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.  

The Cost of Permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Like the majority of treks in Nepal, permits are required for visitors to trek in Manaslu. 

Manaslu is in a conservation area: that permit goes towards maintaining the landscape and environment.  It also falls into a restricted area and a permit is required for that also.  The Special Restricted Area Permits (RAP) in Nepal are again to protect the environment and lifestyle of the people by restricting the number of tourists who enter the area.  This is a win-win situation as the area remains a wilderness for trekkers to enjoy.

In Manaslu the restricted area begins at Jagat and ends when you leave Sama Gaun, in other words, on Day 3 to Day 8 we are in a restricted area, with checkposts to ensure we have our permits.

Manaslu Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) 

Cost: Prices are seasonal

September to November (peak season): USD 100 per person for the first 7 days and USD 15 per person per day from the 8th day onwards. 

December to August (low season): USD 75 per person for the first 7 days and USD 10 per person per day from the 8th day onwards. 

Why the difference in the prices?

Autumn (September to November) in Nepal is the ideal time to trek.  The skies are clear, the ground has been washed clean by the summer monsoon rains, the weather is warm at lower altitudes and not too cold at higher altitudes, and there is less chance of snow or snowfall blocking any of the higher trails and passes.    

Thus it is one of the busier times for trekking with more people wishing to visit the vast Himalayas.  In particular, more people wish to visit the areas less impacted by tourism.

Winter (December to February) and monsoon (June to end of July) on the other hand, are times when it is more difficult to trek in the Manaslu area.  Snow in the winter and rain in the monsoon make some of the trails impassable.  Overall, these months do not attract trekkers.  Therefore the permit prices reflect this.

Spring (March – June) although spring falls into a time when the permit is less expensive, it is also a wonderful time to trek in Nepal although late snow and early rains can make these shoulder times a bit more challenging. 

How Do I Get the Permit?

Since this is a permit for a restricted area, it is only possible to get it through a registered Nepali trekking agency. In this way, the Government of Nepal can ensure that the correct procedures are followed that benefit the environment, the local people, the local wildlife, and the trekkers themselves.  The latter point comes into effect when you go through the checkposts.  In the unlikely event a trekker goes missing, the checkpoints will be able to tell when they entered or left the area. 

Are There Any Restrictions I Need to Know About?

Yes.  Permits will only be issued – to the Nepali trekking agency – on the condition they are for a minimum of two trekkers and a trekking guide.  To take a trekking guide is mandatory.  It has always been mandatory in restricted areas – again for the protection of the area and the trekkers – and is now mandatory in all trekking areas except the Everest Region.

This Sounds Complicated! 

We, at Magical Nepal, will deal with all the permits for you.  You just need to supply us with a copy of your passport and photograph and we will do the rest of the work! 

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

As mentioned, you also need a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) as this is a conservation area.  The proceeds from this permit go specifically towards funding conservation projects and maintaining the trails within the region.

Cost:

In line with other conservation areas, the cost of the MCAP is USD 30 per person for the duration of your trek.  There is no seasonal variation; just a one time payment of USD 30, which is much cheaper than the Restricted Area Permit! 

Once again, we will arrange this permit for you when you arrive in Kathmandu. 

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

As you are also trekking through the Annapurna Conservation Area, you also need a permit for the maintenance of this area.  

Cost:

As mentioned, the cost for all conservation areas is the same: USD 30 per person, regardless of the time spent in the area or the month you visit.

And of course, we will arrange this permit for you too. 

Accommodation and Food

One of the biggest expenditures on a trek is your food and accommodation.  Which no doubt is reflected in your usual day-to-day life! 

Here is where the all-inclusive package can come into its own and you should check carefully to make sure the cost of your breakfast, lunch and dinner is included.  

Let’s take a look at what you are paying for with regards to food and accommodation.

Accommodation 

In Nepal trekking lodges are known as teahouses.  These are ubiquitous throughout the rural trekking areas.   You may have seen more luxury lodges advertised in the Everest Region and yes, there are some extremely nice lodges at the lower altitudes there.  But this is not Everest, with its long history of tourism.  

What is a teahouse?

A teahouse is the standard accommodation option when trekking in Nepal.  It is what is on offer in the Manaslu Region.  

They consist of a dining hall, which is normally heated, and several sleeping rooms, which are not heated.  The sleeping rooms normally consist of two single beds, perhaps a table and chair on which you can put your belongings.  They do not have attached bathrooms (in this region).  Toilets are shared between all trekkers and showers are limited in number and are basic.  

Overall, teahouses are a slightly upmarket version as to how the locals are living in this region.  They may or may not have latrines, and you will not have livestock living with you! 

There are definite improvements in amenities over even a few years ago.  As more trekkers come into an area, the teahouse owners learn more about what the modern trekker expects.  Things like the ability to charge devices and a hot shower. 

Like much in life, the better the amenities, the higher the price.  This is also true in a real sense: the higher the elevation, the higher the prices for accommodation and food.  This is because it is harder to get goods into high areas without road access or an airstrip. 

Typical Costs

While the price for a night in a teahouse may seem very reasonable when you compare it to the price of a hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara, it does add up. So you should enure it is included in your package. 

Depending on the elevation and amenities teahouses charge  USD 3 to USD 10 per night.  This is normally for the room, not per person.  If the teahouse is not busy, you may wish to take a whole room for yourself.  Otherwise, it is normal to share with someone in your group.  At busy times it might even be necessary to share with a stranger.  Comradery of the trail! 

Do I Have to Pay to Recharge My Phone etc?

Yes.  It is normal to have to pay to recharge phones, cameras etc.  The cost again depends on the altitude and if the teahouse has electricity or is running on solar or battery power.  Costs can range from Nrs 200 to Nrs 500 (USD 1.5 to USD 4) per time upwards.  

If you are lucky enough to be in an area that has WiFi you will also have to pay for this also.  The cost will be around Nrs200 to Nrs500 per evening.   It’s a great idea to forewarn friends and family that you are likely to be offline quite a bit on this remote area trek so they do not worry and you do not have to think about whether there is a good connection or not! 

Hot showers are also something that you will have to pay for for similar reasons.  That will also cost you around USD 3 upwards.  But realistically, you probably don’t want to shower every day.  Especially at colder elevations. 

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!) 

Overall Cost for Food Per Day in Manaslu Circuit

Naturally, it will depend on how much you eat, but if you have eggs, tea, bread for breakfast two courses for dinner and something for lunch on the trail (basic food mainly or a packed lunch), and perhaps one soft drink a day, you are looking at around USD 30 per person, per day for food.  Not including any snacks you want to carry with you.  

So it’s a good idea to check whether food is included in your ‘all-inclusive package’.

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!) 

Guides and Porters Cost for Manaslu Circuit

The Importance of Hiring a Guide

Mandatory Requirement

First of all, it is mandatory to hire a guide.  Trekking alone, without a guide, is strictly not permitted in the Manaslu Region.  Besides the safety aspects, you will not be able to get the Restricted Area Permit without a guide who works for a registered Nepali trekking company and who is going to accompany you on your trip.

Keeping You on the Right Track – Navigation and Safety

Secondly, signposts are not a thing in Nepal!  You may have noticed the lack of signposts and street names if you have travelled around a bit.  You need a guide to, basically, guide you!  He/she has invaluable knowledge of the trails and if necessary can make changes to the route if there is a problem i.e. landslide, avalanche, etc.  This knowledge will reduce the risk of getting lost. And yes, every year trekkers do get lost in the Nepal Himalayas. 

Emergency Support

Should the worst happen, your guide is even more invaluable.  Not only does he/she know what to do if you develop altitude sickness, but he/she can arrange for emergency evacuation (please ensure you have insurance) should it be necessary.  Even for non-life threatening accidents, he/she is there to help you and translate your needs to others. 

Cultural Insights

While your guide will be able to point out the various mountains, flora and fauna, he/she will also be able to act as a cultural interpreter.  Being able to interact with locals, from the yak herders to the monks in monasteries, will enrich your trek 100 fold!  Your guide will be able to answer (almost) all your questions on both the Nepali and Tibetan culture you will encounter in this area. 

Do I Need a Porter? Potential Necessity of a Porter

On the subject of trekking staff, you might be asking yourself if you need a porter or not.

If you are an experienced trekker who is used to carrying their bag, and if you know your limitations then you can make an educated decision as to whether to carry your gear, or whether to take a porter. Remember, even with a porter, you will be carrying 4 or 5 kg in your day pack (sunscreen, water, camera, etc).

How Much Can A Porter Carry?

These amazing men can carry up to 20kg/ 44lbs each.  We recommend trekkers keep their pack weight limits to 10 kg per person.  If this is the case, you can share one porter between two trekkers. 

Other Benefits of a Porter in Manaslu Circuit

Aside from the obvious benefit of not having to drag your gear up and down the mountains, having a porter will:

Add to your trek enjoyment: you are free to focus on the scenery and enjoy the experience to the fullest. 

Support the local economy: many of our porters come from the areas we trek in.  Therefore, hiring a porter can directly have a positive impact on the communities you are trekking through.  Even if they are from another area, their income will go back to help their family and community in that area.  The money you pay for a porter will also trickle down to all the communities you are trekking through as he has to pay for his food and accommodation on the trail also. 

Typical Daily Rates for Guides and Porters 

Guides: The cost of a guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek varies depending on the experience of the guide.  The more highly experienced, the more the cost.  On average the cost will start at USD 30 to USD 35  per day, and over.  This cost will be divided between the number in your group, whether it is 2 people, or 6 people, unless it is included in your package rate. 

Porters: Please enquire about the cost of a porter.  The price is per porter whether he carries 10kg or (to a maximum) 20kg. 

Transportation

One of the great things about the Manaslu Circuit (and other treks in this region) is that there is no need to fly anywhere by plane. There is a straightforward, if a little uncomfortable, road journey to the starting and ending points of the trek.

Trailheads for Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Classic Start: 

The standard way to do the Manaslu Circuit is to go anti-clockwise starting at Maccha Khola, which with an altitude of 930 m / 3,051 ft lies lower than Kathmandu which you have just left. The following day you will climb up to a similar altitude as the Kathmandu Valley.  Given these low altitudes, you are starting the trek in a warm climate with no issues on the acclimatization front.  In fact, this is why the majority of guides recommend the anti-clockwise route.  It is the best way to acclimatize with its slow rise in height. 

Alternative Starts: 

For those feeling very confident in their ability, and having discussed at length with their trekking company/ guide, it is possible to go clockwise, starting at Dharapani. Although Dharapani is the starting point of the clockwise trek, you will first take transport from Kathmandu to Besisahar, then it’s another 4 to 5 hours by local bus or jeep from  Besisahar to Dharapani.  This route involves a very long first day on the road, and is not recommended as it gives less time to acclimatize before reaching high altitude.  

Transport Options from Kathmandu

Public Bus:

There is a public bus that runs daily from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola.  It leaves Kathmandu sometime around 6 or 7am (not a fixed time but when full) and takes around 9 hours to cover the relatively short 88 miles / 141.3 km.  Hint: do not look at the mileage when planning a trip in Nepal.  Look for the length of time it takes! 

Public buses can be a good way to see daily life.  But they are not the most comfortable and there is no guarantee your seat will turn out to be the one you wanted.  On the other hand, it is certainly an inexpensive way to travel.  On average the cost will be around Nrs 1,500 (USD 11).

Private Jeep:

For a more comfortable and a shorter journey (around 7 to 8 hours) and more time in bed (your jeep will collect you around 8am from your hotel as opposed to leaving at 5am to reach the bus park for the public bus), you might want to consider hiring a private jeep.

The advantages are,  including convenience and shorter time on the road, the comfort level and the ability to stop where you want (within reason) for breaks and photo opportunities.  Naturally you are going to pay for this and a private jeep will cost you around USD440.  This cost is divided among the number in your group.  

Shared Jeep: 

It may be possible to find another trekking group who are heading this way and you can share their jeep.   More expensive than the bus seat, but less expensive than a private jeep, this is the middle-ground as far as comfort and price is concerned. 

The cost will be divided by however many people are in the jeep. 

Specific Costs:

Simply put: 

• Public bus, per seat: Nrs 1,5000
• Private jeep: USD 440
• Shared jeep: USD 440 divided by the number of passengers (maximum 6) 

Note that prices vary depending on the season, the price of fuel and the individual owner. 

Beyond the Trailhead: 

Some starting/ ending points may require further transportation.   For example, at the end of the trek you will need to take a local jeep from Tilije to Beshi Sahar, where you will then get a long-distance bus or private jeep back to Kathmandu.  There is a charge, naturally, for this. 

Tipping

Tipping for Guides and Porters: 

It is not compulsory but it is usual and expected to tip your guide and porter. 

Cultural Expectation: It is a great way to show your appreciation of a job well done and for the guide/ porters hard work and attentiveness.  You wouldn’t have made it without them, frankly.

Suggested Amounts:  As an indication as to how much you should tip the guide – take 10% of the trip cost.  For example, if you paid USD 1,000 for your trek, you should consider tipping the guide USD 100.  Which is less than USD 8 per day for this 13 day trek.  

Group Tipping: It is quite normal and sensible for trekking groups to give a group tip to the guide and porters.  This group tip would still be 10% of  what you each paid for the trek.  (4 trekkers at USD 100 each = USD 400) One person can be appointed as ‘ambassador’ to collect the money from the others and present it to the guide.  

Slightly more complicated for porters.  We would suggest if two of you are sharing a porter, then you pool your money together and present it to him together. If one person has hired a porter for themselves then obviously they pay the whole recommended amount themselves. 

We can also recommend tipping the driver if you are hiring your own jeep or going in a shared jeep.  Around a total amount  of Nrs 1,300 – Nrs 2,600 (USD 10 – 20) is sufficient.  

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. 

To Sum Up

When comparing the cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek you should consider what is being offered in the package price, and what you would need to spend if you pay each item individually. 

Normally included in packages are:

• Guide
• Accommodation
• Food
• Transport – bus ticket only, not jeep hire
• Permits x 3
• Insurance for guide and porters 

Not included in packages are:

• Jeep hire
• Porter
• Miscellaneous such as showers, soft drinks, souvenirs  
• Tipping
• Personal Insurance 

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.