Manaslu Trek in March is a magical time to explore the majestic ambiance of th west-central Himalayan region. During this initial month of the spring season, there is a perfect balance between nature’s raw beauty and the gentle awakening of the spring as the snow slowly withers away, nourishing the landscapes. Trekking Manaslu in March is a dynamic experience as you follow the journey through snow-covered passes, vibrant rhododendron forest and ancient settlements infused with Tibetan culture, admiring the charms of the winter-to-spring transformation.
The weather of March further adds excitement to the trip as clear skies reward the trekkers with a stunning panorama of the iconic peaks such as Manaslu, Kang Guru, Annapurna, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Ganesh Himal and many more. Similarly, the serenity of the quieter trails that the Manaslu region in known for adds a sense of tranquility in one of the peak seasons’ climates. Likewise, the remote welcoming villages deeply connected to the mountain and beautiful cultural celebrations offer a glimpse into the way of the Himalayan lifestyle.
Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-time explorer Manaslu Trekking in March is a perfect time to discover the charm of this hidden gem in the Himalayas. The unique and less crowded Himalayan experience this journey promises a journey that will linger long after you have descended from the mountains.
Highlights of Trekking in March
Clear Skies and Stunning Mountain Views
Spring is one of the most ideal seasons for high-altitude trekking in Nepal. Due to stable climatic conditions, days are accompanied by crystal clear skies and you will be able to enjoy the stunning Himalayan panorama across the trail. During March, the initial month of the spring season, the weather starts clearly out and you will be able to soak in the majestic Himalayan ambiance without any obstructions.
Manaslu Circuit Trek in March is well-known for the fresh and crisp views of the iconic peaks such as Manaslu, Kang Guru, Annapurna, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Nemjung, Ganesh Himal and other surrounding peaks. You will be able to admire the majestic peaks of the central Himalayas as you move along the off-beaten trails of the Manaslu region.
Blooming Rhododendrons and Spring Flora
Spring season awakens the landscape after a long winter slumber. By March, the lower trails are in full bloom. You will have the chance to walk through the flower corridors and lush Himalayan landscape during this point. Specially, the dotted rhododendron flowers of pink, white and red make the landscape enchanting.
Thus, walking across the diverse landscape of the country and soaking in the peak beauty of nature is undoubtedly a magical experience. If you are a nature enthusiast, you definitely cannot miss on the exploration of the Himalayan flora and fauna in their full glory during this point of the year.
Moderate Weather Conditions for Trekking
Spring is a warmer season that takes place before the summer waves start. So, during the latter part of the season, temperatures start to rise gradually. However, during the Manaslu Circuit Trek in March, which is a transitioning month from the winter phase, you will be able to enjoy your trekking adventures under moderate climatic conditions.
The temperature of the Manaslu region is normally warmer during this month. This means you will be able to explore the mountain terrain under perfect temperatures, neither too cold nor too hot. Similarly, the evenings and mornings are chilly and fresh. This will make your long day of trekking feel refreshing and you don’t have to worry about excessive sweating under the scorching sun.
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Fewer Crowds Compared to Peak Seasons
Although the spring season is a major peak trekking season in the country, the trekking crowd during March tends to be thin. This is majorly due to the cold climatic conditions at the higher part of the trails. If winter overstays its invitation, the temperatures neat and above the alpine zone can be a little chilly during the morning and night.
But, if you pack the right layers for your Manaslu Trek in March, you will be able to secure a tranquil experience on the less crowded trails. Thus, you will be able to take your time with highlight exploration to truly soak in the experience and trek at your own pace without worrying about the crowds.
Opportunities for Cultural Immersion in Local Villages
Manaslu region isn’t part of the mainstream trail in the Himalayas. That’s why, unlike other major trekking destinations, this route doesn’t receive a large number of trekkers. So, you will be able to enjoy immense cultural exposure on the trails during your March exploration. And the best part of it is that you will be able to enjoy this cultural immersion during the peak trekking point.
March is also the core period for some of the most incredible cultural celebrations in the country. During your Manaslu trekking in March, you will be able to witness beautiful festivals such as Maha Shivaratri, Holi, Chaitra Dashain and Gyalpo Lhosar.
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Weather and Climate in March
During the month of March, the daytime temperatures stay on the pleasant side. The temperatures will average between 10°C to 12°C during the day. It’s the perfect temperature for long hours of outdoor adventure. However, as the winter still has its mark on the higher part of the trails, it can be a bit chilly. Especially during the mornings and evenings, the temperatures are on the lower side in the higher regions.
They can also drop upto -8°C at night. So, it is best to be prepared for minus-degree temperatures at the higher part of the trails. Similarly, during the early part of the month, there is the possibility of light snowfall and snow on the trail of Larkya La Pass. However, if snowfall happens, it is light and doesn’t hinder the experience like the blockage of the winter season.
Trekking Experience in March
Trekking Manaslu Circuit in March can be a wonderful experience. As this month is part of the peak trekking season, the trails are well-maintained and properly marked. Similarly, the teahouses and lodges across the marked trails are operational and well-prepared to tend to the needs of the travelers.
So, overall, the trekking experience is quite delightful during this point of the year. On top of that, the cultural experience adds more value to the experience. Doing Manaslu Trekking in March is also full of thrills as you get to enjoy the wintry scenery of the gradually melting landscape in the higher regions. The highest point of this trek, Larkya La Pass (5,106m/ 16,752ft), still has remnants of the winter snow if you are trekking during the early part of the month.
Thus, it will be a winter-like experience traversing across snow and admiring the views of the towering peaks. It is also a wonderful time to witness some of the lesser-known but equally fascinating festivals in the country, which will add a unique perspective to your journey. Manaslu Trek in March is a wonderful adventure that has a fascinating blend of natural, cultural and spiritual elements of the west-central part of the Himalayas.
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Recommended Itinerary
For a better understanding of what your Manaslu Trek in March will be like, here is an outline itinerary of the trek. This 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary follows the standard route and covers the trekking part only.
12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu (1,440m/ 4,724ft) to Machha Khola (850m/ 2,788ft): 8 to 9 hours
Day 02: Trekking from Machha Khola to Jagat (2,095m/ 4,395ft): 6 to 7 hours
Day 03: Jagat to Deng (1,860m/ 6,102ft): 7 to 8 hours
Day 04: Trekking from Deng to Namrung (2,660m/ 8,727ft): 5 to 6 hours
Day 05: Namrung to Lho (3,180m/ 10,433ft) trek: 4 hours
Day 06: Lho to Samagaon (3,520m/ 11,549ft): 5 hours
Day 07: Rest and exploration day at Samagaon
Day 08: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3,875m/ 12,713ft): 5 hours
Day 09: Samdo to Dharamsala (4,450m/ 14,596ft): 4 hours
Day 10: Dharamsala to Bimthang (3,720m/ 12,201ft) via Larkya La Pass (5,106m/ 16,752ft): 8 to 9 hours
Day 11: Trekking from Bimthang to Dharapani (1,860m/ 6,102ft): 7 to 8 hours
Day 12: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu (1,440m/ 4,724ft): 8 to 10 hours
Note: This is just a standard package for the trek; we also offer a complete customization option to suit your travel needs. You can also check our 15 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek, which is a fully guided adventure and takes care of all your itinerary plans.
Essential Preparation and Packing List
To pack for the Manaslu Trek in March you will need to consider the variation in temperatures at different altitudes. Even if this month is a part of the spring season, which is generally considered warmer, temperatures can drop to minus degrees at higher altitudes. So, make sure to pack comfortable clothes for the lower points and bring buff and insulated layers for the higher altitudes.
Besides flexible layers, you will also need comfortable boots to trek for longer hours. Bring sports shoes and slippers for a change of pace. Another major packing factor for this remote exploration is personal care and toiletries items. As their availability is limited on the mountain, make sure to have enough supply.
Finally, as for the trekking gear, you need to prioritize a sleeping bag, backpack, trekking pole, headlamp or torch, bottle, map and GPS, mini spikes, etc, which can come in really handy during your trip. Here is our recommended Manaslu Circuit Trek Packing List that you can take as a reference for your trip.
Permits and Regulations
For the Manaslu Trek in March, you will have to collect three key permits. This circuit trekking route of the eight highest peaks in the world actually takes you across two major conservation sections in the Himalayas. You will also need to cross a restricted area along the route. Thus, these three permits are mandatory requirements for the trek.
Permits Required for Manaslu Trek
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit— US$ 30
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit— US$ 30
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit— US$ 75 to US$ 100
The cost of both conservation area permits is consistent throughout the year. However, for the restricted area permit, you will have to pay US$ 100 for autumn exploration and US$ 75 for other seasons. These required permits for the Manaslu Trek can be applied for and received from the tourism board office in Kathmandu and its branches at Pokhara and Besisahar.
Note: Nepal Eco Adventure will collect these permits on your behalf. You will just need to submit the necessary documents to us, such as passport-sized photographs, scanned photographs and copies of a valid passport, insurance paper and Nepal tourist visa.
Accommodation and Food
The primary modes of accommodation in this isolated mountain trail are lodges and teahouses. The teahouses are the standard accommodating inclusion of the guided package. You will rest at comfortable teahouses that are managed and operated by mostly the natives of the region. These accommodating establishments offer comfortable beds, mattresses, pillows and blankets.
Rooms at the teahouses are private and have two to three beds per room with attached bathroom facilities. Lodges along the trail are more of a premium add-on for your trip, which offers an exclusive set of facilities. However, they are not available throughout the trekking route in this remote region. There is also the option of camping if you are looking for an outdoor experience. But, it can be slightly costly and you will have to request the agency managing your trek about it beforehand so the arrangements can be made efficiently.
Availability and Variety of Food
The food available at the teahouses on this remote trail is simple yet hearty. Teahouses mostly prepare a wide range of traditional delicacies and there are also selective international dishes that you can enjoy during the trek. Traditional food like Dal Bhat, Dhindo, Dunruk, Roti, Choiyala, Momo, Chowmein, Thukpa, Tsampa, Yak Steak, etc are very popular at the teahouses
Similarly, you will also be able to taste the international delicacies such as Pancake, Toast, Pizza, Pasta, Soup, Fries, Omelet, Burger, Cereals, etc are served at the teahouses. Most of the Nepali foods are traditionally vegetarian and there are also a limited number of vegan menus available at the teahouses. To enjoy the meal of your preference, you can also make personal requests to the chefs.
Challenges and Tips for March Trekking
Manaslu Trek is a thrilling remote Himalayan exploration that stretches across most isolated parts of the region. Although Manaslu Trek has been labeled as a moderately difficult journey, you will still need to be careful about the major challenging aspects of this off-beaten experience. Here are some potential challenges of the trek that you need to be careful about during your Manaslu Trek in March:
- Altitude Gain: Manaslu Trek is a high-altitude journey. You will traverse to major altitude points of the region during the trek and also cross the Himalayan Pass, Larkya La Pass (5,106m/ 16,752ft). Thus, if you underestimate the acclimatization factors, there are potential risks of your suffering from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) during this exploration.
- Trekking Distance: The Manaslu trek’s total trekking distance comes around to be about 177 km (110 miles). You will have to complete this trekking distance within the trekking span with an average of 5 to 6 hours of walking. Navigating way across the rugged and physically demanding trail of the mountain can be an exhausting experience for those who aren’t physically prepared for the journey.
- Remote Conditions: Unlike the mainstream routes, Manaslu is a remote region. The facilities available on this route are pretty standard. There are also regions along the trail where there is no good coverage of the network. So, you will have to prepare yourself for the remoteness factor of the trip to totally embrace it.
- Mountain Weather: The mountain weather can be really unpredictable, especially in at the higher parts of the Himalayan region. So even if you are doing this trek in March, you will have to be prepared for the potential weather-related obstacles during your trip.
Budget Breakdown for the Trek
The cost of the standard Manaslu Circuit Trek can range from around US$ 1,350 to US$ 1,900. This cost estimation is for the standard duration itinerary plans that last around 12 to 21 days. The cost of this iconic trekking experience is determined by numerous factors such as the overall duration of the trip, transport mode, food and accommodation standard, side detours around the region, sightseeing and other amenities.
So, before jumping the gun for the package that seems cheaper on the market price standard, you need to understand the cost inclusion aspects. Also, make sure there aren‘t any kind of hidden charges for the package. You should consider the value, comfort and exceptional guidance over the price for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Nepal Eco Adventure is offering the standard 12 Days Manaslu circuit Trek package at just US$ 1,400 per person so you can enjoy this iconic trek without breaking the bank.
Our trekking package will cover the expenses such as meals and accommodation throughout the trip, private jeep transport, licensed guide, strong porter, medical supplies, necessary permit for the trek, government tax and our official service charge. We also provide down jackets, trekking poles and sleeping bags for the trekkers who need it. You will have to return these items after the trek and pay just US$ 10 for the cleaning and maintenance of these trekking gear.
Practical Tips for Manaslu Trek in March
- Make necessary physical preparation for the trek considering the recommended time frame (3 to 6 weeks for this trek)
- Carry necessary clothes and gear to deal with the climate variation across the route
- Start your trekking adventure early in the morning to make the most out of the daylight hour and avoid the afternoon high winds
- Prepare yourself for the light snow on the trail at the higher part of the trails (especially at the Larkya La Pass)
- Don’t underestimate altitude sickness and be vigilant for its symptoms
- Eat a healthy nutritious diet and stay hydrated during the trek
- Using trekking poles for the trek, it adds a stability factor while navigating the rugged mountain terrain and also reduces the strain on the joints
- Do proper budgeting and bring sufficient cash for the trek; there aren’t ATM facilities available on the mountain and credit cards are not acceptable at the remote regions
- Stay positive and flexible; it helps you to adapt and enjoy the trekking experience
