The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a unique opportunity to explore unspoiled nature and immerse yourself in the local Tibetan-Buddhist culture. The trail passes through terraced farmlands, dense forests, alpine meadows, and rugged high-altitude landscapes. A major highlight is crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,106m), one of the most scenic and challenging passes in Nepal, with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, trekkers can experience the warm hospitality of locals in villages like Samagaun and Samdo, where ancient monasteries and traditional lifestyles remain intact. Compared to the more commercialized Everest or Annapurna regions, the Manaslu Circuit is quieter, making it perfect for adventurers seeking tranquility and authenticity.
If you’re planning this trek, understanding the detailed costs is vital to budget properly. Here’s a comprehensive guide to all expenses involved for a 12-day trek.
1. Permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Trekking in the Manaslu region requires multiple permits due to its status as a restricted area. Below are the details:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP):
- September–November (Peak Season): $100 for the first 7 days and $10 for each additional day.
- December–August (Off-Season): $75 for the first 7 days and $7 for each additional day.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): $30 per person.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $30 per person (required as the trek ends in the Annapurna region).
- Optional: Tsum Valley Restricted Permit: If you include Tsum Valley, it costs $40 for the first 7 days (off-season) and $70 during the peak season.
Total Permit Costs for 12 Days: Approximately $160–$200 depending on the season.
2. Guide and Porter Expenses
Hiring a professional guide and porter ensures both safety and comfort:
- Licensed Guide: $25–$30 per day. A licensed guide is required for navigating the restricted area and obtaining permits.
- Porter: $18–$25 per day. A porter can carry 20–25 kg, reducing your load and improving your trekking experience.
- Guide-Porter (dual role): $30–$40 per day, offering both guiding and luggage-carrying services.
For 12 days, expect to spend $300–$480 on a guide and porter. Sharing the cost with a group reduces expenses.
3. Transportation Costs
The trek starts at Soti Khola and ends at Dharapani (or Besisahar). Here’s how to get there:
- Kathmandu to Soti Khola:
- Local Bus: $10–$15 (10–12 hours).
- Private Jeep: $150–$200 (shared among 6–7 people).
- Dharapani/Besisahar to Kathmandu:
- Local Bus: $10–$15.
- Private Jeep: $200–$250 (shared).
Total Transportation Costs: Approximately $40–$60 (local transport) or $300–$400 (private transport shared).
4. Accommodation Costs
Tea houses along the trail provide basic yet comfortable lodging.
- Cost per Night: $6–$10 for a twin-sharing room.
- Rooms include simple beds, blankets, and sometimes charging points.
For a 12-day trek, accommodation costs range from $72 to $120.
5. Food and Drinks Costs
Food prices increase with altitude due to transportation challenges.
- Breakfast: $3–$5 (e.g., porridge, eggs, bread).
- Lunch/Dinner: $5–$8 per meal (e.g., Dal Bhat, noodles, fried rice, or pasta).
- Hot Drinks: $2–$5 for tea, coffee, or hot lemon.
- Bottled Water: $1–$3 depending on altitude.
Total Food Costs for 12 Days: $240–$350.
6. Travel Insurance
Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is essential.
- Cost: $50–$100, depending on the coverage.
- Make sure your insurance covers altitudes up to 5,500 meters, including helicopter evacuation.
7. Gear and Equipment
If you don’t already own trekking gear, you can rent or purchase it in Kathmandu.
- Rental Costs:
- Down Jacket: $1–$2 per day.
- Sleeping Bag: $1–$2 per day.
- Trekking Poles: $1–$2 per day.
- Purchasing Gear: $300–$500 for new items like boots, jackets, backpacks, etc.
Budget for Gear: $50–$100 (rentals) or $300–$500 (purchases).
8. Miscellaneous Costs
- Charging Electronics: $2–$5 per device.
- Hot Showers: $2–$4 per use.
- Wi-Fi: $3–$5 per session at higher altitudes.
- Snacks/Energy Bars: $5–$10 per day.
- Tips for Guide/Porter: $5–$10 per day (optional but appreciated).
Miscellaneous Costs for 12 Days: $50–$100.
Total Estimated Costs for the Manaslu Circuit Trek (12 Days)
| Expense Category | Budget Trek | Comfort Trek |
| Permits | $160–$200 | $160–$200 |
| Guide and Porter | $480–$600 | $480–$600 |
| Accommodation | $72–$120 | $120–$150 |
| Food and Drinks | $240–$350 | $300–$400 |
| Transportation | $40–$60 | $300–$400 |
| Travel Insurance | $50–$100 | $50–$100 |
| Gear and Miscellaneous | $50–$100 | $100–$200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,032–$1,530 | $1,450–$2,050 |
Itinerary for 12 Days
Day 1: Drive to Soti Khola (700m)
- Travel time: 7–9 hours by bus or jeep.
- Overnight at a tea house.
Day 2: Trek to Machha Khola (869m)
- Trekking hours: 6–7 hours.
- Cross suspension bridges and enjoy riverside trails.
Day 3: Trek to Jagat (1,340m)
- Trekking hours: 6–7 hours.
- Pass through villages and lush forests.
Day 4: Trek to Deng (1,860m)
- Trekking hours: 6–7 hours.
- Witness waterfalls and terraced farmlands.
Day 5: Trek to Namrung (2,630m)
- Trekking hours: 5–6 hours.
- Enjoy stunning views of Mt. Manaslu.
Day 6: Trek to Samagaun (3,530m)
- Trekking hours: 6–7 hours.
- Visit monasteries and acclimatize.
Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Samagaun
- Explore Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa.
Day 8: Trek to Samdo (3,860m)
- Trekking hours: 3–4 hours.
- Short hike to adjust to the altitude.
Day 9: Trek to Dharmasala (4,460m)
- Trekking hours: 4–5 hours.
- Prepare for the high-altitude pass crossing.
Day 10: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m) and Trek to Bimtang (3,590m)
- Trekking hours: 8–9 hours.
- Experience the highlight of the trek!
Day 11: Trek to Dharapani (1,960m)
- Trekking hours: 6–7 hours.
Day 12: Drive to Kathmandu
- Travel time: 8–9 hours.
Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a truly unique Himalayan experience. Unlike popular routes such as the Everest Base Camp Short Trek, the Manaslu Circuit is far less crowded, providing trekkers with a serene and authentic adventure. The stunning landscapes range from lush valleys to high-altitude passes, with breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding peaks. The trek also immerses you in the rich Tibetan-Buddhist culture, with opportunities to visit ancient monasteries and interact with local communities.
The highlight of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass, a challenging yet rewarding experience that offers unmatched views of towering peaks. The Manaslu Circuit stands out with its raw beauty, unspoiled trails, and the chance to explore Nepal’s less commercialized regions. Additionally, the region’s biodiversity, protected by the Manaslu Conservation Area, adds to its appeal, with sightings of rare species like snow leopards and Himalayan tahr. For adventure seekers and nature lovers, this trek is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Nepal’s unspoiled beauty.
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