How Much Does the Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost? A Complete Guide

The Manaslu Circuit Trek ranges from US$1,100 to $2,000 per person for standard 12 to 16 day guided trips, from US$900 to 1,800 for budget group tours, and from US$2,000 – $3,000+ for private and premium trips (depending on the itinerary, group size, and level of service). On average, budget US$ 90 to $200 a day for a package tour, which usually includes a registered guide, trek permits, ground transport, teahouse lodging, and most meals on the trek. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is among Nepal’s best trekking experiences off the beaten path, circumnavigating the world’s eighth highest mountain (8,163m) via rugged trekking villages and historic monasteries before climbing the awe-inspiring Larkya La Pass (5,106m).

While it is still considered a restricted area and can only be done with a licensed guide and the requisite permits, the Manaslu Circuit is cheaper than many expect.

In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of each component of the trip, package deals, permit fees, guides, porters, transportation, lodging, food, unexpected costs, and handy budget tips. This means you can confidently forecast the exact price tag of trekking Nepal’s incredible Manaslu Circuit.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost 2026/27/28 at a Glance

Cost Factor	Estimated Cost (USD)	Quick Facts
Average Trek Cost	$1,000 – 1,600	Standard 12 – 16 – day guided package with breakfast, dinner, permits, guide, accommodation, and transport.
Group Package	$1,000 – 1,500	Travel with other trekkers using basic teahouses and shared facilities.
Standard Package	$1,000 – 1,800	Most popular option with permits, guide, accommodation, breakfast, dinner, and transport included.
Private guide and upgrades	Please enquire	Optional services: Private guide or other service arrangements can be negotiated separately.
Average Cost Per Day	Varies by itinerary	Depends on the itinerary length and included services.
Trek Duration	12–16 Days	Most itineraries range between 12 and 16 trekking days.
Permit Cost	Included	RAP, MCAP, and ACAP are included; permit costs vary by season and trek duration.
Licensed Guide	Included	A licensed trekking guide is mandatory for every foreign trekker.
Porter	Optional	One porter usually carries the luggage of two trekkers.
Personal Expenses	Extra	Snacks, drinks, WiFi, charging, hot showers, and other personal expenses are not included.
Best Value Season	Outside the Autumn Peak Season	Lower permit fees generally apply when trekking outside the autumn peak season.
Recommended Budget	$1,200 – 1,500	Covers the trek, personal expenses, and a small emergency buffer.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost in 2026

2026 Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost will range from USD $900 to USD $3000 and beyond. This trekking cost depends on the trek style you opt for, the itinerary of your trek, the length of the trek, and the number of members in your trek group. Usually, trekking lovers opt for the all-inclusive trek option within US$1200 and US$1600. This generally consists of permits, a local guide, all transportation, lodging in teahouses, and all your meals.

Group travel options usually start at US$900-1100. In general, it is expected to pay from US$90 to US$200 per day during a 12-to-16-day Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Expected Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost in 2027

Based on the current trekking permit costs and assuming the government doesn’t adjust these costs significantly, the cost for trekking the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2027 is likely to rise between 3 and 8% due to rising costs from:

Inflation
Increases in transportation costs
Wages paid to guides and porters
General trekking operating costs

The increased percentage over the trek price in 2027 will likely be on accommodation, food, and logistic elements if permit fees stay the same.

Expected Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost in 2028

Again, looking at prices and costs, it is very probable that there will be a steady increase in the cost of a Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2028 if inflation and tourism demand remain high.

The majority of future costs will be dominated by your government’s permit costs, whatever your fuel costs are at that time, the exchange rate, and your trekking company’s own running costs.

What Determines the Cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek Every Year?

Various factors are included in the total Manaslu Circuit Trek cost. Thus, the amount spent by you can vary depending on your travel preferences and travel itinerary. The following are the various factors that will affect your budget for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Duration of the trek: You will have to spend extra nights on teahouses, and you’ll need additional food if you choose a long itinerary; guide and porter charges will increase.
Season of Travel: The cost of a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is high in the trekking peak season of Autumn (September to November) and low in the off-season.
Hire of Guide & Porter: Hire of a licensed guide is necessary for all visitors in restricted areas, while the additional hire of a porter will increase the cost but will provide an easier trek.
Group Size: For group travellers travelling with you, the cost of transport and porter/guide will be shared, thereby reducing the per-person budget.
Transportation: Public buses are very economical, whereas the choice of the private jeep would be more comfortable but would increase the costs.
Quality of accommodation: Basic teahouses are inexpensive, and if upgraded accommodation (in case it is available) is sought, it will cost extra.
Food & Beverages: Price of food increases with altitude as supply has to be carried by porter, mules, horses, or helicopters.
Trekking gear and accessories: It will be economical to rent trekking equipment rather than to purchase the entire gear set beforehand for your journey.
Travel insurance: The inclusion of good quality travel insurance which also includes high-altitude travel and emergency helicopter evacuation may increase your overall budget, but it is definitely worth having for an adventurous trip.
Personal Expenses: Wifi, cell phone charges, hot water, bottled water, snacks, tips, souvenirs, etc are extras that may quickly add up.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit Cost (Complete Government Fee Breakdown)

All foreign trekkers who intend to start this amazing journey need three mandatory permits. It’s because the Manaslu circuit trek route passes through a restricted area and also includes two protected conservation areas.

So no matter which package you choose, be it a budget one or a luxury one, obtaining all three of them becomes compulsory.

In 2026, most of the trekking agencies charge their clients for all the three permits included in their package prices. But if you want to understand what percentage goes into each part, then it will help you confirm about the packages you have chosen.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit Overview

Permit	Cost (Foreigners)	Required	Purpose
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)	Seasonal (see below)	Yes	Entry into the restricted Manaslu region
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)	NPR 3,000 (US$22 – 23)	Yes	Conservation fee for the Manaslu Conservation Area
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)	NPR 3,000 (US$22 – 23)	Yes	Required after crossing Larkya La into the Annapurna region
TIMS Card	Not Required	No	Not needed for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Overall trek permit cost: $180 to $250 including trek length, seasonal rate & additional restrictions.

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

This is one of the most important as well as costliest permits for you to trek through the Manaslu region. This is because the Manaslu region is officially considered restricted by the government as it borders Tibet. Permit fees vary by trekking season and the length of your trek within the restricted area.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

September – November (High season)

First 7 days: $100
Each additional day after 1 week: $15

Example (14 day trek):

First 7 days = $100
Additional 7 days = (7 days × $15) = $105
Total RAP cost = $205

December – August (Low season)

First 7 days: $75
Each additional day after 1 week: $10

Example (14 day trek):

First 7 days = $75
Additional 7 days = (7 days × $10) = $70
Total RAP cost = $145

The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) is for anyone entering the conservation area. It’s a one-time payment to help finance conservation efforts.

Foreign nationals: NPR 3,000 (approx. $22-23)
SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000
Nepali citizens: NPR 100

There is no seasonal difference.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

After crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), you will enter the Annapurna Conservation Area near the town of Dharapani. You’ll need to obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit to continue.

Foreign nationals: NPR 3,000 (approx. $22-23)
SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000
Nepali citizens: NPR 100

There is no seasonal difference. And all standard Manaslu Circuit itineraries include an ACAP.

Total Manaslu Circuit Permit Cost Included in the tour cost

The only factor that influences total permit costs is the season – since only the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) changes based on the season, with MCAP and ACAP being a fixed cost year-round.

High Season (Sept – Nov) –14 Day Trek

Restricted Area Permit (RAP): $205
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): ~ $23
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): ~ $23

Total Permit Cost = $250 per person

Low Season (Dec – Aug) – 14 Day Trek

Restricted Area Permit (RAP): $145
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): ~ $23
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): ~ $23

Total Permit Cost = ~ $190 per person

Manaslu Permit Rules You Need to Know

Before setting off on your Manaslu trekking adventure, be aware of these permit regulations:

All three permits (RAP, MCAP, and ACAP) are required for the standard Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Previously, solo travelers were prohibited, but new regulations permit them under the strict condition that you secure permits via a registered trekking company.
Every foreign trekker must hire a trekking guide approved by the Nepalese government.
TIMS cards are not required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
If you want to visit Tsum Valley, you will require a Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP) in addition.

Guide and Porter Costs for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit trek has made a licensed trekking guide compulsory, while a porter is a must-have for better safety, navigation, and experience of the trek, particularly over the 5,106 m high Larkya La Pass.

Budget USD 45 – 65 per day for both a porter and guide depending on your need.

Cost of a guide for the Manaslu Circuit trek

In order to undertake the Manaslu Circuit trek, it is compulsory to hire a trekking guide who should be government licensed. Hiring the guide will add US$25 to 50 daily depending on their experience, skill, and their language abilities.

Cost Break-Down of Guide

Standard Licensed Trekking Guide: US$25–40 per day
Experience/Senior Guide: US$40 – 50 per day
Female Trekking Guide: US$30 – 45 per day (The guide price for male/female is mostly the same, but it is mostly harder to find an available female guide in the Manaslu region.)

Those speaking English in most cases are in this range. The guides speaking French, German, Japanese, Spanish, or any other foreign language might ask more than the above.

They all charge per day, so the price varies based on your itinerary.

Estimated Guide Cost by Trek Duration

Trek Duration	Standard Guide	Experienced Guide
10 Days	US$250–400	US$400–500
12 Days	US$300–480	US$480–600
14 Days	US$350–560	US$560–700
15 Days	US$375–600	US$600–750
16 Days	US$400–640	US$640–800

What Does the Guide Fee Include?

Licensed trekking guide (government certified)
Day-to-day itinerary & route planning
Facilitation on permits and checkpoints
Monitoring for AMS with Basic First Aid Provided
Guide’s food, lodging, lodging insurance and salary (If Booking via Trekking Company)
Communication and local contact during all of your trek

Porter Cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek

While optional, hiring a porter for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is strongly recommended if you are going to be taking heavy trekking equipment or if you are new to trekking at high altitude. A porter will allow you to trek comfortably carrying only a light daypack, while the porter will safely transport your large duffel to the next teahouse.

Trekking companies generally recommend one porter for every two people, which also cuts down the cost.

Standard Porter: $20-$25 USD per day
Experienced Porter: $25-$30 USD per day
Guide-Porter (Guide + Porter): $30-$40 USD per day

A porter can carry a maximum of 20-25 kg of baggage (this baggage would typically be shared between 2 trekkers).

If sharing a porter, a traveler usually has to pay US $10-$15 per day. The actual Porter Cost will vary with the duration of your trek.

Estimated Porter Cost by Trek Duration

Trek Duration	Standard Porter	Experienced Porter
10 Days	US$200–250	US$250–300
12 Days	US$240–300	US$300–360
14 Days	US$280–350	US$350–420
15 Days	US$300–375	US$375–450
16 Days	US$320–400	US$400–480

What Does the Porter Fee Include?

Your personal main duffel bag (20-25 kg max)
Wages and personal expenses per porter per day
Hotels and food costs during your trek (when organized through a trekking agency)
Insurances and welfare costs from leading trekking agencies
Carry your luggage throughout the trek

Should You Hire a Guide, a Porter, or Both?

Guide only: Most convenient if you are a seasoned trekker.
Guide and Porter: This is by far the most common trekking package available from most reputable trekking agencies, offering the perfect balance between your comfort and safety.
Guide-Porter: This option allows one person to serve as a Guide as well as a Porter. The guide carries a smaller bag and is more cost-effective.

Kathmandu to Manaslu Starting Point Transportation Costs

Since there are no domestic flights to Manaslu, you travel by road to your jumping-off point to Manaslu. You’ll be travelling from Kathmandu to either Machha Khola or Soti Khola (two main entry points to Manaslu) and returning to Kathmandu from Dharapani (via Besisahar).

Transportation costs for this journey will depend on whether you opted to take a private jeep, a shared jeep, or a local bus.

Kathmandu to Machha Khola Transportation Cost

This 7 to 10 hour journey is about 160-170 km, and most trekkers to Manaslu start here.

Taking a local bus to Machha Khola is a budget-friendly way to travel and will cost approximately US $10 to US $20 one way, putting your total cost for travel back and forth from Kathmandu at roughly US $20 to US $40. However, bus journeys are slow and quite crowded.

A shared jeep trip is probably what most trekkers take as it’s more comfortable and slightly quicker than a bus.

The total round-trip cost for the shared jeep to Machha Khola is about US$60 to US$100, or about US$30 to US$50 one way.

Transportation Options for Manaslu Circuit

1. Local Bus

US$10-20 per person

This is by far the cheapest way to get to Machhapuchhare Bazaar, but it is the least comfortable, as it involves bumpy roads for long travel.

2. Shared Jeep

US$30-50 per person

The travel will be more comfortable and less crowded than the local bus. This will have more luggage space and is perfect for couples or solo travelers.

3. Private 4WD Jeep

US$150-280 per vehicle

This is the best transportation choice for family and group treks, as they are comfortable, with flexible departure times and make fewer stops. A jeep typically seats between 5 to 7 persons.

Private 4WD Jeep Costs Calculation

Private 4WD jeep trips get cheaper when the cost is split amongst members of the group.

For a single private jeep (say from KTM to Soti Khola, a one-way trip of $200):

1 Trekker: $200
2 Trekkers: $100 per person
3 Trekkers: $67 per person
4 Trekkers: $50 per person
5 Trekkers: $40 per person
6 Trekkers: $33 per person
7 Trekkers: $29 per person

As you can see, a private 4WD jeep ride to Manaslu from KTM, if split amongst 5 to 7 persons, can be even cheaper than hiring a shared jeep for the whole trip, while it offers more luxury, convenience, and flexibility.

The transportation costs from Dharapani to Kathmandu

It’s possible to take various local forms of transport from Dharapani, the last point of the trail where you can travel by jeep, to the capital city Kathmandu.

You will need to take two transport sections:

Dharapani → Besisahar → Kathmandu

This can be done by the following means:

Shared Jeep from Dharapani to Besisahar: US$20-35 per person
Private Jeep from Dharapani to Besisahar: US$150 per vehicle
Local Bus from Besisahar to Kathmandu: US$10-20 per person
Micro Bus from Besisahar to Kathmandu: US$12 per person
Private Car from Besisahar to Kathmandu: US$90 per vehicle
Private Jeep from Besisahar to Kathmandu: US$150 per vehicle

Private vehicle from Dharapani to Kathmandu Cost Calculation

Similar to the above calculation, this private journey will cost much less when it’s split.

If you book a private jeep from Dharapani to Kathmandu for $180:

2 Trekkers: $90 per person
3 Trekkers: $60 per person
4 Trekkers: $45 per person
5 Trekkers: $36 per person
6 Trekkers: $30 per person

If you book a private car from Besisahar to Kathmandu for $90:

2 Trekkers: $45 per person
3 Trekkers: $30 per person
4 Trekkers: $23 per person

Private Vehicle costs to travel to Kathmandu

Private vehicles (cars or jeeps) can easily be arranged from both Dharapani and Besisahar to Kathmandu.

The cost is more than public transportation, but can make life easier, especially after a long trek and with lots of luggage.

Accommodation Costs on the Manaslu Circuit

Accommodation along the Manaslu Circuit is mostly in traditional teahouses (mountain lodges), not hotels. The rooms are simple but comfy, with generally two single beds, a mattress, a pillow, a blanket, and shared toilet facilities.

The cost for a room in most teahouses is very reasonable, as owners earn most of their money through food and drink; therefore, you should be prepared to eat meals in the same teahouse.

Cost per room in a teahouse

As the altitude gets higher, the price of accommodation becomes more expensive due to difficulties in transporting goods to those areas.

In lower areas (Soti Khola to Jagat)

NRs. 300-600 (US$2 – 5) for a twin-sharing room per night

In mid-regions (Deng, Namrung, Lho, Sama Gaun)

NRs. 600-1000 (US$5 – 8) for a twin-sharing room per night

In high regions (Samdo & Dharamsala)

NRs. 1000-1500 (US$8 – 12) for a twin-sharing room per night

Cost per person for accommodation

In most cases, you will be accommodated in a twin-sharing room; hence, lodging is quite cheap.

Sharing a twin room: Approximately USD 1 – 6 per person per night, depending on the village.
Single Room (available sometimes): Generally ranges USD 8-15 per night. It might not be available in some parts of the trek, especially during peak seasons and in remote areas.

During the trekking season (spring and autumn), single rooms may not be available.

Total cost calculation of accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit

The total cost for 14 nights’ accommodation can be approximately:

Budget: US$30-60
Normal: US$60-100
Single rooms: US$100-180

If you travel as a couple, accommodation costs will be relatively low, only around US$2-6 per person per night since you’ll be sharing a room.

What is included in the room rate in teahouses?

Generally, a teahouse room consists of:

Twin beds with mattresses and pillows
Blankets or quilts (carrying your own sleeping bag is recommended during cold months)
Shared toilet facilities
Common dining hall with a heater (especially in winter nights)
Basic light in the room

Hot showers, WiFi, charging devices, laundry, and purified drinking water are mostly charged separately and are not included in the room fee.

If you have bought an all-inclusive Manaslu Circuit Trekking package, all accommodations are almost always included. However, for the budget, you should set about USD 5-8 per night on an average, i.e., USD 70-110 per trek.

How much will food cost in the Manaslu Trek?

The food and beverages are some of the most significant daily expenses you’ll incur during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. While the cost of lodging remains low throughout the journey, the prices of food go up gradually with the altitude since almost all food ingredients, from rice and vegetables to cooking gas and bottled drinks, must be carried to these isolated mountain villages by jeeps, mules, or porters.

As you climb, the costs of carrying items also increase, and these expenses are passed on to the consumers through the menu prices.

In most cases, trekkers can expect to spend between NPR 2,500 and NPR 4,500 (US$18 – 35) daily on food, drinks, and snacks.

Cost of Breakfast during the Manaslu Trek

Your breakfast, your very first meal before 5 – 8 hours of walking, should always be light, energy-rich, and include plenty of carbohydrates and protein.

You will notice that the breakfast menu in almost all the teahouses in the region is more or less the same but only at a progressively increasing cost after Namrung and Sama Gaun.

Here are the usual prices of breakfast items on the trekking route:

Breakfast items	Price (NPR)
Porridge or Oatmeal	400-700
Tibetan bread with jam/honey	400-700
Chapati/toast set	350-600
Pancakes (apple/banana/chocolate/plain)	500-800
Fried/boiled/scrambled eggs	350-700
Muesli with milk	500-800
Black tea or milk tea	100-250
Coffee	250-500

An average breakfast will cost around NPR 500 to NPR 900 (US$4–7) per person.

Trekkers who order eggs, coffee, and pancakes simultaneously may end up spending as high as NPR 800–1,000 a morning.

Cost of Lunch during the Trek

Your lunch, the midday meal, will generally be consumed in a village after 3–5 hours of hiking.

In terms of cost, lower villages like Jagat or Deng will be noticeably cheaper than Sama Gaun or Samdo because higher altitude trekking is often accompanied by higher prices of food.

Common food options at lunch include:

Food item	Price (NPR)
Dal Bhat (a traditional meal of rice and lentils)	500-1,000
Fried Rice	500-900
Chow mein (fried noodles)	500-900
Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup)	500-850
Fried potatoes	400-700
Pasta/Macaroni	600-1,000
Momos (rarely available)	600-900

On an average, you will spend about NPR 700 to NPR 1,200 (US$5–9) on your lunch.

As far as value for money goes, Dal Bhat will be your best choice; in most teahouses, it comes with free refills of rice and lentil soup.

Cost of Dinner during the Trek

The day ends with dinner, usually taken together with other trekkers in the warm dining room of the teahouse.

Menu items in the evening are quite similar to the lunch menu but are generally richer in variety, including soups and curries in addition to some extra hot beverages.

Prices are slightly higher in comparison to lunch.

Here are the typical prices for the dinner items:

Food item	Price (NPR)
Dal Bhat	700-1,000
Pasta items	700-1,200
Pizza (available only in bigger settlements)	900-1,500
Vegetable curry with rice	700-1,000
Garlic Soup (best for high altitudes)	400-700
Thukpa/Noodle soup	600-900

In most cases, a dinner on the Manaslu Circuit will set you back about NPR 800 to NPR 1,300 (US$6–10).

Experienced trekkers often suggest regularly eating Dal Bhat, which provides the necessary mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and vegetables to power through the day’s trek.

Cost of Drinks, Snacks, and Water on the Trek

Drinks and snacks will considerably hike up your expenses.

At higher altitudes, a simple bottle of water or a cup of tea can cost two to three times more than down in the lower areas since every product is being carried on porters’ backs.

Drinks/Snacks	Price (NPR)
Black tea / milk tea	100-300
Lemon Ginger Honey Tea	200-400
Coffee	250-500
Hot chocolate	300-600
Bottled water (1 liter)	100-300
Boiled drinking water (1 liter)	60-150
Soft drinks	200-500
Energy bars/chocolates	250-500
Beer	500-1,000

How Food Prices Increase with Altitude

This is perhaps the most astonishing aspect for any first-time trekker, the prices at teahouses can escalate quite quickly as you make your way up.

The Dal Bhat, which would cost you somewhere around NPR 500–700 in the villages in the foothills of Manaslu, might cost you up to NPR 700 – 1,000 in Samdo, Sama Gaun, or Dharamsala.

Similarly, your breakfast may range from NPR 400–600 at the start of your trek but might jump to NPR 600–900 as you trek higher.

The reasons are plain and simple: a kilogram of rice, cooking oil, vegetables, and gas stove refills will cost much more the further and higher you go up in the Himalayas.

Total Food Expenses for One Day on the Trek

A rough calculation for daily food expenditure for an average trekker would be:

Breakfast: NPR 500 – 900
Lunch: NPR 700 – 1,200
Dinner: NPR 800 – 1,300
Tea, Coffee, Snacks, and Drinking Water: NPR 500 – 1,100

This leads to a total daily food cost of NPR 2,500 – 4,500 (US$18 – 35).

If you tend to purchase plenty of drinks, desserts, beer, and imported snacks, your daily expenditure can easily cross NPR 5,000.

Total Food Budget for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

A conservative estimate for food expenses on your entire trek would be:

10-day trek: NPR 25,000 – 45,000 (US$185 – 335)
12-day trek: NPR 30,000 – 54,000 (US$225 – 400)
14-day trek: NPR 35,000 – 63,000 (US$260 – 465)
16-day trek: NPR 40,000 – 72,000 (US$295 – 535)

Remember that if your trek package covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, these costs will be deducted.

However, you will need to set aside additional cash for drinks, snacks, desserts, bottled water, and other miscellaneous purchases.

Take enough money in Nepali Rupees (NPR) because after Machha Khola there are no ATMs on the trek, and card payment are rarely accepted in remote teahouses.

How Much Does Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost with Half-Board (breakfast and dinner) Meals

Half board packages to Manaslu Circuit treks generally come with your daily breakfast and dinner served at your lodge each night; you’ll need to purchase your own lunches from the local teahouses along the trail. This package is ideal for trekkers who are looking to save money on the overall package but who are happy with a less restrictive choice for their midday meal. A standard 12 to 16 day package costs around USD 1,000 to 1,300 per person (this typically covers the required permits, lodging, transport, guide, and breakfast and dinner throughout the trip).

What does a half board package typically cover?

Daily breakfast and dinner throughout the trek.

Shared teahouse accommodations.

Licensed trekking guide (and porter, if applicable to your package).
All required trekking permits (RAP, MCAP, and ACAP).
Transportation between the Kathmandu Valley and the trailhead (both directions).
Typically excludes: lunches, drinks, snacks, WiFi, phone charging, hot showers, tips, and personal expenses.

What to Budget for Lunch

With lunches excluded, plan to budget USD 5 to 10 (NPR 700 to 1,300) for each meal each day.

For a 12-day trek: US$ 60 to 120
For a 14-day trek: US$ 70 to 140
For a 16-day trek: US$ 80 to 160
Please note that your food choices in higher villages such as Samagaun and Dharamsala become somewhat limited as there is less variety on offer and prices are increased due to transportation limitations into the higher mountains.

Is a half-board package worthwhile?

Yes, half board is a very good option if you are an experienced trekker and are traveling on a budget, and you are comfortable paying for lunch out each day, as this allows you to take some savings off the overall package cost. Be prepared to choose your stopping points for lunches wisely, carry snacks for long trekking days, and take note of how few tea houses are available further up the trail, in the upper region of the Manaslu. It may not be ideal for first-time trekkers in the Himalayas.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost With Full Board Meal (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

For Your Entire Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trip, you will be given all 3 Meals Daily (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner). Thus, this is certainly the Best choice if you do not wish to look around for Places for Lunch. Also, you won’t need any money to purchase lunch while you’re trekking.

Generally speaking, a full-board Manaslu Circuit trek (for 12-16 days) will be somewhere between US$1,100 & US$1,500 per person based on the duration of the itinerary, number of people, transport, etc.

The price above will include all necessary permits, teahouse accommodation, a licensed guide, and transportation to/from the Manaslu trailhead.

What is Included in a Full – Board Package?

A typical full-board package may include the following:

Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
Twin-sharing accommodation in a teahouse
Licensed trekking guide provided by the government of Nepal
Porter (often included in standard packages)
All the permits needed (RAP, MCAP, ACAP)
Round trip transportation to and from the trailhead of the trek in the Manaslu region
Taxes and other government fees and the service charges of the trekking agency (vary by operator)

Cost Calculation of a Full-Board Package

For a 14 – day full-board Manaslu Circuit trekking package, the cost would roughly be calculated as:

Budget Group Package: US$1,100 – US$1,250 per person
Standard Package: US$1,250 – US$1,400 per person
Private Full Board Package: US$1,400 – US$1,600 per person

A full-board package typically costs around US$100 – US$200 more than a half-board package, but the additional amount covers all the lunches throughout your trek and ensures a predictable daily budget.

Is a Full-Board Package Worth It?

For the majority of trekkers, it is indeed worthwhile.

As the trekking route goes through secluded villages with fewer places that serve food, a full-board option will ease up your journey. Your guide will pre-order your meals with the teahouses, ensuring that you have sufficient food for a whole day’s walk between two villages.

You also don’t need to carry a large sum of cash just for lunch and other meals.

Though the cost does not include additional expenses like bottled drinks, snacks, internet access, charging electronic devices, laundry, hot showers, and personal expenses, a full-board package is ideal for first-time trekkers, families, and those who don’t want any fuss during their trip to Manaslu.

Equipment and Gear Costs (Buy vs. Rent)

The Manaslu Circuit Trek necessitates a full complement of equipment due to extremely low temperatures on Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), where temperatures frequently plummet well below freezing.

If you are only visiting Nepal to trek, it is far more economical to rent the bulk of your gear than to purchase everything. Your essential personal clothing, such as trekking boots and base layers, must be bought or brought with you, of course.

Equipment rentals for trekking

The Thamel area in Kathmandu is crammed with trekking outfitters offering good quality trekking gear.

You can expect to pay the following amounts for rentals per day in Kathmandu:

Equipment	Rental Cost (Per Day)
Down jacket	US$2 to US$4
-15° to -20°C sleeping bag	US$1 to US$3
Trekking poles	US$1 to US$2
Backpack	US$1 to US$2
Duffel bag	US$0.50 to US$1

If you budget for 14 days, the total cost for rent is as follows:

Down jacket: US$28 to US$56
Sleeping bag: US$14 to US$42
Trekking poles: US$14 to US$28
Duffel bag: US$7 to US$14

Therefore, a total of US$50 to US$100 for 14 days will likely suffice for gear rental.

Buy Trekking Gear

If you trek regularly in Nepal or other countries, purchasing your gear makes much more sense long-term.

Average cost of trek equipment in Kathmandu:

Equipment	Purchase Cost
Down jacket	US$50 to US$120
-15° to -20°C sleeping bag	US$60 to US$150
Waterproof trekking boots	US$80 to US$250
Trekking poles	US$15 to US$40
Waterproof jacket	US$30 to US$150
Base layers	US$20 to US$80
Gloves, hat, and buff	US$20 to US$50

Total locally sourced trek equipment costs: US$150 to US$300
Good quality internationally sourced equipment may cost upwards of: US$800 to US$1,500

Rent vs. Buy: Which is more affordable?

In the case of the Manaslu Circuit trek for a first-time trekker in Nepal, your best option is likely to rent a down jacket, sleeping bag, and trekking poles, while buying/bringing your personal clothes and boots.

The costs of purchasing just these three main items could range from US$170 to US$400.

You should be able to rent them for US$50 to US$100 over two weeks.

Nepal Visa and Travel Insurance Cost

Apart from your trek package, you will be charged with a Nepal tourist visa and a high-altitude travel insurance as well. These charges aren’t included with most Manaslu Circuit Trek packages.

Nepal Tourist Visa Cost

It is usually easy for most foreign nationals to obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport.

Nepal tourist visa prices currently are the following:

Visa on arrival (15 days): USD 30
Visa on arrival (30 days): USD 50
Visa on arrival (90 days): USD 125

As the trek generally lasts between 12 and 16 days, most people go for a 30-day Nepal tourist visa so that they get a few extra days before and after the trek.

Travel Insurance Cost

You’ll need a travel insurance policy for trekking and high-altitude climbing that covers:

High altitude up to 5,100 – 5,500 meters above sea level
Emergency helicopter evacuation
Medical costs and treatment
Cancellation and interruption of your trip
Lost or delayed baggage

Depending on the level of coverage, a suitable travel insurance policy can range from:

USD 80-120 (basic)
USD 120-200 (recommended)
USD 200-300 (worldwide top coverage)

It is highly recommended not to travel without one that excludes helicopter rescue, as the costs can be anything from US$3,000 to $10,000+.

Internet, Charging, Hot Shower & Other Extra Expenses

It may seem insignificant individually, but these additional expenses can add USD 80-150 to your trekking expenses in Nepal.

In most tea houses, you will be charged for services not included in the packages, particularly at high altitudes.

Internet in Nepal

For Internet services in the villages, the charges go up with altitude:

Lower villages: USD 1.50-2.50 (NPR 200-300) for unlimited WiFi for a few hours
Higher villages: USD 2.50-5 (NPR 300-600) for a few hours

The internet will surely be slow.

Using the internet on a daily basis on a 14-day trip could set you back about USD 20-40.

Charging Your Devices

Most tea houses charge extra for charging your electronics:

Phone charger: USD 2-4 (NPR 200-500)
Camera charger or power bank charger: USD 2.5-5 (NPR 300-700)

On average, charging your device daily for a 14-day trek could cost up to USD 20-40.

Carrying a high-capacity power bank can considerably save money.

Hot Showers

For hot water, most tea houses charge:

Lower villages: NPR 300-500 (USD 2-4)
Higher villages: NPR 500-800 (USD 4-6)

On a 14-day trek, taking a shower every other day will probably cost around USD 20-40.

Other Personal Expenses

You’ll have to cover things such as:

Water bottles
Soft drinks
Chocolate
Energy bars
Laundry
Souvenirs
Toiletries

A general allowance for such expenses per day would be about USD 5-10 (or USD 70-140 total) for your trip.

Hidden Costs that Many Trekking Enthusiasts Forget to Budget for

The trek package price alone is not sufficient, as there are many other additional costs that you will not consider in the beginning.

Budget USD 300 – 600 more as an extra precaution against unforeseen circumstances during your trek.

Guide and Porter Tipping

The tips are not mandatory but highly recommended.

Budget around:

USD 8 – 12 per day for a guide
USD 5 – 8 per day for a porter

For a 14-day trip, a good tip would be around USD 100-150.

Extra Nights in Kathmandu

You may need to book extra nights in Kathmandu if you’ve arrived earlier due to the flight schedule or get stuck with flight disruptions or any other travel issue.

You can spend:

USD 20 to 40 per day in a basic hotel
USD 50 to 100 per day in a standard hotel

If you do so, budget USD 40 – 200.

Emergency Cash

Having adequate emergency funds available, preferably around USD 200 to 300, can come in very handy in cases of road closures or flight disruption or just in case you decide to have some off-plan exploration.

This can help cover extra accommodation, food, transport, and medical emergencies until the insurance claim is processed.

ATMs and Availability of Cash

ATMs are non-existent past Machha Khola. Furthermore, you won’t be able to use your credit/debit card for payment at teahouses.

You should carry all your personal cash with you (NPR) from the capital city.

What is the Cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Bed & Breakfast (BB)?

In a Bed & Breakfast (BB) Manaslu Circuit Trek, we will have only daily breakfast along with teahouse facilities on the way, but we won’t have any lunch or dinner services. This is one of the cheap packages, and we highly recommend it to experienced trekkers.

If you want more control over the food you want to eat and the place you want, then the BB option will be ideal for you.

The average cost of a 12-16 day Bed & Breakfast (BB) package will be somewhere between $900 and $1,150 per person depending upon the itinerary, size of group, mode of transportation, and agency.

As there is no lunch and dinner arrangement in the package, you will need to spend an extra $10-20 per day or around $140-280 in 14 days for meals.

Although you have a cheap price in the BB option, this option requires you to carry more cash and plan the meals carefully, especially in remote villages like Samagaun, Samdo, and Dharamsala, where your food choices get limited and prices increase with altitude.

This is an option mainly for the expert and the very experienced trekkers, whereas first-timers must go for full board.

Trek Only: Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

For a Trek Only package, you will need to arrange accommodation, food, transportation, drinks, and personal expenses on your own, and we will just arrange the mandatory trekking guide and all the permits (MCAP, ACAP, and RAP) needed.

It includes:

Certified trekking guide
MCAP permit
ACAP permit
RAP permit

You will have to pay extra for:

Transportation
Teahouses
Food
Drinks
Porter (if you are carrying the luggage with you)
Personal expenses

Average cost of a Trek Only package will be around $600 – $900 per person for 12-16 days of trek.

After including accommodation, food, transportation, tips to the guide, drinks, and other miscellaneous items, your overall trek cost can be estimated as $900 – $1,200 per person.

This is a perfect option for an expert who loves to explore on his/her own with full control over where to sleep and where to eat each day.

But in the Manaslu trekking region, where services are limited in teahouses and options for restaurants and cafés are significantly fewer compared to the Everest region or Annapurna region, it will require daily budget calculation.

Trek + Guide: Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost with Calculation

The ideal option for many trekkers would be a Trek + Guide package where all you have to do is organize and pay for the permit, accommodation, transportation, and personal items on your own.

This provides you more control than an all-inclusive deal while meeting the mandatory requirement of having a licensed guide.

Average price range for a 12-16 day trek: $850 -$1,100/person depending on your selected itinerary length and guide’s experience.

Full Cost Breakdown for a 14-Day Trek

Licensed Guide (14 days × $25-40/day): $350 – $560
Usually, the meals, accommodation, and insurance of the trekking guide are included.
Agency Service & Trekking Management: $100 – $200

Total for Trek + Guide: $450 – $760

You will also be paying separately for:

Permit fee (RAP, MCAP & ACAP): $190 – $250
Transportation: $60 – $140
Accommodation: $40 – $80
Meals and Drinks: $260 – $420

Total Budget (approximate): $850-$1100 per person

Trek + Guide + Permits: Manalsu Circuit Trek Cost Calculation

The Trek + Guide + Permit option will include the cost for two major required items, which are a trekking permit and a professional trekking guide.

You will only be arranging and paying for accommodation, meals, transport, drinks, porter services, and other personal expenses by yourself.

It’s a very popular choice for seasoned trekkers seeking autonomy while simplifying the permit application process.

Detailed Cost Breakdown for a 14-Day Trek (Peak Season)

Licensed Guide (14 days @ $25-40/day): $350-560
Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for 14 days: $205
MCAP: $23
ACAP: $23
Permit Processing and Agency Service: Usually included

Subtotal for Guide + Permits

Budget: $600-650
Standard: $650-810

Furthermore, budget for these additional items:

Transportation: $60-140
Accommodation: $40-80
Meals and Drinks: $260-420
Optional Porter: $280-420
Personal Expenses: $80-150

Most trekkers will find their total trip cost with this package type falls within the range of $1,050 to $1,500 per person, depending on your choice of transportation, the need for a porter, and your daily spending.

How Much Does the Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost?