Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost: Budget & Expenses Guide

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most breathtaking yet less-traveled trekking routes, offering unparalleled natural beauty and cultural experiences. This trek circles the stunning Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest peak in the world, and takes adventurers through remote villages, rugged landscapes, and challenging mountain passes.

While the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a fantastic alternative to the crowded Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit treks, it requires careful budgeting and expense planning. In this guide, we break down the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost to help you prepare for an unforgettable trekking experience.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Breakdown

1. Permits and Fees

Since the Manaslu Circuit Trek passes through a restricted region, you must obtain several permits:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP): $75 per person (September to November); $50 per person (December to August) for the first week. Additional costs apply for extra days.

• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): $30 per person.

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $30 per person.

• TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card: Not required if you have an RAP.

2. Guide and Porter Fees

As per government regulations, trekkers must hire a licensed guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. You may also want to hire a porter to ease the load:

• Licensed Guide: $25-$35 per day.

• Porter: $15-$25 per day.

Guides provide navigation, cultural insights, and safety, while porters help carry your gear, making the trek more manageable.

3. Transportation Costs

The trek starts from Soti Khola and ends at Besisahar. The primary mode of transportation is local buses or private jeeps:

• Kathmandu to Soti Khola (Bus): $10-$15 per person.

• Kathmandu to Soti Khola (Private Jeep): $150-$200 per jeep (split among passengers).

• Besisahar to Kathmandu (Bus): $10-$15 per person.

• Besisahar to Kathmandu (Private Jeep): $120-$150 per jeep.

Using a private jeep is more comfortable and faster than public transportation but is significantly more expensive.

4. Accommodation Costs

Accommodation in tea houses along the Manaslu Circuit Trek is simple and budget-friendly:

• Basic Tea House Lodging: $5-$10 per night.

• Shared Rooms: Common in most lodges.

• Hot Showers: $3-$5 per shower.

• Electricity and Charging: $2-$5 per device.

Most tea houses expect trekkers to eat at their lodge in exchange for affordable accommodation.

5. Food and Drinks Expenses

Food prices increase as you ascend due to the difficulty of transportation:

• Breakfast (Porridge, Eggs, Bread): $5-$8.

• Lunch & Dinner (Dal Bhat, Noodles, Momos, Pasta): $6-$10.

• Tea & Coffee: $2-$5 per cup.

• Bottled Water: $1-$4 per liter (varies by altitude).

• Boiled Water (Refill): $2-$3 per liter (cheaper than bottled water).

To save costs, carry a water purification system like a SteriPEN or purification tablets.

6. Equipment and Gear

If you don’t already own trekking gear, you can either rent or buy equipment in Kathmandu. Here’s an estimated cost:

• Sleeping Bag (Rent): $1-$2 per day.

• Down Jacket (Rent): $1-$2 per day.

• Trekking Poles: $10-$20.

• Trekking Boots: $50-$150.

• Backpack: $40-$100.

Bringing quality gear from home can save money in the long run.

7. Miscellaneous Expenses

Additional costs to consider include:

• Wi-Fi: $3-$5 per session in higher altitude tea houses.

• Tips for Guide & Porter: $50-$100 per trekker.

• Extra Snacks: $2-$5 per item.

• Travel Insurance: $50-$150 (must cover high-altitude trekking).

• Emergency Evacuation: $2,000-$5,000 (if uninsured and helicopter evacuation is needed).

Total Estimated Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

Here's an approximate cost breakdown per person for the trek:

• Permits: $110-$135

• Guide & Porter: $250-$500 (depending on duration and service)

• Transportation: $20-$200

• Accommodation: $100-$200

• Food & Drinks: $200-$400

• Gear (Rental/Purchase): $50-$200

• Miscellaneous: $50-$150

Budget Estimate:

• Budget Travelers: $600-$800

• Mid-Range Budget: $900-$1,200

• Luxury Experience: $1,500+

Tips to Reduce Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

• Trek in a group: Sharing a guide, porter, and jeep costs reduce expenses.

• Bring your own snacks and water purification: This avoids costly food and water purchases.

• Rent instead of buying gear: If you’re not a frequent trekker, renting gear saves money.

• Use local transportation: Public buses are cheaper than private jeeps.

• Avoid peak season surcharges: Trekking in the off-season (December to August) reduces permit fees.

Conclusion

The Manaslu Circuit Trek cost varies based on personal preferences, trekking style, and season. With careful planning, you can enjoy this remote and breathtaking trek without overspending. Whether you choose a budget-friendly trek or a more comfortable experience, the journey through the Manaslu region promises unforgettable memories.

Plan wisely, budget effectively, and get ready for an incredible adventure on the Manaslu Circuit Trek!