March trekking the Manaslu Circuit offers life-changing experiences, breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and adrenaline beyond description.
One of the best treks in Nepal is the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The best trekking area is the Manaslu region, which is renowned for its preservation and camaraderie.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a serene, unspoiled, and breathtaking experience because it receives relatively few people.
The spring season, which begins in March, is a time for fresh starts.
You can see the vibrant rhododendron blooms in bloom during this month, especially on the paths’ lower elevations. The earth seemed to be alive once more.
In the trekking area, the weather is quite consistent during this month. At lower heights, the temperature is about right—it’s never too hot or too cold.
You’ll also enjoy excellent visibility and the most breathtaking vistas of the mountains. High altitude glacier lakes and intriguing flora and wildlife are further features of this hike.
It is a special fusion of adventure and a rich cultural past. The kindness and deference shown by the local people make the vacation quite enjoyable and unforgettable.
The Larkya La Pass, one of the most stunning and difficult passes on the route, is the highest point.
On the other hand, picking appropriate weather will provide a smooth and comfortable trekking trip. It will protect you from a variety of weather-related problems to some extent.
Highlights of Trekking to Manaslu in March
- The purest view of the snow-capped peaks, encompassing 8,118 meters (26634 feet) of Mt. Manaslu
- Gorgeous rhododendrons stretching from Deng to Shyala
more consistent weather - chilly temps and sunny, pleasant days
- customs and way of life in traditional villages
- Tibetan customs and the Larkya La mountain pass (5106 meters, or 16752 feet)
- Saunter along the Marsyangdi, one of Nepal’s longest rivers, and take in the hot springs and waterfalls.
Weather info for doing Manaslu Circuit Trek in March
For those who wish to take in the most peace and beauty from the path, March is a terrific month. Trekking is ideal because of the mild temperatures and clear days.
At the greater altitude, the temperature rises further to a refreshing 2–8 degrees Celsius. On the other hand, the lower altitude experiences warm days and clear blue skies. Wearing only a t-shirt and shorts will allow you to enjoy the walks.
In addition, frozen lakes start to thaw during this period. New blooms sprout, streams start to fill.
Because of this, this month gives a gorgeous perspective of the outdoors that will enable you to take some incredible photos.
The best thing about the season is that it’s the safest to go trekking of all the seasons. The likelihood of avalanches, landslides, snowstorms, and other climate-related disasters is quite low.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty
The best time to hike the Manaslu Circuit Trek is around March. Half of the trekking trip is made easy by the favorable weather.
But in the highlands, the weather is erratic. Therefore, it’s crucial that you familiarize yourself with the weather prediction before to the hike. Furthermore, as height rises, the temperature decreases.
Altitude is another issue that comes into play as you ascend, in addition to the weather. The Manaslu Circuit hike ascends 5106 meters (16752 feet) at Larkya La Pass from a mere 700 meters at Soti Khola.
As a result, you run the danger of altitude sickness and will walk for roughly 6 to 8 hours per day. Walking becomes more challenging at high altitudes because of the altitude.
It is crucial that you emotionally and physically prepare for this. You should strengthen your endurance because you’ll be walking on uneven ground and up and down hills.
You can exercise your strength and endurance by jogging, hiking with a light bag, climbing stairs, and other activities.
View the whole guide on the difficulty of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Food and Accommodation
The spring season begins in March, while the winter season ends at the same time. Locals in this area gradually come back after spending the winter in a climate that is more tolerant.
The majority of the tea houses and lodges that were shuttered throughout the dead of winter begin to reopen. You won’t experience any issues with lodging or food as a result.
Twin sharing is the standard of lodging in the tea houses. You can ask to remain single if that’s what you desire. However, you will have to pay the full room rate for that. It can also be a little challenging to secure a room to yourself in March because the month attracts more travelers.
You will find all the necessities at the teahouse, including a bed, pillow, and blanket. Additionally, you will share a restroom. In terms of food, these tea places serve them. Dal Bhat is the most common dish you’ll find.
Also, continental fare like spaghetti, sandwiches, and pizza will be served to you. Please be aware, though, that they will not taste anything like the ones you get at home or in the city. They serve solely to stifle your appetite.
Try the hot soup noodles from the area, which come in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian varieties, on chilly nights.
Solo Trek
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is now not feasible without a guide since the Nepali government requires permits to be obtained from an authorized trekking organization. You must hike with a companion or in a group. And you need to employ a guide.
In addition, the paths lack proper signage. The book will assist you in navigating through discussions and emergency situations.
It will be an excellent resource that goes beyond what you will learn from the book to have a guide.
The guide is knowledgeable about all the locations you will see because he has experience in this sector of trekking. He can therefore discuss their significance and highlights with you.
Therefore, hiring a guide will greatly enhance the enjoyment of your trip. A guide can be hired for $35 to $40 USD each day.
Do you offer group joining options for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2024 or 2025?
We at Sherpa Expedition and Trekking plan Manaslu Circuit Trek group excursions. You are welcome to depart on one of our scheduled dates in 2024 or 2025. If you would like more information, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Recommended Itinerary for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in March
Day 1 : Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (7,30m/2,896ft) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Day 2 : Trek from Soti Khola to Khorla Bensi (9,70m/ 31,82ft) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 3 : Khorla Bensi to Philim (1,590m/5,217ft) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 4 : Philim to Ghab (2,250m/7,382ft) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 5 : Ghap to Lho (3180m/10433ft) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 6 : Lho to Samagaun (3,530m/11,581 ft) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 7 : Rest day in Samagaon (3,530m)
Day 8 : Samagaun to Samdo (3,875m/12,713ft) Duration: 3-4 hours.
Day 9 : Samdo to Dharamsala (4,480m/14,698ft) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 10 : Dharamsala to Bhimtang (3720m/12205ft) via crossing Larkya la Pass (5,160m/16929ft) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Day 11 : Bhimtang to Dharapani (1910m/6266ft) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 12 : Drive From Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisahar (7,60m/2493ft) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Trekking Permits
Since Manaslu is a special zone, obtaining a limited permit is required in order to trek in this area. Therefore, you require many permits, which are
Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Restricted Area Permit
Project for the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)
The price of a restricted area permit is less in March than it is in September, October, and November.
For the first week, you will receive a permit for USD 100 per person. After the first seven days, you must pay an additional USD 7 per person per day. In comparison to the other months indicated above, this indicates that you save USD 20.
For SAARC nationals, the cost of MCAP is 1000 Nepali rupees; for other nations, it is Rs 3000 or USD 30.
Furthermore, the fee of ACAP is Rs. 1000 for SAARC citizens and Rs. 3000 or USD 30 for non-SAARC citizens.
These permits are available through authorized trekking agencies or directly from the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu.
Packing Tips for March
To have a comfortable and easy trekking trip, packing carefully is essential. The Manaslu Trek requires a variety of equipment. The quality of your equipment also affects how much of a trek you have.
You have the option to acquire the equipment in Nepal or at your hometown. Trekking equipment is sold at several shops in Nepal. Numerous national and international brands are available. If you’d like, you can also rent them.
March offers excellent weather for trekking, unlike other hard months. Compared to the winter, when you must pack heavily to stay warm, it is easy to pack.
March will be a warm month with gradually dropping temperatures as you go higher altitudes. So, the best course of action is to wear in layers. You will be able to dress and undress in accordance with the circumstances if you do this.
When traveling to higher altitudes, remember to pack one sleeping bag for chilly evenings and mornings. An adequate and robust pair of trekking boots is essential as they have the power to make or ruin your hiking adventure. Steer clear of bulky boots.
Additionally, bear in mind that no bag should weigh more than 20 kg. Carrying a lot can be very taxing, so this might be for you and the porter.
Some useful tips for Manaslu Circuit Trek in March
- Prior to the hike, always check the weather and adjust your packing.
- March is the busiest month, therefore it’s crucial to reserve your hike in advance.
- It’s always helpful to have done some preliminary work, such as physical training, before the expedition.
- For a more enjoyable and comfortable trekking trip, hire a porter and guide.
- Do not hurry; instead, walk at your own speed.
- To stay hydrated and lower your chance of altitude sickness, drink lots of water.
- Don’t take alcohol when hiking. Dehydration will result from this.
- In March, the sun can get extremely hot during the day. To protect your skin and eyes, use sunglasses and a high SPF sunscreen.
- Please always contact the guide or the team leader for assistance in the event of an emergency or acute mountain sickness.
- A buffer day should be kept in case of unforeseen circumstances or delays.
Conclusion
The most highly recommended trip in March is the 12 Days Manaslu Circuit trek. There are breathtaking, unobstructed views of the mountains and lovely weather.
Furthermore, the Manaslu Circuit trip is the ideal choice if you’re a hiker seeking seclusion and natural surroundings.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any more questions or concerns. We are happy to use our expertise to advise and support you.
