Manaslu Circuit Trek in November: Should You Go or Not?

What Is the November Manaslu Circuit Trek?

• Distance: ~180 km (Machha Khola to Dharapani)

• Highest point: Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m (16,751 ft)

• Duration: 14–16 days

• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

• Start point: Machha Khola or Soti Khola (7–9 hours by bus or jeep from Kathmandu)

• End point: Dharapani (connects to Annapurna Circuit)

The Manaslu Circuit in November typically takes between 14 and 16 days to complete and is a popular choice among all serious trekkers looking for the best time to take advantage of the incredible conditions available at this time of year. The circuit is an exciting way to experience all that Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world at 8,163 metres or 26,781 feet, has to offer. Once trekkers complete the initial climb, starting and finishing near Soti Khola or Machha Khola, they'll pass through many remote villages and cross deep valleys before heading towards Larkya La Pass, located at 5,160 metres or 16,991 feet above sea level. Finally, trekkers will finish the trek in Dharapani. November is the best month to complete this trek because of the crystal clear skies, dry and stable trails plus full operation of all teahouses along the circuit after the post-monsoon period ends.

Compared with either the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, the Manaslu Circuit in November is still very much off the beaten track. The number of trekkers who complete the Annapurna Circuit each year, approximately 160,000, is almost thirty-two times greater than those completing the Manaslu Circuit each year, which is less than 5,000. Plus, the majority of trekkers complete the Manaslu Circuit in November. So it's possible for trekkers on this route to have a more peaceful and tranquil experience due to less crowded trails. You'll also get more personal service from teahouse owners and a more authentic Nepali experience that won't be found on the crowded routes in the Himalayas.

Pros and Cons of Manaslu Circuit Trek in November

Pros

Pros: Clear Crystal Mountain Views

Manaslu Circuit trekking in November has the best views of the year. It's because November has the clearest skies. The previous monsoon season has passed, leaving behind no haze. So you'll have magnificent unobstructed views of Manaslu (8,163m), Himlung Himal, Ngadi Chuli, and the Annapurna mountain ranges over the course of several days on the Manaslu Circuit.

Pro: Stable Dry Trail Conditions

Throughout November, trail conditions are firm, dry, and clearly defined on the Manaslu Circuit. There is no more monsoon mud or leeches or washed-out sections; therefore, the comfort and predictability of each day of the hike will be superior in comparison to the trekking months of pre-monsoon or during the monsoon season.

Pro: Fully Operational Teahouses

All teahouses along the Manaslu Circuit will be open in November, with staff and a stocked kitchen. So you can be assured of food, bedding, and other basic services from Soti Khola to Dharmasala High Camp without having to worry about closed lodges or limited services.

Pro: Larkya La Pass Is Fully Open

The Larkya La Pass will be completely open at its highest point during November. There will be snow present on the trail. But it'll be manageable, the trail will be well-marked, and experienced guides will comfortably lead their groups across it without the extreme risk of avalanches that exists when crossing in late winter or early spring.

Pro: Exceptional Photography Conditions

Manaslu Circuit due to the warm yellow light of autumn, the peaks with snow on them, and the crystal-clear atmosphere. The combination of the early season changes in the brown and yellow colours of the lower elevation forest, with the new snowfall above 4000m, will create a visual effect unmatched in any other month of the season.

Cons

Con: Very Cold Temperatures at High Altitude

At Larkya La High Camp, temperatures at night often drop from minus 15 to minus 20 degrees Celsius. Trekkers won't be able to enjoy the upper section of the Manaslu Circuit if they're not equipped with appropriate cold-weather gear, such as a down jacket, insulated gloves and a good layering system.

Con: Peak Season Pressure on Accommodation

October and November bring peak season pressure on the Manaslu Circuit. Samagaon, Samdo and Dharmasala are the teahouses that fill up first during high trekking activity. If you haven't booked with your agent prior to arrival, you may not have accommodation available the night before you cross the pass.

Con: Increased Total Cost

It's peak season in November, so permits, guides, teahouses and agency packages will be at their highest for the calendar year. The first seven days of your trip require a Restricted Area Permit, which is an additional $100 USD. In addition, many experienced guides in November will charge premium rates compared to non-peak season months.

Con: Limited Daylight Hours

During November in Nepal, the days are approximately 10 to 11 hours long compared to 13 hours in June. So this reduces your trekking ability significantly for longer days, especially in relation to the Larkya La crossing, where you must start between 2am and 4am to complete the summit before inclement weather starts in the afternoon.

Con: Limited Fresh Food Supply Above 3,500m

Cold temperatures hinder supply runs to upper villages during November. So the availability of fresh, frozen and refrigerated products will be very limited above Samagaon. Trekkers on specific diets should also factor in a sufficient supply of personal snacks and energy foods from Kathmandu rather than relying on teahouses for these types of foods at higher elevations.

November Weather Conditions on the Manaslu Circuit Trail

Lower Elevations (700–2,000): Soti Khola to Jagat

Daytime temperatures will be around 10-20°C (50-68°F). Nights are generally cool, but with a warm sleeping bag, they will be comfortable to sleep. The lower elevations have the feel of a nice autumn hike. It is through subtropical forests, river gorges, and small farming villages.

Mid Elevations (2,000–3,500): Philim to Samagaon

Daytime temperatures will be around 5-15°C (41-59°F). Nights will drop to approx. 0 and -5°C. The mornings will start off cold and will require layers on your body. The first views of snow will start to be observed from this elevation range.

High Elevations (3,500–5,106 m): Samdo to Larkya La Pass

The days can be very cold (-5 to 0°C), and nights can be extremely cold, below -10°C to -20°C, at many of your camps, such as Dharamsala (4,460 m), and getting to the Larkya La Pass could feel even colder due to wind chill. Every day in the morning, freezing occurs on tents and on teahouse windows, providing you with an opportunity to remember what you packed.

If you are trekking in late November above 4,500 m, you may see a small chance of receiving some early winter (late) snow that usually won’t close the Larkya La Pass but will result in icy conditions in the early morning (might want to carry Micro Spikes if you plan on doing the Larkya La Pass around late November).

What Crossing at Larkya La Pass 5,160m Feels Like in November?

In November, when you decide to trek the Manaslu Circuit and cross Larkya La Pass, it's your defining moment in the trek. During the month of November, the pass is completely open (with little snow), easily traversable (snow depth is measured), and the views of the early morning sky are beautiful!

As most trekkers begin their journey at the Dharmasala High Camp (4,460m.) from about 2 am to 4 am wearing headlamps. Starting the trek through rocky terrain to packed snow to ice, the temperature at that time of the year drops quickly to approximately -15 to -20 degrees Celsius. Those layers you are wearing from your layering system are being put to good use right away.

Once the sun comes up around 5:30 am, you will have one of the most spectacular sunrises as you look towards the east and see the orange and pink light spreading across the horizon towards the Annapurna range. The fun of reaching the summit at sunrise is that you will also see prayer flags at the top and have a 360-degree view of all the 8000-meter and 6000-meter peaks on your trek. This experience is considered by many trekkers to be one of the most beautiful experiences of their lives!

After reaching the summit, your descent to Bimtang (3,720m) will take approximately 3 – 4 hours on steep, icy ground. When you arrive in Bimtang, the combination and mixture of adrenaline, tiredness, and raw beauty will create a high for you that you will never forget.

Getting Three Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits for November

All three of the Manaslu Circuit Trek permits are available in November.

The Manaslu region is a controlled trekking area. You cannot trek independently. You are required to hire a licensed guide, and there must be at least two people in your group. All the permits have to be arranged through a registered trekking agency.

Manaslu November First Permit: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP).

• This is the key permit for the restricted zone between Jagat and Sama Gaun.

• Cost Sep–Nov: USD 100/person for the first week

• Further days: USD 15 pp / per day

• In the autumn (the peak season), it is more expensive than in the off-season.

Manaslu November Second Permit: Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

• Issued from Philim (the start of the conservation area).

• Price: USD 30 per person (unchanged throughout the year)

Manaslu November Third Permit: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

• Needed: When you are about to leave the Manaslu region and enter Dharapani, which is a part of the Annapurna Circuit trail.

• Cost: USD 30/person (same throughout the year)

The approximate total cost for all three permits would be between USD 160 and 175 per person for a typical 14-day trek in early November 2023.

Essential Permit Requirements

• You need to trek with others (a minimum of two trekkers).

• You need to have a licensed guide.

• Permits must be obtained through a registered Nepalese trekking agency. You cannot get permits through freelance guides.

• You must have all permits with you while hiking and present them at all checkpoints along the route.

How Much Does the Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost in November?

In November, the cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek package is generally between $1,100 and $2,500 per person, depending on group size, length of your itinerary, and your desired level of service. This includes fees for permits, a licensed guide, porter, teahouse accommodation, meals while trekking, and transportation from Kathmandu.

The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit alone costs $100/person for the first seven days plus $15/person for each additional day, and this is by far the highest permit price for the whole year. The high permit price occurs only during the peak trekking season (September to November).

A standard 14-16 day private trekking package costs an average of $1,400-$2,000 per person. Costs can be reduced to between $850 and $1,200 per person for group trek packages.

Some things that increase your costs in November

• The Manaslu Circuit has a very high permit cost due to peak season

• Demand for experienced guides is very high, driving higher costs (daily rates $35-$40)

• You need to book teahouses in advance for Samagaon and Dharamsala

• You will also need to invest in cold-weather gear prior to your departure

Ways to Cut Costs for November 

By being part of a larger group departure of 4 to 6 people, you can share costs for guides and porters. Also, book directly via a registered agency in Kathmandu rather than through an international operator, as this avoids the markup added by the middleman. Plus, transport your own food from Kathmandu, as that'll cut down the amount you spend at high altitude locations of 3,500m and above.

Group Joining Manaslu Circuit Trek in November Departure Dates 2026 and 2027

We offer 11 Fixed Group Departure dates in November to accommodate trekkers’ requirements relative to work schedules, flight availability, and personal timelines.

Our November 2026 Fixed Group Departure Dates:

3rd, 6th, 8th, 11th, 14th, 17th, 20th, 23rd, 25th, 28th, 30th 

Early November Departures (November 3, 6, 8)

The above dates will have the warmest forecast for November, and provide the greatest overlap with the Mani Rimdu Festival at Lho Monastery. These dates are ideal for trekkers new to trekking who want the maximum amount of comfort while on the trail.

Mid November Departures (November 11, 14, 17, 20)

 These dates are the ideal time to trek if you are an experienced hiker and a clear view of the mountains is important to you, as well as stable Larkya La conditions, because there are quite a few people trekking that week every year. Therefore, it would be best if you book as soon as possible!

Late November Departures (November 23, 25, 28, 30)

These are really exciting times of the year if you are looking for great photo opportunities due to the impact of snow-covered mountains on the landscape and low-angle light from the winter sun. This will make for colder temperatures, especially at the high camps, so you will need to be prepared with proper cold-weather gear.

Note: The same departure dates apply for 2027-2028 . However, each group will only have 10 trekkers to ensure that they are following the regulations regarding maintaining the quality of the trails and comfort level of the teahouses. Therefore, we would suggest making your reservations as soon as possible.

How to Hire the Right Guide and Porter for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in November?

To legally trek the Manaslu Circuit, you must have a registered guide assist you. Independent trekking is not allowed in this area. Therefore, here are some tips to help ensure you obtain the right guide for your journey:

• Book through a registered trekking agency (with the Nepal Tourism Board) to book your guide – Don’t hire a guide by approaching individual guides directly when you arrive at the trailhead.

• Confirm that the guide you will be hiring has their NTB trekking guide license and has experience specifically guiding treks around the Manaslu Circuit.

• Regarding hiring a guide, expect to pay $25-$40 USD per day, depending on the individual guide's level of experience and ability to speak English.

• Expect to pay $15-$25 USD per day for a porter to carry the maximum load of 20-25 kg.

• Ensure the agency you wish to work with provides their guides and porters with appropriate insurance, equipment, and fair wages.

• You should make your booking at least four to six weeks prior to your November departure date. Due to the high number of experienced guides available, you will have to make your reservations early in order to obtain a qualified guide.

• You should request a guide who has completed first aid training and will have a pulse oximeter. First aid training and the use of a pulse oximeter are critical for maintaining safety while trekking at high altitudes.

• A qualified guide has the ability to change this trek from being simply a physical challenge into a life-changing event rich with cultural experiences and an appreciation of the mountains of Nepal.

Short vs. Long Manaslu Circuit Route: Which Trail Better in November?

You can complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek from Kathmandu in 12-20 days, depending on the type of trip you are taking. In November, the proper duration will depend on how quickly you acclimatize and what your goals for trekking are.

The standard duration 14-16 days

• It will encompass the entire circuit from Soti Khola to Dharapani and include 5 to 6 days of rest at Samagaon and Samdo.

• It will be sufficient for most trekkers who have a moderate level of fitness and will have enough time to acclimatize properly.

• Will balance equal time, cost, and safety for the majority of trekkers in November.

  Most agencies recommend using this route as it is considered the safest and most rewarding. If you are interested, these are some of our Packages that fall within this duration.

• Manaslu Circuit Trek 15 Days - All inclusive

• Manaslu Base Camp Trek with Larkya pass

The extended 18 to 20 day route (with Tsum Valley or Base Camp extension)

• The widened eighteen to twenty-day itinerary includes Tsum Valley, which is a spiritually significant and remote side valley with little visitation by trekkers. 

• An extension to the trek is to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) for somewhat closer views of the mountain's north face. 

An additional cost of permits and budgeting will be necessary; however, the experience here will be unique even among very experienced Himalayan trekkers. Extra days provide additional acclimatization allowances, which decrease the risk of altitude sickness. Below are some of the trips we recommend if you are interested.

• Annapurna Three Pass Trek Including Manaslu, Nar Phu, Thorong La

• Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek with Ganesh Himal Base Camp

The short duration around 7-12 days  route is not suitable for trekkers who have not had prior high-altitude experience during November. The shortened acclimatization schedule increases the risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS) dramatically due to the colder temperatures in November, meaning that a smaller margin of error will exist for having poor days on the trail.

What to Pack for Manaslu Circuit Trek in November?

Does Trekking Manaslu Circuit in November Increase or Decrease Altitude Sickness Risk?

November both reduces and increases altitude sickness risk depending on which factor you examine.

November reduces your risk because stable post-monsoon weather eliminates rapid pressure changes that trigger sudden AMS onset. Teahouses are fully operational, allowing proper rest days at Samagaon and Samdo. Experienced guides are available in peak numbers, ensuring consistent daily health monitoring throughout the trek.

November increases your risk because temperatures at Larkya La plunge to minus 15 to minus 20 degrees Celsius. Cold physically masks early AMS symptoms — headache and fatigue become indistinguishable from general cold-weather exhaustion, causing trekkers to push through warning signs they would otherwise recognize immediately.

The net verdict: November is safer than any monsoon or winter month for altitude sickness management, but only if you follow a 14 to 16 day itinerary with mandatory rest days, stay aggressively hydrated, and report symptoms to your guide immediately rather than dismissing them as ordinary tiredness.

Getting to the Manaslu Circuit Trailhead in November

Kathmandu to Machha Khola (Start Point)

Traveling from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (the starting point) can be done in two ways: you can take a bus, which goes to Machha Khola in 7 to 9 hours for approximately $15 to $20 USD, or you can hire a private jeep for $180 to $200 USD. If there are four or more people in your group, hiring a private jeep becomes a more affordable option because it can get you to the starting point faster and more comfortably. 

Dharapani Back to Kathmandu (End Point)

Once you finish your trek and are now traveling from Dharapani back to Kathmandu, there are again two options: take a local jeep to Besi Sahar (2 hours for $5 to $10) then take a bus to Kathmandu (5 to 6 hours for $10 to $15) or hire a private jeep to take you from Dharapani to Kathmandu (that costs between $200 and $250 USD and must be arranged through an agency).

When Should You Book Your Manaslu Circuit Trek for November?

The best way to book your Manaslu circuit trek for November is six to eight weeks prior; however, you should try to make your reservation no later than mid-September. November is the peak month for hiking, so experienced guides, reputable agencies, and quality teahouses located at important checkpoints (such as Samagaon and Dharmashala) will be hard to find due.

Here is the recommended travel schedule for you:

• Book by August: the best chance for success as a novice trekker or a large group that needs extensive logistical management

• Book by mid-September: your last chance you'll be able to secure an experienced guide and an optimal itinerary for your preferred travel dates

• Book by early October: while there may still be available guides for your selected dates, the number of available guides will likely be reduced compared to your earlier booking dates. Additionally, teahouses with pre-bookings at the high camp may not be available due to limited space.

• Best time to travel is between November 1 and 15: these first two weeks of November will provide you with the ideal combination of good weather conditions (very little precipitation), cooler temperatures and reasonable pass conditions.

• Don't book your trip after November 20: after mid-November, the amount of snow on the Larkya La pass will increase, and some teahouses will start closing for the winter season.

Frequently Asked Questions: Manaslu Circuit Trek in November

Are There Any Festivals During Manaslu Circuit Trek in November?

Yes, the month of November coincides with Tihar (Festival of Lights), particularly in lower villages, where there will be butter lamps, rangolis and Deusi-Bhailo singing. Therefore, the experience of being welcomed as a trekker in such villages will be festive. In early November, there may still be events at Lho Monastery celebrating Mani Rimdu with masked cham dances and the ritual of fire puja. In the Nubri villages above Namrung, there will begin to be preparations for early-Losar in late November.

How Crowded Is the Manaslu Circuit in November?

In comparison to October, November is an extremely quiet month on the Manaslu Circuit. Trekkers will see moderate amounts of trekking traffic at the beginning of November, but there will be an extreme drop off in trekking traffic after the middle of November due to the impending winter. Compared to the bustling crowds along the Annapurna or Everest routes, the Manaslu Circuit will feel refreshingly open, and it will not be overwhelming to encounter other trekkers.

Is November Colder Than October on the Manaslu Circuit?

Yes, but it is manageable. Daytime temperatures at lower elevations will be between ten and fifteen degrees Celsius. At the higher elevations, the temperature will fall below freezing at night. During late November, the cold at night becomes noticeably colder around Samagaon and Dharmasala; however, the amount of stable dry weather and clear skies will more than compensate for the added cold.