One of Nepal’s most well-known trekking destinations is the Manaslu area. Travelers seeking strenuous, unconventional paths, genuine trekking encounters, and stunning mountain views like doing the Manaslu Circuit trip and Manaslu Circuit trek with Tsum Valley in this area. It is not permitted to trek alone in this restricted area.
Trekking entails certain charges, such as lodging, meals, permits, fees for guides and porters, taxes, and numerous other incidentals. You must comprehend the costs and set aside money for that purpose if you want your Manaslu trek to go well and be amazing.
We will discuss all of the major and small costs associated with the Manaslu trip in this article. Additionally, you will discover how to cut costs and obtain the greatest offers on equipment, package discounts, etc.
Manaslu Trek Cost for Solo Trekkers and Groups
Foreign hikers are not permitted to trek alone in the Manaslu region due to its restricted status. You must sign up for an official Manaslu trek led by a recognized local trekking business, such as ours, and hike in a group of no fewer than two people while hiking with a guide. How thus can a lone hiker complete the Manaslu trail?
If you want to hike alone, you can either sign up for our scheduled departure group, which typically comprises of up to eight hikers, or we can find you a trekking partner so that you can complete this journey in a group of two.
When you trek with a large group, you can split the total expense, which lowers the cost per person. Choose a private trek if you don’t care about saving a few hundred bucks and want a more customized Manaslu experience.
Package Cost Breakdown for Manaslu Trek
Trekking Duration
The length of the trip is one of the main variables that affects how much the Manaslu trek costs. The short Manaslu Circuit trek will cost less than the regular Manaslu Circuit trek package. Similarly, due to its extensive schedule, the Manaslu Circuit trip with Tsum Valley continues to be the most costly.
Permit costs
A permit for the Manaslu Conservation Area, an Annapurna Conservation Permit, and a restricted area permit are needed if you plan to trek the Manaslu Circuit. The cost of the permit varies if Tsum Valley is on your itinerary.
Standard Manaslu trekking permit price
USD 100 per person for the first seven days from September to November, plus an extra USD 15 each day after that.
From December to August, the first seven days are $75 USD per person, with an extra $10 each day after that.
Cost of a Tsum Valley permit
From September to November, the first seven days cost USD 40 per person, plus an extra USD 7 every day after that.
From December to August, the first seven days cost USD 30 per person, plus an extra USD 7 every day after that.
Cost of Conservation Area Permit
SAARC nationals’ permit fee to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area is NPR 1500 per person.
For foreign nationals, the cost of an Annapurna Conservation Area permit is NPR 3000 per person.
Permit fees for SAARC nationals to enter Manaslu Conservation Area: NPR 1500 per person.
For foreign nationals, the cost of a Manaslu Conservation Area permit is NPR 3000 per person.
Off-season vs. peak season cost implications
There are two seasons to think about while planning your Manaslu trek: peak season and off-season. The total expense and experience of the walk are greatly impacted by both of these hiking seasons.
Although there are more people and more expensive prices during the peak season, it also provides great weather and a lively atmosphere. The off-season, on the other hand, offers a more tranquil experience and is more reasonably priced, but it also has less services and weather-related issues.
Either the peak season (spring and autumn) or the offseason (summer/monsoon and winter) are good options for the Manaslu trip, depending on your tastes, financial situation, and ability to withstand inclement weather.
The following are some important financial considerations.
Peak Season (October to November, March to May)
The higher total costs are the main financial impact of trekking at the busiest time of year. Due to increased demand, prices for food, lodging, and services—such as porters and guides—tend to climb.
There are more hikers on the Manaslu trip during the busiest time of year. This results in packed tea shops, few available rooms, and occasionally less solitude. Without advance reservations, it could also be difficult to get lodging.
Off-Season (June to September, December to February)
The obvious benefit of trekking in the off-season is the lower expense. Meals and lodging are frequently less expensive, and there might be room for negotiating.
There are fewer options for lodging and food during the off-season because several teahouses and lodges may close.
Accommodation and Meals Expenses
The package price includes lodging along the Manaslu circuit trek, with overnight accommodations in Kathmandu, in accordance with the plan. Daily rates for three basic meals and lodging range from USD 23 to USD 40 per person. You don’t need to worry about it because the package price includes this expense.
Similarly, you should set aside an extra $10 to $15 per person for services, extra drinks, and snacks that are not included in the package price. For example, a hot shower costs between $2 and $4, charging your gadget costs between $1 and $2, Wi-Fi costs between $5 and $6, etc.
Similarly, meals in Kathmandu are your responsibility. A good supper should cost between $8 and $12 per person. The price may change based on your choice of meals and beverages. Similarly, a good hotel in Kathmandu will set you back between USD 20 and USD 60 a night if you happen to stay an extra night.
Transportation Expenses
You must travel from/to Kathmandu to the trail’s beginning and finish in order to complete the Manaslu trek. You will either go in a local bus or jeep, depending on the size of the group and your preferences. Unless it is not part of the itinerary, this cost is also included in the package price, so you won’t have to pay extra for transportation.
Generally, a local bus from Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat costs between USD 10 and USD 15 per passenger, and a private jeep costs between USD 200 and USD 250. You can share the jeep with up to seven passengers.
Similarly, a local jeep from Dharapani to Kathmandu via Beshisahar costs between USD 30 and USD 50 per person. Similarly, renting a private jeep will run you between $300 and $500 USD.
Guide and Porter Expenses
It is mandatory to travel with a guide during the Manalsu trip. Additionally, the porter will ease your travel anxiety by lifting your bulky duffel bags. For the Manaslu trip, a trek guide costs between $35 and $40 per day.
Porters also typically charge between $25 and $30 per day. There is no need to set aside extra money for guides or porters because their costs are included in the package price for the Manaslu trek. But we advise you to set aside money for them.
Estimated Costs of Purchasing or Renting Gear
Depending on the quality of the equipment, whether you buy new or used things, and how long your journey is, the anticipated expenses of buying or renting gear for the Manaslu trek can change. If the person does not intend to use the equipment heavily after the walk, renting it can be a more affordable choice.
Nevertheless, buying can be a better option if you want to go on more hikes in the future or if you just want better equipment. Numerous gear stores that sell and provide trekking enthusiasts with rental services can be found in Thamel, Kathmandu.
How to find budget-friendly gear options
Here are some pointers for finding reasonably priced equipment for the Manaslu hike:
Purchasing used equipment
Numerous stores in Kathmandu’s well-known tourist district, Thamel, offer both new and used hiking equipment. Here, high-quality used equipment is available for a much lower price than brand-new stuff. Before making a purchase, make sure to check the items for wear and tear.
Hire equipment nearby
Trekking poles, backpacks, sleeping bags, and coats are just a few of the items available for hire at the many gear rental stores in Thamel.
Seek out bargains and savings.
Look for deals and promotions in Kathmandu as well as in your home country. In Thamel, a lot of outdoor retailers have seasonal sales.
Consult your relatives or acquaintances.
If you have experienced hikers for friends or family, they may be able to lend you or sell you their spare gear at a reduced price.
When purchasing, haggle
It’s customary to haggle over costs in neighborhood markets and stores. Never be scared to bargain, and always act with decency and civility.
Additional Costs
The package price includes all of the necessary costs for the Manaslu Base Camp trek. Permits, guides, travel, lodging, and food are all included. To guarantee a seamless and pleasurable journey, you should be informed of the extra expenses associated with the trek.
Some significant additional expenses for the Manaslu trip are listed below:
Travel Insurance
Although trekking in the Manaslu region is an exciting activity, there are risks involved. It’s not only a good idea, but a need to have comprehensive travel insurance to protect your safety and peace of mind.
Should you become ill or injured while trekking in the Manaslu region, your travel insurance should pay for emergency medical evacuation, hospital stays, and medical treatment. You can also add personal responsibility, lost or stolen possessions, trip cancellation/interruption, etc. in the travel insurance policy.
Advice on cutting the price of travel insurance
To locate the greatest offer that meets your demands, compare rates offered by several insurance companies.
Find out about group insurance packages if you’re going hiking with other people; some may even provide discounts.
As a perk of membership, several credit cards or organizations provide travel insurance. Verify if you have insurance already.
Nepal Travel Visa Fee
Depending on your intended route of travel, Nepal offers various visa categories. Typically, hikers need to obtain a tourist visa. Trekking, sightseeing, and recreational activities are all acceptable uses for this visa. While you are in Nepal, you can extend its 15, 30, or 90-day duration.
It should be noted that visa requirements and costs are subject to change. For the most recent information on visa requirements, visit the official website of the Department of Immigration, Nepal, or the closest Nepalese embassy or consulate.
The following was the price of a tourist visa to Nepal.
USD 30 for 15 days; USD 50 for 30 days
USD 125 for ninety days
International Flights Fare
You would need to arrange your own international travel as the Manaslu trek packages do not cover it. The price is mostly determined by the city or airport you are leaving from. Large global centers could have more affordable costs.
Airlines often offer cheaper tickets to those who book well in advance. Similarly, prices may be higher in the fall and spring, when tourism is at its highest, and lower in the monsoon and winter, when it is at its lowest.
How to Reduce the Cost of International Travel
To acquire cheaper airfares, begin your research and make your travel arrangements early in advance.
Airlines frequently run specials and promotions. Keep a look out for these chances to get cheap tickets.
To locate the greatest offers, use comparison websites and search engines for flights. Comparing prices can be facilitated by websites such as Expedia, Google Flights, Kayak, and Skyscanner.
While direct flights might be more convenient, connecting flights with layovers occasionally offer more affordable options.
Monuments Entrance Fee during the Kathmandu Day Tour
The majority of trekking programs cover the cost of museum and monument admission for your day trip in Kathmandu. To find out if this cost is included in the package or not, check your package cost exclusion.
You should budget between Rs. 200 and Rs. 1500 per site if the monument’s entrance charge is not included in the package price. The price varies depending on the monument.
Tips for guide, porter, guards, drivers, etc
Tipping is a norm in the travel sector of Nepal. It’s a method to express gratitude for the effort and support drivers, porters, guides, and guards put in throughout your Manaslu journey. Tipping is customary; it is $2 for drivers and guards, $5 for tour guides, and $100–200 for porters and trek guides.
You can tip your guides and porters together if you’re traveling in a group. The group members can split up the sum. If you’re not sure how much to tip, don’t be afraid to ask other hikers or your trekking company for advice.
Purchasing Memorabilia
A wide variety of handcrafted items are available, such as elaborate wood carvings, prayer flags, singing bowls, masks, traditional apparel, jewelry from Nepal, toys, hem bags, and thangka paintings. The item’s size and level of craftsmanship affect its price. Larger carvings and complex artwork can cost more than smaller goods like prayer flags, masks, and little carvings, which can range in price from USD 5 to USD 20.
Depending on their size and intricacy, paintings and thangkas can cost anywhere from twenty to several hundred dollars. Similar pricing ranges apply to well-known Pashmina sweaters, scarves, and shawls; they can range from USD 20 to USD 100 or more, depending on size and quality.
Additional Snacks, Drinks, and Stays
Typically, a Manaslu hiking package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day. However, you might want to overindulge in extra drinks or snacks. You should also factor in extra money in case you decide to stay in Nepal for a few extra days.
Along the path, bottled water can cost anywhere from $1 to $3 per bottle, and simple food like energy bars or dried fruits might cost anywhere from $1 to $3 each piece. Similarly, the price of hot drinks like coffee or tea can vary from USD 1 to USD 4. Similar to this, a night in Kathmandu costs anything from USD 30 to USD 60 or more.
Unexpected Costs and Situations
While trekking in Nepal’s isolated Manaslu region offers an amazing adventure, there are several unknowns and probable unanticipated costs involved. A safe and pleasurable walk requires planning for unforeseen expenses and emergencies. The following list of possible unforeseen costs and tips for anticipating them:
Unexpected events, like severe weather or trail closures, may force you to spend the night somewhere you hadn’t intended.
In remote places, mobile network coverage may not always be dependable. It can be expensive to utilize satellite phones or make emergency calls.
In Kathmandu, get a local SIM card to improve connectivity in certain places. It is a far more economical choice.
Set aside money from your budget for an emergency fund to pay for unforeseen costs. This fund serves as a safety net in case of unexpected medical expenses, lodging needs, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Carry energy-boosting foods and techniques for purifying water. In the mountains, you could have to pay three or five times as much for the same munchies. Therefore, bring enough supplies for the entire hike.
Cost-Saving Tips Without Compromising Safety and Experience
The following advice can help you avoid spending extra money when trekking Mount Manaslu. You need to be aware of your spending if you have a limited budget. Here are some ideas for cutting costs:
You can cut down on individual costs by splitting fees such as transportation, porters, and guides with other trekkers. For this reason, we advise trekking in groups.
If you’re a frequent traveler, you might be able to save money on your airfare and lodging by using travel awards, miles, or points.
Don’t spend the money on the upscale lodging and dining options.
Set aside money for extra drinks and snacks. Take care when selecting expensive menu items. Think about being vegetarian because it’s usually less expensive.
Ask in cafés, restaurants, hotels, shops, etc. if your age group receives any special discounts if you’re a student or a young traveler.
You may avoid purchasing bottled water along the way, which can be costly and harmful to the environment, by using refillable water bottles.
Along the walk, there are teahouses that charge for hot showers, WiFi, electricity, etc. To be prepared and save money, always carry body wipes, a local sim card, and power banks.
Gaining some basic communication skills in Nepali will help you interact with people and bargain for lower costs.
How to Find the Best Deals and Discounts
We advise comparing the costs and services offered by various trekking companies in order to obtain the best deal for the Manaslu trip. With the best service, Outiffer Himalaya offers the Manaslu trek at the lowest rate.
We also provide a ton of festive and seasonal discounts. Similarly, group reservations for the Manaslu Circuit trek will result in a cheaper package price. The cost of the bundle will decrease per person as the group size increases. Discounts are also available for early reservations.
Conclusion
The whole Manaslu trek experience can be greatly influenced by your budget, however there are important things to keep in mind. Above all, keep in mind that safety should never be sacrificed in order to save a few pennies. Purchasing permits, high-quality equipment, and knowledgeable guides and porters is an investment in your happiness and well-being.
We at Sherpa Expedition and Trekking are proud to be your go-to trekking companion, offering not just professional advice but also a dedication to safety and an unforgettable experience. We guarantee that our services meet up to the promise that every dollar spent should be used to support the once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Finally, remember the unexpected. Set aside money for unforeseen costs, goodies from the area, and any emergencies that may come up while on your journey. To really appreciate the beauty, culture, and hardships of the Manaslu hike without worrying about money, be ready for everything.
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