Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring (March-May)
24 Feb 2025
The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring (March-May) offers trekkers an opportunity to experience the stunning beauty of the Himalayas when the weather is a...
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most breathtaking and off-the-beaten-path treks, offering stunning views, diverse landscapes, and a rich cultural experience. While it is often considered an expensive trek due to its restricted area permit requirements and limited accommodation options, there are many ways to explore this incredible route without breaking the bank. With careful planning, smart choices, and a little flexibility, you can significantly cut costs while still enjoying everything the Manaslu region has to offer.
One of the most effective ways to save money on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is by traveling in a group. Since the Nepalese government requires a minimum of two trekkers with a licensed guide to obtain the special permit, finding a trekking partner can help you share the cost of permits and guide services. Additionally, booking directly with local trekking agencies, such as Explore Holiday Nepal, rather than international operators, can save you a substantial amount of money. Choosing budget-friendly teahouses over expensive lodges, carrying your own sleeping bag to avoid extra charges, and eating local Nepali food like dal bhat instead of imported meals are other great ways to cut expenses.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a stunning, off-the-beaten-path alternative to more crowded treks like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp. However, like any multi-day trek in Nepal, costs can quickly add up if you don’t plan wisely. A typical budget for the trek includes permits, accommodation, food, transportation, guide and porter fees, and miscellaneous expenses like charging electronics or hot showers. On average, the total cost of the trek can range from $700 to $1,500, depending on how you manage your expenses. Permits alone cost around $100 to $150 per person, as the Manaslu region requires special permits due to its restricted area status. Food and lodging costs in tea houses increase as you go higher, with meals ranging from $4 to $10 per dish and accommodation from $5 to $15 per night.
Apart from these standard expenses, hidden costs can catch trekkers off guard. For example, many tea houses charge extra for Wi-Fi ($3–$5 per session), hot showers ($2–$5 per use), and device charging ($2–$5 per hour). Transportation from Kathmandu to the trek’s starting point, Sotikhola, can also be pricier than expected, especially if opting for private jeeps instead of public buses. Additionally, tipping guides and porters is customary, and extra costs may arise if you require emergency evacuation or gear rentals. To avoid these hidden expenses, trekkers should carry a power bank, bring their own snacks, and negotiate prices in advance where possible. A well-planned budget will help you enjoy the Manaslu Circuit without breaking the bank.
One of the best ways to save money on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is to travel with a group and split expenses. Hiring a guide and porter can be expensive, but when shared among multiple trekkers, the cost becomes much more manageable. Booking through a local trekking agency, such as Explore Holiday Nepal, can also offer better rates than international operators. Additionally, trekking during the shoulder seasons (March–April and October–November) can help you secure lower prices on accommodation and food, as tea houses are less crowded and more flexible with pricing.
Another effective way to save money is to minimize extra expenses by bringing essential items like a solar charger, reusable water bottle with a purification system, and snacks from Kathmandu. Buying water bottles along the trail can be costly ($2–$4 per liter), whereas purifying tap water is virtually free. Packing some high-energy snacks like nuts and protein bars can also cut down on food expenses. Instead of expensive private jeeps, budget-conscious trekkers can opt for public buses or shared local jeeps from Kathmandu to Sotikhola, which significantly reduces transportation costs. With careful planning and cost-cutting strategies, you can experience the breathtaking beauty of the Manaslu Circuit without compromising on essential comforts.
Since the Manaslu region is a restricted area, special permits are mandatory. These include the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). The permit costs can vary based on the season, but a cost-saving tip is to complete the trek during the off-season (December–February or June–September), when fees are lower.
Another key factor in reducing expenses is choosing the right trekking agency. Large international companies tend to charge significantly more, while a local operator like Explore Holiday Nepal can offer affordable packages without compromising on quality. Booking with a Nepal-based company ensures that more of your money goes directly to local guides, teahouse owners, and communities, ultimately benefiting the region’s economy.
Accommodation along the Manaslu Circuit mainly consists of teahouses, which offer basic but comfortable lodging. While some lodges charge extra for blankets, hot showers, and charging electronic devices, you can save money by bringing your own sleeping bag, using solar chargers, and limiting hot showers. Choosing teahouses with communal dining areas can also help cut costs, as many offer free or discounted rooms if you eat meals there.
Food is another significant expense on the trek. While the prices increase as you ascend due to transportation costs, sticking to local dishes like dal bhat (rice and lentils), Tibetan bread, and vegetable soups is an excellent way to save money. Dal bhat is not only the most affordable option, but it also comes with unlimited refills in most places, providing you with the necessary energy for trekking. Avoiding imported snacks, alcohol, and bottled water (opting instead for boiled or purified water) can help keep your expenses low.
Reaching the Manaslu Circuit trailhead at Soti Khola (or Machha Khola for some itineraries) is one of the first logistical challenges for trekkers. While private jeeps are the fastest and most comfortable option, they can be expensive, especially for solo travelers. A more budget-friendly alternative is using public transportation, such as local buses or shared jeeps, which significantly lower costs while still getting you to your destination. These options may take longer due to multiple stops and rough road conditions, but they offer an authentic travel experience and a chance to interact with locals along the way.
Choosing between public transport and private jeeps depends on your budget, time constraints, and comfort preferences. Public buses are the cheapest way to travel but can be crowded and less reliable due to road conditions and frequent delays. Shared jeeps, while slightly more expensive than buses, offer a good middle-ground option, balancing affordability with a bit more comfort and faster travel time. Private jeeps, on the other hand, provide the most convenience, especially for groups that can split the cost. If you're traveling solo or on a tight budget, coordinating with other trekkers to share a jeep can be a smart way to reduce expenses without giving up too much convenience. Regardless of the option you choose, planning ahead and being flexible with your travel dates can help you secure the best deals and avoid unnecessary costs.
The time of year you choose to trek the Manaslu Circuit can have a significant impact on your overall expenses. Peak trekking seasons—spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November)—offer the best weather and clear mountain views, but they also come with higher costs due to increased demand for accommodation, guides, and transportation. During these months, tea houses fill up quickly, and prices for food and services tend to be less negotiable. However, trekking during the off-season can be a great way to save money while still enjoying a rewarding experience.
The most budget-friendly time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is usually during the shoulder seasons, just before or after the peak months. Late winter (February) and late monsoon (early September) offer lower costs, fewer crowds, and a more peaceful trekking experience. While winter treks (December to February) can be extremely cold with potential snow-covered passes, and monsoon treks (June to August) bring rain and landslides, careful planning can still make these options viable for budget travelers. By choosing the right time, you can cut down on costs without missing out on the beauty of the Manaslu region.
Packing wisely can help you avoid unnecessary expenses during the trek. Renting trekking gear in Kathmandu instead of buying new equipment is a budget-friendly option. Essential gear such as sleeping bags, trekking poles, and down jackets are available for rent at affordable rates. Additionally, carrying a water purification system (such as a Lifestraw or Steripen) will help you save money by avoiding the need to buy bottled water along the route.
Another way to cut down costs is to trek at your own pace without hiring porters. If you are physically fit and comfortable carrying your own backpack, you can save a significant amount. However, if you do need assistance, hiring a porter through a local agency instead of an international company is a more economical choice.
Saving money on the Manaslu Circuit Trek starts with smart planning and avoiding unnecessary expenses. One of the biggest mistakes trekkers make is spending too much on small conveniences like bottled water, snacks, and hot showers. Instead, bringing a water purification system (such as tablets or a filter bottle) can save you money while keeping you hydrated. Packing lightweight snacks like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits also helps reduce food costs along the way. Additionally, carrying a solar charger or extra power bank prevents the need to pay for device charging at tea houses, which can add up over time.
Another major cost-saving tip is to avoid overpriced tour packages and instead book directly with local trekking agencies or independent guides. Many budget travelers also join trekking groups through online forums or social media to share costs for permits, guides, and transportation. Packing wisely is also essential—bringing durable, weather-appropriate gear from home or renting in Kathmandu can prevent the need for expensive last-minute purchases. By staying mindful of these money-saving strategies, you can complete the Manaslu Circuit on a budget without compromising on safety, comfort, or the overall trekking experience.
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit on a budget is entirely possible with careful planning and smart choices. By traveling in a group, choosing local trekking agencies like Explore Holiday Nepal, staying in budget teahouses, eating local food, and minimizing extra costs, you can experience this incredible adventure without overspending. With the right preparation, you can enjoy breathtaking mountain views, immerse yourself in the rich local culture, and complete one of Nepal’s most rewarding treks while staying within budget.
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola (930 m / 3,051 ft) – 9 hrs
Day 2: Trek from Maccha Khola to Jagat (1,340 m / 4,396 ft) – 6 hrs
Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,804 m / 5,918 ft) – 6 hrs
Day 4: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630 m / 8,628 ft) – 6 hrs
Day 5: Trek from Namrung to Lho (2,957 m / 9,701 ft) – 4 hrs
Day 6: Trek from Lho to Sama Gaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft) – 4 hrs
Day 7: Acclimatization Day (Day Trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa) – 7 hrs
Day 8: Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo (3,865 m / 12,680 ft) – 3 hrs
Day 9: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4,460 m / 14,632 ft) – 4 hrs
Day 10: Trek from Dharmasala to Bimthang via Larkya Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft) – 10 hrs
Day 11: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani (1,970 m / 6,463 ft) – 7 hrs
Day 12: Trek from Dharapani to Kathmandu (Drive) – 10 hrs
Explore Holiday Nepal is a leading trekking and travel agency in Nepal, specializing in budget-friendly and customized trekking adventures across the country. With a strong focus on sustainable tourism, the company provides exceptional service at affordable prices, ensuring that travelers can experience Nepal’s breathtaking landscapes and rich culture without exceeding their budget.
With years of experience in organizing treks, Explore Holiday Nepal is dedicated to offering high-quality trekking experiences at the best prices. Their expert team of local guides and porters ensures safe and enjoyable journeys while promoting ethical and eco-friendly tourism. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly trek like the Manaslu Circuit, the Everest Base Camp Trek, or the Annapurna Circuit, the company provides tailored itineraries to match your preferences and budget.
Affordable and Transparent Pricing
Experienced Local Guides and Personalized Service
Sustainable and Community-Based Tourism
Flexible and Customizable Itineraries
24/7 Support and Hassle-Free Booking
If you're looking to trek the Manaslu Circuit or any other Himalayan route without overspending, Explore Holiday Nepal is your ideal trekking partner. With their expertise, affordability, and commitment to responsible tourism, they make it possible to experience Nepal’s majestic mountains without compromising on quality.
For more details, visit Explore Holiday Nepal today and start planning your unforgettable Himalayan adventure!
The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring (March-May) offers trekkers an opportunity to experience the stunning beauty of the Himalayas when the weather is a...
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding and less crowded trekking routes, offering breathtaking mountain scenery, rich cultural expe...
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most breathtaking trekking routes, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience with stunning landscapes, ric...
