Planning Your Manaslu Circuit Trek? Here’s a Cost Guide for 2025

The Manaslu Circuit Trek has rapidly gained recognition as one of the most breathtaking and challenging treks in Nepal. Located in the heart of the Himalayas, the trek offers adventurers the chance to experience dramatic landscapes, remote villages, and a rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning your Manaslu Circuit Trek for 2025, it’s important to understand the costs associated with this unforgettable journey. From permits and guides to accommodation and transportation, this comprehensive cost guide will help you prepare for the trek, ensuring that you can focus on enjoying the stunning views without the stress of unexpected expenses.

At Dream Heaven Adventure, we understand that trekking in Nepal can be an investment, and we’re here to provide you with all the information you need to make your Manaslu Circuit Trek an affordable and enriching experience.

What is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Before diving into the costs, let’s briefly discuss what the Manaslu Circuit Trek is all about. The trek takes you around Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world. It is a diverse trek that takes you through lush forests, remote villages, and high-altitude landscapes, providing stunning views of the Manaslu massif, and the opportunity to experience the Tibetan culture of the region. Unlike the more crowded Everest Base Camp Trek, the Manaslu Circuit offers a more peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience.

The trek typically takes 14-16 days, depending on the itinerary, and covers a variety of terrains and altitudes, ranging from lush valleys to high mountain passes. The trek’s highlights include views of peaks such as Manaslu, Himlung, and Ngadi Chuli, along with visiting important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries.

Overview of Trekking Costs in Nepal

Nepal is known for being an affordable trekking destination compared to other regions of the world. However, the overall cost can vary greatly depending on various factors such as the route, the type of accommodation, the services you choose, and the duration of the trek. The Manaslu Circuit Trek, while a bit more remote, still remains relatively affordable compared to other high-altitude treks like the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Before diving into the specifics of the Manaslu Circuit trekking cost, let’s look at a general breakdown of what you can expect.

1. Permits and Fees

One of the key components of any trek in Nepal is the required permits. For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the following permits are needed:

a) Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

This permit is required to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is home to unique wildlife and beautiful landscapes. The cost of this permit varies depending on the season:

• In peak season (Autumn and Spring): Around $30 USD

• In off-season: Around $20 USD

b) Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Since part of the trek crosses into the Annapurna region, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is also required. The cost for this is:

• Around $20 USD

c) Special Permit for Manaslu Region

The Manaslu region is a restricted area, and you need a special permit to trek here. This permit can only be obtained through a registered trekking agency. The cost for this permit is higher due to the restricted nature of the area:

• $100 USD for the first week

• $15 USD per day after the first week

These permits are typically arranged by a local agency like Dream Heaven Adventure, and the cost can be included in the overall trekking package.

2. Trekking Guide and Porter

Hiring a guide and porter for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is highly recommended. Not only will they ensure your safety in remote regions, but they will also help you navigate the trails, provide cultural insights, and carry your gear.

a) Trekking Guide

A certified trekking guide can cost between $25 and $35 per day. Their services typically include guiding you through the trail, ensuring your safety, and sharing local knowledge. For a 14-day trek, this would add up to approximately $350 to $490 USD.

b) Porter

A porter will help carry your heavy trekking gear and personal items. The average cost for a porter is around $15 to $25 per day, depending on the season and availability. For a 14-day trek, expect to pay $210 to $350 USD for porter services.

While the cost may seem high, it’s worth considering that hiring a guide and porter can significantly enhance your trekking experience and safety. At Dream Heaven Adventure, we provide experienced guides and porters who will help make your trek smooth and memorable.

3. Transportation

Transportation to and from the trailhead is another important cost to consider. The Manaslu Circuit Trek starts from Soti Khola, which is a 6-8 hour drive from Kathmandu.

a) Kathmandu to Soti Khola (by Jeep or Bus)

The cost for a private jeep from Kathmandu to Soti Khola ranges from $150 to $250 USD, while a public bus can cost around $10 to $15 USD per person. If you’re part of a trekking group, the cost can be shared, making it more affordable.

b) Return Journey (Soti Khola to Kathmandu)

For the return journey, the cost will be similar to the outbound trip. However, it’s advisable to budget for potential delays, as transportation in remote areas can sometimes be unpredictable.

4. Accommodation

Accommodation along the Manaslu Circuit varies depending on the location and the facilities available. In remote areas, teahouses are the main form of accommodation. These teahouses offer basic rooms with shared bathrooms, and some even provide hot showers for an additional cost. The cost of accommodation will typically range from $5 to $20 USD per night, with prices higher in more popular or higher-altitude locations.

While accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit is generally affordable, you might choose to upgrade to more comfortable lodges or campsites for additional fees. Budgeting for $10 to $20 USD per night for accommodation should be sufficient for the entire trek.

5. Food and Drinks

Food prices in Nepal are generally inexpensive, but the cost increases with altitude and remoteness. On the Manaslu Circuit, most teahouses provide three meals per day, with options ranging from traditional Dal Bhat (rice and lentils) to Western-style meals.

The average cost for a meal is around $5 to $8 USD. As you gain altitude, the prices for food may rise slightly. For example, you might pay $7 to $10 USD for a meal in higher-altitude regions.

Drinking water is also a consideration. While bottled water is available, it is recommended to bring a water filter or purification tablets to avoid extra costs. Expect to pay $2 to $5 USD for bottled water along the trek.

6. Miscellaneous Costs

Some additional expenses you may want to budget for include:

• Trekking Equipment: If you need to rent or buy trekking gear like boots, jackets, sleeping bags, etc., this could add anywhere from $50 to $300 USD.

• Travel Insurance: It’s essential to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, which can cost around $100 to $150 USD for a trip of this length.

• Tips: It is customary to tip your guide and porter, with an average of $10 to $20 USD per day per person.

Total Cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek for 2025

When you add up all the expenses, the total cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek for 2025 will vary based on the services you choose and the duration of the trek. On average, the cost for a 14-16 day trek can range between $1,200 to $2,000 USD per person. This estimate includes permits, guide and porter fees, accommodation, food, and transportation.

However, the price can increase if you opt for additional services such as luxury accommodations, private transportation, or extra gear rental.

At Dream Heaven Adventure, we offer tailored trekking packages that include all the essential services, ensuring a hassle-free and unforgettable trekking experience at competitive prices.

Everest Base Camp Trek vs. Manaslu Circuit Trek: A Cost Comparison

If you’re considering the Everest Base Camp Trek, you might be curious about how the costs compare to the Manaslu Circuit Trek. While both treks offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas, the Everest Base Camp Trek is generally more expensive due to its popularity and higher level of tourism infrastructure. For example, accommodation and food tend to be more expensive in the Everest region. Additionally, the cost of flights to Lukla (the starting point for the Everest Base Camp Trek) adds to the overall expense.

In comparison, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is slightly more affordable, mainly due to the lower levels of tourism and the absence of high costs like flights to Lukla. However, the price difference between the two treks is not significant, and the Manaslu Circuit offers a more serene and less crowded experience.

Conclusion

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most awe-inspiring treks, offering an unforgettable adventure through the Himalayas. By understanding the costs associated with the trek, you can better plan your budget and ensure that your experience is smooth and enjoyable. Whether you choose to trek with Dream Heaven Adventure or another agency, you can be confident that the trek will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you’re ready to embark on the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2025, Dream Heaven Adventure is here to help with expert guides, logistical support, and unbeatable trekking packages that cater to all your needs. Get in touch with us today to start planning your adventure!