For our itinerary, see the Manaslu Circuit Trek page.
Reported package prices
| Source type | Reported price per person |
|---|---|
| 2026 planning guide | US$900 to US$2,200 |
| Operator standard package | From about US$925 |
| Operator luxury package | About US$1,550 |
| 2026 budget estimate | US$1,000 to US$1,500 |
| Longer 14 to 18 day trek | US$1,200 to US$2,800 |
Most of these come from operators, so they're marketing figures. Check whether each one includes permits, jeep transfers, meals and a porter. One source says solo trekkers may pay about 30 to 50% more, because they don't share costs for the guide and transport.
Permits
This is where Manaslu differs most. It's a restricted area, so a registered agency applies for you, and you travel with a licensed guide.
| Permit | Reported fee |
|---|---|
| Manaslu restricted area, Sep to Nov | US$100 for the first 7 days, then US$15 per day |
| Manaslu restricted area, other months | About US$75 for the first 7 days, then about US$10 per day |
| Manaslu Conservation Area | NPR 3,000 for foreign visitors |
| Annapurna Conservation Area | NPR 3,000, usually needed because the route ends in that area |
| Tsum Valley side trip (optional) | An extra permit, reported at about US$30 to US$40 for a week |
One source reports TIMS is also needed, and another says it isn't. Ask your agency to confirm, and see our permit guide. Sources also report a March 2026 change allowing single trekkers to get restricted area permits, although a licensed guide is still required.
Transport
One source lists a local bus from Kathmandu to Soti Khola at about US$10 per person, and a shared-cost jeep at about US$150 to US$200 per vehicle. Local buses are cheaper, but the UK government warns that road accidents are a major cause of death and injury, and it advises against overcrowded buses. It's worth paying more for a safe vehicle on these mountain roads.
At the end of the trek, you'll usually need a jeep from Dharapani towards Besisahar and Kathmandu, so check whether your quote includes this. Mountain roads can close in the monsoon, which can add time and cost.
Daily costs
- Food and lodging: reported at about US$25 to US$45 per day if you're paying as you go.
- Guide: one source lists about US$350 to US$500 for the trek.
- Porter: ask for a quote. Rates elsewhere in Nepal are often reported around US$20 to US$25 per day.
- Extras: hot showers, charging, Wi-Fi, snacks and drinks, which all cost more at altitude.
- Tips: customary, and usually separate. Agree an amount with your group.
A sample budget
| Item | Rough range (US$) |
|---|---|
| Guided package, permits and transport included | 1,000 to 1,500 |
| Nepal visa for 30 days | 50 |
| Tips and personal spending | Set a realistic amount for your group |
| Travel insurance | Get a quote for trekking to about 5,200 m |
This leaves out international flights and gear. Check that your insurance covers altitude and helicopter evacuation. Our insurance guide has questions to ask.
How to compare quotes
- Is every permit included? Ask for each one by name.
- Is the permit fee based on your exact dates and season?
- Are all road transfers included, and is the vehicle shared or private?
- Does the itinerary include a rest day at Samagaun?
- Is there a spare day for bad weather at Larkya La?
- Which meals, hotels and porters are included?
Be careful of very cheap offers. The UK government specifically warns about unusually cheap trekking deals, and skipping acclimatization is one of the easiest ways to cut days and costs. Read our altitude sickness guide.
What's included in our plan
Journey Vibes' 15-day plan covers a licensed guide, one porter for two trekkers, required permits and local fees, teahouse lodging, and three meals a day on trekking days. It also covers airport transfers, Kathmandu hotel nights in the itinerary, and the road transport shown. The price on our trip page is the one to use, and it's worth confirming it for your dates before you book.
You'll want to budget separately for things such as your visa, insurance, tips, drinks, hot showers and charging. If you're comparing us with another company, use the same list, so that you're comparing like with like.
Why spare days affect your budget
Snow can close Larkya La, and landslides can delay road travel. A low price may not leave any room for that. Ask what happens if your group has to wait for a day, and who pays for extra meals, rooms and guide time. Also check the permit rules, since restricted area fees are charged by time, and running over the first week can add a daily fee. Keeping a day or two free before your flight home is the cheapest way to avoid costly changes.
Where you can save
- Share a jeep and a guide with others.
- Go outside peak season, when the permit is reported to be cheaper, but check that the pass is open and safe.
- Carry a water filter or purification tablets.
- Eat dal bhat, which is often the best-value meal on the trail.
- Bring enough rupees from Kathmandu. The UK government warns that cards and cash machines may not be available in remote areas.
Common questions
Is Manaslu more expensive than Everest Base Camp?
Not necessarily. Everest needs flights to Lukla, while Manaslu has higher permits. Compare with our Everest cost guide.
Is it more expensive than the Annapurna Circuit?
Usually, yes, mainly because of the permits. See our comparison.
Can I get the permit myself?
Sources report that individuals can't apply directly. A registered agency handles it.
Next steps
See our day-by-day itinerary, or ask us about current prices and dates.
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