Are you planning to conquer the “Spirit Mountain” in 2026 or 2027? The Manaslu Circuit Trek has officially become the number 1 alternative to the crowded Annapurna Circuit Trek. But with its “Restricted Area” status, the cost are more complex than your average trek.
In this guide, we break down every dollar you will spend during the trek. From mandatory permit fees to teahouse snacks, so you can plan your adventure without financial surprises.
Quick Summary: How Much Does it Cost?
For a standard 16- Days Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026, expect to budget:
Budget (Economic package via agency): $900-$1,050
Standard All-Inclusive (Most Popular): $1,200- $1,450
Luxury/Private Trek: $1,800+ USD
Expert Insight: Unlike Everest and Annapurna, you cannot trek Manaslu Circuit Trek solo. Nepalese law requires a minimum of two trekkers and one licensed guide.
However, the Chumnubri Rural Municipality now charges a local entry fee of NPR 1,000 (approx. $8-$10) per person.
Permit Type
Peak Season (Sept–Nov)
Off-Peak (Dec–Aug)
Manaslu Restricted Permit (RAP)
$100 (First 7 days)
$75 (First 7 days)
Additional Days (after day 7)
$15 / day
$10 / day
MCAP (Conservation Area)
$30 (Approx. NPR 3,000)
$30
ACAP (Annapurna Area)
$30 (Approx. NPR 3,000)
$30
Note: If you add Tsum Valley Trek, you will have to add extra $40 (Peak season) or $30 (Off-Peak season) for permit fees.
Professional Guide and Porter Fees
Since a guide is mandatory in Manaslu Region, this is fixed cost.
Licensed Guide: $30 to $40 per day (Include their food, salary, and insurance)
Porters: $25 to $30 per day (Porter typically carries 20 to 25 kg of bag, shared between two trekkers.
Group with local guide
Why hire a local expert?
In 2026, trails are challenging due to new road constructions. A local guide from Access the Asia Treks knows the old trail to keep you away from the dusty jeep road.
Accommodation & Food: Teahouse Budget
As you go to higher altitude, the price of foods and rooms keeps on getting high. The prices rise because everything is carried by mules and porters.
Accommodation: Normally costs $5 to $15 per night for twin sharing room.
Meals: $25 to $40 per day
Breakfast normally cost from $5 to 8$.
Lunch/Dinner normally cost from $7 to $12 (A plate of Dal Bhat)
Extra (Hidden Cost)
Hot Shower: $3 to $5
Charging Electronics: $2 to $5 per device
Wi-Fi: $3 to $5 per day and per device
Transportation
The trek normally starts from Machha Khola and ends in Dharapani/Besisahar. To reach the trailhead and return to Kathmandu, there are two options, Local bus and private transportation.
Local Bus: $15 to $25 (Bumpy and long but authentic)
Private 4WD Jeep: $200 to $250 per Jeep (Highly recommended for comfort and safety on the rugged mountain road)
If you want local authentic style transportation, you can use local transportation. But if you want comfort and safety we recommend private transportation.
Total Cost Comparison Table
Expense Item
Estimated Cost (16 Days)
Total Permits
$160 – $200
Guide (Shared)
$250 – $300
Food & Lodging
$450 – $600
Transportation
$100 – $500
Estimated Total
$910 – $1,300 USD
Local Dal Bhat
How to Save Money on Your Manaslu Trek
Trek with group: Split the cost of guide, Jeep and Porter
Bring your own power bank: Focus on avoiding daily charging fees in teahouses.
Water Purification: Bring a LifeStraw or purification tablets to save $3 to $5 for mineral water per bottle.
Book All-Inclusive: Agencies like Access the Asia Treks lock in 2025 prices for 2026 booking, protecting you from inflation.
Photo of Larke La pass
Final Verdict: Is it worth the cost?
Absolutely, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a raw, medieval Tibetan culture that you simply wont find in the Everest or Annapurna region anymore. By 2027, more roads will be built, so 2026 is the perfect year to explore Manaslu authentic trail.
Ready to Trek?
Don’t get bogged down in the logistics permits and paperwork. Let our expert handle the details while you focus on the views.
