Manaslu Expedition in Autumn (September, October, November)
The best season to start the Manaslu expedition is autumn, from the last few days of September till mid-November, the second week. This time of the year is convenient for climbers as they experience pleasant, suitable weather patterns that assist them in a successful Manalsu approach. Moreover, the weather is nice for long walks lasting several hours. Moreover, it is also normal for the Manaslu Expedition or Manaslu Trek in autumn to record success with a 75% -80% success rate. Here is how your Climbing Manaslu will be in different months of autumn.
Manaslu Peak Climbing in September
September is relatively comfortable in the Manaslu region and nationally in Nepal. Dry conditions and few clouds are associated with monsoon rains. Early September is not the best because of the probability of rainfall, though from mid-September onwards, sunny skies dominate, so it is good for trekking and climbing.
Be prepared to find packed pathways because many trekkers go out in this period with interesting wildlife and vibrant greenness that make it even more attractive. Temperatures are 10 to 15 degrees Celsius during the day, whereas you can find temperatures below -10 up to minus one degree Celsius at night. As the days go by, the weather warms up, and during the daytime, natural beauty emerges in clear skies and picturesque snow-capped mounts.
Manaslu Peak Climbing in October
The best time to climb the Manaslu area is in October when the silver mountains rise from the ground and touch the clear blue sky. The land is covered with wildlife and vegetation, providing a glorious trekking experience.
During the day, trekkers can expect temperate weather, with nights being chilly, averaging between 13 and 25 degrees Celsius on expeditions to the base camp. Dashain and Tihar are festivals that make this cultural visit an occasion to celebrate culture.
October is ideal for visiting Manaslu. The weather is stable with good visibility, and moderate temperatures and low precipitation ensure a memorable trekking and climbing experience.
Manaslu Peak Climbing in November
The transition of the autumn season to winter begins at the end of November in the Manaslu region when it magically transforms into a wonderland with clear skies, untainted snow, and peace.
Despite this slight temperature decrease, it is the perfect time to attempt a Manaslu Expedition and enjoy a pre-winter adventure. The temperature descends to some negative degrees, and especially in the higher altitudes, where snow is always possible, the visitor has to bring suitable clothing and appropriate mountaineering gear. In lower altitudes, sustained temperatures around 12 C, but close to the trail, the temperature can dip to -1C – 3C.
Mt Manaslu Climbing Expedition Difficulty Grade
This expedition is classified as a 4E in difficulty rating. It requires experienced mountaineers who are fit-trained before climbing the mountain. The climb will require all the energy your fitness and consciousness can deliver.
Fighting against altitude sickness will be hard, but you can overcome it with good preparations, such as filling your body with enough liquids and nutrition.
When we leave base camp, the real alpine difficulty begins. We mostly climb directly on straight-up ice and snow surfaces. Manaslu is said to be the world’s eighth tallest and most challenging mountain. The climbers must spend at least 35- 44 days off base camp in staging and preparations, followed by climbing towards and summiting Manaslu.
Hence, even though Manaslu demonstrates a few of the longest and steepest ascents after changing camps several times, this route is extremely large exposure-wise, and the opening of crevasses and an avalanche are significant threats in this situation. The ladder approach is organized by guide members from different expedition groups; always listen to what your guide says while climbing.
The difficulty of the climbing expedition of Manaslu can be generalized with several levels depending on past climbing experiences, climbing gear, weather, and climbers’ physical fitness. Although challenging and demanding, you will successfully negotiate the climb with the correct Training, support, and preparation.
Our Acclimatization Base Camps During Autumn Manaslu Expeditions
The peak of Manalsu can be approached via two routes: the North and Manaslu South Face routes. However, the safest and most common way to reach the top is via the Northeast Face. Here are the different base camps starting from the lower elevation until you reach the top of Mt Manaslu.
Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m)
Manaslu base camp is located in the rocky moraine surrounding it; the sights of the Himalayan mountains are breathtakingly beautiful here. Base camp becomes a second home for the climbers, especially on long expeditions like climbing at 8000 m altitude, where they spend most of their time in a single place.
Manaslu Base Camp 1 (5600M - 5700M)
The base camp, which is said to be located around 5600 meters, represents an arrival point on the ascent of Manaslu’s summit. It is geographically separated into Lower Camp 1 well and Upper Base 1 and is bounded by obstinate terrain, gliding across moraines on the glacier with numerous crevasses.
The ascent of the mountain is not easy since the climbers have to make so much effort to reach Camp 2 through moderate-angled snow slopes. This leg is challenging as it requires a lot of focus and is typically between 5-7 hours. Going to Camp 2 at an altitude of 6300-6400 meters is usually welcomed by a wow moment, especially when the nearby Himalayan peaks seem like we can reach them.
Manaslu Base Camp 2 (6300M - 6400M)
Camp 2, located at a height of 6300 meters, is the most challenging technical climb for Mt. Manaslu ascends. Crevasses and icefall mark the Camp 1 road, eventually topping off in a challenging 100-metre climb up 50-60-degree slopes. However demanding, achieving Camp 2 treats the climbers with the incomparable splendor of Himalayan landscapes.
The trip involves crossing snow slopes and ice steps that are very steep, ladder climbing twice, and exhausting snow climbing, taking approximately 5 hours. The ascent has some sections of ice, 100 m lengths on 65º slopes, which are usually considered the crux of the way.
Camp 2 is located on a flat piece of snow that is erected high above the icefall on a snowy terrace and is presumably an important resting place in the conspicuous environment of Mount Manaslu.
Manaslu Base CAMP 3 (6900M)
Ascending from Camp 2 to Camp 3 is crucial in the Himalayan ascent of mountains, taking 4-5 hours on snow fields. Notably, this section is shorter but to be followed with caution when there are crevasses one needs to jump cautiously. However, the ladder crossings are missing here.
Fixed ropes, carefully arranged by a team of Sherpas, help the climbers manage continuous slopes. Although it may seem less challenging, climbers should never take the cold and wind exposure for granted.
Manaslu Base Camp 4 (7500m)
Camp 3 to Camp 4, the second to last stop before reaching the top at 7300 meters, in the Himalayan climb is a challenging ascent. For the climber, a 55-60 degree slope layered with snow-coated ice presents a daunting challenge, requiring precise technique and physical endurance.
The climbs to Camp 4 may be relatively short, but the journey passes the treacherous death zone, whereby oxygen drops and the physiological burden increases severely. The moment consists of a vertical ascent for 3-4 hours along a 50-55 degree snow slope, further intensified by the threat of avalanches, which calls for concentrated hardship and prudence.
It takes 6-7 hours to ascend the mountain with fixed ropes and crampons, which makes the climbing activity so wordily relies on acclimatization by camp rotations. This strategic method strikes to control altitude-related risks, preparing the climbers for the ultimate summit attempt from within such an awe-inspiring Himalayan landscape.
Why Choose Manaslu Expedition in Autumn?
Manaslu Expedition is best in Autumn. The weather remains stable most of the time, making this time of the year appropriate for climbing adventures. Travelers are given fantastic opportunities to explore the beautiful Autumn environment. On these little-seen paths, you will have pleasant journeys. Here are some other reasons to choose the Manaslu Expedition in autumn below.
Stable Weather
The beauty of autumn is that it is a predictable season due to its stable weather conditions. Nepal has one of the best climates in autumn that any other season may not pose. Most autumn days pose a stable weather pattern. The weather will be serene and comfy as long as it is steady. The temperatures would not fluctuate. The mountaineer on a peak looks for reliable, good weather, and autumn provides it very firmly.
Less Chances of Snowfall or Rainfall Occurrence
The Monsoon months are almost over, and Cold winter is still ahead. Under favorable conditions, the temperature is stable; thus, there are few possibilities of snow or rainfall during autumn. As a result, the weather is mild, without precipitation in terms of rain and snow. You will enjoy warm sunshine for the entire season by avoiding rain and snow. Seeing the sun when on an Expedition is always a good sign.
Sunny Days and Crystal Clear Sky
Every day during autumn, the sun glitters with its bright rays in the clear sky, lighting up your way. You will enjoy the warm autumn days as you travel and climb because they will make your journey and ascent much easier. While Making an ascent, taking the next step will be easier due to the clear vision of the path. You will feel as if you can almost reach the sky because the sky is so clean and pure.
Less Challenging Conditions
Manalsu is an impressive mountain to conquer. To reach the peak summit, you will have to overcome several hurdles. These challenges are much lesser in autumn because of favorable climatic conditions. Therefore, climbers will find the best conditions here during autumn.
Opportunities for Cultural Exploration with Splendid Himalayan View
The way passes through atriums, beautiful cultural trails, and settlements with local people. The paths lead across the area's old cultural heritage. Autumn has multiple festivals, such as the Dashain and Tihar Festivals. Therefore, the Autumn trip to Manaslu expedition allows travelers to undertake a cultural quest.
The unforgettable landscape of the Himalayas is another benefit of climbing Manaslu in Autumn. One does not find any clouds in the sky, there is no wind, and the sun shines all day. This will mean that throughout the day, you’ll get breathtaking scenes of the countryside and mountains.
What Permits Are Required for Manaslu Peak Climbing?
To climb Manaslu Peak, you must acquire peak climbing permits by paying certain royalty fees and hiking permits like RAP, MCAP, ACAP, and TIMS.
The permit to the Manaslu Peak Climbing expedition is an absolute must. We simplify acquiring the permits procedure because we are a reputable travel agency, where climbers are provided with all required permits for their Manaslu climbing adventure.
Acquiring a Manaslu expedition permit requires the knowledge and skills of a licensed guide who is registered along with the help of the restored travel agency of Nepal/ Our team is very good at helping clients get through the tedious processes of getting necessary permits.
No climber can climb unless they collect a climbing permit for trekking and other necessary entry permits in the Manaslu region. Whereas trekking during autumn is ideal due to perfect weather, the season also means increased amounts that must be paid for a restricted area permit. However, the royalty fee of Mt Manaslu in autumn is half compared to the spring season. This season benefits those who want a Mount Manaslu climbing budget adventure. Here are all the permits required for the Mt Manaslu climbing below.
- Nepal Mountaineering Royalty Fee for Manaslu - USD 900 during autumn
- Restricted Area Trekking Permit - USD 15 per day throughout autumn
- MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Project) permit - USD 30
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit - USD 30
- TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card - USD 20
- Garbage Deposit Cost: $500
These permits, which allow easier access to the Manaslu region, also contribute to the conservation and management of the conservation areas. With our services, climbers can smoothly pass through the permit application process and thus ensure submission with all regulatory provisions.
Sherpa Guides for Autumn Manaslu Expedition
Nepalese law says hiring guide services are strictly necessary to issue permits for peak climbing and trekking in Nepal. As you will have to travel in the Restricted area of Nepal, skipping the guide's service will not be an option here.
We highly recommend intermediate or professional climbers climb the peak with the help of professional guides. Even though experienced mountaineers may know Manaslu's difficult nature, the weather is unpredictable, and local knowledge is necessary to navigate it effectively. Climbing Sherpa fees is all included in the Climbing Manaslu package expense.
The terrain of Manaslu is hazardous, including looming avalanches and other objective dangers. The experience and knowledge of the terrain the Sherpa guides have gained make them priceless in such a setting. Their ability to manage the standard climbing route and risk-mitigating skills greatly improve the margin of safety around the expedition.
Having a Sherpa guide as a backup plan can be beneficial for seasoned climbers to ensure safety or, at least, try out new routes efficiently. Even though you may have climbed many mountains and gained enough experience, this expedition to Manaslu Peak can still surprise you. In such cases, the guide’s services, when offered by a Sherpa, can be remarkably helpful for safe passage through unknown pathways.
Sherpa guides are locals who know the mountains like the back of their hands. They go beyond the call of duty of advising what to do and become mountain buddies. At base camp, they provide necessary advice, show you the path, and offer support if anything goes wrong. When you strive to reach the Manalu summit, hiring the service of the sherpa guides is a wise choice. Here is more about hiring guides and porters.
How Fit Should I Be For the Manaslu Expedition?
We suggest reaching a fitness point 5 on the grading scale for the Manaslu Expedition. To attain the fitness level 5 essential, climbers require superb overall development to face the difficulties of high elevations. However, individuals who want to reach the Manaslu Peak must have great endurance and strength in their bodies and minds, which could help them tolerate the difficult conditions of the expedition.
To scale high mountains such as Manaslu, an individual should be super fit and arduous, both physically and mentally. You will need to walk long distances, in all seasons, carrying heavy loads. Before climbing Manaslu, gaining experience in climbing other mountains is valuable because it prepares you for the difficulties of high altitude and difficult terrain.
Training to Maintain the Fitness Level for Manaslu
This physically demanding climb requires high energy, strength, and agility. Below are some of the training you can do to maintain your fitness level of 5 for Manalsu.
Flexibility Training
When climbing mountains, one may need to move in different positions to lean, bend and twist. Thus, climbers need to have high flexibility and effective movement to avoid injury. Specific workout training like yoga and stretches can promote flexibility.
Cardiovascular endurance Training
Physical activities involving mountain climbing may involve continuous physical work, particularly at high altitudes, which also burdens the heart. Therefore, mountaineers require good Cardiovascular endurance. Jogging, cycling, and trekking will enhance cardiovascular endurance.
Balance and stability Training
High-altitude Mountaineering, like Malasu climbing, involves overcoming difficult and unsteady terrain. To limit the risk of injury, climbers need to improve their balance and stability. Exercises like yoga, balancing drills, and core strengthening activities can be practiced to enhance balance and stability.
Muscular endurance Training
Mountain climbing requires maintaining strength and stamina for a longer period. Therefore, climbers should enhance muscular endurance, especially involving the limbs and torso. Such exercises like weight training, running, or hiking help in increasing muscle endurance.
Mental Toughness Training
The Mountain Expedition in Nepal may have mentally challenging aspects that require high resilience, attention, and focus. Therefore, climbers should focus on achieving mental strength through visualization, meditation, and mental training.
Accommodation Services on Manaslu Expedition
Manaslu climbing logistics will involve staying in luxury hotels in Kathmandu, tea houses en route to Base camp, and tented camps while making an ascent.
From the beginning of the trip in Kathmandu, you’ll enjoy a comfortable night’s rest in luxury hotels with all modern amenities, perfect for relaxing before the challenge.
As soon as the expedition starts, we will march for a few days to reach the base camp. Somewhere en route, we accommodate the local tea houses scattered along the walk. These local tea houses provide facilities like bedding, blankets, toilets, bathrooms, and dining areas, and here, one can have rest and nutritious food after walking for long hours.
When a team arrives at Mount Manaslu’s base camp, the members of this team are offered tents in which they can sleep. Also, the base camp has separate dining, kitchen, and restroom tents dedicated to enhancing comfort while maintaining functionality during the rough mountain area.
Meals on Manaslu Peak Climbing
In Kathmandu, there is a wide range of dishes to choose from. Since you will be trekking, you can book a stay in mountain lodges or teahouses. The lodge or the teahouse will accommodate you with dinner and breakfast during your residence at night.
At some point during the hike, we’ll lunch in a teahouse. The lunch and dinner for the whole trip were served Daal Bhat, a typical Nepalese dish, since it provides satiating energy. Other food options at the lower altitude may include momo, noodles, pasta, pizza, etc.
Skills to Learn for Manaslu Climbing
You must be skilled to attempt the Manaslu summit safely and successfully. Below are some skills to learn.
- Knot tying: Climbers should not only be able to connect and untie a variety of knots, such as simple ones like the figure-eight knot, bowline, and clove hitch.
- Placement of protection: To avoid a fall, the climbers use shields like nuts, anchors, and glacier pins that should be attached and detached.
- Belaying: Belaying refers to the technique of managing the rope so that it prevents the person from falling. Climbers must learn the proper belay, manage rope slack, and develop falling arresting strategies.
- Rope management: Mountaineering involves organizing and manipulating the rope effectively while climbing. It also involves winding, spiralizing, and maintaining the fiber tangle-free.
- Building an anchor: An anchor is a piece of equipment that binds a rope to a rock or ice surface. A climber should be capable of manufacturing various anchors from natural or artificial materials and assessing their potential and security.
- Skills to Use Ropes and Anchors: Trekkers on glaciers must climb over dangerous crevasses using ropes and anchors. They should be able to identify cracks, avoid them, perform a crevasse rescue, and move in rope teams safely.
- Tying a Figure 8 knot and stopper knot at the rope's end is also an important technical skill.
Expedition Insurance for Manaslu Climbing
We ask all our clients to secure an Expedition policy that will provide them with coverage not only for medical evacuation but also to guarantee travel protection, including air evacuation.
In case of unpredictable circumstances, such as an injury caused by the failure of safety equipment, family issues, etc., travelers may need to cancel their vacation before departure or during the expedition. Considering these circumstances, preparing for potential contingencies is far better.
Furthermore, a foreigner can not buy insurance in Nepal. These facts highlight that a client may be mandated to buy a detailed Expedition insurance plan from his or her home country. It protects their interests regarding canceled trips, helicopter evacuation, emergency medical complications, other illnesses, lost luggage theft, and disintegration of property death.
You can choose your insurer, but find a plan embracing trip postponement, cancellation, rescue, and medical benefits. Ensure that it does not limit you to the heights you will reach, stop at certain exercises you participate in, or locations to visit.
Climbing Gear and Equipment for Manaslu in Autumn
Below is the required climbing gear and equipment list for your Mt. Manaslu Climbing.
Climbing Equipment
- Ice Axe w/Leash
- Crampons
- Alpine climbing harness
- Carabiners (3 Locking; 3 Regular)
- Climbing helmet
- Ascender
- Rappel/Belay device
- Prussiks
- Adjustable 3 Section Ski or Trekking poles
Footwear
- Light hiking boots or trekking shoes
- Camp Boots (Optional, Insulated boot for Base Camp)
- Double Plastic Climbing Boots w/altitude linersFully Insulated Overboots
- Gaiters
- Trekking Socks (3 pairs)
- Wool or Synthetic Socks (4 pairs)
- Liner Socks (4 pairs)
- Technical Clothing
- Lightweight Long Underwear (2-3 pairs tops & bottoms)
- Heavyweight Long Underwear (1 pair)
- Light Nylon Pants (1-2 pairs)
- Short Sleeve Synthetic Shirt (1-2 pairs)
- Synthetic/Soft Shell Jacket
- Insulated Synthetic Pants
- Down Pants
- Expedition Down Parka
- Insulated Synthetic Jacket
- Hard Shell jacket w/ hood
- Hard Shell Pants
Handwear
- Lightweight Synthetic gloves (1 pair)
- Heavyweight Synthetic/Soft Shell gloves (1 pair)
- Expedition Shell Gloves w/insulated removable liners (1 pair)
- Expedition Shell Mitts (1 pair)
- Hand warmers and Toe Warmers (3 sets each)
Headwear
- Headlamp (Bring plenty of spare bulbs & batteries)
- Glacier glasses
- Baseball cap/sun hat
- Ski Goggles
- Balaclava (1 Heavyweight, 1 Lightweight, Heavyweight must fit over lightweight)
- Warm synthetic/wool hat
- Bandanas (2, Used to shade your neck)
- Neoprene face mask (Optional)
Personal Equipment
- Expedition Backpack (3,500 - 4,000 cu. in.)
- Trekking Backpack (2,000 - 2,500 cu. in., Optional)
- Sleeping Bag (Expedition quality rated to at least -40°F)
- Sleeping Bag (Expedition quality rated to at least -20°F, Second bag for Base Camp)
- Self Inflating pads (Two 3/4 or full-length pads)
- Closed-cell foam pad (Used in combination with your self-inflating pad)
- Cooking Gear: Cup, Spoon, Bowl
- Sunscreen (SPF 40 or better)
- Lip balm (SPF 20 or better, at least 2 sticks)
- Water Bottles (2 to 3)
- Water Bottle parkas for the big bottles
- Toiletry bag (Toilet paper, hand sanitizer, small towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
- Pee Bottle (1 Liter, Large mouth, clearly marked water bottle for use in a tent)
- Camp Knife or Multi Tool
- Thermos (1 Liter capacity)
- Camera gear (Optional)
- Compression Stuff Sacks (Especially for sleeping bags and clothing)
First Aid
- Small personal first-aid kit
- Drugs/Medications/Prescriptions
Other Equipment
- Geologic compass (0-360°, not quadrant)
- Field pouch for your field book, pens/pencils, etc.
- Rock sample bags (zip-lock heavy-duty freezer bags)
- Digital camera and video camera
- Wristwatch with altimeter/barometer
- GPS receiver
- Plenty of water or hot tea in an insulated bottle; energy snacks
- Sunscreen, SPF chapstick, sunglasses/goggles
- Pocket knife (or Leatherman-style multi-tool)
- Binoculars
- Headlamp
- Cell phone
- Climbing gear, trekking poles, etc.
- Hand-held radio for on-mountain communication
- Have a plan and let others know where you are going
- Don’t go alone – always have a field partner for safety
For More detailed information, go through our Packing List for Peak Climbing in Nepal.