Temperature drops dramatically with altitude. A 35°C difference between the lowest and highest point on the same day is completely normal in December.

At Jagat, the cold feels like a normal winter morning. At Samdo, your water bottle freezes overnight. At Larkya La, the wind makes every layer feel useless.

Early December vs Late December – The Big Difference

Most trekkers don’t realize that the first and second half of December feel like two completely different seasons.

Early December (Dec 1–15):

• 90% clear skies
• Larkya La open 80–90% of the time
• 60% of teahouses still running
• Less snow and longer days
• Best for budget trekkers and photographers

Late December (Dec 16–31):

• Heavy snow above 4,000 meters
• Larkya La closed 40–50% of the time
• Only 30% of teahouses open
• Shorter days and foggy mornings
• Higher risk, needs experienced guide

Pro Tip: Early December gives you better safety, lower prices, and clearer skies all at once.

Snowfall, Rain and Wind

December is completely dry, so no rain at all this month. Snow and wind are the real factors to understand.

• Rain: Zero. Completely dry season below 2,000 meters
• Snow: Light snow 1–2 times per week above Samdo in early December. Heavy and frequent in late December above 4,000 meters
• Wind: The biggest challenge at Larkya La. Speeds hit 30–40 km/h and wind chill makes it feel like -30°C. Start your pass crossing before sunrise to avoid the worst of it
• Cloud: Clear blue skies in the afternoon. Light fog in the mornings that clears within an hour

Daylight Hours in December

December gives you only 10.5 hours of daylight compared to 12 hours in autumn. That 90-minute difference matters more than most trekkers expect.

• Start trekking by 7:00 AM every day
• Reach your teahouse by 3:30 PM at the latest
• On Larkya La crossing day, start at 4:30 AM with a headlamp

Visibility and Mountain Views

This is the reward that makes December worth every layer you pack. December has the clearest mountain views of the entire year. Dry air and zero haze means you can see peaks over 100 kilometers away with stunning clarity.

Mountains visible in December:

• Manaslu (8,163m)
• Himlung Himal (7,126m)
• Cheo Himal (6,820m)
• Annapurna II (7,937m)

Best photography window is 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM when golden light turns the peaks orange and pink. Always carry extra camera batteries because cold kills battery life extremely fast.

16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

US$ 1,290US$ 970

★5.0 (40 Reviews)

View Trip →

Larkya La Pass in December: Is It Open?

Larkya La is open in early December but may close in late December with heavy snow. Check conditions with your guide and Samdo checkpoint before you try. If closed, wait 1–2 days in Samdo or Dharamsala, or return the same way or via Tsum Valley. Never force a crossing, helicopter rescue is only for emergencies and needs good weather. Bring microspikes, poles, gaiters, a down jacket and windproof layers. Start around 3 AM before strong winds.

How Difficult Is the Manaslu Trek in December?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek in December is moderate to challenging. Trekkers usually walk 6–8 hours and 10–15 km daily, but snow, freezing temperatures, and short daylight hours can make the trek slower and more tiring.

Trails may be icy, snow-covered, or unclear, especially at higher elevations. Larkya La Pass (5,106m) is the toughest section due to thin air, cold, and altitude risks.

Proper acclimatization, warm winter gear, sturdy boots, microspikes, and mental preparation are essential. The trek suits fit and experienced trekkers, while beginners need good preparation and an experienced guide. Those with heart or lung conditions should seek professional medical advice.

Pros and Cons of Manaslu in December

December has clear highs and real challenges. Here is a quick, honest look to help you decide.

Crowd & Trail Condition in December

In October, the Manaslu Circuit sees 200–300 trekkers each day, but in December there are only 20–30. That means quiet, open trails. The lower trail is dry with less dust and is easy to walk, with snow only on the high sections near the pass. Teahouses are not crowded, so you can usually get a single room. Evenings are cozy as everyone sits together by the warm stove (chulo) in the dining room.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary for December

13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

A 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek in December gives you enough time to enjoy the quieter winter trails while keeping a reserve day for weather, snow, or road delays. The itinerary follows the classic route from Machha Khola to Besisahar, with an acclimatization day in Samagaon and an early start for the 5,106m Larkya La Pass.

Note: December weather can change quickly. We offer a 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary, but from our guides’ experience, it is wise to keep 1–2 extra days of flexibility in your travel plan. Snowfall, Larkya La Pass conditions, or unexpected road disruptions can sometimes cause delays. Our experienced guides will assess the trail and weather conditions before and during your trek and help you plan the safest option. This buffer gives you peace of mind and reduces the risk of missing your onward flight or travel plans.

16-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

For trekkers seeking a slower, more comfortable pace, the 16-day option adds Kathmandu sightseeing and extra flexibility, making it ideal for December’s changing weather and trail conditions.

Note: December weather can change quickly. We offer both 13-day and 16-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itineraries, but based on our guides’ experience, we recommend keeping 1–2 extra days of flexibility in your travel plan. Snowfall, Larkya La Pass conditions, or unexpected road disruptions may cause delays. Our experienced guides monitor the weather and trail conditions throughout the trek and adjust the itinerary when needed for a safer journey. This extra flexibility also helps reduce the risk of missing your onward flight or travel plans.

Food and Accommodation on the Manaslu Trek in December

In December, you will still find places to eat and sleep, but choices get smaller the higher you go.

• Accommodation: Most teahouses from Jagat to Namrung stay open, so finding a bed is easy lower down. Lho and Samagaon have fewer lodges but the open ones are good and cozy. Samdo has only 2–3 lodges, so book ahead. Dharamsala has only a basic dormitory with no private rooms – expect a simple, cold night before the pass.
• Room Facilities: Rooms are simple with a wooden bed, thin mattress, pillow, and blankets. There is no heating in rooms at high altitude, so a warm sleeping bag is a must. Toilets can freeze at night, and hot showers are mostly only in lower villages – higher up you may only get a bucket of warm water.
• Food and Water: You can still eat well – Dal Bhat, noodles, fried rice, soup, pasta, and thukpa are common. After Samagaon the menu gets smaller and there is no meat in upper villages. Water can freeze in pipes and bottles, so carry warm water in a thermos and use bottled water or purification tablets.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits & Cost in December

• Permit Fees: The Manaslu Circuit Trek permit requirements include RAP, MCAP, and ACAP. In December, RAP costs $75 for seven days and $15 per extra day. MCAP and ACAP are $23 each, while Chumnubri Municipality charges NPR 1,000–2,000. TIMS is not required.
• Package Cost: A 14-day package usually costs $1,050–$1,450 per person, covering permits, a licensed guide, porter, meals, teahouse stays, and transport.
• Extra Expenses: Budget another $220–$330 for insurance, tips, gear rental, hot showers, and charging. Group trekking can reduce shared guide and transport costs.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Choose a policy covering trekking up to at least 6,000 meters, emergency medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, and repatriation. In 2026, suitable high-altitude insurance may cost around US$90–$250, depending on your age, trip length, and coverage.

As Larkya La Pass reaches around 5,100 meters, make sure your policy specifically covers high-altitude trekking and helicopter rescue. Also check coverage for altitude sickness and emergency evacuation.

How Himalaya Hub Helps: Our experienced team can help you understand insurance requirements, check your coverage for high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation, and guide you on the documents you need before starting your trek. In an emergency, we can also help coordinate with your insurance provider.

Guide & Porter – Why Mandatory in December?

Manaslu is a Restricted Area, so you cannot get permits without a licensed guide. You need at least two trekkers plus a guide, and the guide’s license is checked at the Jagat checkpoint. In December, a guide is extra important, they find the trail in snow, help you put on microspikes, and know the signs of altitude sickness. A porter carries 15–20kg so you can walk light and save energy in the cold. If you book early, winter costs are often a bit lower.

What to Pack for Manaslu in December – Complete Checklist

Packing is essential because December brings snow, winds, and temperatures below freezing. Use this Manaslu Circuit Trek packing list to stay warm, safe, and comfortable on the trail.

Must-Have Clothing

Dress in layers to handle changing mountain weather:

• Two sets of merino wool thermal tops and bottoms
• A fleece jacket and a down jacket rated to -20°C
• A waterproof, windproof Gore-Tex jacket and pants
• Two trekking pants, warm trousers, four pairs of underwear, and sports bras
• A wool hat, buff, sun hat, liner gloves, and insulated waterproof gloves

Winter Footwear and Trekking Gear

Bring broken-in waterproof trekking boots, gaiters, microspikes or crampons, and trekking poles. You will need a -20°C comfort-rated sleeping bag with a liner because teahouse blankets may not provide enough warmth. Carry a 50–65L backpack with a rain cover and a duffel bag for your porter.

Health, Safety, and Sun Protection

Pack UV400 glacier sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm, a headlamp with spare batteries, and a first-aid kit. Include personal medicine and only take Diamox after consulting a doctor. Carry a one-liter bottle or thermos and water purification tablets.

Electronics and Important Documents

Take a 20,000mAh power bank, camera, and spare batteries. Cold drains batteries quickly, so keep them in a warm pocket. Carry your passport, photocopies, trekking permits, travel insurance, and Nepali cash.

Helpful tip: Down jackets, sleeping bags, and crampons are available to rent in Kathmandu’s Thamel area. Crampons cost about $1–$2 per day.

How Should You Prepare for the Manaslu Trek in December?

Start your Manaslu Circuit Trek preparation three to six weeks before departure. Training improves strength, stamina, endurance, and fitness for long walking days, snowy trails, backpack weight, and high altitude.

Strength and Endurance Exercises

Build full-body strength with squats, lunges, planks, push-ups, deadlifts, leg presses, and step-ups. Increase intensity gradually and focus on proper form.

Stamina and Cardiovascular Exercises

Improve cardio with jogging, cycling, swimming, skipping, or stair climbing. Train three to five times a week, gradually adding harder sessions.

Practice Hikes and Stair Climbing

Take regular hikes and stair-climbing sessions while wearing trekking boots and carrying a backpack. Slowly increase distance, elevation, and pack weight to prepare for December’s challenging trails.

Altitude Sickness in December (Higher Risk in Cold)

Altitude sickness is a concern on the Manaslu Circuit, especially at higher elevations. Headache, nausea, vomiting, poor sleep, dizziness, and loss of appetite are common warning signs. Proper acclimatization in Samagaon, slow walking, drinking enough fluids, avoiding alcohol, and eating well can help reduce the risk.

If you develop symptoms, tell your guide immediately and do not continue climbing until you feel better. Rest and descend if symptoms worsen. Medicines such as Diamox should only be used with professional medical advice. In severe cases, emergency evacuation may be necessary.

People, Culture & Wildlife in December

In December, Tibetan-Buddhist villages feel quiet and special. Monasteries like Pungyen and Sama Gompa are empty and peaceful, perfect for a calm visit. Many locals move to lower villages for winter, but those who stay are warm and friendly and have more time to talk.

Winter is also good for wildlife – you may see blue sheep, Himalayan thar, and pika, and with luck, find snow leopard footprints in fresh snow, as sightings are more likely in winter. You may also see early preparations for the Lhosar festival. It is a great time to experience real local life without crowds.

Conclusion: Manaslu Circuit Trek in December

December can be a rewarding time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek if you are prepared for cold, snow, and changing weather. Early December is usually best, while late December suits experienced winter trekkers. You can enjoy snowy peaks, peaceful trails, fewer visitors, clear skies, and great photography.

However, expect freezing temperatures, short daylight, snowfall, limited teahouse services, and possible Larkya La Pass closure. Check the latest trail and weather conditions with a local guide, confirm accommodation, carry proper winter gear, and allow 1–2 buffer days for delays.

With 15+ years of experience, a 4.9-star rating, and experienced local guides, Himalaya Hub can help you plan a safer winter trek. Contact us for December availability, local guides, and a customized winter packing list.

See What people are Saying About Us

Himalaya Hub Adventure ★★★★★ 4.9 out of (444) Himalaya Hub Adventure ★★★★★ 4.9 out of (1,092)

Helpful Manaslu Circuit Trek Planning Guides

• Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost: Complete Cost Breakdown
• Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty: What to Expect & How to Prepare
• Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary: Complete Day-by-Day Route
• Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek: Weather & Trekking Seasons
• Manaslu Circuit Trek Map: Complete Route & Major Stops
• Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance: Total Length & Daily Walking
• How to Prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trek: Training & Tips
• Manaslu Circuit Trek Food Guide: Meals, Prices & What to Expect
• Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring: Weather, Views & Trail Conditions
• Manaslu Circuit Trek in Autumn: Weather, Crowds & Conditions
• Manaslu Circuit Trek in September: Weather & Trail Conditions
• Manaslu Circuit Trek in October: Weather, Views & Trekking Conditions
• Manaslu Circuit Trek in November: Weather, Snow & Trekking Conditions
• Manaslu Conservation Area: Wildlife, Culture & Trekking

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Manaslu Circuit Trek open in December?

Yes, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is open in December. Early December is generally the better time to trek. However, heavy snowfall can make Larkya La Pass difficult or temporarily inaccessible later in the month, especially after mid-December.

How cold does Manaslu get in December at night?

December nights are very cold at higher elevations. Temperatures can drop to around -10°C in Samagaon and -20°C or lower near Larkya La Pass. Proper thermal layers, a warm sleeping bag, gloves, and insulated clothing are essential for winter trekking.

Can beginners do Manaslu Circuit in December?

The Manaslu Circuit in December is not recommended for complete beginners. Snow, freezing temperatures, icy trails, and challenging conditions around Larkya La require good fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience.

Are teahouses open on the Manaslu Circuit in December?

Some teahouses remain open in December, especially at lower elevations. However, accommodation becomes limited in higher villages during winter. It is best to confirm availability in advance and carry suitable winter gear in case facilities are basic.

5. Do I need crampons or microspikes in December?

Yes, carrying microspikes or crampons is strongly recommended for Manaslu in December. Snow and ice can cover trails at higher elevations, particularly around Larkya La Pass. Trekking poles can also provide extra stability on slippery sections.

How much is the Manaslu permit in December?

In December, the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) costs USD 75 for the first seven days, plus USD 10 per additional day. You also need MCAP, ACAP, and the local municipality fee. Permit fees can change, so confirm current rates before departure.

Is there snow on the Manaslu Circuit in December?

Yes, snow is possible, particularly above 3,500 meters. Higher sections and Larkya La Pass can be heavily snow-covered in December. Snow conditions vary each year, so checking recent trail conditions before crossing the pass is important.

Is altitude sickness worse in December?

Cold weather does not directly cause altitude sickness, but winter conditions can make trekking at high altitude more difficult. Proper acclimatization, slow walking, enough hydration, and rest are essential. Never ignore symptoms such as severe headache, dizziness, or breathing problems.

Can I trek Manaslu solo in December?

No. The Manaslu Restricted Area requires trekkers to travel with a licensed guide, and the permit regulations require a minimum group of two trekkers for the restricted-area section. Independent solo trekking is therefore not permitted.

What is the best week in December for Manaslu?

The first two weeks of December are generally the better period for the Manaslu Circuit. Trails are usually quieter, and conditions may be more manageable before deeper winter sets in. However, weather and snowfall can change conditions from year to year.

Is there a phone signal on Manaslu in winter?

Mobile coverage is available in some lower and larger villages, including areas around Samagaon, but the signal becomes weak or unavailable in remote sections. Do not rely completely on mobile service. Your trekking agency can help arrange communication for emergencies.

Do I need travel insurance for Manaslu in December?

Yes. Travel insurance is highly recommended and should cover high-altitude trekking, emergency evacuation, and helicopter rescue at the maximum altitude of your trek. Check the policy carefully before departure because some insurers impose altitude limits or exclude certain winter activities.

How do I reach the Manaslu trailhead in December?

The Manaslu Circuit usually begins with a road journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola by jeep or bus. In December, winter weather and road conditions can cause delays. A private or shared jeep is generally the more practical option for reaching the trailhead.