Manaslu Trek Cost Breakdown 2025 

The Himalayas have a reputation for challenging you, but what most people fail to acknowledge is the stress of budgeting that starts way before your feet touch the trail.

If you’ve ever searched Google for “Manaslu trek cost,” you’ve likely seen a baffling set of figures and hardly any resources list out the complete cost.

It’s confusing.

And it makes one wonder: is Manaslu Circuit trekking worth paying so much? Am I overpaying?

That’s where Nepal Base Camp Treks comes in with this cost guide.

As we head into 2025, Nepal continues to attract aware travelers with the Manaslu Circuit being one of the last genuinely remote trekking routes in the nation.

The Manaslu trek is a restricted path, unlike some of the more famous treks in Nepal, such as the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna.

What that means is that you’ll need to obtain special permits for Manaslu Circuit trek, a registered trekking guide and a little more organization than normal.

Which also entails fewer travellers, more authentic villages, breathtaking scenery of Mount Manaslu and genuinely low value for your money.

This blog aims to provide a Manaslu Circuit Trek total cost breakdown for beginners.

Moreover, you will find out the Manaslu trek cost for Nepali & Indians and learn the hidden Manaslu Circuit trek cost, like WiFi charges or the true value of a porter or guide.

Let’s start by answering the question that everybody wants to know.

How Much Does the Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost in 2025?

As of 2025, the Manaslu Circuit Trek costs between $1,200 and $1,500 per person for a full 12 to 14-day experience.

But here’s what most websites won’t tell you: 

You don’t need to spend that much money to trek safely, comfortably and meaningfully.

Through Nepal Base Camp Treks (NBCT), a fully guided 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trekking package costs only USD 740 per person.

Yes, you heard that right!

No fluff. No shortcuts on the Manaslu trek route.

That’s the difference when you book with a trustworthy local company.

You’re not just booking a trek, you are buying trust, experience and efficiency on the trail.

Why so many Price Variations?

The Manalu trek price varies due to several factors:

Factors	Impact on Manaslu trek cost
Season	Peak trekking months = higher prices for accommodation and food.
Trek Duration	You will pay for any extra acclimatization days or side trips.
Support Team	If you hire a porter, this will add $200 – $300 to your overall costs (totally worth every rupee when crossing the Larkya La).
Transport Style	Taking the bus, or jeep, or a private vehicle will impact the price according to comfort level.
Group Size	If you are trekking with a group, you split the costs.
Extras	Need to include wifi, snacks, hot showers or gear rentals? It costs $100 – $200 more.

This is what causes numbers to fluctuate, like you see online.

But if you plan smartly with a responsible local agency, you can still keep your total cost of Manaslu trek within budget and experience everything the trek has to offer.

NBCT Group Cost Overview

Size	Price in USD
2-4	$790
5-7	$710
8-10	$740
11-15	$710
16-20	$680

The greater your group size, the more you will save!

Group departures are fully guided, well-paced and personalized, ensuring everything is done to the highest standards without cutting corners.

For Indian and Nepali Trekkers

If you are a local or regional traveler, you can trek the same route for lower costs.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost for Nepali nationals:

Around NPR 35,000 to NPR 60,000, depending mostly on whether you hire a porter and your choice of local travel.

Permits are dramatically discounted or free entirely.

The Manaslu Trek Cost for Indians and other Foreign Nationals:

If you are an Indian citizen or any other foreigner, the Manaslu Circuit trek costs $800 – $1000, depending on your package and the size of your group.

Indian citizens still pay the international permit price, but many of them can save money by booking through local groups or using shared guide services.

What our Client has said:

Memorable Treks with Nepal Base Camp Treks

I have trekked Everest base camp and Annapurna base camp in 2004 and Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2014 with our college friends organized by Sappa Lama our best mountain guide in Nepal Himalaya. All three treks in Nepal with Sappa and his supporter during the trip made unforgettable memories during our adventure holidays.

I don’t have enough words to say thank you to Sappa and his team for their knowledge, culture, trouble-free holidays and definitely come back for the adventure trip sometime in future and highly recommend “Nepal Base Camp Treks”

-Michaela Picmanova

What’s Included in the Manaslu Trek Package Price?

When you see a price tag of $700 or $1,500 for a trek, the first question is always ‘what’s included?’

Here’s a simple and clear breakdown of what you are actually getting in a standard Manaslu Circuit trek package in 2025 and what usually costs extra.

Every item in this package helps you trek safely, provides you with better service and gives you more peace of mind for a better experience.

Let’s break it down:

Accommodation, Meals & Tea Houses

You will stay in local tea houses every night, which are usually mountain lodges run by families along the trail.

Tea houses are basic, but warm and welcoming.

Most rooms have two beds, a blanket and shared bathrooms.

As you hike higher into the mountains, the tea houses will become more basic.

You’ll have three complete meals every day: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The most common and filling type of meal? Dal bhaat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables) and refill until you are full.

Tea or coffee (usually 3 cups/day) is usually included as well.

Fact: Some tea houses charge a little extra, usually between $2 – $5 for a hot shower, charging your phone or using wifi, depending on the Manaslu trek altitude.

Permits and Entry Fees

If you want to officially trek in the Manaslu region, you will need three permits.

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) 
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit MCAP
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ACAP

All of these are included in your Manaslu trekking package.

Your agent will arrange the permits for you.

You won’t have to fill out any paperwork or wait in line; you just need your passport and photos.

These permits protect the regions, maintain the trails and support local communities.

Guide & Porter Expenses

A licensed trekking guide is required by law in the Manaslu region and is included in your package.

The Manaslu trek guide costs normally $30 – $35 per day.

Having a guide means more than just navigating.

Guides help ensure that you are correctly pacing for altitude management, explain cultural customs, provide safety on the trail and logistical support along your trip.

Hiring a porter is optional, but it is a recommended and incredibly valuable decision if you want to make the most out of your trekking experience.

The average porter is shared between two trekkers.

You will be shocked to see how strong they are as they carry 20-25kg and are usually paid $20/day.

Transportation Costs

Your package includes the bus or jeep ride from KTM to Arughat or Machha Khola (starting point of the trek).

Additionally, it covers the drive back from Dharapani or Besisahar to Kathmandu after the end of your trek.

Normally, you would travel via shared jeep or private vehicle, depending on group size.

The jeep will cost more, but will be faster and more comfortable than taking the local bus, especially on the difficult road section.

Trekking Equipment and Gear Rentals

Your package will also include assistance for the rental of basic equipment that includes:

1. Sleeping bag (for cold nights)
2. Trekking poles (to help protect knees)
3. Down coat or raincoat

These items are usually not included directly, but can be rented without too much difficulty in Kathmandu for $1 – $2 per day each.

An excellent agency will provide you with the information on what to bring and what to rent.

What Is Not Included in the Manaslu Circuit Trek Package Cost?

Even with all-inclusive packages, you will need to pay outside expenses generally for:

1. Personal porter (if not already included)
2. Snacks, bottled water or pop
3. Wi-Fi, charging or hot showers at tea houses
4. Tips for your guide and porter
5. Hotels in Kathmandu (before/after trek) or meals in KTM
6. Travel Insurance (which you will need for emergency rescue)

Permit Fees Breakdown: What You’ll Pay and Why

When traversing the Manaslu region, permits are not just a formality; they are a legal requirement.

You will be entering a restricted area with two protected conservation areas. 

Permits also protect sensitive ecosystems, help local communities, and manage tourism to keep the area clean and noise-free for other trekkers.

Let’s unpack what you need to enter and why they entitle you.

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

This is the most important and the most expensive permit for the trek.

The Manaslu region from Jagat to Sama Gaun is a protected zone. 

You cannot enter without this permit.

Cost of the Manaslu restricted area permit (2025):

September to November (Peak season):

USD 100 for the first seven days

$15 per day for every day over.

December to August (off-season):

$75 for the first seven days.

$10 per day for every day over.

Fact: You will typically be inside the restricted area for between 7–9 days, assuming you acclimate and have a normal pace.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) 

This permit is required for entering the Manaslu Conservation Area, which encompasses lower elevation areas around villages and forested areas. 

This Manaslu trek permit costs NPR 3,000 (~$23 – $25) per person.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

It is necessary because the Manaslu trail exits through the Annapurna region, normally via Dharapani or Besisahar. 

Like the MCAP, this Manaslu Circuit trek permit costs NPR 3,000 (~$23 – $25) per person.

Both of these conservation permits are standardized across Nepal, so if you have trekked in Annapurna or Langtang, you are already familiar!

Validity, Documents & Where to Obtain Them?

What documents will I require? 

Valid passport (photocopy)

Nepal entry visa stamp 

4 passport photo-size photo 

Travel insurance full details (recommended) 

Trek itinerary (you will receive this from the trekking agency) 

Where do I apply? 

Restricted Area Permit (RAP): This permit can be obtained from a registered trekking agency and cannot be applied for by yourself.

ACAP & MCAP: You can obtain these permits through your agency or by going to the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

You will also need to trek with a licensed registered guide and be in a group of at least two people, as solo trekking is not permitted.

Hidden Costs on Manaslu Trek Most Trekkers Don’t Expect

Regardless of whether you arrange an all-inclusive trek, there will be certain hidden Manaslu trek costs that nobody mentions until you’re halfway up the mountain.

The Manaslu Circuit is remote.

Little things, like Wi-Fi, snacks and electricity, are limited, which makes them expensive.

Knowing the additional fees in advance can help with your budgeting and decrease the unwanted stress of fees during the trek.

Here are the things that often get left out of a trek and why you should plan for them.

Food Options and Snacks

Most packages include basic food, such as dal bhat, noodles or soup) that has enough calories to keep you going. 

After a few days, you will crave more options. 

Some extras, such as chocolate bars, biscuits and instant coffee, are available along the trail.

However, they will be above what you’ll pay in Kathmandu with the increase in altitude.

In Samdo and Lho, you can expect to pay $2 – $5 for a chocolate bar or a pack of cookies.

Tip: If you want to save some money, you can bring your trail mix, energy bars and energy drinks with you from Kathmandu. 

Charging, Wifi and Hot Showers

Most tea houses do not provide charging and hot water services in the cost accommodations.

If you want to charge or have hot water, you’ll need to pay: 

The cost of charging your phone or power bank is $2 – $4 per device.

Wifi (if available) will range in price from $2 – $5 per use. 

Hot showers (either solar-powered or gas) will cost $2 – $6, depending on the altitude.

Guide and Porter Tips

Tipping your guides and porters is not mandatory, but it is expected and appreciated. 

You should understand that they are not just helper; rather, they are your support network for 12 days in the Manaslu region. 

After your trek completion, you can tip them $100 – $150 USD in tips, which can be shared between your group.

A good guide is not just someone who helps with navigation; they will often be the reason you finish the trek safely and with confidence.

Emergency Evacuation and Insurance

One of the most overlooked and yet potentially costly hidden costs of treks is medical evacuation.

Due to altitude sickness, injury or adverse weather, you may need to exit early. 

A helicopter evacuation from Manaslu can range in cost from $3,000 – $6,000 and is not covered in the trekking packages, unless you have proper travel insurance.

Your travel insurance for trekking should have:

1. Emergency helicopter evacuation to 6,000m. 
2. Coverage for high-altitude sickness.
3. Cover medical treatment and repatriation. 

Tip: Ensure your policy mentions “trekking above 5,000m” and also mentions Nepal.

Trekking without a Guide

Many trekkers ask: ” Can I do the Manaslu trek without guide?”

Here’s the reality!

It is illegal to travel the Manaslu trek route without a guide (it is officially restricted).

If you attempt it, you will likely be rejected when applying for your trekking permit, get fined or be turned around at checkpoints. 

Even if it were allowed, you get more risks than rewards.

Tip: The cheapest way to do Manaslu Circuit trek is by joining trekking groups, sharing transportation & porter costs and planning ahead. 

Cost Comparison: Solo vs Group Trekking

Are you considering trekking Manaslu Circuit alone? 

Let’s unpack the true costs and the rules you should know if you’re deciding to have a private trek or group treks.

Solo Trekking on the Manaslu Circuit – What’s allowed? 

To be clear, as of 2025, you cannot trek the Manaslu Circuit legally by yourself!

The government of Nepal’s law requires you to:

• Be with a minimum of two trekkers on the permit.
• Have licensed trekking guides.
• Be with a registered trekking agency.

So it doesn’t matter if you are traveling solo, the agency will simply add the name of another trekker to your permit.

You do not have to walk together, but there has to be a minimum of two people on the paperwork.

You still have your own guide.

You can trek at your own pace.

But you cannot trek without a guide or be the only person on the permit.

Solo Trek Cost

If you are trekking independently, with a guide of your own and not sharing costs with anyone else, you will have to pay more.

Estimated Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost for solo traveler:

$1,300 to $1,600

The total cost for Manaslu trek becomes higher as you don’t have anyone to share the costs with for food, accommodation, transportation, guide fees and so on. 

Meanwhile, if you are looking for Manaslu Circuit trek cost without guide, sorry to break it to you, but foreigners aren’t allowed to trek in that way.

Trekking with a Group

When you go as a group, you share those costs with the others.

This means:

You will share the guide fee.

You will share the jeep or bus cost.

You may qualify for a discount for being a group.

You will still have a guide and will walk with other people.

Most groups are small in size, around 3 to 6 people.

The estimated Manaslu trek cost as a group.

$740 to $1,000 per person

This is the cheapest way to do the Manaslu Circuit trek.

Trekking Season and How It Affects the Cost

The season you choose now only varies Manaslu trek weather, but your total cost, comfort level and the availability of services.

Let’s break down all the ways season changes your budget and experience.

September to November (Autumn – Peak Season)

This is the most popular season for trekking Manaslu Circuit. 

The weather is typically dry with lots of sunny days, which offers great visibility (especially ideal for photographers) and the trails will be clear as it hasn’t snowed yet.

The temperature will typically be mild at lower elevations (temperatures below 10° C can still mean colder temperatures at night).

The views will be the best (especially from the Larkya La Pass viewpoint!) 

However, the peak season brings the highest demand from trekkers and with that, the Manaslu trek cost increases.

Rooms in tea houses often fill quickly, sometimes without a booking.

Some agencies may charge more during peak season months and there is competition for guides and porters.

If you want ideal trekking weather and an amazing trekking experience, then the peak season is worth the cost.

December to February (Winter)

This is the coldest season to trek, but it is also typically the quietest season. 

Daytime in winter can be cold and nighttime temperatures can drop heavily. 

The Larkya La Pass (5,160m) can be covered in snow, leading to trail conditions being dangerous to cross. 

There are fewer tea houses open on the Manaslu trek at higher elevations. 

Winter trekking is risky with the increase in altitude unless you have considerable experience trekking in this season.

The Manaslu Circuit trek costs can be a bit lower, but considering the additional trek gear travellers may require ( like a warmer sleeping or sleeping bag), the total costs of the Manaslu trek may be higher.

March to May (Spring)

Spring is the second most popular season because it brings blooming rhododendrons and long sunny days.

The daytime temperatures are mild and you will get stable weather conditions.

You will see fewer crowds compared to autumn and the trekking routes are in better condition overall to walk.

The Manaslu trek cost doesn’t fluctuate during this time.

This is also the best season to explore trekking routes that run through Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) zones, which are rich in biodiversity.

June to August (Monsoon)

We do not recommend trekking during the monsoon season, with the exception of doing the Tsum Valley Trek, which is in a rain-shadow area.

Heavy rains can mean muddy trails, slippery terrain hazards and leeches in the trails.

Landslides and muddy paths can block or delay arrival at junctions.

Mountain views are limited, even on previously visible routes, due to low visibility from clouds/rainfall.

The Manaslu trek costs decrease, but you increase the trek difficulty. 

You will find fewer tea house options and there are common transport delays. (Some may arrive late at night or possibly not at all.)

Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Worth the Cost?

You dream of trekking in the Himalayas.

But are you really ready to spend $700–$1600 to trek 1 trail?

If you want untouched nature, rich culture and way fewer people than Everest or Annapurna, then yes, Manaslu Circuit is the perfect Himalayan trek in Nepal.

What do you get for the Cost of Manaslu Circuit trek?

Your Manaslu trek cost is more than your meals and permits.

It buys you:

1. Views of Mount Manaslu (8163 m), the 8th highest mountain in the world.

2. A trek to Manaslu Base Camp, a secluded glacier-edge viewpoint that few outsiders will ever see.

3. Entry into the remote Tibetan-influenced settlements of Samgaun and Lho.

4. The excitement and adventure of crossing Larkya La Pass (5160m), one of Nepal’s highest and breathtaking trekking passes.

5. Safe lodging in teahouses that keep you warm and well fed after 8+ hours of hiking.

6. A licensed trek guide who can help you with managing high altitude, logistics and learn about the local culture.

7. All necessary permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

You are not just purchasing a trek. 

You are buying peace of mind, safety, and access to things you can only get to with support.

Sample Cost Breakdown Table: Day-by-Day Estimate

Are you still wondering how much the Manaslu trek costs per day? 

Here is a simple breakdown to help you estimate the costs for your Manaslu Circuit trek from beginning to end as if you’re following a typical 12-day trip.

The following section includes all key trekking expenses.

Many of the costs will vary based on your specific group composition, time of year and desired service levels, but this will be a fair approximation of what you can expect for 2025.

Daily Manaslu trek cost sample

Day	Location	Approximate Cost (USD)	Remark
1	Kathmandu to Machha Khola	$40 (Transport) + $25 (Food & Stay) + $30 (Guide)	Shared jeep/bus to the starting point for the Trek
2	Machha Khola to Jagat	$25 (Stay & Food) + $30 (Guide) + $10 (permit share)	Entering the restricted zone
3	Jagat to Deng	$25 + $30
4	Deng to Namrung	$25 + $30
5	Namrung to Lho	$25 + $30
6	Lho to Samagaun	$25 + $30
7	Acclimatization Day	$25 + $30	Can do an optional day hike to Manaslu Base Camp
8	Samagaun to Samdo	$25 + $30
9	Samdo to Dharamsala	$25 + $30 + $5 (extra for high camp)	Limited lodges, sparse basic rooms
10	Cross Larkya La to Bimthang	$25 + $30	Most difficult day
11	Bimthang to Dharapani	$25 + $30
12	To Kathmandu	$40 (by jeep/bus) + $15 (Meals along the way)

Additional One-Time Manaslu trek Cost

Item	Approximate Cost (USD)	Note
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit	$100 – $110	Varies by season
ACAP + MCAP Permits	~$50	Required to trek in Conservation Areas
Guide (12 days)	$30/day x 12 = $360	Required by law
Porter (optional)	$20/day x 10 = $200	Highly recommended if carrying a heavyweight
Gear rental (sleeping bag, poles, jacket)	$20 – $40	Available in KTM
Travel insurance	$50 – $100	Must cover trekking above 5,000m
Tips	$100 – $150	Share between the guide and the porter
Snacks, charging, Wi-Fi	$30 – $60	Varies by altitude

Beginners Estimated Total Cost (2025)

Category	Range (USD)
Budget group trek (shared	$740 – $950
Private solo style trek	$1,300 – $1,600
Add on extras (tips, Wi-Fi, snacks, gear)	$150 – $300

This Manaslu trek cost breakdown for beginners shows that trekking packages may advertise a base cost, but what you will actually pay depends on how you travel, what you carry and how much support you would like.

Final Tips to Save Money on the Manaslu Trek

Now that we have talked about expenses, let’s look at some useful tips for the Manaslu Circuit trek cost to reduce your expenses without harming your safety and experiences.

1. Team up with other trekkers to reduce the overall costs with a group trek. This is by far the cheapest way to do the Manaslu Circuit trek as you will share the costs of guides, jeeps and permits. 

2. Make sure you book through a local agency in Nepal. If you book through an international trekking agency, they will usually add a charge for using the local agency, which could cost you extra. 

3. Rent your gear, like sleeping bags and trekking poles, in Kathmandu rather than buying them. This will also help lower your total Manaslu trek cost.

4. Bring your own snacks and a water purifier (like a LifeStraw or filter) to avoid overpaying on the trail, especially in the higher altitudes of the Manaslu trek route.

5. Take the Manaslu trek in early spring or late autumn when the trail is less crowded, so that you can save a bit more money on the Manaslu Circuit trek’s cost due to lower demand.

6. Make sure you follow the right Manaslu trek packing list so you can enjoy your Manaslu trek experience.

FAQs about Manaslu trek and Its Cost