The Ultimate Guide to Manaslu Circuit Trek: Costs and Permit Fees

How much does Manaslu Circuit cost?

Manaslu is cheaper than you might think. Although it is less expensive than Everest Region trekking, don't expect to pay more than Langtang or Annapurna. Many of our clients who have traveled to other areas have rated Manaslu the best trail in Nepal, which is why you should visit this place. This article will answer some of the most fundamental questions about Manaslu and focus on how this trek could affect your wallet. You will need a permit, transportation (and possibly a porter), a guide, and food and lodging to do this trek. Below are the costs for these essentials. The total cost of the Manaslu Circuit trek ranges from $1189 to USD 1450 per person. However, it's essential to research current prices and factor in any changes that may have occurred since my last update.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Permits and Fees

The Manaslu trek permit costs between $7 and $10 each day for one person, but the price can change depending on when you go and where you're from. You have to organize your trek through trekking companies. You can only trek in this area with this permit. So, this blog will explain how to get the Manaslu Trek Permit. The Nepal government controls trekking in the Manaslu Circuit to protect the area's environment, history, and culture. It would help if you got a permit before you start the trek. The Ministry of Home Affairs in Nepal gives out the Permits when you pay the fee. The permits and their respective costs are as follows:

A: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

Citizens' Cost Per person

SAARC and Other Countries (From September to November)

• per week US$ 70
• per day US$ 10

(From December to August)

• per week US$ 50
• per day US$ 7

B: Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

Citizens' Cost Per person

• Nepalese Rs. 100
• SAARC Rs. 1000

Other Countries Rs. 3000 / US$ 27

C: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Citizens' Cost Per person

• Nepalese Rs. 100
• SAARC Rs. 1000

Other Countries Rs. 3000 / US$ 27

Note: Tsum Valley Restricted permit (Optional) is USD 35 per person per week. ACAP is required if you plan to trek the Tsum Valley.

How much should I expect to pay for a guide and porter for the Manaslu Trek?

While some trekking trails in Nepal allow tourists to trek without a guide, this rule only applies to the Manaslu region. You need to be in a group of at least two trekkers to get a permit for Manaslu. International travel companies might tell you that hiring a professional guide for Manaslu is expensive. But in reality, it's relatively inexpensive, averaging around $30 per day, which includes the guide's food, accommodation, and insurance Some people wonder if they can trek in Manaslu with only a porter. Yes, you can, but it's not much cheaper than hiring a guide because of food and insurance costs. Hiring a porter would cost around $25 to $30 daily, including food, accommodation, transportation, daily wages, and insurance. Consider hiring a porter guide to carry your stuff and guide the trail. This would cost about the same as hiring a porter or a guide. For safety reasons, it's highly recommended that you trek with a professional guide. Guides have undergone rigorous training and are licensed. However, the decision ultimately rests with you. Remember that the government only allows trekking alone in Manaslu with a guide or porter.

What Can You expect from our Company guides?

Here's what we can offer you if you enjoy reading and want to learn more about our company. Our guides are all licensed and have received proper training. We value your safety and security.

• For this reason, I am a local, and most of our Sherpas and guides are also from Manaslu Region. They know the mountains well.
• Our guides visit Manaslu five to seven times a year, meaning they have extensive experience in this area.
• Our guides are primarily young but have a lot of experience and education. The guides are fluent in English and sometimes other languages.
• We want you to enjoy your experience with Adventure Club Trek. Our previous clients have given our guides 5-out-5-star ratings.
• Our guides have great relationships with the locals and teahouse owners. Finding accommodation or communicating with them is fine.
• We arrange a meeting with your guide before you depart to ensure a good relationship. You can question the guide and test his knowledge and experience. If you are not satisfied, wait. We will gladly provide another that matches your experience.

Do not hesitate to contact us if we can help you with your arrangements. (Email: info@adventureclubtrek.com)

What is the Cost of transportation for the Manaslu Trek?

There are no luxury tourist coaches at the beginning or end of the trail. You can either rent a Jeep or take a local bus to Sotikhola. A bus trip from Kathmandu to Sotikhola will cost you less than USD 10.In contrast, a one-way jeep rental to the trailhead costs between USD 250 and 300; if you want to continue further to Machhakhola, it will cost USD 300 -340. The price is approximately NRS 2500 - 3,000 (USD 30) for tourists and NRS 2,500 for Nepalese.

For those who prefer local travel, hourly jeep services run between Tal and Besisahar. The Cost is approximately NRS 2500 to 3,000 (30 USD) for tourists and NRS 2,500 for Nepalese. Manaslu is typically reached by starting the journey at SotiKhola, approximately 138km away (86 miles). In the dry months, it is possible to reach Machhekhola by Jeep. However, local buses currently only go up to Sotikhola. Private Jeeps can go up to Machhekhola. Local transportation allows adventurers to experience the country as locals do and is cheaper than renting a Jeep alone.

What are the Road Conditions of Manaslu Trek like?

In recent years, there have been substantial improvements to the road leading to the trailhead. However, the construction of this new road has extended the distance to the trail itself. During the fall and summer seasons, smaller mountain jeeps can now reach Jaget, which previously required a three-day hike from the starting point at Sotikhola. Additionally, the section between Jaget and Sotikhola is prone to numerous landslide points, potentially affecting trail conditions. Consider driving to Tatopani instead of Sotikhola. If you plan to hike shortly after the monsoon season, ensure you have up-to-date information on trial conditions.

How Difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is about 177 kilometers long, like walking from one village to another. It usually takes 14 to 16 days to complete, with 10 to 13 days of walking. That means you'll walk an average of 15 to 20 kilometers each day, like going for a long walk. The path can be challenging at the beginning of the trek because you have to go through a steep gorge called Budi Gandaki Gorge. There's much going up and down hills. One of the most complex parts of the trek is crossing a pass called Larkya La Pass, which is high up at 5,106 meters. You'll walk on trails covered in snow and ice for a long day. One big challenge during the trek is dealing with altitude. As you go higher, the air gets thinner, and some people might feel sick. But you only need to know how to hang from ropes or climb mountains if you're doing it in winter. Still, being in good shape is essential, even if you're new to trekking. We suggest doing exercises to build strength, endurance, and a strong heart for at least three months before you start the trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Routes/Trails

Manaslu Trek route is a direct way to adventure. Solo travel permits are not issued. However, a trek with an experienced trekking company and a small group will be equally exciting. The journey begins with a relaxing stay in Kathmandu and ends with a thrilling drive to Soti Khola. Trekkers will experience diverse landscapes over 18 days. The journey culminates in a return trip from Syange back to Kathmandu. The trek begins at 1,350m (4.429 ft) and gradually climbs to 5,160m (16.929 ft). The 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is carefully planned to ensure that trekkers enjoy stunning vistas, unforgettable moments, and breathtaking views.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola:166km, 7-8 hours

Day 2: Trek Maccha Khola to Jagat:23km, 6-7 hours

Day 3: Trek Jagat to Deng:21km, 6 - 7 hours

Day 4: Trek Deng to Namrung: 19km, 7 - 8 hours

Day 5: Trek Namrung to Lho Village: 10km, 4 hours

Day 6: Trek Lho to Sama Gaon: 15.5km, 4 - 5 hours

Day 7: Acclimatization Day (Day Trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa)

Day 8: Trek Sama Gaon to Samdo: 10 km, 2-3 hours

Day 9: Acclimatization Day (Day Trip to Tibet Border)

Day 10: Trek Samdo to Dharmasala: 12km, 4 - 5 hours

Day 11: Trek Dharamshala to Bhimtang via Larkya La: 25km, 8 - 9 hours

Day 12: Trek Bimthang to Dharapani: 26km, 6-7 hours

Day 13: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu/Pokhara Via Beshisahar: 8 - 9 hours drive

What's the difference between local jeeps and local buses?

These are often crowded with less seat capacity and fewer seats (small-sized seats)!

What can you expect on the local bus/jeep trip?

• You might find it easier to squeeze into a smaller seat (if available). Be prepared to share space. A bus with a 30-person capacity can suddenly fit up to 50 people. The legroom on the bus may be limited. So, stretch out before you get on. As the bus only departs early in the morning at 7:00 and 8:00, plan to arrive at Arughat's local bus station 30 minutes before departure.
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• Before you put your luggage on the bus, cover it with a large trash bag or a bag cover. The ride is dusty.
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• Wear dark-colored clothes. Please wear a scarf, sunglasses, hat, and face mask. Bring water. You will need it. You may also get lucky and find a window seat. Be prepared to cover up with your scarf.
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• The first 90km (between Kathmandu and Dhading) are well-black-topped. After that, it's a partly graveled country route, a dusty, muddy, winding mountain road. Here is where the adventure starts.
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• In the middle of your journey, the local bus will stop for you to use the toilet and eat lunch. Enjoy the opportunity to try authentic regional cuisine, including mutton, chicken curry (goat), and Dal Bhat. Local food tastes different from Kathmandu's.
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• Ask your travel agency to reserve a seat on the bus's right-hand side. This will provide a scenic ride with rivers, gorges, valleys, and snow-capped mountains. You can even sit on the roof!
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• After the ride, you'll hum one of the local folk songs! You can expect to enjoy music, meet friendly locals, and maybe even see some goats or chickens!).
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Is Manaslu Circuit Trek safe?

It is safe. We will examine the most important and logical reasons why the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a safe adventure. A trekker or group must hire a certified guide to embark on the Manaslu circuit trek. A guide and porter can add extra safety to your trek. It is safe because it was recently opened for trekking and shares a border with China. This allows for a controlled, organized flow of tourists.

Along with the standard regulations and controlled access, the cooperation between Nepal and China ensures trekkers' safety. This trek is considered to be safe in terms of wildlife encounters. There is a possibility of seeing endangered wildlife, such as red pandas and snow leopards. However, they are not known to attack people. The trek can be dangerous during the monsoon due to mudslides and heavy rain. The trail is also more dangerous due to increased landslide risk. Many teahouses are closed, and many remain closed. There have only been a few incidents involving avalanches and summit pushes. It is best to avoid avalanche seasons when planning your trek.

Do we need a guide to Manaslu Circuit?

It would be helpful to have a guide on the trek. The Manaslu Circuit Trek discourages solo trekking. The minimum requirement is two people, and the guide is mandatory. To obtain a trekking permit, you must hire a guide or be part of a group organized through a certified trekking agency. This regulation was put in place by the government of Nepal to improve safety and support for trekkers. Hiring a guide for the Manaslu area is essential for trekkers to have a safe, well-managed experience.

How can you prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

If you want to enjoy the challenging but unique Manaslu Circuit trek, you must be ready. Following the Everest Base Camp Trek Training Guide can help you prepare. Here are some tips to prepare for the Manaslu Circuit trek.

• It is essential to focus on your fitness. This includes engaging in aerobic exercises such as cycling, running, and jogging. It would help if you considered hiking with a heavy backpack.
• Yoga can be added to improve flexibility and balance.
• Before embarking on your Manaslu Circuit Trek, thoroughly research and collect valuable information about the food, accommodations, weather, culture, lifestyle, and permits.
• Plan your itinerary to include days for acclimatization and gradual accent. Add contingency days for unexpected circumstances such as bad weather.
• Familiarize yourself with altitude challenges and acclimatization.
• Prepare yourself mentally for the challenges of this high-altitude trek. Prepare yourself for long days of trekking, challenging terrain, and changing weather conditions. The key to success is patience and adapting to difficult situations.
• Gear and equipment to cover 5000m of altitude in a high-altitude adventure
• Plan transportation to and from trailheads in advance.
• Consult a reputable trekking agency such as Take on Nepal for guide and porter services.
• Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet during your trek.
• You should also be familiar with basic CPR and first aid techniques, and you should be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.
• Plan the trek for the best trekking season.
• For a successful trip, ensure you get enough rest and sleep.
• Last but not least, make sure you have enough money, documents, permits, insurance, and identification. You can save digital copies to your phone.

When is the best time to trek Manaslu?

Manaslu Circuit Trekking is best done in the autumn and spring when the seasons are vibrant. It is a beautiful day with stable and balmy weather. The clear skies allow for incredible views of the mountains. Trekking in spring or fall is an excellent experience because of the mild temperatures. The rhododendrons also bloom in spring and autumn. Both the daytime and nighttime temperatures are ideal. The trail will remain in its best condition without avalanche or landslide hazards. The Manaslu Circuit is closed in winter due to heavy amounts of snow. There are better times to trek than the rainy season due to the challenges of heavy rainfall, such as landslides and slippery trails.

Is Manaslu Trek better than Everest Base Camp?

Some people like the Manaslu Trek more than the Everest Base Camp trek. Different folks have different reasons for their preference. Some enjoy the quiet and natural beauty of the Manaslu route. They like being away from crowds. Others prefer Everest Base Camp because it's famous and accessible. People often choose it to say they've been there. But getting to Everest Base Camp is easier because there are airports nearby. It would help if you had a special permit for Manaslu to get one quickly for Everest. Also, along the way to Everest, you can find fancy hotels if you want a comfortable place to stay.

Accommodation and food on the Manaslu circuit trek

The accommodation and food available on the Manaslu Trek provide a genuinely authentic mountain experience. Accommodation is mainly in basic Teahouses with minimal amenities. Most teahouses feature squat toilets, communal dining, and squat toilets. Most meals, like the Everest Base Camp Trek, are prepared over an open flame. Manaslu's culinary offerings are similar to those of the Everest Base Camp Trek. The Himalayan air becomes colder as the trek advances, particularly after day 4. This highlights the importance of preparing adequately for the chilly climate. You should bring your sleeping bag for a comfortable and personalized trekking experience. The trek is a life-changing experience, even if the food and accommodation are essential.

WIFI and telecommunications in the Manaslu Region

Only 50% of Manaslu's land is covered by a cell signal. Most settlements have satellite phones to contact in an emergency. Several lodges in Samagaun or Samdo offer Wi-Fi at an additional cost. Ncell is a good option if you are looking to buy a 4G SIM with your internet package. You can purchase an internet package in Kathmandu for less than USD 10. Before you depart, make sure you have it.

Manaslu Trek cost for Nepalese

Manaslu Circuit Trekking is not just for foreign tourists but also a popular local route. Manaslu and Tsum Valley have been among their top destinations since the number of Nepali visitors has increased. Since publishing this article, I've received at least a dozen inquiries every week about the costs of local tourism.

What local Nepali tourists need to know about Manaslu Trek prices

• No trekking permit is required for Nepali tourists.
• Nepali tourists do not have to hire trekking guides or porters.
• The local transportation costs for Nepali tourists are slightly lower than those of foreign tourists. (KTM-Arughat-Soti NPR600-700m, Dharapani-Beshisahar NPR 1,500, and Beshisahar-Kathmandu NPR500 - 700)
• The Cost of food is similar to that of foreign tourists. It has increased after the COVID-19 epidemic.
• Accommodation cost: NRS 300 - 700 per room
• Free drinking water if you refill a bottle of bottled water or NPR 200 to 500 per bottle
• Soda: NPR 300 - 500 per bottle

Miscellaneous Costs

You will be charged extra for the mountain if you require more effort. You may also want to factor in the following costs for any treks in Nepal:

• You must pay a few dollars to charge for your electronic gadgets. This is due to the significant investment made in the local hydropower station. It would help to charge your phone and camera, as you'll often be in the mountains. A portable solar charger or power bank could be purchased. Extra batteries for cameras will also help.
• Bucket Shower (i.e., a pail full of water): The water is heated with gas or wood and may cost a few dollars per time. Please expect to shower only occasionally in the mountains. It's not as practical as it sounds, but we prefer to save money and be more efficient. If it's cold, you may only want to remove a few of your clothes. It would be helpful if you could smell like yesterday for a few days. Remember, we'll all smell alike! You could also use wet wipes instead of a bucket of water. Wet wipes are not biodegradable, so please return them to Kathmandu.
• Donations are expected if you visit a monastery, gompa, or stupa. Although it's not compulsory, the monasteries and gompas expect a small contribution to maintain their premises. The costs here can vary.
• Your guide and porter will also be expecting some tips after each trek. This usually depends on how you felt during the trek. The average cost of a 10-day trek is USD 80-100. USD 5 to $7 per day. The trekkers share the Cost. For example, if you have ten trekkers, the Cost per person will be around $10.

Conclusion

You may have noticed that different companies charge different prices for the Manaslu Trek. It is essential to clarify this, as there is a wide range of costs, and it is hard to decide which company to trust. Do some research before deciding if you plan to do the Manaslu Trek. If you look at the prices offered by travel agencies abroad, they could cost more than USD 2000. If you ask a local company in Nepal about the same package, the price could be reduced by up to a third. First-time travelers usually prefer international agencies because they have a good reputation and feel safe. Local agencies in Nepal can deliver the same quality Manaslu itinerary at a fraction of the Cost. The price doesn't matter because everyone sleeps in the same teahouses. In the mountains, there is no 5-star teahouse. You can also be assured of the same high-quality meal.

A rough estimate of the price for a 14-day Manaslu full-board package is between USD 1149 and USD 1300 per person. A travel agency from abroad would charge USD 2,700  per person for the same package. You can save USD 578-790 per person if you pay for your accommodation and food but request only the essentials (such as a guide, porter, transportation, permit, and transport) from the local travel agency.

This trek is for adventurers who want to explore unexplored terrain rather than brag about having seen Everest Base Camp or Everest. It is designed for those who want to enjoy a peaceful and tranquil trekking experience without the crowds expected in areas like the Everest and Annapurna regions during trekking season. Manaslu is a beautiful area that has yet to be spoiled. We hope to maintain this beauty for years to come. You will have to travel more slowly and sacrifice comfort for two weeks.