For those willing to venture off the beaten path, the Manaslu Circuit Trek not only promises breathtaking vistas and challenging terrain but also a rare opportunity to experience the authentic hospitality and rich cultural heritage of remote Nepal. Here’s given the detailed breakdown on Manaslu circuit trek cost :
Permits
While trekking in Manaslu region you will need various trekking permits to continue your journey. The essential permits can be obtained from a registered trekking Agency in Nepal. The permits cost as well as necessary permits are given below:
Manaslu restricted area entry Permit: This Permit is one of the most important trekking permit. During the peak season, from September to November this permit costs $100 for the first 7 days, with an extra $15 per day for additional days. In the off seasons, from December to August, the price is lower at $75 for the first 7 days, with reduced daily fees after that.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit: This trekking permits also must be obtained by trekkers as it helps to fund conservation efforts in both protected areas. It will cost $30 per person to get this permit.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit: As some of the parts during the Manaslu Circuit falls in Annapurna Conservation Area, it is essential to obtain this permit to complete this trek. It will cost $30 per person to obtain this permit.
Optional Tsum Valley Permit: The cost for this permit may vary according to different seasons. It will cost $40 for first 7 days and $7 each per additional days during peak seasons from September to November and $30 for first seven days and $7 per additional days during the off-seasons i.e. December-August.
Transportation
The transportation during the Manaslu circuit trek generally costs $900-$1400 according to time, comfort and preferences. Here’s a detailed cost breakdown for transportation cost during the Manaslu Circuit trek:
Flight to and from Nepal: The cost for international Flight depends on time of the year and the country you are flying from. The cost may range from $750-$1200 according to your comfort and choice.
Transfer fee in Kathmandu: Transfer by taxi from the entrance of Tribhuvan International Airport to your hotel may cost from $5 to $10 according to distance.
Kathmandu to Besisahar: The cost for Kathmandu to Besisahar Transfer depends on your preferences. If you want to take a local bus to Soti Khola which is the starting point of your trekking journey it will cost $30. But if you chose to go by private vehicles like Jeep or Car it might be expensive. It might cost $150-$200 for private transfer.
Helicopter ride: You can also get an option for helicopter ride but with good amount of money. The cost for helicopter ride is quite expensive. It might cost $350 per person depending on group size and many more factors.
Accommodation
Cost for accommodation also varies according to your comfort and preferences. It will be relatively cheaper if you choose basic accommodation. You can accommodate in 3-star hotel in Kathmandu whereas basic lodges and tea houses in mountain. But if you choose Luxury you will accommodate in 5-star hotel in Kathmandu and best lodges or tea houses in Mountain. It will cost $5-$10 for basic accommodation in mountain whereas $15-$25 for luxury in mountains. The cost for accommodation gets expensive as you trek higher due to remoteness.
Food and Drink Cost
Trekkers can find variety of food items like various international cuisines to tasty street food in city whereas food options are limited in mountain. Dal bhat is widely famous dish at Nepal. options like dumpling, pasta, pancakes, bread, porridge, spring roll, sandwiches, sizzlers etc. You can eat dal bhat at almost every part. It is one of the most notorious and famous option during the trek. It might cost $5-$10 for meals in mountains. The cost for meals also increases as you climb higher due to its difficulty in supplying of ingredients. You can also get drinking options like water, tea, coffee, and alcoholic beverages during trekking.
Guide and Porter
As Manaslu Region is restricted area trekking with a guide is mandatory. This region is less popular and it has remote and untrodden trekking trail. It will be helpful to hire a porter for your journey. Hiring a guide and porter ensures you a safe and comfortable journey, as guide helps you to navigate the way and permit checkpoints as well as tea houses and porter helps you to carry your loads sharing your burden. It will cost $25-$35 per day to hire a guide whereas hiring a porter can cost up to $20-25 per day.
Gear Rental
While trekking in Mountain you will need various trekking gears. Buying every gear item might be expensive. So it is better to rent trekking gear in order to save some money. Trekking gears like Sleeping bag, down jacket, hiking boots, trekking poles, and backpack can be rented easily in affordable price. It will cost $100 to buy a sleeping bag and down jacket but it might cost $2-$3 per day to rent. Backpack, hiking boots and trekking poles can cost $50-$200 if you buy but renting it can cost $6-$12 per day. If you are trekking in a popular destination, you may find package deals where multiple items are bundled at a lower rate. Be sure to check the condition of rented gear before setting out.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is must need document during trekking in mountains of Nepal. Travel insurance acts as a safety net for your trekking adventure, especially in high altitude areas. It covers medical expenses if you fall ill or get injured, ensuring you get proper care without worrying about costly hospital bills. It can also refund non-refundable cost if your trip gets cancelled or cut due to unforeseen events. Overall, for around $100-$150 a month travel insurance provides the financial protection and peace of mind you need on challenging treks.
Miscellaneous Expenses
When planning a trek, it’s easy to underestimate the cumulative impact of small, everyday expenses. Limited amenities at higher elevations often come at premium. For instance, Wi-Fi access is restricted to certain villages like Samagoun and costs between $2-% per day; a necessity for those needing connectivity. Hot Showers, a rare luxury on mountain trails, range from $3 to $8 depending on the altitude, with prices rising as you ascend.
Staying hydrated and fueled presents another financial challenge. Boiled or filtered water, essential for avoiding illness, cost $4 per liter, though carrying purification tablets can significantly reduce this expense. Snacks like chocolate bars $5 or pringles $7 are sold at marked up prices in teahouses, making it wise to pack calorie-dense alternatives. Cultural and spiritual stops also play a role in spending i.e. small monasteries often request modest donations of $5, while souvenirs such as handmade jewelry $30 or prayer flags $15 tempt trekkers looking take home mementos.
Ultimately, miscellaneous expenses can vary widely based on personal habits and trek duration. A thrifty traveler might spend closer to $150 by prioritizing essentials and avoiding indulgences, while others could easily reach $300 with frequent hot showers, device charging, and souvenir purchases. Planning ahead, budgeting for these hidden costs, and packing strategically i.e. like bringing reusable water purification tools or snacks guarantee comfortable.
Factors influencing the budget for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Seasonal Variations
Trekking costs and conditions change with the seasons. In autumn, the weather is clear and dry, which makes it popular but also more expensive. You need to book accommodations and guides early, and prices for meals and showers may be higher. In winter prices drop because fewer people trek in the cold, but the risks increase with snow, frostbite, and short daylight hours. High trails can be dangerous, so winter treks work best at lower altitudes and with proper cold weather gear. Summer is cheaper in contrast, but heavy rain can cause landslides, muddy trails, and poor views. Spring is a popular season because of blooming flowers and mild weather, but it might be expensive. It is necessary to book in an advance as this is busy trekking season. Each season has its own adjustments between cost, weather, and safety, so it’s important to check local conditions and plan ahead.
Group Size
Group size is key when planning a trek, affecting both safety and cost. Many trekking areas require at least two people for safety reasons, but the best savings come with 4-6 members. A guide costs $25-$40 per day, and a porter $15-$25, totaling $40-$65 daily. A group of four splits this to just $10-$17 per person, while pair pays $20-$35 each. Over a 12-16-day trek, this adds up to $200-$300 in savings per person. With six people, the savings are even bigger. To save the most, its best to form a group early and budget for the higher cost estimates. Some areas may require extra guides for larger groups, but the overall savings make group trekking the smart choice. Plus, sharing the journey makes it more fun and memorable.
Extended Itinerary
If you want to include the Tsum Valley Trek in your trip, you’ll need at least 21 days. This allows you to explore both the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley. The extended itinerary offers a more immersive experience and will increase the overall trip cost by $400–$600. Check the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek itinerary for more information.
Unexpected Cost
Various types of unexpected expenses can quickly add up while trekking. Flight delays or cancellations may require extra spending on hotels food or transportation, potentially costing $200-$500 in remote areas. Weather changes or trail closures might force a route change, increasing expenses. Health issues such as altitude sickness, could mean extra rest days, adding $50-$100 per day for essentials. In serious cases, helicopter rescues can be extremely expensive without insurance. Even minor issues like blisters or broken gear may require purchasing costly replacements on the trail. Additional costs, such as guide tips or surprise permit fees, can also arise.
Tips to slash costs
- Rent gear like jackets, sleeping bags, trekking poles etc in Kathmandu as it is cheaper than buying or carrying from home.
- Bring a reusable water bottle and water purifying tablets instead of buying plastic bottles.
- Eat local meals like dal bhat as it is cheap and filling which is often provided with free refills.
- Always carry a solar charger or power banks as tea houses charge a lot to charge phones.
- Skip Alcohol at high altitude as it might be very expensive.
- Keep your pace slow avoiding various accidents that requires medical assistance costing extra.
Good to Know
Recent updates and changes in the Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek has seen few updates recently that make it easier and more comfortable for trekkers while still preserving its charm. For example, a new permit system for the Chum Nubri Rural Municipality has been introduced, with a small fee to support local communities and conservation efforts. The starting point of the trek has shifted from Soti Khola to Maccha Khola which allows trekkers to save time as the roads has been improved.
In addition to these changes, road development has been progressing, particularly from Jagat onward, making it easier to access the area. However, the trek still maintains its peaceful, remote atmosphere. There are now more tea houses along the trail offering better facilities and food options. Electricity and mobile coverage have been improved, with 4G connectivity available in some places. Security along the trail has also been strengthened, ensuring a safer experience for trekkers.
Facts about Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal, offering stunning views and unique experience. This trek is a mixture of nature, culture, and adventure making it perfect choice for trekkers who are looking for a less crowded experience in the Himalayas. Some facts about this trek are given below:
- Manaslu Circuit Trek is less crowded trekking route in Nepal.
- This trekking route circles the 8th highest mountain in the world Mt. Manaslu.
- This region is home to various monasteries and religious sites including the famous Samagoun Monastery.
- Larky La Pass is the hardest part of the trek and often requires an early start.
- This trekking route takes you to remote areas of Nepal.
- This trekking route lies in the Gorkha District of Nepal.
Why Choose Manaslu Circuit Trek in coming years?
Choosing the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2025/2026 means experiencing a quieter and more authentic Himalayan adventure. Unlike the more crowded routes, this trek offers peace and closer look at the local culture. You will travel through traditional villages and see how communities like the Gurung, Tamang, and Sherpa live and work in these remote areas.
The trek also promises incredible views of Mount Manaslu and other majestic peaks. With a mix of challenging sections like Larky La Pass and easier, scenic parts, it’s a well-balanced adventure for both seasoned trekkers and those looking for a new challenge. Improved trekking facilities and a focus on sustainable tourism make it even better option for exploring Nepal’s natural beauty in coming years.
Conclusion
The cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek depends on your choices. A budget trip can start at around $1200, while a more comfortable experience may go over $3,500. To stay safe, make sure you have right permits, a trustworthy guide, and proper insurance. It’s also wise to keep an extra 10% of your budget for any unexpected costs. With good planning, you can manage your expenses well and fully enjoy the breathtaking glaciers, ancient monasteries, and towering peaks of the Manaslu region.
Dream Heaven Adventure offers affordable budgeting for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. With us by your side, you will complete a thrilling journey to the base camp of 8th highest mountain in the world in a comfortable and hassle freeway.
