Manaslu Circuit Winter Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Winter Trek is one of Nepal’s most extraordinary high-altitude journeys—wild, dramatic, and deeply rewarding. In winter, the Manaslu region transforms into a pristine white wilderness, offering trekkers a pure Himalayan experience that very few ever encounter. While most trekking agencies stop operating during December, January, and February due to the harsh weather, Sherpa Expedition & Trekking stands proudly as one of the very few—and the most reliable—companies that continues to organize this trek in winter.

With an experienced Sherpa team, premium winter equipment, and fully supported tent camps at high altitudes, we make this demanding trek safe, comfortable, and achievable for adventure seekers. Our winter trekking program is designed for a minimum of 2 people, allowing small, flexible, and highly personalized trips to one of Nepal's most isolated and breathtaking regions.

Why the Manaslu Circuit in Winter Is Exceptionally Special

Most trekkers choose spring or autumn for the Manaslu Circuit, but winter offers something truly unique:

1. Himalayan Silence & Untouched Trails

Winter brings complete peace to the Manaslu region. Crowds disappear. Teahouses are quiet. The mountains stand untouched, their ridges sharp under crystal-clear skies.

You’ll walk through tranquil forests, frozen waterfalls, icy rivers, and snow-covered yak pastures. Every corner feels like stepping into a postcard.

2. The Best Mountain Visibility

Winter delivers some of the clearest skies of the year. Snowstorms are usually short-lived, and once they pass, the views open wide:

• Mount Manaslu (8,163m)
• Ngadi Chuli
• Shingri Himal
• Himlung Himal
• Cheo Himal
• Annapurna II
• Kangguru

The towering north face of Manaslu from Samagaon is especially magical after fresh snowfall.

3. Authentic High-Himalayan Culture

The Manaslu region is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. Villages like Lho, Samagaon, and Samdo keep their traditions alive even in winter. Since winter is quiet, you’ll have more one-on-one interactions with local villagers and monks—this is the cultural experience people imagine when they picture trekking in the Himalayas.

4. An Adventurous & Rewarding Challenge

Winter trekking is more demanding but far more rewarding. Crossing Larke La Pass (5,160m) when the landscape is blanketed in white is an achievement that very few trekkers on Earth have experienced.

Sherpa Expedition & Trekking – The Pioneers of Winter Manaslu Expeditions

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit in winter requires:

• Specialized winter equipment
• High-altitude experience
• Snow navigation skills
• Real-time weather monitoring
• Knowledge of closed routes and safe paths
• Professional tented camp setup

This is why almost all trekking companies suspend Manaslu trips during winter. But Sherpa Expedition & Trekking continues to operate safely because of:

✔ Expert Local Sherpa Guides

Our guides grew up in the Himalayas and are specially trained for:

• Ice and snow trail management
• High-altitude rescue
• Winter safety protocol
• Use of crampons and mountaineering equipment

✔ Safe & Warm Tent Camps at High Altitude

In winter, teahouses at Dharmasala and Bimthang remain closed. Other companies stop offering the trek here—but we don’t.

We provide:

• Expedition-grade sleeping tents
• Dining tent
• Kitchen tent
• Insulated mattresses
• –30°C down sleeping bags
• Hot meals, soups, tea
• Warm drinking water

Our tent camps are designed to withstand extreme cold and keep trekkers warm and comfortable.

✔ Minimum Group Size: Only 2 People

You don't need to join a large group. Winter departures are private or semi-private, meaning personalized care and more flexibility.

✔ All Logistics & Permits Arranged

Our office team handles all winter permits, including:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
• MCAP
• ACAP

Everything is organized with zero stress for the trekkers.

Detailed Winter Itinerary – Manaslu Circuit Trek (14–17 Days)

Below is our special winter itinerary designed for safety, acclimatization, and comfort:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)

Pre-trek briefing, gear check, and permit preparation.

Day 2: Drive to Soti Khola (710m)

Scenic drive through hills, rivers, and rural settlements.

Day 3–5: Trek to Deng & Namrung

Beautiful trail through pine forests, waterfalls, and Gurung villages.

Day 6: Trek to Lho (3,180m)

Visit Ribung Monastery and enjoy the sunrise view over Manaslu.

Day 7: Trek to Samagaon (3,530m)

Your first majestic view of the Manaslu glacier.

Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon

Optional hikes: Pungyen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp viewpoint.

Day 9: Trek to Samdo (3,860m)

Cross yak pastures and enjoy spectacular ridge views.

Day 10: Trek to Dharmasala (4,460m) – Tent Camp

Teahouses are closed, so our team sets up warm and comfortable camps.

Day 11: Cross Larke La Pass (5,160m) – Trek Down to Bimthang (3,700m) – Tent Camp

The most challenging and rewarding day. Clear skies and fresh snow create magical scenery.

Day 12: Trek to Dharapani (1,860m)

Re-enter the lush forests of the Annapurna region.

Day 13–14: Drive to Kathmandu

Celebration dinner and certificate of achievement.

Winter Trek Difficulty – Who Is This Trek For?

The Manaslu Circuit Winter Trek is moderate to difficult in normal seasons, but in winter, it becomes a challenging adventure suited for:

✔ Experienced trekkers
✔ Physically fit individuals
✔ Those comfortable with cold environments
✔ Trekkers seeking a more expedition-style experience

However, with Sherpa Expedition & Trekking, even first-time high-altitude trekkers with good fitness can safely complete this journey.

Weather & Temperature Conditions

December–January–February Temperatures

• Samagaon/Samdo: –10°C to –18°C
• Dharmasala/Bimthang: –15°C to –25°C
• Larke La Pass: Can drop below –25°C to –30°C

Trail Conditions

Snow-covered, icy sections, and cold winds are common above 4,000m. Our guides ensure safe navigation through:

• Crampons / microspikes
• Trekking poles
• Fixed ropes in certain sections if required
• Alternative winter routes if needed

What Sherpa Expedition & Trekking Provides

Included

• Professional Sherpa guide & porter
• Winter sleeping bag & down jacket
• Tent camps and all meals at Dharmasala & Bimthang
• All permits (Restricted, MCAP, ACAP)
• Transportation
• First aid & high-altitude medical kit

Not Included

• Personal insurance
• Drinks in teahouses
• Extra hotels in Kathmandu

Essential Gear Checklist for Winter Manaslu Trek

Clothing

• Heavy down jacket (–20°C)
• Thermals (top & bottom)
• Waterproof shell jacket
• Insulated gloves & socks
• Warm hat, neck buff, balaclava

Footwear

• Insulated boots
• Microspikes
• Gaiters

Other Essentials

• Headlamp
• 2–3 hot water bottles
• Sunscreen & lip balm
• Power bank
• Trekking poles

Provided by Sherpa Expedition & Trekking

• –30°C sleeping bag
• Camping tents
• Mattresses
• Dining & kitchen setup
• Winter meals & hot drinks

Best Time to Do the Manaslu Circuit in Winter

Mid-December to Early February

This is the ideal time for stable winter trekking conditions. Snow is predictable and our guides select the safest day for crossing Larke Pass.

Why Choose Sherpa Expedition & Trekking for Winter Manaslu?

✔ We are winter trekking leaders

✔ The only company consistently organizing Manaslu winter departures

✔ Highly experienced Sherpa guides

✔ Tent camps where teahouses are closed

✔ Safety-first approach

✔ Small group—minimum 2 people

✔ Best value for service

When others stop offering the trek, we step forward, ensuring adventure lovers can experience Manaslu’s winter magic.

Book Your Winter Manaslu Circuit Trek Today

If you’re searching for a rare, adventurous, and truly Himalayan winter experience—one that few trekkers ever attempt—then the Manaslu Circuit Winter Trek with Sherpa Expedition & Trekking is the perfect expedition for you.

👉 Only winter-specialized trekking company
👉 Minimum 2 people required
👉 Full tent support at Dharmasala & Bimthang
👉 Expert Sherpa guides with winter training

Contact us to reserve your winter adventure.
Limited departures—winter seats fill fast!