Planning your Manaslu Himalayan adventure starts with understanding the Required Permits For Manaslu Circuit Trek and Cost. The total cost ranges from USD 700 to USD 760 per person based on your travel style, itinerary length, and level of comfort. This cost covers essential permits such as the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit, and the Chumnubri Rural Municipality Fee, all of which are mandatory for trekking in this restricted region.
Unlike more commercial routes, the Manaslu Circuit offers a less crowded trekking experience, but that comes with stricter regulations. These permits are not just formalities; they preserve the ecosystem of the region, support local communities, and maintain trekkers’ safety.
Whether you are a budget backpacker or looking for a premium guided experience, understanding the cost structure and permit system assists you in planning better and avoiding surprises on the trail. From paperwork to park fees, everything is part of the journey. In this blog, we have clearly broken down all the costs involved. Let’s go through them step by step.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Overview
| Expense Category | Cost (USD) | Details |
| Permits | USD 130–200 | Varies by season (Peak vs. Off-peak) |
| Licensed Guide | USD 300–400 | USD 25 – 35 per day |
| Porter (Optional) | USD 240–300 | USD 20 – 25 per day (carries up to 10-20kg) |
| Food & Drinks | USD 200–340 | USD 25 – 35 per day for 3 meals |
| Accommodation | USD 70 – 120 | USD 5 – 12 per night in teahouses |
| Transportation | USD 60 – 200 | USD 30–50 (Bus) or USD 200+ (Private Jeep) |
| Gears (Rent or Buy) | USD 80 – 400 | Renting is the best option |
| Travel Insurance | USD 100 – 200 | Must include high-altitude helicopter rescue |
| Personal Expenses | USD 100 – 200 | WiFi, hot showers (USD 2-5 each), tips |
Permits Required For Manaslu Circuit Trek
Since this region lies in a prohibited region, the Government of Nepal has made special rules to protect nature and local villages. To keep the trek safe and fair, trekkers must obtain the Manaslu Trek permit. At present, four different permits are required, which are,
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
- Chumnubri Rural Municipality Fee
Extra: A TIMS card is not required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek right now. If you plan to trek in the Tsum Valley or do the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, you will need a Tsum Valley Permit as well.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
The MRAP is what keeps the Manaslu region less crowded than Everest or Annapurna. This permit is required for the entire trek, from the trek starting point, Jagat, until the trekkers pass the final checkpoint in Samagaun.
Likewise, trekkers cannot obtain this entry permit on their own. It must be issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu through registered trekking agencies. The cost of the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit differs depending on the trekking season. Here’s the price:
| Season | Cost |
| Autumn (September – November) | USD 100 for the first 7 days + USD 15 for each additional day |
| Winter, Spring, Summer (December – August) | USD 75 for the first 7 days + USD 10 for each additional day |
The permit is non-transferable and valid only for the specific dates on your itinerary. The 7 days are counted from Jagat, not Kathmandu and if you plan side trips, such as Tsum Valley, your agency will arrange an extension in advance.
Let’s Go!
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
The Manaslu Circuit Trek trail lies within the Manaslu Conservation Area. Hence, trekkers also need a Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit (MCAP Permit). The amount collected from MCAP goes directly to biodiversity conservation, trail maintenance, and community development projects in the Nubri Valley. This way, your trek protects nature and improves the lives of the people who live along the trail. The cost of MCAP is:
| Nationality | Fee |
| SAARC citizens | USD 6-7 (NPR 1,000) per person |
| Other nationals | USD 20-21 (NPR 3,000) per person |
There is no daily fee for this Manaslu Circuit trek permit, and once issued, it is valid for your entire trek. The fee also supports homestay training programs, meaning you directly contribute to local villagers who welcome trekkers into their homes. MCAP officers may check for single-use plastics along the trail, so it’s a good idea to carry a reusable water bottle and a purifier.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
The Manaslu Circuit Trek joins the Annapurna region at Dharapani, which means you also need an Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP Permit) to pass through. Even though you’ll only spend a few days inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, this permit is still compulsory at the Dharapani checkpost.
| Nationality | Fee |
| SAARC citizens | USD 6-7 (NPR 1,000) per person |
| Other nationals | NUSD 20-21 (NPR 3,000) per person |
Like MCAP, ACAP is a flat fee with no time restrictions. Having an ACAP permit also means you can extend your trek to routes like the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit, or Tilicho Lake without extra paperwork. Online payments include a 2.9% gateway charge, and double fees apply if the permit is issued at check-posts.
Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit
This is the most recent required permit added to the list. This fee is collected and retained locally by the Chumnubri Rural Municipality. It is checked at the Jagat area of ward 3 in Chumnubri, where trekkers must pay the fee. Both Nepali and foreign trekkers need to get this permit.
| Nationality | Fee |
| Foreigners | USD 6-7 (NPR 1,000) per person |
| Nepali citizens | NPR 200 per person |
Payment is made in cash at the entry checkpoint, and the funds are used for waste management, basic healthcare posts, and bridge repairs in villages like Jagat and Deng.
Updates to Restricted Area Trekking Permit Policy (Department of Immigration) in 2026
The Department of Immigration (DoI) has announced important amendments to the Restricted Area Trekking Permit policy recently. They have made three major changes.
- First, individual foreign tourists are now allowed to apply for and obtain a Restricted Area Trekking Permit through registered trekking agencies.
- Second, a trekking guide is permitted to lead a group of a maximum of seven trekkers only.
- Third, tourists can now apply for the permit digitally from abroad using a “Visa Application Submission ID.”
Cost Breakdown of Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek has several expense categories that together make up your total budget. Costs vary depending on your travel style, level of comfort, and whether you hire support staff or carry your own gear. Below is a simple breakdown of the main expenses you should plan for.
Accommodation and Food Cost on the Trail
Accommodation in the Manaslu Circuit is in traditional village teahouses with twin-sharing rooms. At lower altitudes (below 2,500m), you have to pay around USD 5–10 per night, which increases as you climb higher due to transportation challenges. In mid-altitude areas (2,500m–3,500m), prices range from USD 10–15, while high-altitude villages like Samagaon or Dharamsala charge USD 15–25 per night.
Food and beverages are a huge part of your daily budget. A breakfast like eggs, porridge, or Tibetan bread costs around USD 4–8, while lunch and dinner range between USD 6–12 per meal. The most popular choice is Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), not just for its nutrition but also because it comes with free refills. For drinks, tea or coffee costs between USD 1–5 per cup, while bottled water ranges from USD 1–5 per liter.
Transportation Cost
Transportation is a bit rough, as the journey has two main parts, which cost around USD 60-200. First getting from Kathmandu to the starting point (Machha Khola or Soti Khola) and second returning from the ending point (Dharapani).
For budget travelers, a public bus is the cheapest option. It costs around USD 10–15 per person and takes about 9–11 hours from Gongabu Bus Park. A shared jeep is a better middle option, priced at USD 25–40 per seat, and saves time compared to the bus. If you want comfort and flexibility, a private jeep takes around USD 180–250 per vehicle one-way and can carry 6–7 people.
Equipment and Gear Cost
The overall equipment and gear cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek ranges from USD 80 to USD 500. Renting gear in Kathmandu is the most budget-friendly option. On the other hand, buying new essential gear can cost between USD 150–500, based on the quality and brand you choose.
If you decide to rent, prices are quite affordable. A down jacket costs about USD 1.25–2.00 per day, while a sleeping bag costs USD 1.25–2.50 per day. Trekking poles range from USD 0.65–1.25 per day, and backpacks cost about USD 1.25–2.50 daily. For icy sections, crampons or microspikes cost around USD 10–15 total. Renting not only saves money but also saves you from carrying bulky gear back home.
Miscellaneous Expenses
The overall miscellaneous cost for the Manaslu is around USD 100 to USD 200 for a 12-day trek, and these are small daily expenses that can add up quickly. These costs are not included in trekking packages, so it’s important to plan for them. For example, a hot shower costs about USD 3–7, while charging your phone or camera costs USD 1–2 per device.
Wi-Fi is available in some teahouses for USD 2–5 per day, while drinking water costs around USD 1–4 per liter, so using purification tablets or a filter can save you nearly USD 60 during the trek. You may also spend USD 10–15 on a local SIM card, USD 20–30 on basic medicines, and USD 5–10 as small donations when visiting monasteries like Lho or Samagaon.
Guides and Porters Cost
The overall guides and porters cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek ranges from USD 25 to USD 60+ per day for guides and USD 20 to USD 35 per day for porters. A standard licensed guide costs USD 25–35 per day, while a more experienced guide may charge USD 40–60+ per day, which covers permits, paperwork, and insurance.
Porters are optional but very helpful. A standard porter costs about USD 20–25 per day and can carry 15–20 kg shared between two trekkers to reduce cost. For tougher sections like Larkya La Pass, a stronger high-altitude porter may cost USD 25–35 per day. You can also choose a porter-guide, who both guides you and carries a lighter load (around 10–12 kg) at USD 25–35 per day.
Cost for Solo Travelers on the Manaslu Circuit
The 2026 update from the Department of Immigration (DoI) has changed the cost of the Manaslu Circuit for solo travelers. Earlier, solo trekkers had to pay for a second (dummy) permit or join a group. Now, you can get a permit as a single traveler, but you still need a licensed guide and a registered agency. Here’s what solo travelers need.
| Expense Item | Solo (Independent + Guide) |
| Permits | USD 200 (100% borne by you) |
| Licensed Guide | USD 300 (USD 25 /day) |
| Meals & Tea | USD 360 (Pay-as-you-go) |
| Accommodation | USD 80 – 120 (USD 8–10/night) |
| Transportation | USD 25 (Local Bus – Round trip) |
| Agency Service Fee | USD 50 – 100 (Permit processing and document management) |
| Porter (Optional) | USD 240 (USD 20/day) |
| Estimated Total | USD 1,050–1150 |
Solo travelers need to pay an extra USD 300–440 because all costs, transportation, guide, porter, and accommodation are not shared.
Why Is the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit So Expensive?
The MRAP costs around USD 100 per week during peak season and this high cost is used to control the number of trekkers in the region and protect its environment. By keeping the permit price high, the government avoids overcrowding, like in popular routes such as Everest and Annapurna. Fewer trekkers mean less waste, less pressure on local resources, and a cleaner and more peaceful trail.
Another reason for the high price is to protect the culture and manage the border area. The Manaslu region, including Tsum Valley, has preserved Tibetan-Buddhist traditions for centuries, and the permit system limits visits to only serious trekkers. The trail also runs close to the Tibetan (Chinese) border, so part of the fee supports monitoring and safety systems. In addition, a portion of the money goes to local development through conservation projects like maintaining trails, supporting teahouses, and protecting wildlife like the snow leopard.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost By Season
The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026 varies due to the seasonal pricing of the Restricted Area Permit (RAP). While conservation permits and service rates are always the same, the peak autumn season collects a higher permit fee to manage trail traffic. Let’s have a clear look at it.
| Factor | Autumn (Sept–Nov) | Spring (Mar–May) | Winter & Summer |
| RAP Permit (1st Week) | USD 100 | USD 75 | USD 75 |
| Extra Day Fee (RAP) | USD 15 / day | USD 10 / day | USD 10 / day |
| Total Permit Cost (Est.) | ~USD 205 | ~USD 145 | ~USD 145 |
| Package Price Range | USD 700 – 760 | USD 650 – 700 | USD 600 – 650 |
How to Save Money on Manaslu Circuit Trek
Even with the guide and restricted permits, you can significantly lower your expenses by making smart logistical choices. Here are the most effective ways to save money:
- A guide costs about USD 30–35 per day, no matter how many people are in the group, and sharing one guide with three others can save you around USD 300.
- Take a local bus instead of a private jeep to save over USD 150 per person
- Carry items like water purification tablets, a power bank, and wet wipes so you can avoid buying bottled water, paying for charging, and taking hot showers.
- Choose the spring season instead of the autumn season, which can reduce permit costs and save around USD 50 on a 12-day trek.
- Dal Bhat is the best budget meal on the trail, and it is nutritious, healthy, and cheaper than other options.
- Rent gear instead of buying since sleeping bags and jackets cost about USD 1–2 per day instead of hundreds of dollars.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a good choice for trekkers who feel the Annapurna Circuit Trek is too developed. It needs more planning, a mandatory guide, and a higher tolerance for simple living. However, it has a 95% success rate for those who follow a 12-day itinerary with at least two acclimatization stops. If you are ready to handle permits and guided arrangements, we can organize the required licensed guides and paperwork for this trek.
