Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost for Nepali Trekkers in 2025

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost for Nepali Trekkers in 2025 is more budget-friendly than it is for foreign tourists, yet the overall expenses depend on several factors such as the duration of the trek, the route you take, the type of accommodation, and how you plan your logistics. For most Nepali trekkers, the cost can range from NPR 15,000 to NPR 30,000 for the entire trek, especially if done independently or in a group. This includes transportation (like a bus or jeep to Soti Khola and back from Besisahar), permits, meals, and basic teahouse accommodations along the way.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is among the most spectacular trekking routes of Nepal, offering panoramic views of Mount Manaslu (8,163m), peaceful villages, and a diverse cultural blend of Tibetan and Gurung lifestyles. While foreign trekkers pay thousands of dollars for this journey, Nepali trekkers can manage it for one-tenth of that amount.

If you’re a Nepali citizen planning to trek Manaslu in 2025, then this detailed guide will walk you through the total cost from transportation and permits to accommodation and gear.

Trekking Permits for Nepali Citizens

One of the best things about being a Nepali trekker is the extremely low permit cost. While foreign tourists are required to obtain a restricted area permit on top of paying costly conservation fees, Nepalis only have to pay for two conservation permits: the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). Both are priced at Rs. 100 only. That comes to legal and responsible trekking in the region for a total permit fee of only Rs. 200.

Transport Cost for Manaslu Circuit for Nepali

The normal trek start point is Machha Khola or Soti Khola, both of which can be reached via Arughat. You can take a local bus from Kathmandu to Arughat for Rs. 600 to Rs. 800 and change to a jeep to reach the trailhead for another Rs. 600 to Rs. 1000. Or, for those who prefer to travel directly, shared jeeps are also available from Kathmandu to Machha Khola for about Rs. 1200 to Rs. 1500. Adding your return journey, you can consider your total transport expense to be in the range of Rs. 1,600 to Rs. 3,000.

Suggested Read: Top 8 Best places to visit in Kathmandu

Trail Accommodation Costs for Nepali

Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is simple and inexpensive. Since you are a Nepali citizen, you tend to get lower prices compared to foreign tourists. For the lower villages of Jagat or Soti Khola, the price of a night in a teahouse is Rs. 300 to Rs. 500. For the higher villages of Dharmashala or Samagaun, you’ll be paying Rs. 500 to Rs. 800. A typical 12 to 14-day trek itinerary will cost you a total of Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 7,000 as accommodation expenses.

Food and Beverage Expenses for Locals

Even for Nepalis, food prices rise with altitude because all the supplies are carried by manual porters or mules. A Dal Bhat meal will set you back Rs. 250 at lower altitudes and up to Rs. 600 near the Larkya La Pass. Noodles, eggs, and fried rice cost Rs. 200–500, and drinks such as tea and coffee cost Rs. 50–150. If you spend between Rs. 1,200 and Rs. 1,500 a day on food and drinks, you’ll spend around Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 18,000 for the whole trek duration.

Trekking Without a Guide or Porter?

Nepalis, in contrast to foreign trekkers, are not required to hire a licensed guide for the Manaslu region. This gives you the option of traveling independently or bringing a group without any extra cost. However, if you’re new to trekking or enjoy company, hiring a porter (Rs. 1,200–1,500/day) or a guide (Rs. 2,000–2,500/day) is still a great idea. Traveling in a group allows you to split these charges, which reduces your cost per person significantly.

Trekking Gear Cost for Nepali: Buy or Rent?

In case you do not already possess the necessary gear, you will need to invest in or rent some of the basic equipment. It costs around Rs. 100 to Rs. 150 a day to rent a sleeping bag or a down jacket. It will cost around Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 5,000 to purchase good trekking shoes. Additional necessities like thermals, gloves, trekking poles, and sunglasses may cost another Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 8,000. If you’re ingenious, take a loan from friends or rent from Thamel to limit your total expense to Rs. 2,000–5,000 for the trek.

Hidden and Miscellaneous Expenses

Small costs such as device charging (Rs. 100–300 per session), hot showers (Rs. 200–400), and mobile data top-ups (Rs. 300–500) can accumulate over your trek. It’s wise to carry cash, as there are no ATMs along the route. Budgeting Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,000 for these miscellaneous needs is practical and ensures you’re not caught off guard.

Final Cost Breakdown for Nepali Trekkers

Now, let’s tally it all up. If you are trekking alone without a guide or porter and already have most of your gear, your total expense will be between Rs. 20,000 and Rs. 30,000. If you choose to employ hired help and purchase or rent gear, the cost can rise to Rs. 35,000 to Rs. 50,000. Either way, this is a steal for a life-changing experience in the Himalayas. You can check our Manaslu Circuit Trek Package.

Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Worth It for Nepali Citizens?

Absolutely. With good planning, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers one of the best value-for-money experiences for Nepali travelers. You get stunning scenery, access to remote Himalayan culture, and a physically rewarding challenge. All this, for less than what you would pay for a luxury vacation in Nepal’s cities.

The feeling of standing atop Larkya La Pass, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and windswept silence, is indescribable. Whether your reason for trekking is self-discovery, exercise, photography, or the desire to escape the chaos of city life, Manaslu never fails to impress.

If you’re a student, adventure lover, or trekking enthusiast looking for help with transportation, budget gear, or group bookings, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our local team is here to help Nepali trekkers explore their backyard with comfort, safety, and affordability.