
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Cost | How much do you need to pay for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and restricted area trek in Nepal that is popular among adventurers who enjoy high altitudes. For this reason, the Manaslu region is a true wilderness journey in contrast to other well-known locations like Everest and Annapurna.
Furthermore, the 8,163-meter-high Mount Manaslu, also referred to as the "mountain of the spirit", is traversed on this circuit trek.
You will also cross the high pass Larkya La, which is a difficult but rewarding high altitude traverse of the 5,106 m pass that provides a panoramic view of the Annapurna and Himlung massifs.
Ancient Mani walls, prayer flags, and monasteries line the isolated trails of the Manaslu Round Trek, a cultural odyssey that takes you through a living museum of Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
Trekkers adore the off-the-beaten-path tranquilly of Manaslu. Travellers from all over the world traverse this untamed area every year, providing a haven for rare wildlife and a more genuine trekking experience.
For a smooth trip, it is crucial to comprehend the total cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in addition to the main highlights. Furthermore, the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost is more due to government regulations and mandatory services.
Manaslu trek prices differ from other open trekking routes because no independent trekking is permitted, and you must have a guide with you during your trek in order to obtain permits.
Similarly, the Manaslu excursion requires a minimum of two trekkers. The high cost of the restricted area permit is another factor contributing to the additional expense.
In this article, we will simplify things by providing an accurate and up-to-date cost breakdown for the Manaslu Trek 2026 & 2027. It will be helpful to know where the money is going and how each expense affects the final budget.
Our mission is to help both budget-conscious hikers and comfortable hikers choose the best trekking style. In a similar vein, it's useful whether you're trekking alone, in a group, or planning a luxury version.
Furthermore, by emphasising overall dependability, experience, and safety, it establishes the framework for assessing value rather than just price.
What Is The Cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
What does the total Manaslu Trek cost? The honest answer is - it depends on how much you want to spend. However, the Manaslu trek cost ranges from a low of $810 to $1050 for a week or two of trekking activity. Converting this into Nepali rupees, this ranges from NPR 117000 to NPR 153000.
The cost of the round-trip to Manaslu depends on a number of variables, including service, company, itinerary, and duration.
Let's take a quick look at the overall cost of the Manaslu trek. The following are the different kinds of treks and their costs:
Budget/Group Departure: between $1,000 and $1,300 USD
A local business typically arranges a budget or group departure and purchases the necessities. You have shared porters and guides for the journey, and it has set departure dates. Additionally, the accommodations at the teahouse are simple, the meals are standard, and you take public or shared transportation.
Standard/Private: between $1,300 and $1,800 USD
The standard private trek, which is a slightly more upscale version of the budget trek, offers modest amenities but more comfort and flexibility in terms of itinerary and rest days. If you are travelling alone, you will have a private guide; otherwise, you will have a better guide-to-trekker ratio.
Additionally, you will have private jeep transportation and better accommodations where they are available.
High-end/luxury services: $1,800 or more
The most comfortable package available is the upscale luxury trek package to the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Along with first-rate support personnel, you will receive a highly skilled guide and personal porter. Along with improved meals and comfort-focused services, you will also have access to the best lodges in the Manaslu region.
This package includes additional amenities like wifi, a hot shower, and charging. Higher safety emergency backup support and private transportation will be provided for the duration of the trip.
Mount Glory Trek 13 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Package: between $810 and $1050 USD
Mount Glory Trek provides a 13-day Manaslu circuit package that includes a full standard-service package that covers all necessities. The package includes lodging in a teahouse, a licensed trekking guide, and the necessary permits (RAP, MCAP, and ACAP).
Furthermore, three meals per day are included during trekking days, along with transportation to and from the trailhead.
Why do prices vary?
Depending on the season and company, the cost of the Manslu trek may change. The cost of the permit varies according to the season; it is slightly less expensive in the off-season and more expensive during the peak season.
The cost per person is also affected by group size, as larger groups result in lower costs. Similarly, the cost varies depending on the package and company, including transportation choices, agency overheads, and experience level.
International vs Local Operator Cost Differences for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
The decision between local and foreign trekking companies can have a big impact on your budget when organising a Manaslu Circuit Trek. Trekkers can avoid overpaying for the same services by being aware of the differences in pricing structures.
The Manaslu Trek's International vs. Local Operator Pricing Differences are as follows:
International Operators (foreign-based agencies)
Due to their worldwide branding and overhead, international travel agencies frequently have higher base prices. Additionally, the cost is high due to commission and international marketing expenses.
However, they may provide premium services or packaged extras like insurance, flights, equipment rentals, and most other necessities.
Local Nepali Operators
Local Nepali operators generally charge lower prices due to local management and lower overhead. They have direct connections with porters, guides, and teahouses, which lowers the total cost, which is another major factor.
There is no need for a middleman because the logistics and permits are managed locally. The best part is that the packages are frequently more easily customisable to your preferences and have flexible pricing.
Notes
- While local operators charge a la carte, international operators may automatically include extras.
- Local businesses frequently offer superior permit and guide handling services.
- Sometimes, agency commission is added to the base costs in international quotes.
- Local prices are typically more affordable for the same services without compromising compliance or safety.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Package Inclusions and Its Cost
It will be simpler for you to compare the different operators and effectively plan your budget if you know exactly what a typical Manaslu Trek package includes. Most packages come with the following essentials:
Permit Costs
- Required for all hikers in the Manaslu area
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Usually costs more than $100 for the first seven days; peak season is higher than off-peak.
- The total cost of the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) is about $30.
- Permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP): approximately $30
- Depending on the season and length of the hike, each person's total permit fee ranges from $130 to $180.
- Besides this, if your trekking route includes Tsum Valley, you need to get a Tsum Valley Permit for this as well. If you are Nepali, you don't need to spend much on this since you can get a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and a Tsum Valley Permit.
Guide and Porter Costs
- A licensed trekking guide is required and costs between $25 and $35 per day (including insurance, lodging, and guide meals).
- Although not required, Porter is advised: $18 to $25 a day
- Hiring lessens physical strain and increases comfort.
Transportation Costs
- Unlike EBC Trek, overland transportation is necessary rather than domestic flights.
- Local bus: USD 15–20 per person to the trailhead
- Shared/private jeep: USD 120–250 one way (shared among trekkers)
- Return transport from Dharapani or Besisahar is included in most packages
Accommodation in Teahouses
- Teahouses provide basic rooms and meals
- Lower/mid-altitude: USD 5–10 per night
- Higher-altitude regions: USD 8–15 per night
- Standard packages generally cover accommodation for the entire trek
Meal Costs
- Breakfast: USD 4–6
- Lunch/Dinner: USD 7–10
- Without package meals, daily food costs at higher altitudes can reach USD 25–35
Additional Costs (Optional or Extra)
- Private room upgrades
- Wi-Fi, hot showers, device charging (~USD 2–5 each)
- Tipping guide/porter
- Travel insurance
Smart Ways to Cut Costs on Your Manaslu Circuit Trek
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit can be one of the most rewarding experiences in Nepal, but the costs can quickly add up due to restricted area regulations. Here are some practical ways to save money while maintaining safety and comfort:
Travel in less crowded months: Go in late winter (February–March) or right after spring (May) to avoid the busiest trekking seasons. During these shoulder months, permits, teahouses, and transportation are frequently less expensive.
Team up with other trekkers: Because hiring a licensed guide and porter is required, joining a small group lowers the per-person cost while also making the trek more social and enjoyable.
Bring your own water solutions: Bottled water is expensive at many teahouses. You can cut down on plastic waste and save money by packing a small water filter or purifier.
Rent instead of buying gear: Kathmandu and nearby trail towns provide affordable rentals for jackets, sleeping bags, and trekking poles, making them ideal for trekkers who do not want to invest in full gear.
Make bookings through local agencies: Nepali operators such as Mount Glory Treks have knowledgeable guides who are well-versed in the Manaslu route, and they are frequently far less expensive than foreign ones.
Plan transportation carefully: Private transfers are much more expensive than public buses or shared jeeps to the trailhead. Better rates can also be secured by making reservations in advance.
Choose traditional teahouses over luxury lodges: Budget-friendly accommodations that offer a more genuine trekking experience include basic rooms with shared bathrooms and basic meals like dal bhat.
Keep extras in check: Make a list of the extras you really need because things like Wi-Fi, hot showers, charging devices and snacks can quickly add up.
Carefully review your travel insurance: Make sure it covers high-altitude trekking, but avoid paying for unnecessary extras.
By combining these strategies, you can enjoy the entire adventure and all necessary services while cutting your Manaslu Circuit Trek expenses by 20–35%, making the trek both affordable and memorable.
Final Say
The overall cost of trekking the Manaslu Circuit is largely determined by your style and preferences, as well as whether you choose budget, standard, or premium packages.
Selecting the right trekking partner is essential for a smooth and unforgettable Manaslu Circuit experience. Mount Glory Treks ensures you can concentrate on the adventure without any hassles by offering expert guided packages, comprehensive permit handling, and well-organised logistics.
Discover which of our customised Manaslu Circuit packages best suits your comfort level, budget, and preferred season to ensure a safe, seamless, and genuinely remarkable trip.
Cost is important, but it's just as important to put safety, professionalism, and previous customer experiences ahead of just picking the cheapest option. In addition to comfort and convenience, a well-planned trek guarantees an unforgettable trip through one of Nepal's most breathtaking and isolated areas.
You can choose the option that best suits your budget, preferred season, and desired comfort level by looking through the thoughtfully crafted Manaslu Circuit packages. This will ensure that your trek is an amazing experience, free of unneeded stress and hidden costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1: What is the average cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal?
The average cost of a Manaslu Circuit Trek is between USD 900 and USD 1,500 for standard or budget packages and USD 1,500 to USD 2,200+ for private or comfortable packages. Permits, a guide, a porter, lodging, food, and transportation are typically included in this. Making a reservation with a reputable local business like Mount Glory Treks can offer complete services at a reasonable cost.
2: How long does the Manaslu Circuit Trek take?
Depending on acclimatisation days and fitness levels, the Manaslu Circuit Trek typically takes 13–18 days. Although longer treks allow for better acclimatisation and more picturesque stops, shorter itineraries of about 12 days are available.
3: Do I need a guide for the Manaslu Trek?
Yes, trekking in the restricted Manaslu area requires a licensed guide. Guides guarantee navigation, safety, and adherence to permits. A hassle-free and secure trekking experience is ensured by hiring a guide from a reliable company like Mount Glory Treks.
4: What permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
The three primary permits required for trekking are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP). All permit fees and paperwork are typically included in packages from seasoned agencies, making the process easy and stress-free.
5: When is the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit?
For clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and ideal trail conditions, the best months are March through May (spring) and September through November (autumn). For hikers on a tight budget, shoulder seasons like late February or early December can also offer lower prices and fewer tourists.
6: How difficult is the Manaslu Hike?
Trekkers with good fitness and prior high-altitude experience should consider the Manaslu Circuit to be moderate to challenging. At Larkya La Pass, where elevations can reach 5,160 metres, appropriate acclimatisation and a certified guide are essential. Acclimatisation days and support personnel are included in packages with Mount Glory Treks, making the trek more comfortable and safe.
7: Can I do the trek to Manaslu Valley independently?
No, since Manaslu is a restricted area, independent trekking is not permitted. Every hiker needs a guide, and occasionally a liaison officer as well.
8: What type of accommodation is available on the Manaslu Circuit Route?
The majority of accommodations are found in teahouses, which provide basic meals and either private or shared rooms. Teahouse stays, and meals are included in standard packages, but upgraded rooms and extra services may be included in comfort or luxury packages. For nights at higher elevations, it is advised to bring your own sleeping bag.
9: How much should I tip my guide and porter?
Tipping is not included in the package price and is customary. Depending on satisfaction, suggested tips are USD 3–5 per day for porters and USD 5–7 per day for guides.
10: How can I reduce the cost of my Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Joining group departures, travelling during shoulder seasons, selecting standard teahouses, and renting equipment rather than purchasing can all lower costs. You can save money without sacrificing experience or safety by making your reservation with a local operator like Mount Glory Treks, which guarantees that all required permits and services are covered.