Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost (2025 - 2026): Full Budget Breakdown

The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires several permits, including the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (US$100 per week from September to November and US$75 per week from December to August), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (US$30), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (US$30), and Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit (US$10). 

Trekking in this restricted area mandates traveling in a group of at least two with a licensed guide, and all permits must be arranged through a registered trekking agency with required documents such as passport copies, visa, and travel insurance

1. Travel Insurance for Nepal

Before your trek, arrange travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, high-altitude evacuation, and rescue in Nepal. Most agencies and guides require proof of insurance before booking the Manaslu trek.

2. Nepal Tourist Visa

All travelers (except citizens of India and some SAARC countries) must obtain a tourist visa for Nepal. The visa is available on arrival at Kathmandu Airport and land borders, with these official fees:

• 15 Days: US$30

• 30 Days: US$50

• 90 Days: US$125

Citizens of India do not require a visa. SAARC nationals (other than Indians) can receive a free 30-day visa once per calendar year.

3. Manaslu Trek Permit Requirements

The Manaslu region is a restricted trekking area, so solo trekkers are not allowed. You must trek as part of a group of at least two, accompanied by a licensed Nepali guide. All permits must be arranged by a registered trekking agency like Places Nepal Treks—freelancers cannot arrange permits.

4. Manaslu Trek Permits and Fees

You will need the following permits for the Manaslu Circuit:

* ACAP permit is required if your trek route enters Annapurna Conservation Area (common for full circuit treks).

5. Additional Permit: Tsum Valley

This cost only includes if you trek the Tsum Valley:

• Sept–Nov: $40 for first 7 days, plus $7 per day after

• Dec–Aug: $30 for first 7 days, plus $7 per day after.

6. Important Guidelines

• Permits must be arranged in advance through a registered trekking agency.

• Solo trekking is not allowed—minimum two trekkers with a licensed guide.

• Carry original travel documents, extra passport photos, and US dollars for permit fees.

• The above charges are for non-SAARC nationals; SAARC trekkers get discounted rates.

• Permit costs are non-negotiable and subject to change per government policy.

7. Paperwork Checklist

• Valid passport (min. 6 months validity)

• Nepal tourist visa

• Proof of travel insurance (medical and emergency evacuation)

• Passport-sized photos

• Copies of all permits (your trekking agency provides this)

Booking with a registered local agency simplifies paperwork and ensures compliance with current regulations, offering a smoother trekking experience in the Manaslu region.

Trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure in Nepal. The trek covers 180 km (110 miles) and involves 6–7 hours of hiking per day through villages, forests, and the Larke high pass.

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Guide and Porter Costs for the Manaslu Circuit Trek (2025)

Hiring professional guides and porters is both a requirement and a key benefit for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. As of 2025, here’s what you can expect:

Licensed Guide Cost

• Daily Rate: $35–$40 per day for an English-speaking, government-licensed guide.

• Inclusions: Salary, accommodation, meals, insurance, and transport between trailheads.

• Role: Guides handle navigation, ensure your safety, manage permits, provide local insights, and serve as valuable liaisons with villagers and teahouse operators. Our guides are trained in first aid and high altitudeemergency response.

Porter Cost

• Daily Rate: $20–$25 per day.

• Inclusions: Salary, meals, accommodation, insurance, and transport.

• Role: Porters carry up to 20–25kg of luggage, easing the physical burden and allowing you to enjoy the trek without heavy packs. One porter typically shares the load of two trekkers, depending on your gear.

Budgeting Your Total Cost

Calculate your costs by multiplying the guide and porter rates by the anticipated number of trekking days:

• Example: For a 14-day trek:

• Guide: 14 days × $35/day = $490

• Porter: 14 days × $22/day = $308

• Total (Guide + Porter for 14 days): $798

Additional Tips

• Places Nepal include insurance, food, and lodging for guides/porters in the day rate.

• While tipping is not mandatory, it is a common practice to show appreciation for their hard work at the end of the trek (typically 10–15% of their total fee).

• Some budget-oriented trekkers hire a “guide-porter” (one person serving both roles), which costs around $25–$30 per day. Note that experience and language proficiency may vary in this case.

Why Hire a Guide and Porter?

• Safety: Required by law and essential for navigating high mountain terrain.

• Local Knowledge: Enhances your experience through cultural interpretation and route expertise.

• Support: Having a reliable team reduces physical strain and logistical challenges, letting you focus on the adventure.

A skilled guide and a dependable porter elevate your Manaslu journey, offering both safety and a deeper connection to the remarkable Himalayan environment.

Trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure in Nepal. The trek covers 180 km (110 miles) and involves 6–7 hours of hiking per day through villages, forests, and the Larke high pass.

View Trip

Transportation Costs for the Manaslu Circuit Trek (2025)

When planning your Manaslu Circuit Trek with Places Nepal Treks, it’s essential to factor in transportation costs. The journey typically begins in Machha Khola, a quaint village located 160km northwest of Kathmandu, and concludes in Dharapani or Besisahar. Since there are no direct flights to the trailhead, ground transportation is the only option, and your choice directly impacts the overall trek budget.

Getting to the Trailhead: Kathmandu to Machha Khola

• Public Bus: $15–$20 per person
  Public buses depart early in the morning from Kathmandu, taking 8–9 hours to reach Machha Khola. This is the most budget-friendly, though less comfortable, option due to crowded conditions and extended travel times. It’s suitable for budget travelers seeking an authentic local experience.

• Private Jeep: $200–$250 per vehicle (seats up to 7)
  Hiring a private jeep offers a faster (approx. 6–7 hours) and much more comfortable journey, with flexibility in departure times. This is ideal for groups or trekkers desiring additional comfort and convenience.

Returning from the Trek: Dharapani to Kathmandu (via Besisahar)

• Local Jeep (Dharapani to Besisahar): $30–$40 per person
  The drive takes 4–5 hours. Local jeeps are a reliable and efficient way to finish your trek, balancing cost and convenience for individual travelers.

• Public Bus (Besisahar to Kathmandu): $15–$20 per person
  From Besisahar, public buses return to Kathmandu in about 6–7 hours. This route is cost-effective for those wishing to keep overall expenses low.

• Private Jeep (Dharapani to Kathmandu): $300–$400 per vehicle
  For a direct, faster, and more comfortable ride back to Kathmandu, a private jeep is the best option—especially for groups. This service ensures a smooth, flexible end to your trek without the need for multiple transfers.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Journey

• Avoid walking down to Besisahar on foot due to dusty, crowded roads; opt for a local or private jeep service instead.

• Advance booking (especially for jeeps) is recommended through Places Nepal Treks for peace of mind and confirmed departure times.

Factoring in transport logistics and costs early in your planning ensures a smoother and more enjoyable Manaslu Circuit trekking experience with Places Nepal Treks.

Food on the Manaslu Circuit Trek(2025)

During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, your meals are freshly prepared in local teahouses using regional ingredients. As you trek to higher elevations, food costs rise due to the challenges of transporting supplies into remote mountain areas.

Typical Meals and Costs

• Lunch & Dinner:
  The staple dish is Dal Bhat—a nourishing Nepali platter featuring steamed white rice, lentil soup, seasonal vegetables, pickles, and sometimes a small salad. This meal is high in carbohydrates and protein, providing the energy needed for trekking.

• Cost: $5–$10 per meal, increasing at higher altitudes.

• Breakfast:
  You’ll find hearty options such as Tibetan bread, potato curry with eggs, and tea or coffee for $4–$8. Simpler breakfasts (bread, butter, eggs, or cereal) are often available at similar prices, depending on the teahouse.

• Other Menu Items:
  Some teahouses offer a wider variety: pasta dishes, fried rice, soups, snacks, and more. Alternative menu items typically cost a bit more than the local fare.

Practical Tips

• Eat Light and Fresh:
  Opt for freshly prepared local meals for better digestion, energy, and acclimatization.

• Dietary Preferences:
  Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available. Inform Places Nepal Treks in advance about allergies or dietary needs for personalized meal planning.

• Hydration:
  Boiled water or tea is readily available and recommended over untreated sources.

Food Costs in Trek Packages

Most trekking packages with Places Nepal Treks include the cost of three daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) in the overall trek price, streamlining your trip and helping you budget with confidence.

When traveling independently or purchasing meals outside a package, expect to spend between $15–$25 per day for food, depending on your choices and the altitude.

By enjoying traditional Himalayan cuisine prepared by locals, you’ll stay healthy and energized while experiencing the rich culinary culture of the region.

Trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure in Nepal. The trek covers 180 km (110 miles) and involves 6–7 hours of hiking per day through villages, forests, and the Larke high pass.

View Trip

Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Tea Houses and Mountain Lodges

Along the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you'll stay in locally run tea houses and mountain lodges. These accommodations are simple yet cozy, providing trekkers with a real sense of Himalayan hospitality. The typical room includes:

• A basic bed with a mattress, bedsheet, pillow, and warm blanket

• Shared rooms with 2–4 beds, especially common during peak seasons

• Shared bathrooms and toilet facilities

Prices range from $5–$10 per night for a standard twin room at lower altitudes. At higher elevations or for attached bathrooms, costs can increase to around $15–$25. Many tea houses offer a discount on bed rates if you take your meals in the same lodge, and additional charges may apply for WiFi, hot showers, or device charging.

Facilities become simpler at higher elevations. While some lodges provide WiFi and hot showers (for a small fee), these are less common as you ascend. You may have to share a room with other trekkers during busy times, and access to electricity or internet may be limited or sporadic. Most rooms are minimally furnished but provide sufficient comfort and warmth after a day on the trail.

Accommodation in Kathmandu

Before and after your trek, you'll find a wide selection of accommodation options in Kathmandu, ranging from budget hostels and guesthouses starting around $10 per night to midrange boutique hotels ($30–$70), and luxury properties up to $200 or more per night. Prices reflect both the standard of amenities and the location, with areas like Thamel providing a large number of choices for every budget.

Included in Your Trekking Package

If you book your Manaslu Circuit Trek through Places Nepal Treks, the cost of basic tea house accommodation along the trek is included in your package price. This simplifies budgeting and ensures you have a reserved place to stay each night. Upgrades to private rooms or attached bathrooms (where available) can usually be arranged for an additional fee.

What to Expect

• Shared rooms (2 beds) and bathrooms; private rooms are rare and may cost more

• Basic furnishings: mattress, linens, warm blankets

• Discounts on bed price when you dine at the same tea house

• WiFi and hot showers available at select lodges for a small additional fee

• Warm, friendly hospitality from local hosts

Experiencing tea houses is a memorable and authentic part of trekking in Nepal, offering both comfort and a chance to connect with the region’s traditional culture

Trek the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

Remote Trails, Epic Heights — Manaslu Trek in Just 10 Days. Challenge Yourself on Nepal’s Untamed Circuit.

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Additional Charges in Tea Houses on the Manaslu Circuit Trek (2025)

While tea houses along the Manaslu Circuit provide basic accommodation as part of your trekking experience, several common amenities come with extra charges:

• Wi-Fi Access:
  Most tea houses in lower elevations offer Wi-Fi, though speeds are often slow and coverage can be unreliable. The typical fee is about $3 per night for Wi-Fi access.

• Hot Showers:
  You can request a hot shower or a bucket of hot water after a day’s trek. This service generally costs $4–$5 per shower, with the price sometimes increasing at higher altitudes due to limited fuel and supply.

• Charging Electronic Devices:
  Since rooms usually don’t have individual power outlets, you’ll need to charge your phone, camera, or power bank in the reception area or dining hall. Charging fees are around $2–$3 per device, and the cost may be based on both the device type and the duration of charging.

Important Tips

• Bring extra batteries or a power bank to minimize reliance on paid charging points.

• Budget for these extras as they are not typically included in your trek package, and prices may be higher the further you trek from major villages.

• Payment for these services is usually in cash, so carry sufficient Nepalese rupees in small denominations.

• Amenities and pricing can vary from lodge to lodge, especially as you ascend, so ask your host for current rates upon arrival.

Factoring in these additional charges will help you better plan your daily expenses and ensure a more comfortable trekking experience with Places Nepal Treks.

Trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure in Nepal. The trek covers 180 km (110 miles) and involves 6–7 hours of hiking per day through villages, forests, and the Larke high pass.

View Trip

Manaslu Circuit Trek Packing List & Gear Costs (2025)

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit requires thoughtful packing—balancing essentials for safety, comfort, and changing Himalayan weather. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what to bring and how much it may cost, whether you purchase gear at home, buy, or rent it in Kathmandu.

Learn more about the Manalu Trek Packing list

Estimated Gear Costs

*Rental rates apply per item, per day. Always inspect rental gear for quality and fit before setting out.

Total Estimated Cost Range (Buying Gear):
$720 – $1,620

Total Estimated Cost Range (Renting Gear for 14 days):
Approximately $90 – $170 (depending on exact rental prices per item and rental duration)

This total gives a clear budget overview whether you prefer to purchase your trekking gear outright or rent it in Kathmandu for the Manaslu Trek.

Rental & Shopping Tips

• Rental shops in Thamel, Kathmandu: Almost all necessary gear can be rented at shops specializing in trekking equipment—ideal for one-time trekkers or those who want to save on luggage space.

• Purchase recommendation: For crucial items (boots, base layers, and personal clothing), buy at home for quality, fit, and comfort. Rent big-ticket or bulky items (sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag) if you trek infrequently.

• Quality check: Inspect all rented items for cleanliness and condition. Try on boots for fit—avoid rental shoes if possible due to hygiene and comfort.

• Total cost impact: For a 14-day trek, renting all major items may add $35–$70 to your budget (assuming an average of $2/day per item, with some items covered by your operator).

Packing Advice

• Pack according to season—Places Nepal Treks will send the latest packing checklist after your booking.

• Limit non-essentials; extra weight quickly becomes burdensome at altitude.

• Do not bring: climbing ropes, ice axes, Gore-Tex suits, or sleeping mats (teahouse trekking only).

With thoughtful packing—either by purchasing reliable gear or renting high-quality equipment in Kathmandu—you’ll be well-equipped for comfort and safety on the Manaslu Trek

Trek the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

Remote Trails, Epic Heights — Manaslu Trek in Just 10 Days. Challenge Yourself on Nepal’s Untamed Circuit.

View Trip

Manaslu Trek with Local Agency

For most trekkers, opting for a professionally managed agency package provides unmatched peace of mind, enhanced safety, and seamless convenience—well worth a modest additional investment. 

At Places Nepal Treks, our Classic Manaslu Circuit Trek sets the standard for a perfectly balanced trekking experience, combining comfort, cultural immersion, and expert support.

What Our Package Includes:

• All mandatory permits: Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Chumnubri Rural Municipality Fee, and TIMS card

• Private airport pick-up and drop-off services in Kathmandu

• Two nights’ hotel accommodation in Kathmandu, including breakfast

• Round-trip ground transportation as outlined in the itinerary

• Three meals daily (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) throughout the trek

• Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu

• Accommodation in the best available teahouses, twin-sharing basis

• Licensed English-speaking guide and porter service (one porter per two trekkers) with comprehensive insurance and trekking gear

• Assistant guide for groups with more than nine trekkers

• Essential safety equipment including a first aid kit and oximeter

• Complimentary trekking essentials: duffel bag, t-shirt, cap, and a personalized trek completion certificate

• All applicable government taxes and service charges

What Our Package Does Not Include:

• International airfare to and from Nepal

• Nepalese visa fees

• Personal travel and medical insurance

• Tips and gratuities for guides and porters

• Beverages, snacks, and extras beyond included meals

• Services such as Wi-Fi, device charging, and hot showers during the trek

Choosing Places Nepal Treks means trekking with a locally owned, fully licensed company dedicated to your safety and authentic Himalayan experiences. 

Our Classic Manaslu Circuit Trek package ensures your journey is well-organized, comfortable, and culturally enriching, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking adventure ahead without worrying about logistics.

For more budget-friendly options, Places Nepal Treks offers group Manaslu Circuit Trek packages from about US$ 900 to US$ 1,250. Additionally, we provides varied trekking itineraries in the Manaslu region, including:

Manaslu Trek with International Operators

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit with an international operator typically costs between US$2,200 and US$3,000, though prices may vary depending on the operator, itinerary length, included services, and chosen route. 

International tour companies often set higher rates compared to local agencies because their packages generally include additional amenities such as international flights, higher-standard accommodations, travel insurance, and specialized support before and after the trek. 

The overall cost reflects the quality and range of inclusions you receive, along with different levels of support throughout your adventure.

Factors influencing the price with international operators include:

• Trip Itinerary: The number of trekking days, side excursions, and acclimatization stops.

• Group Size: Smaller groups may incur higher per-person costs.

• Service Level: Higher prices often cover enhanced amenities, such as upgraded lodges, meals, expert Western leaders, or extra guides.

• Seasonal Demand: Peak trekking months (spring and autumn) can slightly increase costs.

While international operators offer convenience and global support, booking directly with a reputable Nepali agency can provide a more affordable and locally immersive experience with savings that often exceed US$1,000 per person

Trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure in Nepal. The trek covers 180 km (110 miles) and involves 6–7 hours of hiking per day through villages, forests, and the Larke high pass.

View Trip

TOTAL ESTIMATED COST FOR 14 DAYS (per person)

Essentials (Guide, Porter, Accommodation, Food):
$947–$1,390

Permits (typical Nov trek):

• $275

Transportation (public):

• $120

Extras (Wi-Fi, showers, charging, water, tips):

• $100–$250

Grand Total:
$1,372 – $1,975 (for 14 days, mid-season, using public transportation and moderate extras)

• Costs are higher with private jeeps, solo accommodation, or more extras.

• Most agency packages for Manaslu Circuit Trek bundle these items—always check what's included before booking.

This estimate covers all required official payments, logistics, basic comforts, and typical extras for a smooth, stress-free Manaslu Circuit adventure.