Trekking the Manaslu Circuit in December transforms the eighth-highest mountain in the world into a "Snow Wonderland." While the Larkya La pass (5,106m | 16,752 ft) presents significant challenges with temperatures hitting -25°C, the rewards include crystal-clear skies, 80% fewer trekkers, and a $25 reduction in Restricted Area Permit fee.
Most travelers avoid the Himalayas in December, assuming the passes are closed. However, for a prepared trekker with support from an experienced travel agency, North Nepal Travel & Trek's with over 10 years in the Travel industry, can only help you cross Larkya La Pass in the winter season. Of course, you need a professional mountain guide like Jeewan Tamang.
Photo: Manaslu Peak
December is the "Golden Window" for high-definition photography and absolute mountain solitude. No bluffing. Look at our latest images as proof.
In December, the monsoon moisture is entirely gone. It’s “Bluebird" Days in the Manalsu region. Meaning the sky remains a deep, consistent blue with sparse clouds. From Samagaun, the view of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) is sharper than in any other month. The mesmerizing turquoise-color Birendra Lake is magical in itself. The ambience around the lake is deep, with spiritual feelings.
The Nepal Department of Immigration classifies December as the "Off-Peak" season. The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) drops from $100 to $75 for the first week, saving your group significant budget for better gear or private transport.
In the December season, trekkers decline by 80%. This means less traffic on the route, unlike the crowded Spring and Autumn seasons in Nepal. You get the authentic local exposure of Manalsu. Imagine sitting by the warm Chulo and sharing each other's life stories in the cold winter. Chulo is the traditional wooden fireplace used in the countryside of Nepal. Often used for cooking meals.
Photo: Guest posing at Manalsu Circuit trek and Snowy Mountain in the backdrop.
There are limited options for accommodation during the December trek in Manalsu. Wondering why? Because local descends to the lower region to escape the extreme winter season. This is the centuries-long tradition followed by locals residing in the high-altitude Himalayas of Nepal.
How did our guest from Canada survive then? Our close ties with the local Teahouse owners, local people, and experienced trekking guides made their trek possible even in December.
Upon our request, the Teahouses were opened for our guests. The services and hospitality were never compromised. In fact, our guest got the most personalized services in the Teahouses of the Manaslu region. This is the advantage for you when you partner with the best Travel agency of the Annapurna region.
Photo: Teahouses and Accommodation at Manaslu Circuit Trek
Navigating the legalities of a Restricted Area Trek in Nepal requires precision. As of now, the TIMS card is no longer required for Manaslu, replaced by local municipality fees.
|
Permits |
Cost (USD) |
Requirement |
|
Restricted Area Permit (RAP) |
$75 (1st Week) |
Mandatory (via Agency) |
|
Manaslu Conservation (MCAP) |
$23 (NPR 3,000) |
Mandatory |
|
Annapurna Conservation (ACAP) |
$23 (NPR 3,000) |
Mandatory (for Exit) |
|
Chumnubri Rual Municipality |
$15 (NPR 2,000) |
Paid at Checkpoint |
On the 17th of December 2025, four people (three boys and a girl) entered our office and proposed a challenging personalized trek to the Manalsu Circuit Trek in December. Ask asked us to offer them a 13-day Manaslu trek with our expert mountain guide. Below is the itinerary planned by North Nepal Trek for them:
Day 1: Drive to Machha Khola (870m) from Pokhara — 8-9 hours via private jeep
Day 2: Trek to Jagat (1,290m) – First RAP checkpoint entry.
Day 3: Trek to Deng (1,860m) – Bamboo forests and suspension bridges.
Day 4: Trek to Namrung (2,630m) – Steep climb into the Tibetan-influenced highlands.
Day 5: Trek to Lho (3,180m) – Incredible views of Manaslu’s peaks.
Day 6: Trek to Samagaun(3,530m) – Arrival at the region's cultural hub.
Day 7: Acclimatization Day – Hike to Birendra Lake or Manaslu Base Camp (Optional side trek).
Day 8: Trek to Samdo (3,690m) – Short walk to preserve energy for the pass.
Day 9: Trek to Dharmasala (4,460m) – High camp. Note: Often cold and basic in winter.
Day 10: Cross Larkya La (5,106m) to Bimthang (3,720m) – Challenging day.
Day 11: Trek to Dharapani (1,860m) – Enter the ACAP area from the MCAP area.
Day 12: Drive to Besisahar and Pokhara – Drive back to the city hustle and bustle.
Day 13: Final Departure to Kathmandu (flight or highway)
Crossing a 5,000m pass in December is not a standard hike; it is an entry-level mountaineering experience. It requires technical knowledge and an experienced mountain guide like Jeewan.
Photo: Canadian nationals with our Guide and Porter
Experience Proof: At the Jagat Checkpoint, authorities will verify your guide's credentials. In December, a guide is not just a navigator—they are a safety officer. During the recent trek with 4 Canadian foreigners, Jeewan used microspikes and trekking poles to fix a line across a patch of "black ice" near the summit of the pass. Without these, the descent to Bimthang is hazardous.
1. Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek open in December?
Yes, the trek is open. However, if heavy snow blocks the Larkya La pass, you may have to return the same way or divert to Tsum Valley.
2. How much does a guide cost for Manaslu in 2025?
A government-licensed guide typically costs between $25 and $35 per day, which includes their insurance, meals, and salary.
3. Can I pay for my Manaslu permits with a credit card?
No. All permits processed in Kathmandu by agencies require cash (USD or NPR), and the Chumnubri local fee is paid in NPR cash at the trail.
4. Do I need a TIMS card for Manaslu?
No, as of 2025, the TIMS card is no longer needed for the Manaslu Restricted Area.
5. What is the group size requirement for Manaslu?
A minimum of two foreign trekkers and one licensed Nepali guide are legally required to obtain the Restricted Area Permit.
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