Why do the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Anyone exploring the Manaslu Region of Nepal becomes enchanted, thanks to its authentic setting combined with its one-of-a-kind experience made specifically for those who want to venture beyond modernization. Tourists rate this trail as the most remote route in Nepal, as it leads through the deep Budhi Gandaki gorge and features various challenging suspension bridges. The Manaslu Trek offers an opportunity to experience a completely new world away from modern advancement.
The detailed attractions that we will see along our Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary are listed below:
Manaslu Conservation Area
Did you know that the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Route leads to the Manaslu Conservation Area rich in biodiversity? You heard it right! The route guides you through different natural zones starting from orchid and rhododendron forests before transitioning into areas with alpine shrubs and glacial valleys so you can see the diverse landscape of the Manaslu region. Manaslu Conservation Area functions as a natural museum holding more than 110 bird species and 33 mammal species together with over 2000 plant species. So if you see Danphe (Nepal’s national bird), Himalayan Thar, Snow leopard, and even the rare red panda just wandering around, do not be surprised!
Diverse Cultural Encounter
The Manaslu Circuit Trekking Route takes you on a journey to the rural life in the Himalayas as you pass through the historic settlements of Brahmin, Chettri, Rai, Gurung, and Magar villages, which have successfully preserved their historical cultures. Buddhism heritage in Nubri and Tsum villages gives these Tibetan communities their unique status by showcasing their traditional customs. Their traditional way of life has been transferred through time by generation after generation.
The unspoilt beauty of slate-roofed houses with wood carving and painting will transport you back to the 1990s era! And hey, don't miss out on the local festival like Sonam Lhosar and Gyalpo Lhosar to witness some amazing traditional cultures of Tibetan-influenced Buddhists.
Crossing Larkya La Pass: A sense of accomplishment
The trek to Manaslu Circuit is an odyssey to the most remote and untouched part of the Manaslu region. And you know what, while you may face certain challenges, the rewards make you forget them all. And what is the reward, you might ask? Well, passing through Larkya La Pass at 5106 meters demands significant effort yet provides exceptional rewards. The feeling of achievement after getting to the top is unlike any other, as we are welcomed with the stunning views of alpine valleys below us, and stunning snowcapped mountains stand before our very eyes.
The extraordinary peaks of Mt. Manaslu, Samdo Peak, Larke Peak, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and more than 10 countable peaks stand in glory right before your eyes. My advice? Take in the beauty around you while you can!
Reaching the Birendra Lake
Birendra Lake at an elevation of 4,500 meters, located near the Manaslu Glacier, is another rewarding aspect of Trekking to Manaslu. Your eyes shine with its still water surface reflecting the mountain views in the sunlight. What's interesting is that depending on how the light hits the after, its colour changes from blue to turquoise. Surely, it is one of the highest altitude lakes hidden in the deep Himalayas, so make sure to pose for a picture or two.
Nepal- Tibet Border: Rui La Pass
Moving upward through the Himalayas while trekking the Manaslu Circuit route leads you to the exciting Rui La Pass. Rui La Pass stands as a rare mountain crossing between Nepal and Tibet that reveals amazing views extending from mountains to glaciers to valleys and small Tibetan settlements. Fun Fact! This pass was used by traders and pilgrims in the past, and interestingly, you will see yaks carrying heavy loads to transport goods, just like in the old days! Hey, just for your information, you'll need a special permit to explore this area.
Mount Manaslu: “Killer Mountain”
Mount Manaslu stands as the eighth-tallest peak on Earth, with its 8163-meter elevation, and a distinct identity and the mountaineering community. Many climbers have lost their lives in the attempt to climb this dangerous mountain, so it was given the nickname "Killer Mountain". Dont worry, trekker! You are safe and you will get to see this stunning mountain from every angle possible.
The stunning height and thrilling background of Mt. Manaslu make it an interesting attraction in the Manaslu Circuit Trekking route.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Best Itinerary and Cost
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers Nepal's best 12-18 day trekking experience by completely circling the world's eighth tallest mountain, Mt.. Manaslu (8,163m). Trekking Manaslu pricing follows a different pricing based on day count, group number, and the time of year. Some of the best possible itineraries with corresponding costs for your 2025 trekking adventure are discussed below:
Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek lasts 13 days. It begins in Kathmandu and proceeds toward Soti Khola. It goes by the Budhi Gandaki River, then Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung as well as Lho before a break in Samagaon, to permit the body to get used to the altitude. From Samdo, the journey advances toward the region near the Tibet border to Larkya La Pass, then arrives at Bimthang. This directs to Dharapani en route back to Kathmandu.
The total cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek ranges from USD 900 to USD 1200 to cover all expenses, including permits, meals, accommodation, equipment, tour guide fees, porter insurance, fees for meals and permits, and transportation support throughout the entire journey. The total cost of trekking decreases with the size of each group. Adding more group members reduces the total expense, as some agencies offer discounted rates for family groups with children. Book Now!
Manaslu Circuit Trekking
The 16-day Manaslu Circuit Trekking route commences at Kathmandu before leading travelers through Maccha Khola and Jagat until they reach Deng, then Namrung and Lho Gaun before reaching Sama Gaon. The journey includes planned stops for acclimatization at Manaslu Base Camp combined with a visit to Birendra Lake. Following Samdo, you travel to the Tibet Border through Rui La Pass, which leads to Dharamsala and further to Larkya La Pass before reaching Bhimtang and Dharapani and returning to Kathmandu or Pokhara.
The Manaslu Circuit Trekking requires between USD 850 and USD 1100 to cover permits alongside food, lodging, equipment, guide and porter fees, and transportation costs. Since certain companies provide family groups with children with discounted prices, increasing the number of group members lowers the overall cost. Book Now!
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek
10-day Short Manaslu Circuit Trek starts when we reach Machha Khola from Kathmandu before following a route through Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Sama Gaon. From Dharamsala to Larkya La Pass, the journey extends through Dharamsala, followed by the demanding Larkya La Pass descent to Bhimtang, after which the route ends at Dharapani and then leads back to Kathmandu or Pokhara.
The total cost for the complete package, including permits, food and lodging at teahouses, guide services, and transportation expenses, ranges from USD 1250 to USD 1500. This cost varies depending on the number of group members, while some agencies provide a family discount as well. Book Now!
Manaslu Round Trekking
The 15-day Manaslu Round Trekking starts from Kathmandu and continues with drives to Maccha Khola before proceeding to traditional villages, including Jagat, Deng, and Namrun,g until reaching the beautiful Lho Gaun location with its amazing mountain vistas. You will stop at Pungyen Monastery during your journey to Sama Gaon before spending acclimatization time at Manaslu Base Camp and Birendra Lake. From there, you will advance to Samdo. During the ascent toward Dharamsala, the challenging terrain conditions will test you until you reach Larkya La Pass before starting the descent into Bhimtang and Dharapani to finally return to Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Usually, the total cost for this trek costs around USD 840 to 1200 for which includes permit fees, meals and lodging at teahouses, guide/porter services, and transportation costs. The price decreases with an increasing number of group members. Bookings are OPEN!!
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
Starting from Machha Khola with a driving journey, the combination of the Manaslu Circuit trek and the sacred Tsum Valley(20 days) begins at Jagat before entering the Tsum Valley through Lokpa. Trek through Chumling to see Buddhist sites before exploring religious places at Milarepa Cave and visiting Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa while continuing to follow the Manaslu trail from Deng. Following acclimatization hikes to Pungyen Gompa and Birendra Lake, the route takes you from Namrung and Lho through Sama Gaon before crossing the demanding Larkya La Pass down to Dharapani and eventually back to Kathmandu or Pokhara.
This Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek complete package includes permits, food and lodging at teahouses, guide services, and transportation expenses and costs around USD 1300 to USD 1500. The cost for each member decreases with a larger number of members in the group. Book with us!!
Manaslu Circuit Trek Transportation Cost
Airfare to and from Nepal Cost
You begin your Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal by flying into Kathmandu. The round-trip flight expenses cost between $800 and $1,200. Ticket rates increase as the main trekking seasons span from March to May and September through November. Book early for better deals!
Nepal Arrival Cost
The cost of private airport pickup falls between $10 to $20, while taxis charge between $5 to $10 based on the hotel location. Before deciding on an agency, check its complimentary airport transportation service, which it offers through its packages. You will find taxis outside the terminal that provide direct hotel transportation.
Transportation cost from and to the Starting Point
A local bus journey from Kathmandu to Aarughat provides the most affordable transportation to the Manaslu trek starting point at $5 to $8. The early morning buses at Gongabu Bus Park provide budget-friendly travel but a bumpy ride. Shared jeeps from Aarughat to Soti Khola via Machha Khola cost $10 to $15 per person, while private jeeps for this route charge $60 to $80 per vehicle.
You can directly get to Soti Khola by local bus that costs $30 but takes 8 to 9 hours, whereas private jeeps cost between $150 to $200 and take 6 to 7 hours.
A return ride from Soti Khola to Kathmandu/Pokhara can be reached by shared jeep for $25 to $30 and takes 7 to 8 hours. Private jeeps cost $180 to $250. Helicopters offer speed yet charge steep prices above $350 for each traveler- but lower rates occur when splitting costs with other passengers.
Accommodation Cost in Kathmandu before the Trek to Manaslu
5-Star Hotels
These luxury hotels offer room rates between $100 to $300 per night and include spa facilities along with swimming pools and fine dining services that suit guests who seek relaxation before and after their trek to the Manaslu Circuit.
4-Star Hotels
These hotels charge between $50 to $150 per night to offer guests modern amenities along with excellent service. It is perfect for a quality experience while avoiding high expenses.
Standard Hotels
Budget-friendly at $20−50 per night, these clean and simple hotels are great for saving money. Basic facilities are provided, and many trekking agencies include these in their packages.
Accommodation Cost in the Manaslu Region
Nights at a teahouse cost between $5 to $10, depending on the amenities provided. Each room in the teahouse features basic amenities while using communal restrooms and offering a shared dining area.
Some standard teahouses may provide you a single bedroom with an attached bathroom for $ 10 to $15. As you get to higher altitudes like Samdo or Dharamsala, the price can increase from $10 to $25 per night.
Food Cost and Availability
Various types of food are served at tea houses throughout the Mt Manaslu Trek, ranging from traditional local cuisine to Indian, Continental, and Chinese. Yes! You can find something that fits your palette!
Dal Bhat stands as the fundamental food choice across the entire Manslu Region. Between $5 and $10 will get you steamed rice accompanied by lentil soup (dal) with either a veg or nonveg curry along with traditional pickles. And you know what? You can enjoy unlimited refills!
At breakfast, you can have Tibetan bread, eggs, soup, porridge, and potato-based meals for as little as $3 to $7. There are momos, soups, Thukpa, Thenduk, sandwiches, noodles, pasta, and fried rice on the menu for lunch or dinner, with the prices varying from $5 to $8. And of course, Dal Bhat!
There is a wide range of beverages you can choose from, including a coffee for the cost of $3 to $5 and tea for $2 to $4, for $2 to $4, you can buy a bottle of water. The transportation expenses of ascending to higher altitudes drive up prices, so food expenses may rise by 20 to 30 percent.
Why hire a guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Under new safety regulations, trekking alone in Manaslu became illegal, thus all trekkers need an official guide along with a partner and must acquire their permits from an approved local trekking agency. So, without a guide, you cannot do this trek.
Besides, having a guide with you is like having the best travel buddy. A guide can direct you on the path, give you a peek into and knowledge of the culture and the local life, and even aid you when an emergency arises. Like a superhero, he will keep you out of danger and keep you safe. And the best part? You dont have to stress over logistics as he will take care of it all. It's win-win!
Cost of hiring a guide and porter
Hiring professional guides for the Manaslu Circuit Trekking costs between $ 25 to $ 35 per day and porters between $ 15 to $ 25 per day based on carrying 15–20 kg weights per day.
A basic 14-16 day Trek to Manaslu typically costs between $ 600 and $ 1,000 for guide-porter services based on their experience levels, together with language skills and provided services. The price includes guide and porter fees, which cover their wages as well as food costs and accommodation expenses, and insurance coverage for the trek period.
Manasu Circuit Trek Permit Cost
The Manaslu Circuit Trek demands three substantial permits, which make the trek impossible to complete without them. Permit checks start at Jagat and continue until the trek's endpoint (depending on the conditions).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ( ACAP): Foreign visitors must pay USD 30, yet SAARC nationals have lower fees at USD 10.
MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit): Same fee as ACAP at USD 30.
Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Costs a different price based on the trekking months. USD 100 for their first week in September through November, and each additional day after that costs USD 15. USD 75 from December to August with an additional fee of USD 10 per extra day.
Personal expenses for Manaslu Circuit Trekking
Gadget Charging Costs
You will find that most charging services in teahouses cost between $2 and $5 per device, depending on which altitude you are at. Remote mountain areas have limited electricity access, and that causes charging to become progressively more expensive at higher elevations.
WiFi Expenses
WiFi services for electronic devices require a fee between $3 and $6 per device, but the signal and connection quality decline in high altitudes.
Bottled Water
Bottled water costs between $2 to $4 per liter, but consumers will encounter higher rates at increased elevations. The more affordable and eco-friendly solution for trekkers includes water purification tablets or filters instead of buying expensive bottled water.
Tipping
Tourists should follow standard tipping norms to give guides $5 to $10 daily and porters $3 to $5 daily. Mountain culture values tipping as an essential part of their tradition, yet it remains optional to show gratitude towards them.
Chocolates for Locals
Small chocolate or candy packages available for $2 to $5 can be used to express gratitude to local children while meeting members of the community. Remote mountain villages show high appreciation for these treats.
Souvenirs
The cost for Manaslu region souvenirs starts at $5 for simple items and can reach $50 for intricate handmade products. The Manaslu region offers visitors the chance to purchase traditional handicrafts, prayer flags, local textiles, and small artifacts, which become meaningful mementos.
Tips for the lower expenses while trekking to Manaslu Circuit
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You can negotiate for better prices for transportation, lodging, and souvenirs, especially if you are trekking off-season or in a group.
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If you want to reduce your spending, carry a power bank and solar batteries, as in the high altitudes, there is no electric plug available in the room, and teahouses charge you $2- $5.
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Trekking in groups will be cheaper because many trekking agencies offer family and group discounts (5–10% off) for 4+ people.
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Do not buy unnecessary items and souvenirs, as they can cost you extra and increase your load. Pokhara and Kathmandu give you better deals.
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Stay in local tahouses run by local families to experience authentic life in the mountains while enjoying the traditional vibe.
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Carry enough Nepalese cash as there are no ATMs in the Manaslu Region, and teahouses accept cash only.
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Carry a large capacity water bottle instead of buying bottled water. You can use a purification tablet so the water is safe to drink.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a must-do trekking experience because this remote trail presents amazing natural scenery alongside cultural insights to explore. A complete experience of this trek depends on understanding all expenses. The price of trekking packages depends on the overall duration and planned itinerary. Total expenses will include trekking permits, travel insurance, guide fees, accommodation, and food costs that build up quickly. Your financial preparedness will allow you to fully experience the landscapes while crossing Larkya La Pass and connecting with the local culture.
But hey, you don't have to worry about it because Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition has well-planned and diverse packages to make your odyssey to the Manaslu a success! Whether you choose the 13-day classic Manaslu Circuit Trek or the 20-day trek combined with Tsum Valley, the beauty and charm of the Manaslu region will not disappoint you. Ready for an epic adventure?
We at Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition offer this one-of-a-kind package, making sure that your trip to the Manaslu Circuit is 100% worth it. For more info, call or WhatsApp us at +977 9851016814 or info(a)destinationhimalayatreks.com for budget friendly and customizes treks in Nepal.
