The cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek differs from one tour operator to another. Moreover, it is up to you how much you want to spend and also depends upon the service included in the trek. In addition, trekking days also act on its cost estimation.
Manaslu circuit trek cost depends on the prices of the guide, porter, meals, transportation, accommodation as well as some additional items’ cost.
Here is a small disclose of the cost of different things that are required for this trek:-
Cost to hire Guide and Porter
One licensed guide is a must for the Manaslu trek as it is a restricted zone. Nevertheless, you can hire a guide cum porter who should have a guide license provided by Nepal Government. It is a reality that different guide charges different amount, but $30 USD to $40 USD is a normal salary that a guide charge per day. Instead, a porter takes around $20 – $30 USD per day. And these amounts are quite sufficient to hire a guide and a porter which covers all accommodation, meals, and insurance for this trek.
By the way, we highly recommend hiring a licensed and experienced guide rather than a guide cum porter, because the Manaslu trek is a sensitive and ticklish trekking. A licensed and professional guide would have good knowledge of safety which can make your trek successful and joyful.
Cost of Meals and Accommodation
Manaslu is a remote zone; it is still far from essential infrastructures like roads, electricity, etc. So, the food cost is a little bit higher here. The more you approach the higher elevation, the more increase the cost of food, and the choice of meals is decreased.
Basically, the price of a meal costs $8 – $15 USD; it varies according to the food items and the amount of the food. On average, $40 – $50 USD is enough for a day.
Click here to learn what to eat during Manaslu Trek
To get the detailed information of available food on Manaslu Circuit Trek, click the article Manaslu Circuit Trek Food.
Accommodation is not a big issue to trek in Manaslu as it is less crowded. However, you can not expect luxurious hotels and lodges. You get accommodation either in tea houses or simple lodges, but you don’t need to spend overnights in a tent except in Dharmsala.
Many tea houses were damaged in 2015 by a devastating earthquake, but most of them are now repaired and renovated, and it is safe to stay in. Most of the rooms are on a twin-sharing basis, usually charging $6-$8 USD per night. You should pay full price if you want a single room to rent.
Cost of Transportation
Being an isolated and remote area, it is not yet connected with the modern world through highways. So, there is no facility for luxury tourist buses like Kathmandu to Pokhara Tourist Bus Service. You need to take either a local bus or a private jeep to reach Aarughat and Sotikhola. A local bus costs nearly $10 USD per person, while a jeep would take around $200 – $220 each way. However, Jeep is worth the convenience of the packed local bus. If you are traveling in a group, the jeep cost will be shared with each member.
Want to share Jeep from Kathmandu to Sotikhola
Cost of beverages
Drinks and beverages are relatively cheaper in Manaslu than Everest region. A tea house would cost $2 to $4 for a cup of tea. A bottle of water with soda costs $1.5 to $4.
Trekking Permits cost
Trekkers are required to obtain 3 trekking permits to trek to Manaslu. It is a restricted area that is obliged to take special restricted permits along with MCAP and ACAP. For more detail about the Manaslu trek permit, click here.
Optional cost
The cost of other optional items like electric charging for mobile and laptop, and bathing would be a few dollars. Tips and donations are optional things that are not obligatory. If you are happy with the services of a particular person and place, you are free to tip them. It is like a culture that makes happier to both service providers and takers.
If you don’t get your answer from the above article, please leave a comment below. Or you also can share your experience of this trek.