The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most stunning and adventurous treks in Nepal, taking you around Mount Manaslu — the world’s 8th highest mountain. The journey passes through remote valleys, traditional villages, lush forests, and high Himalayan passes, giving trekkers an unforgettable experience. Unlike the crowded trails of the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, this route is quieter and more peaceful, offering a natural and authentic trekking adventure. When planning this trek, understanding the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost is very important. It helps you prepare your budget properly and enjoy the trip without unexpected expenses.
Knowing the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost breakdown allows you to understand where your money goes. The main expenses include trekking permits, accommodation, meals, guide and porter fees, and transportation costs. Since the Manaslu region is a restricted area, special permits are required along with national park entry. Mountain lodges provide basic yet essential food and accommodation facilities. Hiring an experienced guide ensures safety, while a porter makes the journey more comfortable. Additionally, transportation from Kathmandu to the starting point and back is a key part of the cost. By understanding these details beforehand, trekkers can plan wisely, avoid surprises, and focus fully on enjoying the incredible Himalayan experience.
To trek the Manaslu Circuit, you need three different permits. The first is the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP). This is very important because the Manaslu region is a restricted area of Nepal. The cost of the RAP changes depending on the season: from September to November it costs USD 100 per person for the first 7 days, and then USD 15 per person per day for extra days. From December to August, it is cheaper — USD 75 for the first 7 days, and then USD 10 per person per day for extra days. The second permit is the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit, which costs NPR 3,000 per person (about USD 25). The third is the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit, also NPR 3,000 per person (about USD 25). These permits are needed because the trek passes through both the Manaslu and Annapurna protected areas. You can get these permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara through the Nepal Tourism Board office.
It is also important to know that the RAP (Restricted Area Permit) can only be obtained through a government-registered trekking agency like Nature Heaven Treks & Expedition. Trekkers cannot apply for this permit individually because the Nepal government requires travelers to be accompanied by a licensed guide for safety and regulation purposes. The trekking agency will arrange all permits on your behalf, making the process easier and hassle-free. Having a registered guide also ensures that you trek safely, follow the local rules, and get help in case of emergencies. In short, permits are not only legal requirements but also a way to support conservation, local communities, and safe trekking in the Manaslu region.
To trek the Manaslu Circuit, you need three different permits. The first is the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP). This is very important because the Manaslu region is a restricted area of Nepal. The cost of the RAP changes depending on the season: from September to November it costs USD 100 per person for the first 7 days, and then USD 15 per person per day for extra days. From December to August, it is cheaper — USD 75 for the first 7 days, and then USD 10 per person per day for extra days. The second permit is the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit, which costs NPR 3,000 per person (about USD 25). The third is the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit, also NPR 3,000 per person (about USD 25). These permits are needed because the trek passes through both the Manaslu and Annapurna protected areas. You can get these permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara through the Nepal Tourism Board office.
It is also important to know that the RAP (Restricted Area Permit) can only be obtained through a government-registered trekking agency like Nature Heaven Treks & Expedition. Trekkers cannot apply for this permit individually because the Nepal government requires travelers to be accompanied by a licensed guide for safety and regulation purposes. The trekking agency will arrange all permits on your behalf, making the process easier and hassle-free. Having a registered guide also ensures that you trek safely, follow the local rules, and get help in case of emergencies. In short, permits are not only legal requirements but also a way to support conservation, local communities, and safe trekking in the Manaslu region.
From Kathmandu to Soti Khola/Machha Khola, you have three common choices. Public bus from the New Bus Park (Gongabu) to Arughat/Soti Khola costs about NPR 1,200–2,000 (USD 9–15) per person; it’s the cheapest but slower and bumpy. Shared local jeep (per seat) via Arughat to Soti/Machha Khola is faster, about NPR 2,500–4,000 (USD 20–30) per person. Private 4×4 jeep direct from your hotel costs USD 160–220 per vehicle to Soti Khola and USD 200–260 to Machha Khola; if 4–6 people share, it’s USD 30–60 per person and the most comfortable. Airport transfers in Kathmandu (hotel ⇄ airport) are usually USD 10–20 per car/way and may be included in our package; if not, we can arrange it at cost price. For the return, from Dharapani/Besisahar to Kathmandu a public bus is about NPR 1,000–1,500 (USD 8–12), a shared jeep NPR 2,000–3,500 (USD 15–27), and a private jeep USD 120–180 per vehicle. To Pokhara, public bus is about NPR 800–1,200 (USD 6–9); private jeep USD 100–150 per vehicle. You can buy public tickets at the New Bus Park counters or local jeep counters on the trail; we (Nature Heaven Treks & Expedition) can also pre-book seats/jeeps and arrange door-to-door pick-ups so you don’t waste time. In short: public = cheapest, shared jeep = good balance of speed and price, private jeep = fastest and most flexible.
Why a registered trekking agency is required: The Manaslu region is a Restricted Area. To enter, you must have a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) issued through a government-registered trekking agency and trek with a licensed guide. We also handle your MCAP/ACAP permits, verify passport/visa, manage check-posts, and provide safety support and emergency help. Using a registered agency avoids permit problems, saves time at counters, and ensures you get the right transport at the right time (especially during festival seasons or peak trekking months). Cost per person depends on what you choose: public bus (fixed per seat), shared jeep (fixed per seat), or private jeep (total vehicle price split by group size). We’re happy to quote exact, up-to-date prices for your dates and group size and include airport transfers if you prefer a full package.
Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is mostly in teahouses or lodges. A basic teahouse room usually costs around USD 5–8 per night, and it often comes with just a bed and blanket. If you want a more comfortable option with an attached bathroom, it can cost USD 15–20 per night in some villages, but these are limited. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging your phone or camera usually come with extra charges (USD 2–5 each). In remote areas, the facilities are simpler, and comfort options may not be available at all.
Meals are another important part of your trekking budget. The most common food is dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), which costs about USD 5–7 per plate. Other meals like noodles, fried rice, or soup range between USD 4–8, while tea, coffee, and snacks add USD 2–4 each time. On average, trekkers spend around USD 20–30 per day on food. When you add both food and lodging together, the estimated daily cost is about USD 25–40 per person, which means for the whole trek (12–15 days) you should plan for USD 300–600 total.
Hiring a licensed trekking guide is very important for your safety and navigation in the Himalayas. A professional guide not only shows you the right trail but also explains the culture, local traditions, and mountain lifestyle. They are trained to handle emergencies like altitude sickness and can help arrange rescue if needed. The standard guide cost is usually USD 25–35 per day, which includes their food, accommodation, and insurance. Having a guide makes your trek more enjoyable and stress-free because you can focus on walking and exploring instead of worrying about directions and logistics.
A porter is equally important because they carry your heavy bag, allowing you to trek comfortably. Porters usually charge USD 18–25 per day, and they can carry up to 20–25 kg of luggage. This means you only carry a light daypack with your water, snacks, and essentials. Hiring a guide or porter through a trusted trekking agency gives you extra security because agencies provide insured, reliable staff and make sure fair wages are paid. This way, you support the local economy and enjoy a safe, organized trip.
When planning the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it’s important to think about the small but necessary extra costs. Many trekkers rent or buy trekking gear in Kathmandu, such as down jackets, sleeping bags, or trekking poles, if they don’t bring their own. Another very important cost is travel insurance with altitude coverage. This should include emergency helicopter evacuation because the trail goes above 5,000 meters and sudden altitude sickness can happen. These things might feel optional, but they are actually essential for safety and comfort.
There are also daily small expenses during the trek. You may need to pay for charging electronics, Wi-Fi, or hot showers in tea houses, which usually cost a few dollars each time. At the end of your trek, giving tips for guides and porters is a common and respectful practice in Nepal, as they work very hard to support you. It’s also smart to keep a little extra money for emergency costs or contingencies, like medical needs or delays. Adding these expenses into your budget ensures that your trek is smooth, safe, and stress-free.
When planning the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the total cost depends on the type of trek you choose. For budget trekkers, the cost usually ranges between USD 900–1200 per person. This covers basic lodges, local meals, permits, transport, and a guide or porter. For mid-range trekkers, who want a bit more comfort, the price is around USD 1300–1600 per person with better accommodation, upgraded meals, and more personalized services. If you want a luxury trek, including high-quality hotels, private jeeps, and extra comfort, the cost can go above USD 2000 per person. Another factor is whether you join a fixed group departure or go on a private trek. Group departures are cheaper because costs like transport and guides are shared, while private treks give you more flexibility but are more expensive.
If you want to save money on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, there are some easy tips. You can share a jeep with other trekkers instead of hiring one privately. Carrying snacks from Kathmandu is much cheaper than buying them in the mountains, where prices rise with altitude. Also, always bring a refillable water bottle with purification tablets or a filter, instead of buying bottled water every day. These small steps help you save a lot of money while still enjoying the trek. Most importantly, booking with a trusted company like Nature Heaven Treks & Expedition ensures transparent pricing, safety, and a hassle-free trekking experience, so you know exactly where your money goes and can focus fully on the adventure.
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