Manaslu Circuit Winter Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Winter Trek is one of the most remarkable cold-season adventures in Nepal, offering an untouched Himalayan wilderness, quiet trails, and powerful mountain scenery that few trekkers ever get to witness. While the mainstream trekking companies close their winter operations due to extreme weather and the shutdown of high-altitude teahouses, Sherpa Expedition & Trekking continues to guide trekkers safely through this magnificent region.

With decades of mountain experience, well-trained Sherpa guides, and professionally organized winter tent camps at Dharmasala and Bimthang—where teahouses remain closed—the company provides the only reliable and safe winter Manaslu program, available for a minimum of 2 trekkers.

This is not just a trek—it’s a rare chance to experience the Himalayas in their most pristine and untouched form.

Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit in Winter?

Many consider winter the most peaceful season for trekking in Nepal, and the Manaslu region is especially magical during these months. The landscapes turn white and silent, the skies open after short snowfalls, and the mountains reveal their raw and powerful beauty.

1. Pure Winter Wilderness

The trails are nearly empty. You’ll enjoy complete isolation—just you, your Sherpa team, frozen rivers, icy waterfalls, deep pine forests, and the white massifs of the Manaslu Himalaya.

2. Exceptional Mountain Visibility

Winter is known for crystal-clear skies.
The giant peaks—including Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal, Nemjung, and Annapurna II—shine sharply against the blue sky, offering some of the best Himalayan views of the entire year.

3. A Deep Cultural Experience

Manaslu’s Tibetan-influenced villages remain active during winter. Monks continue their rituals, farmers prepare their homes for the cold months, and the communities welcome trekkers warmly, especially when visitors are uncommon.

4. A More Adventurous Challenge

Crossing Larke La Pass (5,160m) in winter feels like a true expedition. Frozen landscapes, snow-covered slopes, and the thrill of overcoming obstacles make the journey uniquely rewarding.

What Makes Sherpa Expedition & Trekking the Best/Only Choice in Winter?

Trekking Manaslu in winter requires expertise, proper gear, and winter-specific logistics. Teahouses above Samdo—including Dharmasala and Bimthang—close entirely. Most trekking operators stop organizing trips because they don’t have the equipment, staff, or winter experience needed.

Sherpa Expedition & Trekking stands out for several reasons:

✔ Professional Winter Sherpa Guides

Our guides are native highlanders who understand snow conditions, frozen terrain, and winter weather patterns. They are trained in:

• High-altitude winter navigation
• Snow and ice safety
• Cold-weather first aid
• Rope techniques for risky sections

✔ Tented Camps Where Teahouses Are Closed

Teahouses at Dharmasala and Bimthang shut down completely in winter.
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking solves this by organizing:

• Warm insulated sleeping tents
• Dining tent
• Kitchen tent
• Hot meals
• –30°C sleeping bags
• Thick mattresses

This is essential for safe winter trekking.

✔ Minimum 2 Trekkers Required

Unlike other companies that need large groups to operate winter departures, we start treks with only 2 people, making the experience private, flexible, and safe.

✔ Complete Permit & Logistics Handling

All restricted-area and conservation permits are handled by our team.

✔ Winter Gear Support

We provide quality gear suitable for harsh temperatures, ensuring warmth and comfort.

No other company combines all these features for winter Manaslu.

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

This itinerary is specially adapted for winter, focusing on safety and acclimatization.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Receive your briefing, meet your guide, and check winter gear.

Day 2: Drive to Soti Khola

A scenic ride through green hills and rivers.

Day 3–5: Trek to Deng, then Namrung

Quiet trails through forests, suspension bridges, and villages.

Day 6: Trek to Lho

A beautiful ridge walk with dramatic views of Manaslu.

Day 7: Trek to Samagaon

Enjoy views of the massive Manaslu Glacier.

Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon

Optional hikes to Pungyen Gompa or a viewpoint for Manaslu Base Camp.

Day 9: Trek to Samdo

A cold but stunning walk through open high-Himalayan terrain.

Day 10: Trek to Dharmasala (Winter Camp Night)

Teahouses here are closed.
You will sleep in warm tents with hot meals prepared by the support staff.

Day 11: Cross Larke La Pass – Descend to Bimthang (Camp Night)

Winter makes this one of the most impressive days of the trek.
Sherpa guides lead safely across the pass using winter techniques.

Day 12: Trek to Dharapani

Return to forested landscapes and gentler temperatures.

Day 13–14: Drive back to Kathmandu

Enjoy a farewell dinner and receive your trek completion certificate.

Difficulty Level of Manaslu Circuit in Winter

This trek is challenging in winter due to cold temperatures and snow, but with Sherpa support, it becomes achievable for:

• Fit trekkers
• Adventurers seeking a unique challenge
• Those with some high-altitude experience
• Winter lovers and off-season explorers

Proper acclimatization, safe pacing, and expert navigation make the trek safe even in the coldest months.

Winter Temperatures on the Manaslu Circuit

Typical Winter Range:

• Low valleys: 0°C to 10°C
• Middle region: –10°C to –5°C
• High altitude: –20°C to –30°C

Trail Conditions:

• Snow above 3,500m
• Icy trails around Dharmasala
• Strong winds near Larke La Pass

This is why expert Sherpa support is crucial.

Equipment Required for Winter Trekking

Essential Personal Gear:

• Heavy down jacket
• Thermal base layers
• Windproof outer shells
• Warm hat, gloves, socks
• Insulated trekking boots
• Gaiters and microspikes
• Sunglasses and sun protection

Gear Provided by Sherpa Expedition & Trekking:

• –30°C sleeping bags
• Warm tents
• Dining & kitchen tent
• Mattresses
• Hot meals and drinks

When Is the Best Time to Trek Manaslu in Winter?

The most suitable winter trekking window is:

Late December → Early February

During this period, the snow is stable, temperatures predictable, and the skies exceptionally clear.

Why Book With Sherpa Expedition & Trekking?

✔ One of the only companies operating in winter

✔ Expert local Sherpa guides

✔ Tent camps at Dharmasala and Bimthang

✔ Minimum 2 trekkers required

✔ High-quality winter equipment

✔ Tailor-made departures

✔ Safety-focused and reliable

From logistics to tents to meals, every detail is handled professionally so trekkers can enjoy the adventure without worry.

Book Your Manaslu Circuit Winter Trek Today

Take part in one of the most extraordinary winter adventures in Nepal.
The Manaslu Circuit in winter is quiet, beautiful, and thrilling—and with Sherpa Expedition & Trekking, it is safe, supported, and unforgettable.

👉 Winter departures are limited
👉 Minimum 2 trekkers needed
👉 Tent camps provided where teahouses are closed
👉 Guided by professional Sherpa experts

Contact Sherpa Expedition & Trekking to reserve your winter trekking dates.
Experience the Himalayas in their purest season!