Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost: Complete Budget Guide for 2025/2026

How to Plan Your Manaslu Trekking Budget?

Overall, Manaslu Circuit Trek costs for 2025 and 2026 usually vary from USD 849 to USD 2,199 per person, depending on group size, itinerary duration, and level of service. The smaller the group and the itinerary, the less it will cost. The private departures and the Manaslu Circuit trek cost and itinerary are directly related; longer itineraries with extra acclimatization days will increase your overall expenses.

Average Cost Range for 2025 and 2026

• 12-day standard package: USD 849–USD 1199 per person (2–10 participants)
• 14-day arrival to start of trek to depart off trek package: USD 999– USD 1399 per person (2–10 participants)
• 16-17 day extended trek package: USD 1199–USD 2499 (includes rest days, side trips, or Tsum Valley add-ons)

What’s Included in the Cost of Manaslu Circuit?

Permits and Fees

• For the first week (peak season), the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit costs about USD 70, and each extra day costs USD 10.
• Permit for Manaslu Conservation Area: $30 per person
• Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card: $20 per individual

Guide and Porter Services

• Licensed Guide: USD 25–USD 30 per day
• Porter: $20–$25 daily (optional).

Accommodation and Meals

• Tea-house lodges along the trek route (includes your breakfast, lunch and dinner)
• Average trek package per day meal cost: USD 30–USD 40

Transportation

• Airport pick-up/drop off by private or tourist bus,
• Jeep or local bus from Kathmandu to Soti Khola/ Arughat

Logistical Support

• Route planning, maps, emergency communications
• Agency support for acclimatization schedules and altitude safety

Taxes and service charges

• Local government taxes, agency service fees, and insurance for staff

By understanding what is included in your Manaslu Trek cost, you'll be able to compare prices accurately and avoid nasty surprise expenses while on the trail. The breakdown means you know exactly what you are paying for, whether you're spending minimally in a budget package, or spending on a fully organised private trek, you will know it is worth every rupee!

Manaslu Circuit Trek cost with an International Tour operator

When you book the Manaslu Circuit Trek through an international tour operator, you will normally pay a premium for the ease, reliability, and additional services that you are paying for. Here is what to expect when using an established, overseas agency:

What Drives the Higher Cost?

• Visa support, detailed packing lists, and pre-trek briefing in your country.
• Safety and Comfort Enhancements
• Evacuation plans, satellite phone, supplemental oxygen.
• Priority reservations at higher altitude teahouses.
• Logistics Made Easy
• Internal flights, luxury buses (Kathmandu-Pokhara), private jeeps, luggage transfer.
• Cultural and Community Programs
• School/community project visits, meet the villagers, traditional homestay (optional).
• Insurance and Liability
• Staff insurance levels, trip cancellation/interruption upgraded covers.

Is it Worth the Extra Cost?

• Time-Poor Travellers: removes hassle when on the ground, especially if you are time poor and are not interested in spending time planning.
• First-Time Himalayan Trekkers: Professional support and guidance can ease anxiety for those unsure about travel to altitude.
• Luxury Travellers: Hot showers and power in the room, higher-end teahouses.
• Travelling in Groups: Provides pre-arranged group itineraries and guaranteed departures to take the hassle away from solo bookings, and adds a social dimension.

Now that you understand the cost breakdown, added value, and difference in services offered by international operators, you can weigh whether the convenience and safety are worth the extra USD 400-1,000 to be added to your local agency package price. The comparison helps provide clarity on the value that suits your budget and trekking style.

Cost of trekking the Manaslu Circuit with a local tour operator

Booking through a reputable local tour operator like Himalayan Recreation in Nepal can offer significant savings without compromising on safety or experience. Here is a summary of typical cost brackets and inclusions:

Why Choose a Local Operator?

• Cost Efficiency: With lower overheads and direct relationships with teahouses and transport providers, we can pass savings on to you, typically USD 300–600 less than international operators.
• Authentic Expertise: Local operators have strong connections to the Manaslu region and provide opportunities for manifold cultural exchanges to the lesser-known villages.
• Transparent Pricing: Costs are detailed with itemized breakdowns for permits, accommodation, and meals without hidden mark-ups.
• Support Local Economy: By booking locally, you can be confident that more of your spending goes straight to Nepali guides, porte,rs and communities.

Typical Inclusions

• Permits and Documentation: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Conservation Area Permit, and TIMS card.
• Guiding and Portering: Licensed English-speaking guide (USD 25–30/day) and porter (USD 20–25/day).
• Accommodation and Meals: Tea-house lodges with three basic meals (dal-bhat, noodles, soup).
• Transportation: Shared tourist bus or jeep to/from the trailhead.
• Agency Support: Pre-departure briefing in Kathmandu, emergency coordination, and re-entry logistics.

By choosing a local operator, you can enjoy a budget-friendly Manaslu Circuit Trek without sacrificing quality or safety, perfect for backpackers and culturally minded travelers looking to maximize value.

Cost Breakdown: Where Your Money Goes

Understanding exactly where your money is spent helps you craft a realistic Manaslu Trekking Budget and avoid surprises on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. A thorough explanation of typical costs is provided below: 

Trekking Permits and Fees

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit: High season (Sep–Nov, Mar–May): USD 70 for the first 7 days + USD 10 each extra day and Low season (Dec–Feb, Jun–Aug): USD 50 for the first 7 days + USD 7 each extra day
• Permit for Manaslu Conservation Area: $30 per person
• Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card: $20 per individual

Total Trek Permits and Fees: USD 120–USD 150 per person (depending on season and trek length)

Guide and Porter Costs

• Licensed Guide: USD 25–USD 30 per day
• Porter (opt): USD 20–USD 25 per day

Transportation to and from the Trailhead

• Kathmandu → Arughat: Tourist bus: USD 15–USD 20 (8–10 hrs) and Private jeep: USD 150–USD 200 total
• Arughat → Soti Khola Trailhead: Shared jeep: USD 30–USD 35 one way

Round-trip transport: USD 55–USD 95 per person (bus) or USD 145–USD 180 (private jeep)

Accommodation and Food Expenses

• Tea-house Lodges: Room: USD 8–USD 16 per night and Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner): Usually included in packages; a la carte meals cost USD 8–USD 15 each
• Daily Meal Top-Up (snacks, hot drinks): USD 5–USD 10

Miscellaneous and Hidden Costs

• Hot Showers: USD 3 to USD 5 each shower (when available).
• Wi-Fi / Charging: USD 3–USD 5 per hour or device charge
• Gear rental (down jacket, sleeping bag): $2-$3 per item/day.
• Tips and Gratitude: Guide: USD 10–USD 15/day and Porter: USD 8–USD 12/day
• Emergency Buffer: USD 60–USD 110 (for unplanned expenses or evacuation)

Putting It All Together

For a 14-day trek, a typical budget traveler might spend:

• Permits and Fees: USD 130
• Guide and Porter: USD 602
• Transportation: USD 80
• Accommodation and Food: USD 420
• Miscellaneous: USD 100

Modify adjustments up or down to fit group size, season, service level, and individual spending practices. This detailed breakdown helps you understand the cost of Manaslu Circuit and where each rupee (or dollar) is spent.

Factors Influencing the Manaslu Trek Cost

Several factors can influence your budget on your Manaslu Trek, depending on how you choose to customize each section of your trek:

Trek Duration and Itinerary Choices

Longer itineraries, and/or extra acclimatization days or extra side trips (like Tsum Valley extension) will have a higher permit fee, paying for guides/porters, and accommodation costs. Most budget options are from the classic 10-16 day loops. Longer treks (16 to 22 days) will mean an additional USD 100 to USD 300/day onto your total bill (for extra days on the trail).

Group Size and Private vs Group Treks

Going with larger groups (6–12 pax) on a group departure lowers the fixed costs (permits and transport) among fewer passengers and therefore lowers your per person cost by as much as 20%; Smaller groups (4–6 pax) costs are marginally more, while private treks typically command a premium (like USD 350 - USD 550) for a higher level of flexibility and service.

Trekking Season (Peak vs Off-Peak)

High season (September - November, March - May). More expensive Restricted Area Permit rates (approx USD 70/week) are charged in the high season, and also many more expensive lodges. Off-peak season treks typically cost less for permits (USD 50/week) and lodging, but the weather is riskier, and fewer services are available.

Trekking Agency and Package Types

Local operators usually sell a standard package for USD 849 to USD 1,299, while an international agency will at least charge you USD 1,200, but could be upwards of USD 2,000 for a private departure. Different styles of trekking packages will include many variables, such as inclusions like airport pick-up, access to hot-shower facilities, evacuation insurance, and luxury tea-houses, all of which naturally will increase the cost of a package. 

By understanding these elements and adjusting them accordingly, you can improve your itinerary and service level to meet both your adventure aims and budget.

Sample Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Breakdown (Budget, Standard, Comfort)

Budget Option: What to Expect

• You can expect to pay around USD 699 to USD 899 per person for a 10–16 day trek. 
• Additionally, all mandatory permits and fees (i.e, Rest,ricted Area, Conservation Area and ,TIMS card) are provided for around USD 120. 
• You will have a shared licensed guide. You may hire a porter for an additional USD 25 per day. 
• You will stay in basic tea-house rooms with shared facilities, and you will receive 3 basic meals per day. 
• All transport is by tourist bus from Kathmandu to Arughat, and then by shared jeep to the trek start point. 
• Hot showers are not included, and it is best to bring your own down jacket and sleeping bag to avoid rental fees. 
• This is a good option for solo backpackers and other travelers on a very tight budget who want to save as much money as possible, regardless of the additional comforts.

Standard Option: What’s Included

• In a standard package of 10-16 days, expect to pay about USD 849 to USD 1,299 a person. 
• All required permits and a small-group surcharge are included in the package price.
• You will be provided with one guide and one porter throughout the trek at USD 30 and USD 25 per day.
• Your lodgings will be mid-range tea-houses, which offer (sometimes private rooms) with small shared showers, as well as hot meals and hot drinks most days. 
• Help with getting to the trailhead includes private jeeps and tourist buses for the journey from Kathmandu, and the cost for having your luggage transferred will also be included, - for your ease of travel. 
• The package offers not only 1-2 acclimatization side trips (like to Samagaon), but also hot-shower credits and basic gear rental. 
• This package is ideal for couples or small groups who want a blend of comfort and value for their trekking adventure.

Comfort/Luxury Option: Added Services

• Luxury trip packages are priced between USD 1,399 and USD 2,199 per person for a 10 to 16 day journey.
• All permits are included, as are special processing fees to get through the trailhead with utmost ease.
• You will hike with a highly qualified guide and may hire an additional porter if you want to carry more than your allotted duffel.
• It is always upgraded accommodation; boutique tea-houses or lodges, a private room, (more importantly) will be a full-board experience with gourmet meal options. 
• A private vehicle transport, all meals, and the option of a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara or door-to-door service are included.
• Unlimited hot showers, satellite phone service, additional oxygen, cultural homestays, and high-end equipment rentals are included on all treks.
• This option suits luxury-oriented trekkers, small private groups, or simply anyone wanting maximum support and minimal logistics.

Additional Costs to Consider

• The cost for renting basic essential personal equipment, such as a sleeping bag, down jacket, or trekking poles, ranges from USD 5 to USD 8 per item per day.
• It is nice to tip your guide approximately USD 10- USD 15 per day and your porter approximately USD 5–USD 8 per day.
• If you purchase extra snacks or hot drinks can increase the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost per day by USD 5–8.
• You and your friends should probably reserve some emergency funds for at least USD 50–USD 100 and buy insurance to cover unanticipated costs (ie, medical evacuations or trip interruptions).

Ways to Save Money on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Tips for Budget Travelers

• Booking directly at tea-houses is a great way to reduce the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost per day and save money.
• Carrying lightweight staples like instant noodles, energy bars, and powdered drinks eliminates trail snack costs and avoids impulse snack purchases.
• Sharing high-value items like gas burners, cook sets, and group first-aid kits with other trekkers minimizes what you pay for rental gear.
• Adjusting your Manaslu Circuit trek cost and itinerary by shortening acclimatization days can help reduce expenses.

Group Discounts and Sharing Costs

• If you travel with a group of six or more people, you should be able to get a discount of 10-15% off guide and porter rates from many local companies.
• If you travel with four or more people and use a private jeep or bus transfer, you may be able to reduce the transport cost per person by as much as 50%.
• By pooling your money for group insurance or emergency evacuation insurance, you may be able to negotiate a lower premium than you would with individual policies.
• If you're staying at multi-bed accommodations or family-style tea-houses, you may be able to save money on accommodation without missing out on the shared experience of trekking.

Choosing the Right Season

• Trekking in the shoulder seasons (late. to early June or late November to early.) can save on permit fees and lodge rates.
• If you can avoid trekking in October and April, you can save USD 20–USD 30 on Restricted Area Permits. You can also avoid higher prices for food and lodging. 
• Rather than going on a weekend rush departure, planning a mid-week departure from a trailhead can offer the ability to book local jeep and group departures at better rates.
• Paying attention to the weather forecast, calling local companies, and booking immediately when the weather is favorable can allow you to take advantage of any last-minute lodging deals.

Comparing Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost with Other Treks in Nepal

It's worth mentioning that each Himalayan trek in Nepal combines a particular mix of scenery, culture, difficulty, and remoteness that all affect the overall cost. For example, the cost of Manaslu Circuit makes it one of the most affordable ‘big’ circuit treks compared to Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit. and offers the best value in terms of permit fees and less developed infrastructure, the Annapurna Circuit is supported by a large network of tea-houses and competitive rates from locals.

In contrast, the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is a premium trek, with premium prices for permits, flights, and accommodations that come with its iconic status and heavy traffic by tourists. The table below compares these three popular routes concerning the important categories of cost and logistics.

• The Estimated Total Cost includes: permits, guide/porter services, accommodation, meals, and transport. 
• The Permit Fees are approximate high-season rates (2025/26).
• The Guide and Porter Costs per day reflect the local market prices; these will likely be higher for international operators.
• Relative Crowds indicate typical conditions (Manaslu sees the lowest number of trekkers, and Everest the highest).

When you look at this comparison, think about your priorities about budget, quiet, culture, or iconic scenery when you identify the perfect trek in Nepal for your adventure.

FAQs

How much does Manaslu Circuit cost in 2025 and 2026?

The Manaslu Trek cost for 2025 and 2026 ranges from $849 to $2,199 USD per person, depending on whether you choose a guided package or a customized trek.

Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek cheaper than Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit?

Yes, the cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek is generally more affordable than Everest but slightly higher than the Annapurna Circuit due to the special permit requirement and mandatory guide.

How much is the Manaslu trek cost per day?

You should budget around $60 to $105 per day, depending on your comfort level and spending habits on food, tea, snacks, and accommodation.

Are there any hidden costs on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, some unforeseen costs may include hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging devices, snacks, tipping guides/porters, or extra transport in case of itinerary changes.

Can I do the Manaslu Circuit Trek solo to save cost?

No, solo trekking is not allowed around the Manaslu. You must hire a licensed guide from Registered trekking company and be part of a group of at least two trekkers due to restricted area regulations.

Do operators include permits in the Manaslu Trek cost?

Yes, most packages include RAP, ACAP, and MCAP permits, which cost around $110–$160 depending on the season. Always confirm if permit fees are included in your Manaslu Circuit Trek package price.

Are permits cheaper at certain times of year?

Permits cost less in the off-season (December-February and July-August), and the cost of a week-long Manaslu Restricted Area Permit is around USD 50, compared to USD 70 during peak season. In the off-season, trekking can mean fewer fewerouse-support services and increased risks from weather.

Is the cost of Manaslu Circuit worth it?

Definitely! For an average cost of USD 999-1,299, you get remote, untrammeled tracks, real village homestays, fewer people, and fantastic Himalayan scenery. Considering permits, guides, and porters, and basic comforts, it makes for a real bargain for a first-rate Himalayan adventure.

Should I carry local currency for my trek?

Yes, most teahouses and local vendors accept only Nepali rupees. Carry enough cash because ATMs are not available in rural areas along the Manaslu Circuit.

How can I manage costs during unexpected delays?

Keep an emergency fund of at least USD 200 to cover additional food, accommodation, or transport if your trek is delayed by weather or logistical issues.

Conclusion

The trekking to Manaslu Circuit is a remarkable adventure that offers untouched natural beauty, rich culture, and a less-crowded Himalayan experience. While the Manaslu Circuit trek cost varies based on trekking style, duration, and services, proper planning ensures you get the most value out of your journey. On average, the cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek ranges between $849 and $2,199, depending on the level of comfort and inclusions.

If you're wondering how much the Manaslu Circuit Trek costs in 2025 or 2026, our team at Himalayan Recreation offers fully customizable packages from budget options to more luxurious experiences. With expert local guides, trusted logistics, and years of experience, we’re here to make your trek safe, enjoyable, and memorable.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-time trekker, we’ll help you find the ideal Manaslu Circuit Trek package price that fits your budget and expectations. Reach out to us today to plan your unforgettable Manaslu adventure!

Some popular treks in manaslu:

• Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days
• Tsum Valeey Trek - 16 Days