The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most breathtaking and rewarding trekking routes, offering an unforgettable journey through remote villages, pristine forests, and stunning mountain landscapes.
While the trek is often considered more off-the-beaten-path than other popular routes like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, its remote beauty and cultural immersion make it an increasingly popular choice among trekkers. But, as with any adventure in Nepal, one important question that arises is: how much does the Manaslu Circuit trek cost in 2025?
In this blog, we’ll break down the costs associated with trekking the Manaslu Circuit, including permits, accommodation, food, guides, porters, and other expenses, so you can plan your budget effectively for this incredible journey.
1. Permits and Entry Fees
One of the first costs to consider when trekking the Manaslu Circuit is the permit fees, as the trek is situated in a restricted region of Nepal. The total cost of permits depends on several factors, including the time of year, the number of trekkers, and whether you are trekking independently or with a guide.
Here’s a breakdown of the main permits you’ll need:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit: This permit allows trekkers to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is a restricted zone. In 2025, the cost of this permit is expected to be around USD 100 for the first week and USD 15 for each additional day.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit covers the Annapurna Conservation Area, and the cost is expected to be around USD 30 in 2025.
- Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: A TIMS card is required for most treks in Nepal, and it costs about USD 20 for trekkers heading into the Manaslu region.
In total, for a standard 14- to 16-day trek, you can expect to spend about USD 160–180 on permits alone.
2. Guide and Porter Costs
Hiring a guide and/or porter is a good idea when trekking the Manaslu Circuit, not only for safety and support but also for cultural enrichment and ease of travel through remote areas. In 2025, the average cost for a guide will be around USD 25–30 per day, while a porter will cost approximately USD 15–20 per day.
- A guide can enhance your experience with local knowledge, ensuring safety on the trail, managing permits, and assisting with language barriers.
- A porter helps carry your heavy backpack, which is especially beneficial for long treks at high altitudes.
For a 14- to 16-day trek, the cost for a guide and porter combined can range between USD 560 and USD 800, depending on the number of days, their rates, and whether you choose to hire one or both services.
3. Accommodation Costs
Accommodation costs on the Manaslu Circuit vary depending on the location and the type of teahouse. In general, the further you get into the trek, the more basic the accommodations will be. Here’s an estimate of what you can expect:
- Teahouses in villages like Sama Gaon, Samdo, and Besisahar generally cost between USD 5–10 per night for a basic room.
- Some teahouses may charge a bit more for rooms with better amenities, though the prices generally stay within this range.
You should expect to pay USD 10–15 per day on average for accommodation throughout the trek. So, for a 14- to 16-day trek, the accommodation cost will range between USD 140 and USD 240.
4. Food and Drink
Food prices in the Manaslu Circuit can be a little more expensive than other trekking regions in Nepal, due to the remote nature of the route. However, meals are relatively affordable considering the location and altitude.
- Breakfasts (such as porridge, pancakes, or eggs with toast) usually cost between USD 3–5.
- Lunch and dinner (dal bhat, noodles, and other Nepali dishes) range from USD 5–10 per meal.
- Tea, coffee, and soft drinks are usually priced around USD 1.50–3 per drink, while bottled water can cost USD 2–4 per bottle.
Given these prices, you can expect to spend about USD 20–25 per day on food, which will total USD 280–400 for the entire trek, depending on your eating habits.
5. Miscellaneous Expenses
Additional expenses you may incur include:
- Equipment and gear: Renting or purchasing trekking gear (such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, and jackets) may cost an additional USD 100–150 if you don’t already have the required equipment.
- Hot showers: While most teahouses offer basic amenities, hot showers often come at an extra charge (around USD 2–5 per shower).
- Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, and other snacks can add up, especially in the more remote parts of the trek, where prices may be higher. Budgeting USD 5–10 per day for snacks would be wise.
- Emergency expenses: It’s recommended to have travel insurance to cover any emergency situations, such as helicopter evacuation or medical assistance, which could cost anywhere from USD 300 to USD 5,000 depending on the situation.
6. Total Estimated Cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2025
Now, let’s combine all of the estimated costs for a 14- to 16-day trek on the Manaslu Circuit:
- Permits: USD 160–180
- Guide and Porter: USD 560–800
- Accommodation: USD 140–240
- Food: USD 280–400
- Miscellaneous (gear, showers, snacks): USD 100–150
Total estimated cost: USD 1,240 to USD 1,770 per person
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is undoubtedly one of the most incredible trekking experiences you can have, and while it may be slightly more expensive than other trekking routes in Nepal, it offers a truly unique and remote adventure. In 2025, expect to spend between USD 1,240 and USD 1,770 for a 14- to 16-day trek, depending on various factors such as your choice of guide, porter, accommodation, and food.
Proper budgeting and preparation will ensure that your trek is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible, allowing you to fully appreciate the incredible beauty and culture of the Manaslu region.
