The Manaslu circuit trek in October is the most thrilling and adventurous time to trek. It is also the peak season in autumn. Thousands of trekkers come here to trek, and although it is a lesser-known trekking place in Nepal than Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, you will still find a good quality of trekkers on the trails. During October, the mighty Manaslu looks so beautiful and awesome and makes it a once-in-a-lifetime visit. The weather is clear, temperatures are moderate, everything is lush green, and the rivers are roaring in the background, which sounds like honey to the ears.
It is also the month of festivity. During this time, Nepal’s biggest festival, Dashain, is celebrated, which comes once a year, and the local families come from around the world to meet each other and celebrate. During the festival, they meet each other, eat and drink, play swing, and put tika on their foreheads, which is made up of rice, yogurt, and red color.
The elders give blessings to the youngsters, and if you are trekking during this season, then the locals will give you a chance to celebrate these festivals with them. They will treat you like their own families and celebrate, which will give you an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and learn about the local customs and traditions, due to which you will be learning new things, making it a perfect example of cultural exchange.
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Why trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek in October?
Trekking in the Manaslu Circuit during October is the perfect season for trekking, as during this time the weather and the trails are both in perfect condition. It is the month of festive making the trials fully on festival vibes. You will have an excellent opportunity to witness the majestic views of Mt. Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and Larke Peak itself.
The sunrise and sunset over the mountains are the perfect things to witness. As it is the month of color, you will witness the rhododendrons blooming all over the trails, making the forests lush green and dark red in color. During the month of October, the trails are safe, well-maintained, and perfect in condition. The rivers are silent and do not overflow, which makes it the perfect time to cross the rivers. You will also have excellent photography opportunities all over the trails. During this month there is also no risk of any kind of natural calamities. You will have a full-on spiritual vibe as you will pass via the Maniwalls, monasteries, and gumbas all over the trails.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Distance in October
The Manaslu circuit trek distance depends upon the terrain, trail conditions, trekking routes taken, and the starting and ending points you have selected. Generally, the Manaslu circuit trek is around 177 km, which is 110 miles, if the trekking starts from Jagat and ends in Dharapani in the Annapurna region of Nepal. You can see in the table below exactly what the numbers are for trekking along the villages.
| # | Route (From – To) | Distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Soti Khola to Machha Khola | 14 km | |
| 2 | Machha Khola to Jagat | 22 km | |
| 3 | Jagat to Deng | 20 km | Drive upto Jagat |
| 4 | Deng to Namrung | 19 km | |
| 5 | Namrung to Lho | 11 km | |
| 6 | Lho to Samagaun | 17 km | |
| 7 | Acclimatization at Samagaun | 3–8 km | Optional hikes |
| 8 | Samagaun to Samdo | 8 km | |
| 9 | Samdo to Dharmasala | 6.5 km | |
| 10 | Dharmasala to Bimthang (via Larkya La Pass) | 24 km | |
| 11 | Bimthang to Tilije | 26 km | |
| 12 | Tilije to Dharapani | 5 km |
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost for October
The Manaslu circuit trek in October is a little bit higher on the side, just like trekking in the Manaslu circuit trek in September, because the trails are open and it is the peak season. Ultimately, high demand results in high prices. The first and foremost cost for your trek is the Manaslu Restricted Area permits, as the region lies within the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is USD 100 for 1 week and after that 15 USD per day.
Other permits you will require are the Manaslu Conservation Area permit, which is USD 30 for 15 days, and the Annapurna Conservation Area permit, which is USD 30. Then you will need a guide who will cost you around USD 30 per day if he is a well-licensed guide and the region is at high altitudes.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Detailed
- Duration: 12 Days
- Best For: Adventure Seekers & Culture Lovers
- Includes: Transportation, Accommodation, Guide, TIMS & Permits
That’s why you will also need a porter who will carry your weights, and they might charge you around USD 30 to 40 per person with 25kg weight limits per person. If you start your trek from Jagat and reach there by public vehicle, then it might cost you around 10 USD per person. If you are using a privately rented vehicle like a car, Scorpio, or jeep, then it might cost you around 250 USD per vehicle, which can be later divided among your fellow trekkers.
The accommodation will cost you around 15 USD to 20 USD per day, depending upon the altitudes and places. The food costs are around 5 USD to 7 USD per plate. The gear rental might cost you around 10 USD per day, which needs to be carried from Kathmandu itself. You will also need travel insurance, which costs you around 100 USD for a trek, which must be bought by yourself from your home country. The total costs are around 1000 USD to 2000 USD, depending upon your preference.
Vehicle Cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in October
Vehicle cost for the Manaslu circuit trek in October will be a little more than in other seasons. If you are renting a vehicle, which is around 200 USD To 250 USD per vehicle, which will be the 4WD SUVs like Scorpio, Jeep, Creta, and Thar. Your return cost from Darapani to Kathmandu will also be the same price, which is USD 250.
You will have a comfortable drive from your hotel to Jagat, as the roads after Arughat are bumpy and uncomfortable if the proper vehicle is not chosen. However, if you are choosing the public vehicle for the trek, then it will cost you around 10 USD from Kathmandu to Sotikhola, and after that, you can start your trek. Also, your return cost will be around 10 USD per person from Dharapani to Kathmandu.
Why choose a private vehicle?
Taking a private rented vehicle to reach your trekking destinations is safe and comfortable. You will have more legroom and baggage space for your comfortable drive. Where public vehicles take around 10+ hours to reach you, you will reach your destination within 7 hours. You will also have a flexible arrival. It is cost-effective for the group’s trekkers.
Why not to take a private vehicle?
The first reason not to take a private vehicle is that it’s way too expensive, which is too much for solo trekkers. The public vehicles give you the raw adventure of the trek. You will meet the local people who will be sharing with you their day-to-day stories. You will have a more environment-friendly drive. Also, you will need to book in advance, as during the month of October the vehicles are mostly unavailable.
Additional Packing List for the Manaslu Circuit Trek During October
The packing list for the Manaslu circuit trek is the same as every season with some changes. Trekking in the Manaslu Circuit in January demands heavy, warm clothes while trekking in October demands lighter packing lists. You can check the Manaslu circuit trek packing lists for more details. However, you will need to carry other things like warmer clothes, good rain protection clothes, extra power and charging essentials, personal hygiene and health kits, snacks, energy boosters, sleeping essentials, and some extra packing list items like trekking poles, small dry bags, passport and permit copies, and many more.
What is the Weather Conditions for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in October?
The weather conditions of the Manaslu circuit in October are moderate, as this is the only peak time for trekking here. October is the month of the stable weather. Days are warmer and moderate; sometimes slow winds blow, and the visibility is also in good amounts, making it ideal for trekking. The days are long and the nights are short, which lets you explore the region in more time.
Day temperature in the Manaslu Circuit
The daytime is stable, and the weather is clear. There are no rays or clouds. The temperature lies between lower altitudes (Soti Khola to Namrung, 700 m–2,600 m), 15°C–20°C (59°F–68°F) during the day Warm and humid, especially early in the trek, Mid-altitudes (Lho to Samagaon, 3,000 m–3,500 m), 10°C–14°C (50°F–57°F) during the day, Crisp and cool, great for trekking, High altitudes (Dharamsala to Larkya La Pass, 4,000m+), 5°C–8°C (41°F–46°F) in the day, Cold and windy, but still sunny and manageable with layers
The night temperature in the Manaslu Circuit
The night temperatures are also moderate. The nights can be a little colder than the daytime. The weather fluctuates like lower altitudes (Soti Khola to Jagat), 8°C–12°C (46°F–54°F) at night, Light fleece or a sleeping bag is sufficient, Mid-altitudes (Lho to Samdo) 0°C–5°C (32°F–41°F) at night, Expect chilly evenings; you’ll need a warm sleeping bag, High camps (Dharamsala/Larkya Phedi), -5°C to -8°C (23°F–17°F) or even lower on cold nights, Bring a sleeping bag rated for at least -10°C and warm layers.
However, the temperatures are minimum and maximum. The temperature always fluctuates according to the time. So, don’t forget to check the weather conditions live forecast from the weather forecast channel.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Map for October
The Manaslu Circuit trek map for October is the same for all the seasons. As this is a moderate time, we will start our trek from Jagat and end in Tiliche, according to the Adventure Vision Treks itinerary. You can check the map below for the routes and stops during the trek.
Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days Detailed Itinerary for October
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu Valley (1,354m)
You arrive in the heart of Nepal, where ancient temples, bustling markets, and the smell of incense welcome you warmly. The mountains wait in the distance as your adventure begins amidst the chaos and charm of Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,300m)
Leaving the city behind, you journey through terraced fields, waterfalls, and winding roads toward Jagat, a tranquil village by the Budhi Gandaki River. The change in air and pace signals the start of something extraordinary.
Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Nyak (2,300m)
Your boots touch the trail for the first time, climbing stone steps, passing quaint villages, and crossing thrilling suspension bridges. By the time you reach Nyak, the forest grows denser and the silence deeper.
Day 4: Trek from Nyak to Namrung (2,659m)
With every turn, mani walls and fluttering prayer flags guide you through rhododendron forests and alpine air. Namrung appears like a hidden world, offering your first glimpses of the mighty Himalayas.
Day 5: Trek from Namrung to Syalla (3,520m)
Snow-capped peaks begin to crown the horizon as the trail leads you through barley fields and peaceful monasteries. Syalla, perched high and quiet, greets you with a wide Himalayan panorama.
Day 6: Trek from Syalla to Sama Gaun (3,530m)
As you walk through vast valleys and yak pastures, the mighty Manaslu grows ever closer. Sama Gaun, rich in Tibetan culture, invites you to pause and breathe in its sacred silence.
Day 7: Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo (3,874m)
The trail narrows as you follow ancient trade routes once used by caravans from Tibet. Samdo, sitting beneath towering cliffs, is your last village before the high pass.
Day 8: Trek from Samdo to Dharamshala (4,459m)
Today, the landscape becomes stark and wind-swept as you climb toward your highest camp. Dharamshala, a simple outpost surrounded by glaciers, prepares you for tomorrow’s crossing.
Day 9: Trek from Dharamshala to Bhimtang via Larkya La Pass (5,106m)
In the early hours, you begin your ascent across snow and stone to the majestic Larkya La Pass, where the world opens up in breathtaking silence. The descent to Bhimtang feels dreamlike, surrounded by towering ice walls and alpine lakes.
Day 10: Trek from Bhimtang to Tilche (2,300m)
Forests return as you descend, each step softer and greener than the last. Tilche greets you with apple orchards and warm hospitality, a gentle contrast to the wild days behind you.
Day 11: Drive from Tilche to Kathmandu (1,350m)
The winding road takes you from the remote mountains back to the vibrant capital, where dust and devotion blend in every street. With your heart full and legs weary, you return as someone forever changed.
Day 12: Departure
As your plane soars above the Himalayas, you glance back one last time at the peaks that tested and transformed you. The Manaslu Circuit may end, but its story lives on within you.
Why Not Trek the Manaslu Circuit in October?
While trekking the Manaslu circuit trek in September is the best thing you can do, there are some things that you need to keep in mind before starting your trek. The crowds will be on the higher side, making it difficult to get the available accommodations and tea houses. For that reason, you will need to book the tea house in advance via call or email.
The trekking costs will also be higher compared to other seasons. There might be a little more crowd by the locals as well as this festive season, which makes every family member in the house itself. The teahouses are overloaded by the crowds, so you might not get a single room, and you will need to share with the other trekkers. You will also have a permit rush as every person will be on the line to get the permits. Due to the cultural events, you may see a rush between locals and trekkers. There will be a higher amount of dust and winds in the higher phases like Larkya La Pass. If you think october is not possible check our Manaslu Circuit Trek in September, Manaslu Circuit Trek in November packages which can be suitable for your journey in Manaslu region trekking.
Tags: larkya la pass trek, manaslu, manaslu circuit trek, nepal