Manaslu Circuit Trek

If you are thinking about how much trekking the Manaslu Circuit costs in 2025, you are not alone.

It is one of the most frequently asked questions for anyone planning on this off-the-beaten-path experience.

Here at Nepal Base Camp Treks, we operate with full cost transparency, no hidden fees, no ambiguity and real value for every dollar you spend.

So let’s break them down.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Package Price (2025)

At Nepal Base Camp Treks, our 12-day Manaslu Circuit trek starts at $740 per person (for groups of 8 – 10 people).

Price will vary slightly based on group size and customizations.

What’s Included in this Manaslu Trek Package?

You aren’t just paying for a walk in the mountains but for peace of mind, safety, comfort and a hassle-free adventure. 

Here is what is included in your Manaslu Circuit trek price:

All required permits

We include the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit MCAP and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ACAP, no paperwork worries for you.

Daily meals with tea/coffee

You get breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as 3 cups of hot drinks daily and hearty meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as we hike along at cozy mountain tea houses.

Local expert guide

You will be accompanied by an English-speaking, first-aid trained and certified Manaslu Circuit trek guide who will lead your adventure.

Accommodations during the trek

Enjoy comfortable stays in family-run tea houses with clean and simple rooms available (options to have single rooms).

Private/shared transportation

Private jeep or tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and back from Dharapani to Kathmandu.

First-Aid & Emergency Support

Equipped guide, basic medical first-aid kit and coordination with helicopter rescue services as needed (covered under your travel insurance).

Government taxes & service charges

As specified. All official machinations are included. No surprise VATs or service charges after the trek.

Important: Porter services will be offered for an additional fee at the rate of $20 USD/per day and are not included in your trek package (they are optional and only if requested).

What is not included?

Aside from the essentials of food, accommodation and transportation, consider the following items as you budget for your trek:

On arrival, a Nepal visa (USD 30-50, depending on duration).

Meals and a hotel in Kathmandu before and after your trek.

Personal expenses (Wi-Fi, hot showers, snacks, bottles of water).

Travel insurance with high altitude coverage (this is a must).

Tips for your guide and porter

Extra porter if needed.

Budget vs Luxury: What are your Options?

Looking for a more luxurious option or a budget option?

We have both!

Standard Package ($740–$790/person)

The perfect balance of price and quality.

This package is great for first-time trekkers or people on a budget.

Private Trek or Custom Group

Do you want the luxury option, more meals or a helicopter to the mountain from the airport?

Simply tell us what you want and we will customize it to make a perfect adventure.

Nope, not anymore!

With the new trekking regulations in Nepal, you can’t trek solo (unless it’s a non-restricted area).

Manaslu is considered a restricted area, which means you currently need to get your Manaslu Circuit trek permits and use a licensed guide.

In addition:

You must book with a licensed trekking agency.

You must be in a group of at least two trekkers for the RAP permit.

But, you have some good news!

Nepal Base Camp Treks offers small group departures that you can join solo and at a good value!

Hidden Costs to Consider

The total cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek could increase quite a bit if you are not prepared.

Here are the costs that catch trekkers out:

Bottled water at altitude – up to $3 per liter.

Charging devices at tea houses – $2 – $5/hour.

Hot showers – Solar/electric – $2 – $4/use.

Wi-fi or mobile data – Limited and expensive, so be ready to go offline!

Extra snacks or gear rental on the trail.

Tip: Budget an extra $10–15/day for these add-ons.

Hiking the Manaslu Circuit in Nepal is entering a restricted area, which is beautiful, remote and protected.

But to access this Himalayan treasure legally and safely, you will need to obtain a few permits.

Here is a full overview of all the Manaslu Circuit trekking permits, their costs, where to get them and why they are important in 2025.

What Permits Will You Need?

For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, there are three permits you will need:

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

The important section for a permit is between Jagat and Dharapani, as this area is controlled for trekking.

During September to November, you will pay a fee of $100 for the first 7 days with an additional $15/day after.

In other months, you will pay a fee of $75 for the first 7 days with an additional $10/day after

A permit is only issued through registered trekking agencies and there is a requirement for a minimum of 2 trekkers.

2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

The MCAP permit covers the Manaslu Conservation Area (i.e., Samagaun, Samdo)

Fee for Foreign Nationals: NPR 3,000 (~ $25)

Fee for SAARC Countries: NPR 1,000

3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

The ACAP permit is required from Dharapani onwards as the trek exits the Manaslu into the Annapurna region.

Fee for Foreign Nationals: NPR 3,000 (~$25)

Fee for SAARC Countries: NPR 1,000

Where and how to obtain the permits? 

Don’t worry about the paperwork, we will take care of everything for you!! 

At Nepal Base Camp Treks, we:

1) Collect your passport & photos

2) We take care of all MCAP, ACAP and RAP applications.

3) Coordinate with the Nepal Tourism Board.

4) Ensure that your permits are valid, approved & ready prior to trekking.

Documents needed for permits:

– A valid passport (photocopy)

– 2-4 passport-sized photographs

– Travel Insurance policy

– Valid Nepal visa

Tip: Permit costs can change at any time. You should book your trek ahead of time and we’ll handle the changes. We have been helping trekkers for over 20 years, and we can help with your permit process.

Before you put your trekking boots on, there’s one question you’re probably asking: How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The short and easy answer?

It’s a challenge that can be achieved, but it is not for the weak-hearted.

In this section, we will discuss the Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty, how altitude will impact your body and what fitness level you’ll need to make it over Larkya La Pass safely.

How Difficult is Manaslu Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal is officially rated as strenuous.

Throughout the trek, you will walk 6-8 hours a day, slowly gaining altitude and going over one of Nepal’s highest trekking passes, Larkya La Pass (5,160m).

Here is why it is difficult but achievable:

Trek Distance: ~180 km over 12 days

Remote Trails: Compared to Annapurna or Everest, there are fewer tea houses.

Terrain: Rocky, forested, snow, rugged-every day could be a combination of terrains.

Altitude: The thin air starts to kick in after 3,000m

If you’ve previously trekked at high altitudes or are in great shape, the trek to Manaslu will probably be an exhilarating challenge rather than an impossible task.

And if you are a beginner, with proper pacing and the right amount of rest days, you can complete this trek.

Altitude Profile & Prevention Tips

Altitude sickness is a real possibility on the Manaslu Circuit trek, particularly after passing 3,000 meters.

However, most trekkers handle it without incident with good pacing and acclimatization.

What to expect from the Altitude profile of Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Risk areas: Samagaun (3,530m), Samdo (3,860m), Larkya Phedi (4,460m)

Acclimatization: One full rest day in Samagaun

Highest point: Larkya La Pass (5,160m)

Altitude sickness takes over you with mild symptoms such as headaches, dizziness or nausea, but can become much worse if ignored.

The good news is that the itinerary offered by Nepal Base Camp Treks offers a full rest day in Samagaun, giving your body time to adapt naturally.

Most trekkers also have the option to hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa on that day to adjust their bodies’ time for maximum oxygen adaptation.

How to minimize your risk of altitude sickness:

Ascend slowly and take your rest days seriously.

Stay hydrated (minimum 3+ liters per day).

Avoid alcohol & cigarettes and sleep at lower elevations when possible.

Consider altitude medications (discuss with your doctor).

With Nepal Base Camp Treks, our experienced guides will monitor your health and will have basic medical kits.

Emergency helicopter evacuation (covered by your travel insurance) will be available if needed.

Who should (and shouldn’t) do this trek?

The Manaslu trek is ideal for:

Trekkers with past high-altitude or long-distance trekking experience.

People are physically fit and can walk around 6–8 hrs per day.

People with a sense of adventure who want something quieter than Everest or Annapurna.

It might not be suitable for:

People trekking for the first time who have no hiking experience.

An individual with serious heart, lung or joint issues.

People who want to trek in luxury or on easy trekking routes.

Nevertheless, if trekkers train, prepare emotionally and follow the trail and general advice, any beginning trekker with a good fitness level can do this trek.

Are you ready to plan your trek in Manaslu?

Then, knowing the Manaslu Circuit trek best time will be crucial to your experience.

All these factors, including weather, visibility, trail conditions and cultural immersion, will depend on when you go.

This guide will help you make the most well-informed decision for trekking in Manaslu, based on your own personal wishes and priorities.

Spring (March to May) – Blooming Trails & Clear Views

If you want the best of everything in terms of weather, scenery, and adventure, then spring could well be the best time of year to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

The skies will typically be clear and the rhododendrons will be in full bloom.

You’ll have stunning views of Mount Manaslu and the other mountains along the Tibetan border.

Daytime temperatures are warm, and the cooler evenings are still comfortable.

Best for:

Trekking Manaslu with picturesque, colorful scenery

Enjoying the best mountain views

Visit villages like Samagaun during harvesting times

Autumn (September to November) – Peak Season for Trekking

This is the safest and most popular time of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Once the monsoon rains are over, the weather remains stable, with clean air and unmarred clear skies.

You will get to see golden forest scenery, village festivals and Himalayan Views of Himalchuli, Cheo Himal and Ganesh Himal.

Suitable for:

Dry terrain and consistent visibility for trekkers

For cultural exchange in the event of festivities like Dashain and Tihar

Crossing the Larkya La Pass with ease.

Rainy Season (June to August) – Wet but Dangerous

During the rainy season, you will encounter heavy rain, slippery paths, leeches and bad visibility.

There are landslides on the lower half.

The landscape is lush and green, with sensational views, but this season is not for people who aren’t experienced monsoon trekkers.

Not recommended except if you are undertaking research, photography, trekking or off-season budget trekking.

Winter (December to February) – Cold but Peaceful

If you desire peace and are adequately prepared for winter, then this is the darkest expedition that you can go for.

But the weather will be sub-zero.

Most of the tea houses will be closed and the Larkya La Pass can be entirely buried in snow.

Travel only with an experienced guide who is highly skilled and well-versed in winter survival for trekking in Manaslu.

Packing well can definitely make or break your trekking experience in Nepal.

Manaslu weather can change quickly, the terrain is remote, and the passes are high enough; in such a situation, anything can happen. 

That’s why you should have the right Manaslu Circuit trek packing list to have a safe and comfortable journey.

When trekking in the spring or autumn (the best times for the Manaslu trek), it’s better to layer and pack light, but still take all the requirements.

What Gear Do You Need to Trek in the Himalayas at High Altitude?

The Manaslu Circuit trek takes you to an altitude of 5,160m at Larkya La Pass, so it’s safe to say you want to layer.

The days are warmer at lower altitudes, but the mornings and nights (especially above Samagaun and Dharamsala) can get very cold.

The following core items should be packed:

Wicking base layers

Insulated mid-layers (Fleece or Down)

Waterproof/windproof outer jacket

Lightweight trekking pants and thermals

Warm gloves, beanie and sun hat

Also pack UV glasses, sunscreen and lip balm, the Himalayan sun can be very fierce at altitude.

Sleeping bag, Footwear & Trekking Accessories

Tea houses in the Manaslu area do provide basic beds and blankets, but you should expect it to be below freezing.

Temperatures drop under freezing in Lho, Samagaun and Bimthang.

So, you will need a sleeping bag that is rated -10°C to -20°C.

Footwear & accessories:

Well-broken in hiking boots with ankle support

Camp sandals for the evenings

Trekking poles (helpful on descents and icy passes)

A headlamp with extra batteries

Water bottles or hydration bladder (total 2–3L)

Dry bags to organize your gear and protect electronics, etc

Snack or trail mix for long days trekking

Small first-aid kit including altitude sickness medication

Lip balm and sunscreen (IMPORTANT at higher elevations)

Tip: Carry water purification tablets or a filter. Bottled water is expensive, plus it’s not great for the environment (especially at altitude).

Clothing Layers for Varying Weather

The Manaslu region changes from subtropical valleys to alpine tundra.

Your clothing will need to transition as well.

Be sure to have:

3–4 pairs of wool or synthetic hiking socks

1–2 quick-dry t-shirts 

A warm fleece or hoodie for evenings.

A sunhat for lower altitudes and a beanie for higher altitudes.

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho (especially when traveling during the monsoon months).

The best time to trek Manaslu is in spring and autumn, but expect snow and wind even then at the high passes.

Final Packing Reminders for Manaslu Trekkers:

Above all, do not overpack; you will be walking 6–8 hours each day and every kilo will count.

Pack your essentials into a daypack and let your porter (if you have hired one) carry all your gear in your larger duffel or similar.

Make sure to even travel with spare passport photos, your permits and some Nepali cash in case you are trekking in remote villages that do not accept cards.

When it comes to accommodation and food during the trek on the Manaslu Circuit, what should you expect?

Simple, warm and satisfying, that is quite surprisingly good for its warmth, especially when you are miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

This is not a luxury trek.

Tat House Experience: What to expect?

On the Manaslu Circuit trek, you’ll be sleeping in some of the cozy teahouses, small locally owned lodges along the trek.

The teahouses provide basic but clean accommodation and food, and a warm environment to relax after a day in the distant Himalayas.

Lower altitude teahouses like Machha Khola or Jagat offer comfort, as most of them have private twin rooms and thicker walls.

The further you go into the trek, the more rural teahouse character you find, of course, at higher villages like Samagaun, Samdo and Dharamsala.

Toilets are usually shared and there is less insulation, so a warm sleeping bag is necessary.

Electricity is by solar power and it will cost $2 – $5 per hour to charge your devices.

What’s there to eat?

Food is made fresh and is aimed at giving trekkers energy.

The dal bhat is the most popular meal, a hearty serving of rice, lentils and vegetables in curry.

It’s tasty, filling and includes free refills.

Other meals that are available are:

Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, chapati, Tibetan bread or pancakes

Lunch & Dinner: Noodles, fried rice, soup, pasta, momos

Beverages: You’ll get 3 cups of tea or coffee per day (package inclusion)

There is an arrangement to purchase extra beverages, such as ginger and lemon hot tea.

Food choices get restricted and costlier at higher altitudes.

It’s advisable to bring energy bars, dry fruits or some light snacks, particularly before the Larkya La Pass (5,160m) crossing.

You feel the real sense of local hospitality, as most of the lodge owners themselves cook using seasonally available food and firewood or gas stoves.

Having meals together in a lodge dining room, generally heated with a centralized stove, is great fun.

As you prepare for the Manaslu Circuit trek, there is one key consideration: you must hire a guide.

The government of Nepal has decreed that solo trekking is no longer allowed in restricted areas like Manaslu.

Thus, even if you consider yourself an experienced hiker, this is one trek you will not be able to do alone.

Guide Requirements in Restricted Areas

The Manaslu Region is one of the government-managed areas that also requires a Restricted Area Permit (RAP).

RAPs can only be obtained through a registered trekking agency with a minimum of two trekkers and a licensed guide.

Here at Nepal Base Camp Treks, we provide licensed, English-speaking guides who have walked the Manaslu Region dozens of times.

Your guide will do more than lead the way; they are also paying attention to any potential altitude symptoms, sharing information about the previous night’s culture, keeping you safe and looking out for you.

Porter or not? Weight Restriction and Cost

While hiring a porter is optional, we highly recommend this option, especially with the tough altitude and long hours of walking.

A porter can carry between 20 to 25 kg and help keep your pack light by carrying your sleeping bag and clothes specifically.

A light day pack makes all the difference in saving energy when crossing Larkya La Pass, experiencing high winds and trekking for 6–8 hours per day.

Walking the Manaslu Circuit is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it is also remote and high-altitude.

With the right planning, it can be non-technical and safe.

Without the right preparation, things can turn hazardous really quickly.

So here’s how to be sure you’re protected against risks such as altitude sickness, injury and unexpected natural disasters on the Manaslu Circuit trek route.

Risk Factors in Remote Areas

The Manaslu area is beautiful but wild.

You’ll be hiking far from hospitals, with bad telephone reception and very basic tea house amenities.

There are a few dangers here, including:

Altitude sickness (especially when you reach Larkya La Pass at 5160m)

Unpredictable rockfalls or landslides, mostly in the wet season

Earthquakes (Nepal is very seismically active)

Bad weather or extreme temperature fluctuations

Injury on steep rocky trails

Even if you’re highly fit and experienced, it’s advisable to exercise caution.

All you have to do is walk slowly, drink water regularly and obey your guide.

Why you need Travel Insurance

You have to purchase travel insurance that includes high-altitude trekking (not an optional one).

Most Insurance companies offer trekking packages for the trekkers trekking in Nepal.

Be sure to check for insurance that includes:

Emergency helicopter evacuation

Altitude sickness/injury-related treatment

Cancellation/Trip interruptions

Lost or stolen gear

You must remember: Helicopter evacuation will cost over $5,000.00, which is why you buy travel medical insurance because it is an add-on plan.

You pay out of pocket if you don’t have it.

Nepal Base Camp Treks can call your carrier if necessary, but you must bring a copy of your insurance certificate with you.

Emergency Evacuation & Rescue

Our team is well-qualified to do a swift response when there is an emergency situation. 

If you have a high level of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), we will start our descent immediately or organize a helicopter from the rescue party. 

All rescues are handled through your travel insurance company, so if you decide to purchase it, your insurance needs to be valid.

We will provide a communal first-aid kit and set of pulse oximeters and we offer 24/7 support to clients at altitude by satellite phone, should you need anything in a hurry.

When you take on the Manaslu Circuit, experience and trust matter.

Here’s why you should choose Nepal Base Camp Treks:

Local Knowledge That You Can Trust

With over 20 years of walking experience, our team of local guides knows the Manaslu trail inside out (from Soti Khola to Larkya La Pass).

We are a local business and treat every trekker like family.

We Handle Everything for You

From permits to meals, we have you covered.

Our all-inclusive Manaslu Circuit packages come with:

Licensed guides

Permits (RAP, MCAP & ACAP)

Daily meals and tea

Comfortable tea house accommodation

Ground Transportation

Emergency support

Whether you want to join a group or organize a private custom trek, your journey is your way.

Trekkers Love Our Service 

We are one of Nepal’s most recommended trekking agencies and have numerous 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor.

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

Do you also want to have a safe, smooth and memorable trekking adventure in the Himalayas?

Contact us and book your journey to circle around Mount Manaslu for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Getting travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended if you are trekking to Manaslu Circuit. The challenging nature of the trek, with high altitude, remote trails, and unpredictable weather, poses risks that can be mitigated by having proper coverage. While medical facilities are limited in the area, having travel insurance that includes medical emergencies ensures you receive the necessary care without worrying about costs.

Additionally, your travel insurance should cover emergency evacuations. It includes helicopter rescues in case of severe altitude sickness, injury, or other emergencies. Considering the remoteness of the Manaslu region, quick evacuation may be necessary in life-threatening situations. Having insurance provides peace of mind as you know that you are covered for unexpected incidents. This allows you to focus fully on the trek without concerns about potential risks.