Estimated Manaslu Circuit Trek Costs in Different Currencies (Budget, Standard & Luxury)

Budget Trek ($900 - $1,500): Suitable for backpackers, includes basic teahouse accommodations and standard meals.

Standard Trek ($1,200 - $1,500): Offers better lodging, quality food, and some extra comforts.

Luxury Trek ($1,500+): Includes premium accommodations, additional support staff, and superior services.

The costs are converted into USD, Euro, GBP, INR, CNY, and KRW to provide a clear estimate for international travelers. Exchange rates may vary, so it's advisable to check the latest conversion rates before planning your trip.

This table provides an estimated cost breakdown for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in different currencies, categorized into three trekking styles: Budget, Standard, and Luxury. The price varies based on services, accommodations, and amenities included in the trek.

Let's go through the detailed cost breakdown for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, covering essential permits, accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses to help travelers plan their budget effectively.

Manaslu Trek Permit

Trek to the Manaslu conservation area, you need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area permit (ACAP). The price of the Manaslu circuit Trek permit is USD100/- per week from September to November and USD 75 per week from December to August. The Annapurna Conservation Area permit costs Rs.3400/- per person. This permit is only valid for one-time entries up to the conservation area.

Accommodation cost

Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a range of Accommodation options. Like basic teahouses to homestay in the Manaslu trekking route.   

The cost of accommodation for the Manaslu Circuit trek is around USD 4 to 10 per night. If you choose a homestay while trekking it will cost around $ 20 per night.

Food 

On the Route, you will find a range of food options, including Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and Continental cuisine. The cost of food varies conditional on the type of food and the locality. On average, a meal costs around USD 5 to 10 per person per item. If you like you can order from the menu. Every tea house has its menu for food, drinks, and snacks.

Transportation

To reach the starting point of the trek, you need to take a bus from Kathmandu to Soti Khola or Machha Khola. The cost of the bus also depends upon the luxury of their seats. Some are air conditioning and some are normal. The bus ticket costs approximately USD 10 to 15 per person.

• Kathmandu to Machha Khola (Start Point) Bus: $10 - $15

• Private Jeep to Machha Khola: $150 - $200 (split among 6-7 people)

• Chamje to Kathmandu (End Point) Bus: $15

• Private Jeep from Chamje: $150 - $200 

Guide and porter

Hiring a Guide and Porter is mandatory for Manaslu Trekking and for all sorts of trekking that takes place in higher altitudes from last April 1st, 2023. A guide can provide you with valuable information about the trek. Similarly, Guides are more knowledgeable of the local culture, Tradition, and different ethnic tribes of mountain people.

Porters will carry your backpack, making the trek more comfortable for you. The cost of hiring a Guide and porter depends on the duration of the trek.

But if you want to calculate in a day it costs $25 for a guide and $20 for a porter a day. This cost also depends on the season, the high season will be a bit more and the lower season could be less.

Extra Budget for Manaslu Trek

There are some miscellaneous expenses that you need to consider when trekking in the Manaslu Circuit. Extra budget for Manaslu Trek, we would like to make a list of expenses or budget for Manaslu Trek.

Insurance: While you are planning to do the Manaslu circuit trek, it is mandatory to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking.

Equipment: When planning for the Manasalu circuit trek, you need to have proper trekking equipment, such as a sleeping bag, a trekking pole if it is necessary for you, and need to have a headlamp,

Tips: It is mandatory to tip your guide and porter at the end of the trek. You can see the prices of food and accommodation in the high Himalayas, every day the price of food and accommodation goes higher.

Extra Drinks: Hot drinks are included with meals, but if you are planning to have some extra hot drinks and cold drinks that will also be an extra budget on your trekking days.

 Additional Cost Factors

• Group Discounts: Larger groups can get discounts on guides and accommodation.
• Luxury Trekking Options: Helicopter returns, premium lodges, and high-end meals can increase costs.
• Independent Trekking: Not allowed; hiring a guide is mandatory.
• Peak Season (Sept-Nov & March-May): Higher prices due to demand.

FAQs

1. Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Expensive?

The cost of Manaslu Trek can vary subject to several factors. But it is usually measured to be less expensive than other popular treks in Nepal. The restricted permit is a bit more expensive than other national parks in Nepal.

2. Can I trek to the Manaslu Circuit without a guide?

Currently, it is mandatory to hire a guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, which is highly recommended as the trek can be challenging and remote.3. Are there any hidden costs in the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

3. Are there any hidden costs in the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Most costs are upfront, but additional expenses like hot showers, charging electronics, WiFi, extra snacks, and porter tips can add up.

5. Does the cost vary based on group size?

Yes! Larger groups can share costs like guides and transportation, making it cheaper per person compared to solo treks.

6. Can I do the Manaslu Circuit Trek on a budget?

Yes! Opt for local buses instead of private jeeps, carry your own gear, and stay in basic teahouses to reduce costs.

7. Is travel insurance required, and how much does it cost?

Yes, travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking (above 5,000m) is essential. Expect to pay $50-$150, depending on coverage.

8. Do I need to exchange money before the trek?

Yes! There are no ATMs beyond Soti Khola, so withdraw enough Nepalese Rupees (NPR) in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Cost-Saving Tips for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Join a Group Trek – Trekking with a group helps split costs for guides, porters, and transportation.

 Use Local Buses Instead of Private Jeeps – A local bus from Kathmandu to Soti Khola costs $10-$15, while a private jeep can cost $150-$200 per vehicle.

 Stay in Basic Teahouses – Lodging in teahouses costs around $5-$10 per night, whereas luxury lodges charge more.

Bring Your Own Water Purifier – Bottled water costs $1-$3 per liter in higher altitudes. Use a water filter or purification tablets to save money.

 Eat Local Dal Bhat – Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, veggies) is all-you-can-eat and costs $5-$7, making it the most filling and budget-friendly meal.

 Avoid Unnecessary Luxuries – Charging electronics, WiFi, and hot showers cost extra. Carry a power bank and extra batteries to save on charging fees.

Rent, Don't Buy Gear – If you don’t trek often, rent trekking gear in Kathmandu instead of buying expensive equipment.

Exchange NPR in Kathmandu – There are no ATMs beyond Soti Khola, and money exchange rates in remote areas are worse than in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

 Get Trekking Permits Yourself – Some agencies charge extra fees for arranging permits. You can get MCAP, ACAP & MRAP permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

 Travel Off-Season (Dec–Aug) – Permits are cheaper in the off-season, and teahouses may offer discounts due to lower demand.

Conclusion

The Cost of the Manaslu Trek was numerous depending on several factors, such as the duration of the trek, the type of Accommodation, and the number of people in your group. On average, the cost of the Trek ranges from USD 899 to 1850 per person in 2025 and 2026.  Prices might fluctuate based on exchange rates.

However, keep in mind that the cost can vary significantly depending on your preferences and choices for this trek