation Area project (ACAP) is 30 USD. ACAP is also used for the Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Muktinath Trek, tours, and all the other treks in the region. If you have taken the Restricted Area Permit (RAP)then you will not need the permit, which is the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card.

The cost for the accommodation is 5 USD to 7 USD per day with dinner. The food costs are also from 3 USD to 5 USD during this time. The guide will charge you 20 USD to 25 USD per day; the same goes with the porter as well. The transportation costs are also 10/10 USD from Kathmandu and to Kathmandu.

Have a read: Manaslu Circuit Trek in April

Vehicle cost for the Manaslu Circuit trek in December

Vehicle cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in December is usually lower than in the other seasons. Public and private vehicles offer cheaper prices. If you are going for the trek, then the public vehicle, which starts from the New Bus Park and Gangabu Bus Park, will usually cost you around 8 USD per person. The same goes for the return as well, which is from Dharapani, Tiliche, and Besi Sahar, which is the gateway to Manang; the cost is around 8 USD only.

If you are taking a private vehicle from Kathmandu to the starting point, then it will cost you around 150 to 180 USD. Per vehicle. It’s to reach the starting point. If you return by private vehicle, then again you will need to pay 150 USD to 180 USD. If you are booking a private vehicle from us, we have a special discount for the trekkers.

Also Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek in May

Why should you rent a private vehicle to get to Manaslu Circuit?

There are many reasons to rent a private vehicle for the Manaslu circuit. As it is the month of December, the weather is cold and freezing, so if you take a public vehicle, then you may not be able to travel in comfort. The buses and jeeps are also not so cozy, which makes the travel cold and uncomfortable, and there will be lots of local people. But if you are taking a private vehicle to the starting point of the trek, then you can travel with comfort and coziness.

Packing list for Manaslu Circuit Trek in December

The packing list for the Manaslu circuit trek in December is usually different from the peak seasons. During the summer you can pack lightly, which will be enough, but to deal with the cold and freezing bite, you will need an additional packing list that goes like this:

Clothing

• Base Layers (thermal top & bottom)—2 sets (preferably merino wool)
• Fleece jacket or warm mid-layer
• Down Jacket (heavy, for sub-zero temperatures)
• Waterproof/Windproof Shell Jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
• Trekking Pants—2 pairs (one fleece-lined for cold days)
• Waterproof Pants (for snow and rain)
• Insulated gloves + liner gloves
• Warm Hat (that covers your ears)
• Neck Gaiter or Buff
• Sun Hat or Cap (for lower, sunny parts)
• Trekking Socks—4-5 pairs (plus 1-2 thick wool socks)
• Innerwear (enough for the trek; quick-dry is better)

Footwear

• High-quality trekking boots (insulated, waterproof, well broken-in)
• Camp Shoes (for evenings at tea houses)
• Gaiters (to keep snow out of boots)

Trekking Gears

• Backpack (40-60 L with rain cover)
• Daypack (small for essentials)
• Sleeping Bag (rated -15°C or lower)
• Trekking Poles (very helpful on snowy trails)
• Headlamp (with extra batteries)
• Water bottles (insulated) + water purification tablets
• Microspikes (for icy sections)
• Sunglasses (UV protection, glacier quality)

Personal Items

• Power Bank (solar charger if possible)
• Dry Bags (to keep gear dry)
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Lip Balm (SPF 30+)
• Moisturizer (skin dries out fast)
• Personal Hygiene Kit (toothbrush, wet wipes, hand sanitizer)
• Quick-dry Towel
• Small first aid kit (including altitude sickness meds and blister plasters)
• Snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolates)

Documents

• Passport + Manaslu permits (MCAP, ACAP, TIMS, special restricted permit)
• Travel Insurance (must cover high-altitude trekking and evacuation)

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Weather Conditions during the Manaslu Circuit Trek in December

Weather conditions during the Manaslu circuit trek in December are cold and harsh. The days are clear, but the winds are freezing. When the sun hits the snow and it reflects, then you might feel hot and sweaty. But the nights are very windy and snowy. The temperatures are on the lower side; the days are from 0 to 5°C, and the nights are in the minus. You can see the chart below.

Location	Altitude	Daytime Temperature	Nighttime Temperature	Weather Conditions
Soti Khola	700 m	10°C to 15°C	0°C to 5°C	Mild, cool mornings
Deng	1,800 m	7°C to 12°C	-2°C to 3°C	Chilly mornings/evenings
Namrung	2,630 m	4°C to 8°C	-5°C to 0°C	Crisp air, clear skies
Lho	3,180 m	0°C to 5°C	-8°C to -2°C	Cold, snow possible
Samagaun	3,530 m	-2°C to 4°C	-10°C to -5°C	Frequent snowfall
Dharmasala (High Camp)	4,460 m	-6°C to 0°C	-15°C to -10°C	Very cold, snow likely
Larkya La Pass	5,106 m	-8°C to -2°C	-20°C or lower	Extreme cold, heavy snow

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Manaslu Circuit Trek Map in December

The Manaslu Circuit trek map in December is essential, and you will need a good direction map to have rough ideas for the places to not get lost. You can see our detailed map, which explains every point of the trek starting from Macha Khola, Jagat, Deng, and Namrung to Larkya La Pass to Dharapani. Remember these maps are for the rough ideas of the place. If you are confused with the routes while trekking, you can ask the locals or trekkers you see on the trails.

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Manaslu Circuit Trek detailed itinerary: 14 days for December.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

The bustling streets of Kathmandu welcome us with vibrant energy and warm smiles. After checking into the hotel, we relax and later enjoy a delicious welcome dinner to kickstart the adventure.

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,340m)

We leave the city behind, winding through hills and valleys on an eight-hour scenic drive to Jagat. The fresh mountain air and countryside views hint at the adventure ahead.

Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,860m)

Our trek begins with a journey through lush forests, terraced fields, and small villages. The rhythmic sound of the Budi Gandaki River keeps us company until we reach the peaceful village of Deng.

Day 4: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,660m)

We climb steadily today, crossing swinging suspension bridges and passing colorful mani walls along the trail. Namrung greets us with its traditional Tibetan-influenced culture and stunning views of the mountains.

Day 5: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3,180m)

The trail opens up to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks as we hike through forests and stone villages. In Lho, we find ourselves surrounded by ancient monasteries and the towering Mount Manaslu.

Day 6: Trek from Lho to Samagaun (3,520m)

A gentle walk through pine forests and open pastures leads us closer to the heart of the mountains. Samagaun, a picturesque village nestled under towering peaks, becomes our home for the night.

Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Samagaun

Today we rest and explore, allowing our bodies to adjust to the growing altitude. A short hike to nearby viewpoints rewards us with breathtaking views of Manaslu and the surrounding glaciers. You can also trek to Manaslu Base Camp which is just a hour hike.

Day 8: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3,875m)

We ascend gradually through yak pastures and cross wooden bridges toward the remote settlement of Samdo. The stark beauty of the barren landscape feels almost otherworldly.

Day 9: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460m)

Today’s trail leads us closer to the base of the mighty Larkya La Pass. We reach Dharamsala, a simple high camp where we rest early in preparation for tomorrow’s big crossing.

Day 10: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m), trek to Bimthang (3,720m)

In the early morning light, we begin the tough yet rewarding climb to Larkya La Pass, surrounded by vast snowy vistas. After savoring the triumph at the summit, we descend carefully to the green valley of Bimthang.

Day 11: Trek from Bimthang to Tilije (2,300m)

We descend through misty rhododendron forests and follow glacial streams as the air grows warmer. The lively village of Tilije welcomes us back to gentler elevations with its vibrant farmlands.

Day 12: Trek from Tilije to Dharapani (1,963m)

Our final trekking day is a peaceful stroll through charming villages and thick forests. In Dharapani, we celebrate the successful completion of the trek with well-earned rest.

Day 13: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu

We embark on a long, scenic drive, passing rivers, cliffs, and terraced fields before the city lights of Kathmandu reappear. Back in the capital, we reflect on our incredible journey through the wild heart of Nepal.

Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu

Our adventure concludes as we say farewell to the magical land of mountains and monasteries. With hearts full of memories, we head to the airport for our onward journey.

Note: This is just the online itinerary, and the itinerary may change according to the road and weather conditions and acclimatization as well.

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Why not trek the Manaslu Circuit in December?

Trekking in the Manaslu circuit in December is good for trekkers who are looking for well-established trekking routes with affordable prices. However, trekking in December has some drawbacks, like there will be a higher chance of altitude sickness and frostbite. The trail is empty, and the teahouses in the higher altitudes are closed due to the snowfall. In case of emergency, you may not get the emergency evacuations due to the weather.

You may need to acclimate more and change your trekking routes in case of heavy snowfall. You will see white everywhere, so if you have a fear of white, which is Leukophobia, then it is not suggested. If you are trekking, you will need good packing lists with higher-gear equipment to cross safely.

Check our Manaslu Circuit Trek in November if you need less snow and less cold, and Manaslu Circuit Trek In January if you want to explore Manaslu with more snow covered then December.

Tags: larkya la pass, manaslu circuit trek, manaslu region, nepal