The cheapest cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal depends on how you plan and what choices you make during the trip. The Manaslu Circuit is known for its remote trails, raw beauty, and cultural richness. It’s a perfect choice for trekkers who want to avoid the busy Everest or Annapurna routes. While it’s more affordable than some popular treks, it still requires smart budgeting to keep costs low.
Let’s break down the real cost and explain why a licensed guide is not just recommended it is required for safety, permits, and better experience.
Why You Need a Guide (and Why It’s Worth It)
Hiring a guide might seem like an extra cost when you're trying to save money. But on the Manaslu Circuit, a guide is not optional—it’s mandatory by the government. This is because the trek goes through restricted areas that require special permits, and you need to be in a group of at least two people with a registered guide to get them.
A local guide helps with more than just directions. They speak the local language, handle permits, deal with unexpected situations, and make the experience smoother. You’ll understand local culture better, eat at trusted tea houses, and avoid common mistakes that solo trekkers often make.
The best part? Sharing a guide with other trekkers can lower the cost significantly.
Cost Breakdown for a Budget Manaslu Trek
Here’s a look at the basic expenses to keep the Manaslu trek affordable:
1. Permits (Mandatory)
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Manaslu Restricted Area Permit: $100 for the first 7 days (Sept–Nov), $75 (Dec–Aug). Extra charges for additional days.
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Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): $30
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Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $30
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TIMS Card: Not required for Manaslu Circuit.
Total Permit Cost (roughly): $160 – $190 depending on month and duration.
2. Guide Cost
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A licensed guide usually charges $25 to $35 per day.
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For a 12-14 day trek, this adds up to $300 to $450.
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Tip: If you're trekking with a group, split the cost of the guide.
3. Accommodation and Meals
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Basic tea houses charge $5 to $8 per night.
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Meals (Dal Bhat, noodles, tea) cost $5 to $7 per meal.
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Daily food and stay: around $20 to $25.
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For 12 days: about $240 to $300.
4. Transport
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Bus from Kathmandu to Soti Khola: $10 to $15.
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Jeep ride for return (Dharapani to Besisahar): around $20 to $30.
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Besisahar to Kathmandu bus: $10.
Transport total: approx. $40 – $55.
5. Gear (If You Don’t Own It)
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Renting sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles: $1 to $2 per item per day.
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Total rental: around $30 to $50 for full trek.
Cheapest Total Estimated Cost
If you plan carefully and travel with others, here’s the estimated lowest cost:
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Permits | $160 – $190 |
| Guide (shared) | $150 – $200 |
| Food & Lodging | $240 – $300 |
| Transport | $40 – $55 |
| Gear Rental | $30 – $50 |
| Total | $620 – $795 |
This is a very affordable price for a remote and off-beat Himalayan adventure.
Extra Tips to Save More
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Join online groups or forums to find others to share guide costs.
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Avoid bottled water. Use purification tablets or carry a filter.
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Eat local food like Dal Bhat to stay full longer and save.
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Carry basic medical supplies to avoid buying them at high-altitude prices.
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Start early in the trekking season for better deals and fewer crowds.
Final Thoughts
The Manaslu Circuit Trek doesn’t need to be expensive. With some planning and smart choices, you can complete this incredible journey at a low cost. The cheapest cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal can be kept under $800 if you trek in a group, eat simple meals, stay at basic tea houses, and rent instead of buying gear.
And while you're focused on saving money, never skip the guide. They’re not just there for navigation—they are your connection to the people, places, and safety of the region. With their help, even a low-budget trip can turn into the adventure of a lifetime.
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