How much does it cost to trek the Manaslu Circuit?

Good to see you are planning to trek the Manaslu Circuit!

The standard 13-day manaslu circuit costs USD 1081 per person, a package that comprehensively covers the essentials of the trek. This includes the services of an experienced guide for the entire duration, accommodation in charming mountain tea houses, three hearty meals a day to fuel your journey, all the necessary permits required for the trek (ACAP, MCAP, and Manaslu Restricted Permit), and all necessary transportation by public bus.

Join us as we break down these costs, offering insights and tips to help you prepare for this incredible trek. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, our guide aims to equip you with all the information you need to embark on the Manaslu Circuit Trek confidently and enjoyably.

1. Manaslu Circuit Permit Cost

For a regular Manaslu circuit trek, you need three different permits and an additional one for Tsum Valley if you are venturing into these vivid valleys of happiness blessed with Buddhism. Read more about the necessary documents and processes to obtain these Manaslu trek permits.

Regular Manaslu trek permit cost:

Restricted Permit Cost in Manaslu Circuit Trek

• USD 100 per person from September to November
• USD 75 per person from December to August

MCAP and ACAP permit Cost

• ACAP Permit: NPR 3000
• MCAP Permit: NPR 3000

Manaslu and Tsum Valley trek permit cost:

Restricted Permit Cost in Manaslu Circuit Trek

• USD 145 per person from September to November
• USD 105 per person from December to August

MCAP and ACAP Permit Cost

• ACAP Permit: NPR 3000
• MCAP Permit: NPR 3000

Note: You do not need a TIMS Card for either Manaslu or Tsum Valley Trekking. Only the Local Registered Company can issue Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits.

2. Transport cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The 13-day Manaslu circuit trek starts from Macha Khola, a small town north of Arughat. It is approximately 160 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu. There are no flights between Kathmandu and Macha Khola. So your options are only limited to fun-packed local buses or private jeeps

Kathmandu to Macha Khola

The bus fare will range from $10 to $15 per person, with the possibility of an increase during peak season or festivals. A private jeep can cost between $200 and $250 for up to seven people. It’s important to note that some jeeps only accommodate four people, while others can fit up to nine. Typically, SUVs can accommodate up to seven people, with additional space on the roof rack for backpacks.

Dharapani to Kathmandu via Beshi Sahar

Some might consider walking all the way down to Beshi Sahar (the Starting point of Annapurna Circuit) after completing Manaslu Trek. But it is the least ideal option. Believe me; there is nothing fun about walking dusty trucking roads shared with tons of other trekkers on their way to Annapurna!

I strongly recommend getting a drive back from Dharapani instead.

There is no public bus between Dharapani and Beshi Sahar, but you will find frequently running local jeeps with a cost ranging from USD 20 to USD 25 per person, depending on several factors. From Beshi Sahar, a local jeep to Kathmandu would cost USD 10 to USD 15 per person.

For those who are willing to spend more money in exchange for a faster and more comfortable trip, there is a private jeep option which will cost from USD 200 to USD 250 anywhere from Dharapani or Taal to Beshi Sahar. Jeeps in this section are hardcore Indian manufactured, some of which can fit up to twelve people. With much better road conditions from Beshi Sahar to either Kathmandu or Pokhara, you’ll have one more transportation option: the small mini coaster. From Beshi Sahar to Kathmandu, the prices range between USD 100 and USD 250 depending on modes of transportation: car, jeep, or coaster.

3. Guide cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The guide is compulsory, or someone with a guide license can be your porter as well. Government rules state a minimum of two trekkers, a guide, and a local agency to do the Manaslu Trek. Please note individual freelance guides cannot issue your permit, nor can you do it yourself independently. Being a circuit trek, it is not feasible to get the guide at the trailhead. So you have to hire a guide for the entire trek plus two additional travel days with his or her transport to and from Kathmandu. Insurance of the guide is also compulsory.

Depending on the guide’s experience and skill, the cost varies greatly. If they speak your language, they cost almost double compared to regular English-speaking guides. It ranges between USD 40 and 45 per day for a guide. With 35 USD, you will get a trainee guide who has a license, can speak good enough English to communicate, and knows the trail. Some can help share the weight of your backpack up to 8 or 10 Kg. In the meantime, an average guide will charge between USD 30 and USD 40. And at USD 45 per day, you will get someone excellent in all aspects.

4. Porter cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek

If you are young on your knees, it is completely fine to do the trek without the porter. However, it’s not a bad idea at all to hire one. You can have all the freedom to enjoy the trek with less luggage burden while helping contribute to the local economy. The porter has no such weight limitation, especially on a camping trip.

But for the teahouse, 22 kilos is set as the maximum limit. Apart from this, the porters will have their small packs. So try to make it as light as possible. A porter will cost between USD 25 and USD 30 per day, with all expenses and insurance covered except transport.

5. Food and accommodation cost in Manaslu Circuit

Unlike the Annapurna and Langtang trek where room prices are negotiable, accommodation cost on the Manaslu trek is fixed. The food menu is similarly priced as in other regions. During my Manaslu circuit trek in 2022, which can be a good reference for the  available food in Manaslu Circuit Trek

The minimum allocation for three basic meals and daily accommodation should be between USD 30 and 40. Always carry extra money as cards are not accepted and there are no ATMs. Some places may accept foreign currency but at a low exchange rate.

In addition to daily expenses, you should allocate USD 10 per person. Gas-run hot showers are available for USD 2.5 to 4 each. The minimum cost for phone or camera charging is USD 1 or USD 2, depending on the location. Service is mostly available except for Dharmasala and Samdo.

Wifi is no longer a luxury in some remote villages such as Sama Gaun, Namrung, Bimthang, Dharapani, and Beshi Sahar. However, it comes for USD 5 – 8 per night.

6. Food and Accommodation in Kathmandu

On average, a good meal costs between USD 8 to 12, including one main course and a drink in a good restaurant in Thamel. A fancy dining option is also available, and the expected price range is between USD 15 and 20.

If your agency does not cover accommodation in Kathmandu, this article might give you some idea of where to stay in Kathmandu. Accommodation costs in Kathmandu range from USD 5 per night for a hostel to USD 200++ in five-star hotels or resorts.

Note: On average, a good-budget hotel in Thamel will cost between USD 30 and 40 per night.

Trek cost for solo trekker in Manaslu

As previously stated, a minimum of two trekkers is required to obtain a trekking permit for Manaslu, and they must be accompanied by a registered guide. However, it is possible to arrange a solo trek with a guide through agencies, albeit at a higher cost. The agencies will manage to find another non-trekker passport and take care of the necessary procedures so that permits can still be obtained legally.

Please note that trekking alone in remote areas like Manaslu can be risky, and it is strongly recommended to trek with a guide for safety reasons. The guide will not only assist with navigation and provide valuable insights into the local culture and environment but also ensure a smoother experience overall.

Additionally, trekking with a guide helps to support the local tourism industry and provides employment opportunities for the guides in the region. Therefore, while it may come at a higher cost, arranging a solo trek with a guide through a reputable agency is a responsible and beneficial choice for both trekkers and the local community.