Manaslu Circuit Trek in November

November is an autumn month, which is considered one of the best times to embark on the remote exploration of the high-altitude Manaslu region. It is the most beautiful phase of autumn, far from the monsoon rain and still several weeks away from the full-fledged winter. November is one of the driest times of the year, perfect for soothing, smooth, and remarkable Himalayan adventures. You can find clear blue skies during this time, which adds magnificence to the majestic vistas of the mountains. The chill and fresh breezes contribute to making each day’s journey truly refreshing and enjoyable. With mild temperatures and low precipitation, it’s an ideal time to create delightful memories of your Himalayan odyssey.

The weather is stable and clean in November, allowing the Himalayas to appear transparent. While encircling the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Manaslu (8,163 meters/26,781 feet), via Manaslu Circuit trails, you can marvel at the unobstructed views of the mountains. The snow-clad peaks such as Manaslu, Himchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Ganesh Himal, Nemjung, Gyanji Kang, and Kang Guru, and many other neighboring Himalayas are seen with great clarity.

Though November is a busy time for Himalayan adventures, this fall month sees fewer trekkers venturing into the Manaslu region. The Manaslu Circuit Trek follows the remote wilderness trails, leading you to the secluded regions in the Himalayas. The trekkers to explore the backland locations of the Manaslu are usually smaller. With fewer crowds on the trail, you can enjoy the journey free of congestion, distractions, and interruptions. November provides you with an opportunity to catch glimpses of some rare Himalayan species in the Manaslu Conservation Areas. Also, the numerous bird species are seen all over the sky, migrating towards the warmer places. Clean weather, comfortable moderate temperature, gleaming mountains, less-crowded trekking trails, quieter environment, increased wildlife activity, etc, are some of the high sides of trekking the Manaslu Circuit in November.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Experiences in November

• Opportunity to participate in local celebrations of vibrant and colorful festivals
• Snow flurries during late November time give you a vibe of a hypnotic winter wonderland that is very soon to come
• The high Himalayan terrains are thinly blanketed with snowflakes and are seen as glistening
• No trouble with muddy or slippery trails as the rain is scarce during this time
• Comfortable walks over the dry or unwet trekking trails
• The mountainous surroundings are seen with greater clarity as the views are not hidden by clouds, fog, rain, etc.
• Enthralling views of sunrise and sunset over the pristine white Himalayas
• Sharp visibility of the towering presence of majestic snow-covered mountains glistening against the crystalline blue sky
• Delightful journey in stable weather conditions and moderate temperatures of the month
• Insights into the diverse ecosystem of the Annapurna Conservation Area and the Manaslu Conservation Area
• High chance of catching glimpses of valuable wild species of the Manaslu Himalayan region, such as Snow Leopard, Himalayan Tahr, Red Panda, Blue Sheep, Himalayan Musk Deer, etc, as they prepare for winter hibernation
• You can also see the numerous migratory birds like Snow Partridge, Himalayan Griffon, Blood Pheasant, Himalayan Monal, and more as they fly to warmer places to skip the approaching frigid weather in the Manalsu region
• The forested trails are seen as picturesque, with diverse colored autumn leaves (red, orange, brown, and yellow)

Is November the Ideal Time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September, October, November) are the ideal seasons for any high-altitude Himalayan endeavors. Among the total six spring and autumn months, November marks the driest and clearest one in the entire year. It is the last month of the peak trekking season, autumn, just prior to the onset of winter.

November is the perfect time to trek in the Manaslu region when there is the presence of cool and mild weather. It is not as extremely hot as in summer. You will not sweat a lot during your physically exertive journey of the Manaslu trek. Likewise, November is not as wet as it is in the monsoon and not too cold like that of winter. The rain, snow, and heat are less, which makes November an excellent time to embark on the Himalayan odyssey. The air is crisp and clear, making it possible to observe the astounding vistas of the highland scenery with utmost clarity and sharpness in detail.

By late November, you can experience light snowfall during your trekking in the Manaslu region. But since the snowfall is occasional and light, you won’t face any problems in traversing the trails. Still, if you are considering setting out on the Manaslu Circuit Trek in the latter part of November, it is advisable to pack the right clothes and appropriate trekking gear for efficient navigation and to remain warm in chilly conditions.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is doable throughout the year with proper planning and preparation. However, for an immersive and unmatched adventure experience, November stands out as the ideal time with favorable temperature and weather conditions. It is indeed an ideal time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. You can soak into the untouched beauty of the mountain while experiencing the pleasant trekking conditions, vibrant autumn colors, and a peaceful journey with a smaller number of trekkers.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in November – Temperature

November slowly bids farewell to autumn and proceeds towards the winter season. So, as the month progresses, gradually, the temperatures start to decrease. The daytime temperature in November remains around 10 to 15 degrees Celcius in the lower elevation. However, the temperature during the morning and night and in the higher elevations can be colder, dropping to minus degrees. On average, the temperature is found to be hovering around 1 to -10 degrees Celcius. As the temperature also starts to get colder by the end of November, you should dress warmly or carry layers of warm clothes for a cozy and comfortable stay throughout the journey.

How is the Weather?

The November days are usually sunny and bright. You can expect a temperate weather and clear skies. The views of the snow-capped mountains are dazzling and captivating. The weather is pleasant, contributing to an easy and enjoyable trekking adventure.

The initial weeks of November present stable weather and moderate temperatures like other fall months. However, the last few weeks will experience climatic changes due to the onset of winter. You will experience chilly conditions around the morning and nighttime at higher elevations. Late November days present you with the early winter vibes with light fur-like snowfall.

The days in November are relatively shorter than other autumn months, September and October. The nights start to become long, and the temperature begins to drop slowly, leading to quite cold conditions. However, after a long day of exhausting trek, the comfort and coziness of sleeping by wrapping yourself in a warm sleeping bag is incomparable.

Gain Insights On:

• Manaslu Circuit Trek in Monsoon
• Facts about Manaslu Circuit Trek
• Manaslu Circuit Trek Map

Why Go for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in November?

Less Trekker Traffic

November is the autumn month, which is a popular time for alpine adventures. There has to be a huge amount of trekkers flocking into the Manalsu region during this time. However, as the day progresses in November, the number of people visiting the Manaslu region decreases. This is due to the shortening days and cold winter that is in the doorway.

Also, due to its restricted status, the Manaslu region doesnot experience crowds of visitors, unlike other mainstream trekking destinations such as the Everest region and the Annapurna region. So, despite being the peak trekking month, November still manages to skip the crowds of trekkers in the Manaslu region.

Peaceful and Nonchalant Journey

You can relish the magical Manaslu region in a tranquil November environment. In crowd-free, open conditions, you can have a joyful time with more space for exploration and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. You can also capture the best pictures of only what you want inside the frame without the crowds in the background. Moreover, due to less competition for accommodations during this time, you can easily get one. So, you do not have to rush for anything and enjoy a laid-back journey soaking in the alluring attractions along the way.

With fewer disturbances and interruptions, you can also have a friendly interaction with the local communities at this time. You can take this opportunity to deepen your knowledge and understanding of the Himalayan culture and traditions.

Captivating Scenery

The Manaslu Circuit Trek in November allows you to experience the spectacular fall scenery. The hypnotic sight of the trees shedding colorful leaves and presenting autumnal landscapes will leave you in awe. This visual feast of crimson-grey foliage during your high Himalayan odyssey enriches your experience tenfold. Moreover, the surreal views of pristine white mountains contrasting against the color-rich Himalayan terrains lure the visitors who trek the Manaslu Circuit in November.

Besides, the terraced fields are seen as gorgeous with ripened golden paddies. The hills are vibrant with different fruit trees. The sky is deep blue and crystal clear with bright sunshine. The snow-dusted alpine landscapes created due to early snowfall are seen glittering with gentle sunlight. Like this, you can relish the beauty of autumn to the fullest in November.

Festive Atmosphere

November brings festivals like Chaath, Lhosar, Tihar, etc., in Nepal. It is the perfect time to experience these colorful Nepalese festivals and their distinctive cultural celebrations. You can enjoy lights, music, dances, and sweet delicacies with the festive vibes during your Manaslu trekking journey.

The other highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in November is taking part in the Manaslu trail race. This race usually covers around 200 kilometers and has to be completed within 7-9 days. Such small things could make a huge difference and a lasting memory during your adventurous journey.

In short, November carries great significance to local culture, bursting with vibrant colors of diverse festivals and bringing the communities and travels together in a celebration.

Unobstructed Views

November trek of the Manaslu Circuit lets you relish the most spectacular vistas of the snow-coated Himalayas. At this time, the air humidity is low, and the precipitation is reduced. As a result, the Himalayan atmosphere is clean and fresh. The weather is dry with no rain, haze, or snow, and the sky is clear with no clouds. Such favorable conditions will allow for the best sharp view of the stunning alpine landscapes and majestic mountains. The striking sunrise and sunset views rising and dipping over the Himalayas against the deep blue crystalline sky are simply magical.

As the winter closes in by late November, you can expect a light snowfall in the Manaslu Circuit. However, it will not prevent you from vividly and deeply marveling at the astounding mountainous scenery. To sum up, November can be the preferred choice for trekking enthusiasts who want to enjoy the unobstructed beauty of the elevated Manaslu region with a slight touch of wintry atmosphere.

Transitioning Weather

November marks the ending phase of the autumn season. It is a transitioning month between autumn and winter. At this time, you can experience the allure of both these seasons. There is a remnant of autumn in an atmosphere with mild and cool temperatures, as well as an inflow of the crisp winter air and occasional breezes.

As winter knocks to set in by the second half of November, there can be snow flurries and little drop in temperature. However, you will not experience extreme coldness and heavy snowfall, unlike the peak winter months, i.e., December, January, and February. Though the early mornings and evenings/nights are cold and breezy, the bright and sunny days are ideal for comfortable and enjoyable walks in the Manalsu Circuit.

No Heavy Rain and Snow

November is long past the monsoon, and winter is yet to arrive. As the monsoon ends, the dark rain clouds slowly disappear, and the crystal-clear sky sets in. The rain is scarce during November, which keeps the trekking trails in good condition. With no rain, leeches, insects, bugs, or mosquitoes in the woods are gone.

Likewise, November hardly experiences the trouble caused by heavy snowfalls. Only late November sees slight snow flurries, which do not make any difference to your adventurous journey. With very little chance of precipitation and snowfall, the trails remain dry, easing your Manaslu trekking adventure. The potential threat of floods, landslides, and avalanches is also eliminated, making the Manaslu Circuit Trek a remarkable endeavor.

Possible Difficulties of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in November

Altitude Sickness

Regardless of the time of the year, there is a risk of altitude sickness during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The threat of altitude sickness is possible after exceeding 2,500 meters of elevation. However, the Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you to significant altitudes over 5,000 meters above sea level. So, awareness of altitude symptoms such as headache, dizziness, fatigue, breathing difficulty, etc is important. Also, knowledge of effective altitude acclimatization by ascending slowly, allowing ample time to adapt to new heights, is essential.

Shorter Days

November usually has shorter days than other autumn months. The gradually decreasing days create problems for deep immersion and thorough exploration of the Himalayan surroundings during your Mananslu Circuit trekking adventure. Because of fewer daylight hours for trekking, you have to start the trek early in the morning. This will ensure that you will reach your destination before nightfall.

Light Snowfall and Cold Weather

As November progresses, the temperature starts to plummet, and cold weather sets in. The temperature at higher elevations and early morning/nighttime drops to the freezing scale. There can be the risk of snowfall at alpine elevations which can increase the difficulty of Manaslu circuit trek. The icy trails and potential snow accumulation on the Larkya La Pass can make navigation challenging and slow your pace.

Physical Exertion

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is physically demanding. It involves several days of trekking through uphill and downhill trails. You have to make numerous long climbs and steep descents over mountainous terrains. You should have sound health conditions to reach and adjust to the higher altitudes of the journey. A physically fit body with proper stamina is needed to overcome the twists and turns of the routes. Additionally, adequate preparation with the right gear and clothing helps to make your journey easy and smooth

Helpful Tips For Easy and Enriching Trek of the Manaslu Circuit in November

• The latter parts of November are colder in the Manaslu region. So, it is wise to carry warm layers or dress thickly to stay cozy and comfortable during your travel
• The weather in the alpine locations is unpredictable. As November is also a transformative month from autumn to winter, there can be frequent changes in the weather. Hence, stay updated on the weather forecast and be flexible in itineraries for uncertain climate changes
• Daylight hours gradually become less in November. To allow ample time for trekking and exploration along the way, it is better to start each day’s journey early in the morning. This way, you can make the most out of the clear weather and also reach the destination before it turns dark
• Be mindful of possible landslides and avalanches that might occur, especially in sloppy ice and loose rock areas
• Keep your sun protection items in quick pockets to apply and shield against the intense sun rays of higher elevations
• Take regular hydration breaks to hydrate yourself properly. Due to increasing coldness, you might not feel thirsty. However, your body needs enough fluids to regulate the temperature and function effectively. Well-hydration also helps to prevent altitude sickness
• It is advisable to cross the Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters/16,752 feet) before midday. This is because the strong high winds can trouble the pass crossing during the daytime
• November is the peak season (autumn) for Himalayan trekking and mountaineering. Though the number of trekkers can decrease during the second half of November, there are still considerable visitors around early to mid-month. So, it is wise to make reservations for your accommodations to enjoy a hassle-free adventure.

Different Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary:

• Manaslu Short Trek
• 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek
• Manaslu Larke Pass Trek

November Packing Lists for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Regardless of the time of the year, the weather and temperature in the elevated Himalayan region are unpredictable. The weather does not remain stable for a long period of time, and the temperature also fluctuates rapidly. So, it is essential to pack your bag with a mix of warm and light dresses along with other required accessories. Consider these packing lists while embarking on a Manaslu Circuit Trek in November.

Trekking Gear

• Backpack
• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping bag liner
• Trekking poles
• Headlamp/flashlight with spare batteries

Sun Protection

• UV protected sunglasses
• SPF 50+ suncream
• Sun hat

Clothes

• Scarf
• Beanie
• Fleece jacket
• Woolen trousers
• Thermal shirts and pants
• Breathable shorts
• Half/full sleeves T-shirts
• Warm tops and bottom
• Down jacket
• Windproof outer shell
• Rain gear
• Leight and flexible leggings/hiking pants
• Liner and insulated gloves
• Mittens
• Multiple sets of underclothes
• Sturdy trekking boots
• Light sport shoes
• Liner cotton socks
• Woolen socks
• Sandals/slippers
• Flip-flops

First Aid Kit and General Medicines

• Pain relievers
• Instant cold packs
• Tweezers
• Antiseptic gel
• Adhesive tapes/bandages
• Sterilized gauze pads
• Blister treatment
• Sprain spray
• Thermometer
• Paracetamols
• Diamox tablets
• Water purification tablets/drops
• Oral rehydration salts
• Cough syrup
• Antidiharreals
• Insect repellent

Personal Care Items

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Wet wipes
• Toilet paper
• Soap and shampoo
• Conditioners
• Bodywash
• Bath towel
• Deodorants
• Moisturizers
• Lip lotion
• Comb or hair brush
• Nail cutters
• Small mirror
• Hair ties/clips
• Earbuds
• Razor
• Shaving cream

Documents

• A valid passport
• Airline tickets
• Nepal visa
• Insurance papers
• Permits
• Cash or credit cards

Extra Items

• Smartphone
• Camera
• Portable charger
• Power bank
• Binoculars
• Thermal water bottles
• Card games and other entertainment set
• Energy bars
• Light snacks
• Navigation tools like maps, compass, GPS