Manaslu Circuit Trekking cost: Nepal’s Best-Kept Trekking Secret

Nepal is a dream destination for trekkers, offering some of the world’s most breathtaking trails. While the Everest Base Camp trek remains the most famous, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is Nepal’s best-kept trekking secret. This off-the-beaten-path trek takes adventurers through remote villages, lush forests, and high mountain passes, all while avoiding the overwhelming crowds of Everest or Annapurna. But how much does it cost to embark on this thrilling journey? In this guide, we’ll break down the Manaslu Circuit Trekking cost, covering permits, guides, accommodations, and other expenses to help you plan an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an incredible alternative to the Everest Base Camp trek. It offers stunning landscapes, fewer crowds, and an authentic cultural experience. The trail circumnavigates Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, providing breathtaking views at every turn. You’ll pass through Tibetan-influenced villages, cross the Larkya La Pass (5,160m), and experience diverse terrains ranging from subtropical forests to rugged alpine landscapes.

Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Remote and less crowded compared to Everest and Annapurna

• Stunning views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and Ganesh Himal

• Rich cultural experience with Tibetan-influenced villages

• Challenging yet rewarding high-altitude trekking

• Crossing the stunning Larkya La Pass (5,160m)

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Cost Breakdown

One of the biggest advantages of trekking the Manaslu Circuit is its affordability compared to the Everest Base Camp trek. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the major expenses:

1. Permit Costs

Since the Manaslu Circuit Trek is in a restricted area, you need special permits. The cost depends on the season:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit

  • September to November: $100 per person for the first 7 days, then $15 per additional day

  • December to August: $75 per person for the first 7 days, then $10 per additional day

• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): $30 per person

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $30 per person

2. Guide and Porter Fees

Hiring a guide is mandatory for the Manaslu Circuit Trek due to its restricted status. A porter is optional but highly recommended.

• Licensed Guide: $25-$40 per day

• Porter: $18-$25 per day

3. Accommodation Cost

Accommodation along the Manaslu Circuit is basic, mostly teahouses that provide simple rooms and meals.

• Teahouse lodging: $5-$10 per night

• Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner): $6-$10 per meal

4. Transportation Costs

The trek starts from Soti Khola and ends in Besisahar, requiring private or public transport.

• Kathmandu to Soti Khola (local bus): $10-$15

• Kathmandu to Soti Khola (private jeep): $150-$200 (split among travelers)

• Besisahar to Kathmandu (bus/jeep): $10-$20

5. Miscellaneous Expenses

• Travel insurance: $50-$100 (must cover high-altitude trekking)

• Wi-Fi: $2-$5 per hour

• Hot showers: $3-$5

• Charging electronic devices: $2-$5 per charge

Total Estimated Manaslu Circuit Trekking Cost

For a 14-day trek, the estimated cost per person is:

ExpenseEstimated CostPermits$135-$160Guide (14 days)$350-$560Porter (optional)$250-$350Accommodation & Meals$280-$420Transportation$30-$100Miscellaneous$50-$100Total Estimated Cost$1,095 – $1,690

Manaslu Circuit Trek vs. Everest Base Camp Trek Cost

When comparing the Manaslu Circuit Trekking cost with the Everest Base Camp trek, there are notable differences:

ExpenseManaslu CircuitEverest Base CampPermit Fees$135-$160$70Guide (per day)$25-$40$25-$40Accommodation (per night)$5-$10$10-$15Meals (per meal)$6-$10$8-$12Transportation$30-$100$200-$500 (flight to Lukla)Total Cost (14 Days)$1,095 – $1,690$1,500 – $2,500

Best Time to Trek the Manaslu Circuit

The best time for Manaslu Circuit Trekking is autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May). These seasons offer stable weather, clear mountain views, and moderate temperatures.

• Autumn (Sept-Nov): Best visibility, vibrant landscapes

• Spring (March-May): Rhododendron forests in full bloom

• Winter (Dec-Feb): Harsh conditions, some lodges closed

• Monsoon (June-Aug): Heavy rains, landslides, and leeches

Tips to Reduce Manaslu Circuit Trekking Cost

1. Travel in a group to share guide, porter, and transportation costs.

2. Book in advance for better deals on guides and permits.

3. Bring power banks and solar chargers to avoid high charging fees.

4. Pack light and rent gear in Kathmandu instead of buying expensive items.

5. Negotiate prices for accommodations and food when possible.

Conclusion

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an unforgettable adventure that rivals the Everest Base Camp trek, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and a remote trekking experience. Despite being a restricted area, the Manaslu Circuit Trekking cost is reasonable, making it an excellent choice for trekkers seeking a challenging yet rewarding Himalayan journey. With proper budgeting and planning, this trek can be one of the most cost-effective ways to explore Nepal’s hidden gem. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, the Manaslu Circuit promises an experience of a lifetime.