Cheapest Cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a perfect alternative to the crowded Annapurna and Everest treks, offering untouched landscapes, Tibetan-influenced culture, and challenging high-altitude trails. However, trekking in the Manaslu region comes with additional costs due to restricted area permits and mandatory guides. While some believe this trek is expensive, with careful planning, it is possible to complete the trek at a budget-friendly price.

Budgeting for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek largely depends on factors like permits, transportation, guide and porter fees, accommodation, and food. The trek typically takes 10 to 14 days, covering an altitude of 5,106 meters at Larke Pass, one of the highest passes in Nepal.

Permit Costs

Since the Manaslu region is a restricted area, trekkers require special permits. The permit cost varies based on the trekking season. From September to November, the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit costs $100 for the first seven days and $15 per additional day, while from December to August, it is $75 for the first seven days and $10 per additional day.

• Additionally, trekkers need two other permits:
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): $30 per person
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $30 per person

In total, permit costs range from $115 to $160 per person, depending on the season and trek duration.

Cost of a Guide and Porter

Since solo trekking is not allowed in Manaslu, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory. Guides not only help with navigation but also assist with altitude sickness prevention and ensuring a safe trekking experience. A guide costs between $25 to $40 per day, while a porter, who carries up to 20kg of gear, costs around $15 to $25 per day.

To reduce expenses, trekking in a group and sharing the cost of a guide is the best option. Alternatively, hiring a porter-guide (a single person serving both roles) for $25 to $30 per day can be a cost-effective solution.

Transportation Costs

The trek starts in Soti Khola or Machha Khola, which requires a long road journey from Kathmandu. The cheapest option is a local bus, costing around $10 to $15 per person. A shared jeep, which is faster and more comfortable, costs $25 to $30 per person.

After completing the trek, trekkers usually return from Dharapani or Besisahar. The cheapest way is a local bus from Dharapani to Kathmandu, costing $15 to $20. Alternatively, a shared jeep from Dharapani to Besisahar costs around $10, followed by a bus from Besisahar to Kathmandu for $10.

Choosing public transportation instead of private jeeps can save around $40 to $50 on the total trip cost.

Accommodation and Food Costs

Unlike the Everest and Annapurna regions, the Manaslu Circuit has basic teahouses, offering affordable lodging and meals. A shared room in a teahouse costs $5 to $10 per night. Food costs depend on the location, with prices increasing at higher altitudes.

• Dal Bhat (Nepalese staple meal): $5 to $8 per meal
• Noodles, soups, or Tibetan bread: $3 to $6
• Daily food expenses: $15 to $25

To keep food costs low, it is best to eat local meals like Dal Bhat, which comes with unlimited refills, providing the energy needed for trekking. Bringing snacks, tea bags, and instant noodles from Kathmandu also helps reduce food expenses.

Additional Costs to Consider

Apart from the main trekking expenses, there are small costs that can add up if not planned properly. Charging electronics costs $2 to $5 per charge, Wi-Fi is available in some villages for $2 to $5, and a hot shower costs $2 to $5 per use. A simple way to save money is to carry a power bank, avoid frequent Wi-Fi use, and take cold showers or use wet wipes instead.

Total Estimated Budget for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

For budget-conscious trekkers, the total cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek can range from $600 to $900 per person. The breakdown is as follows:

• Permits: $115 - $160
• Guide and porter (shared cost): $150 - $250
• Transportation (round trip): $40 - $60
• Accommodation (10-12 days): $50 - $100
• Food (10-12 days): $150 - $250
• Miscellaneous (charging, Wi-Fi, snacks, etc.): $20 - $50

By trekking in a group of two or more people, using public buses, and choosing simple accommodations, the overall cost can be kept at the lower end of the range.

How to Make the Trek Cheaper?

• Trek in a group to split the cost of the guide and porter.
• Use local buses instead of private jeeps for transportation.
• Eat simple meals like Dal Bhat, which is filling and offers free refills.
• Carry a water filter or purification tablets to avoid buying bottled water.
• Bring power banks and extra batteries to avoid paying for charging devices.
• Trek during the off-season to negotiate better prices for accommodations.

Conclusion

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an incredible adventure that offers stunning mountain views, rich Tibetan culture, and a challenging trekking experience. While it may seem costly due to permits and guide requirements, a budget trek is possible with smart planning. By sharing trekking costs, using public transportation, and making small adjustments like carrying your own snacks and water purification, trekkers can complete the journey for as little as $600. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a first-timer, Manaslu offers an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank.