The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a stunning and less-crowded alternative to the Annapurna and Everest regions. But how much does it cost? This guide covers all expenses—permits, guides, food, accommodation, and transportation—to help you budget effectively for your trek.
Mansalu Circuit Trek Cost
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost: A Complete Budget Guide
The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is a breathtaking journey that takes you around the world’s eighth-highest peak, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m). Unlike more commercialized treks like Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp Trek, Manaslu offers pristine landscapes with rich cultural heritage and fewer crowds of travelers. However, a proper budgeting trek is essential for a smooth and rewarding experience of highest glacier pass Larkya Pass (5106m).
Here is a detailed cost breakdown for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, covering all the permits, guides, food, accommodation, and transportation, which are fundamental for a successful trek journey.
Manaslu Trek Permit Costs
Since 1992 AD, the Manaslu Region has been a restricted area opened for trekkers who need special permits, which are mandatory.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Peak Season (September- November): 100 for the first week and an extra 15 dollars per day per person beyond week.
- Off-Season (December- August): USD 75 for the first week and continuously 10 dollars additional per day per person.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Nepalese 3000 per person (approx. 27/28 dollars)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Nepalese 3000 per person (approx. 27/28 dollars) because the trek exiting point of the Manaslu Circuit is part of Annapurna Conservation Area, Dharapani, Manang.
The total permit cost for the Mansalu Circuit Trek is 170−200 per person (varies with season & trek duration)
Guide & Porter Fees for Trek
- Experienced and Licensed Guide: USD 30-35 per day
- Porter: USD 20-25 per day (carries 15-20kg)
- Porter guide (carries luggage & guides): USD 30-35 per day
Why Hire a Guide for the offbeat trek in Nepal?
- A hiring guide is mandatory for solo trekkers, experienced or group trekkers in Manaslu (a restricted area rule set by the government of Nepal for the protection of wildlife and heritage)
Transportation Costs
Kathmandu to Machha Khola:
- Local Bus USD 15- 20 per person –9-10 hours
- Jeep: USD 130 – 170 (varies upon number of trekkers) –6-7 hours
Dharapani to Besishahar by Jeep):
- USD 20- 25 per person
Besishahar to Kathmandu
- Local Bus USD 10- 15 per person –7-8 hours
- Jeep: USD 100 – 150 (varies on number of trekkers) –5-6 hours
Alternative: Hiring a Private jeep from Kathmandu to Soti Khola is effective for groups, which costs less in comparison to hiring an individual.
Accommodation (Teahouse Cost)
- Basic Room: USD5- 10 per night (single & twin-sharing)
- Hot Shower: USD 5-7 (extra charge)
- Wi-Fi & Charging: USD 3-5 per use
Budget: USD 15-20 per day is perfect enough (depending on comfort level)
Food & Drinks Cost
- Meals (Dal Bhat): USD 6-8 per meal
- Breakfast (toast, eggs, porridge, potato, tea): USD 6-10 per meal
- Snacks & Drinks: USD 4- 7 (coffee, cold drinks, tea, and other snack items)
- Bottled Water: Normally USD 1 (instead, use purification tablets for tap water)
Daily Food Budget: 20−25 per person
Additional Costs
Travel Insurance:
- Choose effective travel insurance that must cover high-altitude trekking.
Gear Rental:
- USD 10−18 per day (sleeping bag, jacket, trekking poles, crampons)
Tips for Guide & Porter:
- Typically USD 20 or (depending on service)
Total Estimated Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost
| Cateogory | Budget cost (USD) |
| Permit | 200-230 |
| Guide & Porter | 500-700 (11 Days) |
| Transportation | 20-250( local bus/private jeep) |
| Acommodation | 100-140 |
| Food & Drinks | 200-300 |
| Miscellaneous (gear, tips) | depending |
| Total | 900-1300 ( varies on package) |
The Manaslu Trek cost can vary depending on many trekkers and the package you choose.
5 Ways to Reduce Manaslu Trek Cost
- Travel in a group (split guide & permit costs)
- Trek in off-season/low season (lower permit & accommodation cost)
- Carry water purifier tablets (save on bottled water)
- Book a package tour.
- Avoid last minute booking and hassle.
Why Trekking to the Manaslu Circuit Worth It?
- Less crowded than other renowned treks like Everest, Langtang Annapurna.
- Stunning views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ganesh Himal
- Enrich cultural experience (Tibetan cultural influenced villages)
- Challenging but rewarding trails (Larkya La Pass at 5,106m)
Final Tips for Budgeting Your Manaslu Trek
- Book permits & guides in advance (avoid last-minute booking)
- Carry enough cash (ATMs unavailable in Manaslu after Arughat)
- Pack wisely (avoid unnecessary gear and rental costs)
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek cost ranges between USD 900 to 1200, depending on your travel style and the package you booked. You can enjoy this incredible mountain by planning permits, guides, and logistics. Mount Manaslu trekking without overspending.
Ready to book your Manaslu adventure? Check out our Best Manaslu Circuit Trek Packages for a hassle-free experience.
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