This guide will give a total description of the cost involved in the Manaslu circuit trek, the necessary permits, and the factors that affect the budget, as well as an itinerary to allow trekkers to plan well.
The walk usually takes 14 to 16 days of walking time, without considering the transport to and back to Kathmandu. It is rated as strenuous due to the length of daily uphill climbs, cold nights above 3,500 meters, and the high pass crossing. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most favourable months of the Manaslu circuit trek. The spring offers blooming rhododendrons and a warm climate, and autumn offers clear skies and the best views.
The total price will be based on the nature of the trek, the number of people in the group, the mode of transportation, and the level of comfort. A realistic budget of the standard 14-day Manaslu circuit trek is between US$1,200 to 1,900 per person in 2025. This is the cost of a permit, a licensed guide, porter services, transport on the ground, teahouse accommodation, and meals.
Trekking in the Manaslu region is categorized as a restricted area, and therefore, the trekkers need to acquire a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). Only the registered trekking agencies are permitted to issue this permit, and a licensed guide is required. Besides this, the trekkers require Manaslu Conservation Area Permits (MCAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permits (ACAP) since the trail culminates by entering the Annapurna area.
The Manaslu circuit trek requires hiring a licensed guide. An English-speaking professional guide typically costs US $25-40 a day, and a porter who can carry up to 20 kilograms normally costs US $20-30 a day.
There are teahouses all over the circuit, which offer simple twin-bed rooms with common facilities. Accommodation prices begin at approximately US$8 in smaller villages, and increase to approximately US$15-20 in larger and more distant villages. Meals cost between US$20–35 per day.
The walk starts with a long journey by road between Kathmandu and Machha Khola or Soti Khola and ends with a jeep ride between Dharapani and Besisahar, after which a bus or personal vehicle can be taken back to Kathmandu. The cost of public buses is cheap (US $15-20), whereas the cost of private jeeps is higher but quicker and more comfortable (US $250-300 as a group).
Hot showers, charging devices, Wi-Fi, and snacks are not included in the budget of trekkers, and they may cost between US$5-10 each day.
The Manaslu circuit trek is to be acclimatized. There is no bargain on rest days in Samagaun and Samdo to mitigate the chances of altitude sickness. The trekkers are supposed to climb slowly, keep hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Medications like acetazolamide should be taken along.
It is important to pack lightly and well. They need a good-quality down jacket, a four-season sleeping bag, good trekking boots, trekking poles, and a headlamp.
Power bank, water purifying process, sunscreens, and glacier sunglasses will also be included to make it comfortable and safe. Above 3,500 meters, the nights are cold, and therefore the use of thermal layers is essential.
The Manaslu circuit trek is a perfect combination of cultural immersion and Himalayan brutality and is one of the most rewarding trekking circuits in Nepal. It is not as expensive as Evere, but it is just as dramatic with fewer crowds and more authentic experiences. To trekkers who are ready to spend money on the right preparation, permits, and support, the Manaslu circuit trek is not just a challenge of stamina but also a permanent cultural and landscape recollection.
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