How Much Does it Cost to Trek the Manaslu Circuit? 

Sometimes we think purchasing everything individually is cheaper than paying an all-inclusive package for the Manaslu Circuit trek.  Take making a special dinner for example.  While it may seem cheaper than eating out, unless you have all the ingredients already in your cupboard and fridge, then it probably isn’t.  And the ambiance is missing for sure!  All-inclusive beach resorts?  Now who wouldn’t want to visit one of those?

So let us answer some of your questions about how much it costs to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek.  

You may see prices for Manaslu circuit trek packages that range from USD 900 to USD 1,500 for the same number of days, on the same trek.  Bearing in mind that you get what you pay for (usually), you need to take a good look at the inclusions and exclusions listed on the packages.  Also, consider the time of year (peak season vs off-season and shoulder season).  While some low prices may reflect a lack of professionalism and lack of amenities, it can be that a lower price reflects a certain time of the year.  

Some questions to ask are:

If the price is very low, does the company have good guides? Why is the price so low?

Are the guides trained to handle emergencies?

If the price is very high, are you getting something you would not normally get from another company?  If not, why is the price so high? 

Let’s not confuse ourselves, let’s take a look at the breakdown of prices so you can see for yourself.  

Manaslu Trek Cost Overview

How Much Does the Manaslu Trek Really Cost?

If you’re wondering about the Manaslu Trek price, it’s helpful to know that the cost can vary based on several factors. On average, the Manaslu Circuit Trek costs between $900 to $1,800 per person. This estimate includes essential expenses like permits, guides, accommodation, food, and transportation.

Factors Influencing the Cost

Your overall Manaslu Trek expenses can be affected by:

Duration of the Trek:

Longer Treks: The more days you spend trekking, the higher the cost will be for accommodation, food, and guide services.

Shorter Treks: A shorter trek can reduce these daily expenses but may limit your experience.

Choice of Trekking Agency:

Different Packages: Agencies offer various packages with different services included.

Quality of Service: Prices may vary based on the reputation and quality of the agency.

Time of Year (Peak vs. Off-Peak Seasons):

Peak Season (September to November): Higher demand can lead to increased prices for accommodation and services.

Off-Peak Season: You might find lower prices, but be prepared for different weather conditions.

Group Size:

Larger Groups: Traveling with more people can lower the cost per person by sharing expenses for guides, porters, and transportation.Solo Travelers: Trekking alone may be more expensive since you bear all costs yourself.

By considering these factors, you can plan your budget more effectively and make choices that suit your needs and preferences for your Manaslu Trek adventure.

Mandatory Expenses for the Manaslu Trek

Manaslu Trek Permits Cost

When planning your trek, it’s important to know about the necessary permits. These permits are mandatory because the Manaslu region is a restricted area, aimed at preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Understanding the Manaslu Trek permits cost helps you budget effectively.

List of Required Permits:

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
   • Cost (September to November):
     • $70 USD per person for the first 7 days
     • $10 USD for each additional day
   • Cost (December to August):
     • $50 USD per person for the first 7 days
     • $7 USD for each additional day
   • Details: This permit is essential because the Manaslu region is a restricted zone. The cost varies depending on the time of year, with higher fees during the peak trekking months of September to November.
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
   • Cost: Approximately NPR 3000 per person
   • Details: This permit helps fund conservation efforts in the Manaslu area, ensuring the environment and local communities are protected.
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
   • Cost: Approximately NPR 3000 per person
   • Details: Since part of the Manaslu Circuit enters the Annapurna region, this permit is also required to continue your trek without any issues.

How to Obtain Permits

Through a Registered Trekking Agency:

Permits must be arranged through a registered trekking agency like Manaslu Trek Nepal.

Individual trekkers cannot obtain these permits on their own.

Why This Is Necessary:

The area’s restricted status means the government requires trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed guide.

This ensures safety and helps protect the local environment and culture.

These permits are a significant part of the overall Manaslu Circuit Trek cost. Knowing the Manaslu Trek permits cost in advance helps you plan your budget more accurately.

Manaslu Trek Transportation Cost

Getting to and from the trailhead is another mandatory expense to consider. Here’s a breakdown of the Manaslu Trek transportation cost.

From Kathmandu to Maccha Khola(Starting Point):

1. Public Bus:
   • Cost: Around $10 to $15 USD per person
   • Duration: Approximately 8 to 10 hours to reach Maccha Khola
   • Details: This is the most budget-friendly option. Buses can be crowded and less comfortable, but they are reliable and get you to the starting point.
2. Shared Jeep:
   • Cost: Around $25 to $30 USD per person
   • Details: Shared jeeps are more comfortable and faster than buses. They offer a smoother ride and usually take less time.
3. Private Vehicle:
   • Cost: Approximately $150 to $200 USD per vehicle
   • Details: Ideal for groups who prefer comfort and flexibility. A private vehicle can stop as needed and provides a more personalized travel experience.

Return Transportation:

The endpoint of the trek is usually Dharapani or Besisahar.

From there, similar transportation options are available back to Kathmandu.

Public Bus: Around $10 to $15 USD per person

Shared Jeep: Around $25 to $30 USD per person

Private Vehicle: Approximately $150 to $200 USD per vehicle

Things to Consider:

Travel Time: Road conditions can affect travel time. Shared jeeps and private vehicles are generally faster.

Comfort Level: Private vehicles offer the most comfort, while public buses are more basic.

Group Size: If you’re traveling in a group, splitting the cost of a private vehicle can be cost-effective.

Including the transportation costs in your Manaslu Trek expenses ensures you’re fully prepared financially. Whether you choose the budget-friendly bus or a more comfortable private vehicle, planning ahead helps make your trek start and finish smoothly.

By understanding these mandatory expenses, you can better prepare for your adventure. The Manaslu Trek permits cost and Manaslu Trek transportation cost are essential parts of your budget. Planning for these costs helps you avoid surprises and enjoy your trek with peace of mind.

Hiring Guides and Porters

Manaslu Trek Guide Cost

Licensed Guide Rates

When trekking in the Manaslu region, hiring a guide is mandatory due to restricted area regulations. Knowing the Manaslu Trek guide cost is important for your budgeting.

• Average Daily Rate: A licensed guide typically costs between $30 to $40 USD per day.
• Role of the Guide:
  • Navigating the Trail: Guides know the paths well and help you find the right way.
  • Arranging Accommodations: They book places for you to stay each night.
  • Ensuring Safety: Guides are trained to handle emergencies and keep you safe during the trek.

Having a guide not only follows the rules but also makes your trek more enjoyable. They can share local knowledge and assist with any problems that arise.

Mandatory Guide Requirement

Why You Need a Guide:

The Manaslu area is a restricted zone in Nepal.

The government requires all trekkers to have a licensed guide.

This helps protect the environment and local communities.

Including the cost of a guide in your Manaslu Trek expenses is essential when planning your trip.

Porter Fees on the Manaslu Trek

Porter Rates

Hiring a porter can make your trek easier by carrying your heavy bags.

Average Daily Rate: A porter usually charges between $20 to $25 USD per day.

Luggage Capacity: Porters can carry up to 20 kilograms of luggage.

Benefits of Hiring a Porter

Supports the Local Economy: Hiring porters provides jobs for people in the area.

Eases the Physical Burden: With a porter carrying your bags, you can walk without the extra weight.

Allows You to Enjoy the Journey More Fully: You’ll have more energy to appreciate the scenery and experience.

Food in the Teahouses in Manaslu Circuit

Unlike in some of the more established and busy trekking areas, food is more likely to be a set menu.  This ensures that the teahouse owner has enough supplies in for a given time, and that the kitchen can deal with orders more quickly with their limited equipment.  Even if you have a choice, best if your group orders the same items, for the same reason. 

The menu reflects the countryside you are trekking through.  Best choices are those local dishes familiar to the chef. 

The menu will read something like:

• Soups
• Tibetan or other local breads
• Momos (Nepali and Tibetan staple)
• Fried noodles 
• Potatoes (in different shapes and sizes!) 
• Dal Bhat (Nepali staple – a curry)
• Fried rice
• Rice pudding 
• Custard 
• Porridge (breakfast)
• Eggs (breakfast)
• Nepali tea
• Soft drinks
• Beer (expensive and not advisable to drink at elevation) 

Menu Prices 

Again, prices rise as the altitude rises.  But you are looking at between Nrs500 to Nrs700 per course.  (USD 4.50 – USD 8).  Breakfast will cost you around Nrs400 for eggs plus Rs500 for bread.  

Tea: Nrs100 

Soft drinks: Nrs350

Beer: Nrs700

(all prices are approximate and rise with altitude!) 

Why Food is So Expensive?   

At lower altitudes, it is easier to get supplies into the village or for teahouse owners to grow their vegetables or buy from their neighbors.  As the altitude rises so too does the cost of transporting goods into the area.  No longer will the villagers be able to grow vegetables to sell either.  Therefore prices rise.  Think how heavy it is to transport, by yak or porter,  dozens of bottles of coke or beer.   These in particular are luxury items that the locals are not consuming regularly, if at all.  They are being transported just for us! 

Tips Regarding Food

There is no, or extremely limited, refrigeration in these remote villages.  Therefore we recommend you do not order any meat or poultry items that may appear on the menu.  Stick to vegetarian food for the duration of your trek.  Your stomach will thank you!  Also stick to local cuisine such as momos, curry, and fried noodles, all items which the chef is very familiar with. In Tibetan-influenced areas feel free to try out some of the Tibetan dishes (just no meat please!) 

Miscellaneous Expenses That You Need to Consider 

Bottled Water

Necessity: Water is essential.  You will probably drink more than usual while trekking (or at least you should try to).  You cannot drink tap water or water straight from streams/ rivers on the way.  

Eco-conscious Alternatives: Commercial bottled water may not be available on the trails.  In some areas bottled water is banned to reduce the level of plastic pollution.  Even if it is available, we request you do your bit to keep Nepal clean.  Carrying a reusable water bottle with a purifying method (drops, tablets, filters) will both reduce plastic and save you money.  

Cost: If there is bottled water for sale, the cost of this is much higher than in the cities.  Again, when the altitude rises, so does the cost of transporting goods, and this is reflected in the menu price.  Boiled water is often available in teahouses, but again you will need to pay for this as it takes fuel (gas or firewood) to boil the water. 

Snacks

It is highly recommended to bring snacks with you from Kathmandu.  You may not find anything suitable on the way.

Energy Boost: When we say snacks, we mean those which will help you on your trek through giving you an energy boost.  We recommend energy bars, nuts and dried fruit. These will provide you with much needed extra energy and vitamins.  For those days when you may be feeling low, some chocolate bars are going to help too! 

Availability: While we do recommend you bring these with you, there are some villages on the lower trials that provide some limited types of snacks. In case you forgot to visit the supermarket in Kathmandu!

Souvenirs

There is always something interesting to buy, right?

Budget Allocation: If you are on a tight budget, you are under no obligation to buy anything.  On the other hand, you may never be in this area, or country again.  Isn’t it nice to take something home with you? It is entirely your choice of course. But do bring some extra cash (in Nepali rupees) just in case. 

Local Crafts:  This is a remote area, so there are not tourist shops as such but you can find lovely items such as locally made prayer flags, some locally made handicrafts and textiles.  All of which are what the local people will use in their everyday life – making it so much more special. 

Monasteries: It is normal to give a small donation when visiting monasteries.  Around Rs500 (USD 4) and a bit more if you are lighting their lamps/ candles for prayers. 

** Please bring Nepali rupees with you to cover these expenses.  There are no ATMs or money changers on this trekking route.**

Factors Affecting Overall Cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek 

We hope the information provided above will help you realise where your money is going when you look at the cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.  The information also provides you with details how much you should expect to pay yourself, over and above the rate quoted by your trekking agency.  For example for soft drinks, souvenirs, tipping etc. Here are some other things to consider.

Trek Duration

The Math:

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 13 day trek.  Each day consists of food, accommodation, guide and porter,  and other costs such as transport at the beginning and end of the trip. When calculating your budget, please take these factors into consideration: the longer the trek, the higher the cost. 

For example, if you are doing a 13 day trek – 11 actual days hiking – there are 12 overnights and corresponding daily meals.  If you are extending your trip –  in this example the Manaslu Circuit plus Tsum Valley  – to 20 days (18 days actually  hiking and 19 overnights), you would naturally expect to pay more.  Simple math really! 

Season:

Peak season: It is more expensive to trek in the peak season (autumn).  This is a popular time among trekkers and prices are higher to reflect the increased demand for accommodation, guides, porters etc.  Permit prices are also higher. 

Shoulder season: (spring/ late autumn) Prices at this time are moderate due to the fact there are less trekkers and less demand on accommodation, guides etc. The cheaper cost of trekking during these periods should be off-set against the fact the weather can be a bit unpredictable.

Off-season: (winter/ monsoon) Prices will be lower due to very little demand at these times of the year.  However, consideration for trail closures, teahouse closures (in the winter), and bad weather must be taken into account.  There could be delays (you are delayed due to bad weather or the transport is delayed due to road closures) also which could ultimately increase the price as you will require more accommodation and food etc. 

Group Size:

Solo Trekkers:  It is not possible to trek alone in this area as a Restricted Area Permit is required and will not be provided to trekkers who are not trekking through a registered trekking agency or who are just one person.  

However, it may be possible to meet up with like-minded trekkers through Facebook trekking groups or while in hotels/ restaurants in Kathmandu.  Or ask us if we have any small groups or other individuals looking to trek in this region in your time frame.  In this way you can join or form your own small group. 

Small Groups: This is potentially the answer if you are just one person.  Joining up with others (solo or a group of friends) into a small group means you can get the required permission to trek in this area and you can share the cost of guide, porters, private jeep etc which will make a huge difference to your budget. 

Large Groups: Sometimes people travel in large groups.  While we believe smaller groups can provide the group members with a more culturally memorable experience (more chance to meet locals, talk with the guide etc), it is possible to trek in a larger group also.  The advantage of this may be in negotiating a cheaper package price with a trekking agency.  Price v personalized experience. It’s your choice. 

Before You Trek Expenses

Before leaving home you will have expenses to consider which are not included in any package price.  The biggest will be your flight to Nepal, but also consider your trekking gear. 

Essential Gear

Having the correct gear will also influence the cost of your trek.  You may not have all the right equipment in your regular wardrobe and need to make some purchases before you come.  Some items are available for hire in Kathmandu, such as a sleeping bag, others you really should buy before you come to Nepal, such as trekking boots. 

The Layering System

The key to a comfortable trek is having the right gear, which includes the right clothes.  Since this is not a tropical island or the Antarctica, one set of clothes just won’t do.   Being that this trek starts at a low, and warm, altitude and takes you high into the cold mountains, you need clothes suitable for both climates.  Also, since it is colder in the mornings and evenings while you could get quite warm trekking during the day, it is important to have clothes which you can easily remove or put on while on the trail.  Hence layering.

The bottom layer should insulate you against the cold and be able to soak up any sweat.  A thermal top and bottoms is recommended. Easy to wash (if necessary) and dry trekking shirts/ tops are also a wise buy with similar easy to dry (in case of rain, snow, river splashes etc) trekking trousers. A fleece jacket is fantastic for the cooler parts of the day and is light to wear.  Top it all off with a wind and waterproof outer layer and you are good to go!   A down jacket for the shoulder and winter season is also a must.  Don’t forget a sun hat and a warm hat for the cold times. Warm gloves are essential also, as are waterproof ones if you are travelling in the monsoon or winter, or even in the shoulder seasons.

Footwear 

Shiny new trekking boots look great.  But what is even better, is well-broken-in ones!  If you do not have trekking boots, consider buying them well before your trip and wearing them constantly at home.  Remember you will be wearing these for around 7 hours a day over rough terrain.  When buying new boots, remember to look for those which offer good ankle support.  They should fit just right – enough room for cotton and then thicker woolen socks – not too tight nor too loose.  Blisters are not pleasant! 

Sleeping Bag

We recommend a four season sleeping bag.  Most of the four season bags are good in temperatures that go as low as -18C.  Unless you are trekking in the winter it will not be that cold (maybe down to -5C in the night) and you may not need such a warm bag.  But just roll it down a bit – better to be too warm than too cold!    Most sleeping bags of this quality are light and squish down to a very small size.  All the better for transporting it.  

Backpack

You should bring a backpack which is approximately 50 to 70 ltrs which can be carried by yourself or a porter.  You should also buy a good day pack.  Don’t forget to get a waterproof cover for both, just in case. 

Trekking Poles 

Whether you normally use poles or not, these are such a bonus when trekking in areas where the trails are uneven and you are descending and ascending several times a day. Poles provide stability and put less strain on your knees.

You can discuss all these items with your local trekking/ sportswear shop if you are unsure of brands etc. 

Other Important Items for Your Backpack 

• Sunglasses
• Sunblock
• Lip salve
• Smallish towel
• Medical kit including any, plus spares, of your regular medicine
• Toiletry items 
• Headlamp or torch
• Water bottle and purification tablets/ drops or Lifestraw
• Phone charger/ power bank 
• Sanitary items (if needed)
• Plastic bags (for damp clothes etc) 

Insurance

An important item to have.  You should ensure it covers you for trekking and up to 5,000m. 

Manaslu Trek Cost Breakdown: Sample Budget

Planning how much money you’ll need for your Manaslu Trek is important. Here’s a simple breakdown of the Manaslu Trek cost per day for different types of trekkers, along with the total estimated Manaslu Circuit Trek cost for a 13-day trek.

Manaslu Trek Cost Per Day

Budget Trekkers

• Daily Expenses: About $35 to $45 per person
• Includes:
  • Accommodation: Basic lodgings in tea houses with simple facilities
  • Meals: Standard breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day
  • Guide: Shared services of a licensed guide
  • Extras: Minimal additional costs, such as occasional hot water for tea

This option is good for trekkers who want to enjoy the Manaslu Trek without spending too much. By choosing basic accommodations and sharing guide services, you can keep your Manaslu Trek expenses lower.

Mid-range Trekkers

• Daily Expenses: About $50 to $70 per person
• Includes:
  • Accommodation: Private rooms in tea houses with better facilities
  • Meals: Full meals with more choices
  • Guide: Personal licensed guide just for you or your group
  • Extras: Some extras like hot showers, charging your devices, or enjoying local drinks

This option is for those who prefer a bit more comfort. It offers a balance between cost and convenience, making your trek more comfortable without a big increase in the Manaslu Trek cost per day.

Luxury Trekkers

• Daily Expenses: $80 to $100 or more per person
• Includes:
  • Accommodation: Best available lodgings with private rooms and, if possible, attached bathrooms
  • Meals: All meals and snacks, including special dietary requests
  • Guide and Porter: Personal licensed guide and a porter to carry your luggage
  • Extras: More frequent extras like unlimited hot showers, Wi-Fi access, and other personal services

This option is for trekkers who want the highest level of comfort during the Manaslu Trek. While the Manaslu Trek expenses are higher, you’ll have a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Total Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Estimate

Based on the daily costs above, here’s the total estimated Manaslu Circuit Trek cost for a typical 13-day trek:

Budget Option

• Total Cost: Around $1,200 to $1,500 per person
• Includes:
  • Permits: All necessary trekking permits
  • Transportation: Public bus to and from the starting point
  • Guide Fees: Shared guide services
  • Accommodation: Basic tea house stays
  • Meals: Standard meals during the trek
  • Miscellaneous Expenses: Minimal extras like occasional charging of devices

This option is suitable for travelers who have a limited budget but still want to experience the Manaslu Trek fully. Careful planning and modest spending help keep your overall Manaslu Trek expenses within a reasonable range.

Mid-range Option

• Total Cost: Around $1,800 to $2,200 per person
• Includes:
  • Permits: All required trekking permits
  • Transportation: Shared jeep or private vehicle for added comfort
  • Guide Fees: Personal licensed guide
  • Accommodation: Private rooms with better facilities
  • Meals: Full meals with more variety
  • Miscellaneous Expenses: Extras like hot showers and charging devices

This option offers a balance between cost and comfort, making your trek more enjoyable without a big increase in the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost.

Luxury Option

• Total Cost: $2,800 and above per person
• Includes:
  • Permits: All necessary trekking permits
  • Transportation: Private vehicle for maximum comfort
  • Guide and Porter Fees: Experienced personal guide and porter services
  • Accommodation: Best available lodgings with premium amenities
  • Meals: All meals and snacks, including special requests
  • Miscellaneous Expenses: Frequent extras such as unlimited hot showers, Wi-Fi, and personalized services

This option is for those who want a top-level trekking experience. While the Manaslu Trek expenses are higher, you’ll enjoy a more comfortable and personalized adventure.

Inclusions for All Options

No matter which option you choose, certain costs are common to all treks:

• Permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
• Transportation: Travel to and from the starting point of the trek
• Guide/Porter Fees: Depending on your chosen package
• Accommodation: Different levels of tea house accommodations
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day
• Miscellaneous Expenses: Tips for guides and porters, charging electronic devices, hot showers, etc.

By understanding these cost breakdowns, you can plan your Manaslu Trek cost per day according to your budget and what you prefer. Whether you choose a budget-friendly trek or a more luxurious journey, planning ahead ensures that your Manaslu Circuit Trek cost matches your expectations, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.

If you do a rough calculation based on all the information in this article, you will see that the ‘included’ lists come out to around USD 1,300 per person if you were to pay it individually.  

And you would need to carry this amount with you, plus money for your other expenses.  In Nepali rupees.  

** There are no ATMs or money changers on this trekking route.**

And Finally…

Money cannot buy you great experiences and memories.  These are priceless. 

FAQs: Cost Breakdown for the Manaslu Circuit Trek