To organize the Manaslu Circuit Trek in March 2026, it is necessary to be prepared not only physically but also with a realistic and clear understanding of the financial aspects. Manaslu operates under restricted-area laws, which significantly affect how much trekkers need to spend, unlike more familiar trekking routes in Nepal.
To help you plan comfortably and ensure you are not met with unpleasant financial surprises along the way, this article provides a clear, item-by-item breakdown of trekking costs, particularly for foreign trekkers visiting in March.
Why the Manaslu Circuit Trek Is More Expensive Than Other Nepal Treks
The Manaslu Circuit is more expensive than the Annapurna or Langtang. First, due to its restricted-area status, it is governed by special regulations aimed at limiting tourism impact, preserving local culture, and ensuring safety in a remote Himalayan region. Trekkers are not allowed to hike independently or make unofficial arrangements upon arrival.
Trekkers must travel:
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In a group of at least two people
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With a licensed trekking guide
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Through a government-registered trekking agency
Second, the region is remote, with limited road access and minimal infrastructure. Supplies must be transported over long distances by mule or porter, which increases accommodation and food costs, particularly at higher elevations.
Finally, Manaslu receives fewer trekkers compared to mainstream routes. Lower trekking volume results in reduced economies of scale, which naturally leads to higher prices.
Factors That Influence Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost in March 2026
The final cost of your trek is not fixed but influenced by several variables. Even trekkers following the same route in March may end up with noticeably different budgets depending on timing, choices, and logistics.
Trekking Season Demand
The spring trekking season in Nepal begins in March as weather conditions improve and roads gradually reopen. As the month progresses, demand for experienced guides and porters increases, which can raise daily service rates.
Teahouses also begin increasing prices as occupancy rises, especially in popular villages during busier periods. Transportation costs can vary as well, with shared jeeps filling quickly and private vehicles becoming more expensive due to higher demand.
Group Size
Group size directly affects how trekking costs are distributed. When fixed expenses are shared among more people, the per-person cost generally decreases without compromising safety or service quality. This is especially noticeable when splitting:
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Guide fees
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Transportation costs
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Agency service charges
For solo travelers, joining another trekker or a small group can be a practical and cost-effective way to meet the minimum group requirement for Manaslu.
Trek Duration
The standard Manaslu Circuit Trek takes around 12 to 14 days, though the duration can vary depending on pace and acclimatization needs. Extending the itinerary increases expenses related to accommodation, meals, guide and porter wages, and daily logistics.
Shorter itineraries may appear cheaper, but can increase altitude-related risks if acclimatization is rushed. In most cases, a balanced itinerary offers the best combination of cost efficiency and safety.
Comfort Expectations
Comfort expectations play a major role in determining overall costs on the Manaslu Circuit. Basic teahouse trekking focuses on simplicity, shared rooms, and local meals, keeping daily expenses relatively low.
Comfort-oriented arrangements may include private rooms where available, private jeep transfers, increased porter support, and more frequent hot meals and beverages. While these upgrades improve convenience, they also steadily increase the total budget.
Economic Variables
External economic factors can also influence trek costs and are beyond the control of trekkers and agencies. Government-regulated permit fees may change before 2026, and fuel prices directly impact transportation expenses in remote areas.
Exchange rate fluctuations between the Nepalese rupee and foreign currencies can also affect overall costs. For these reasons, the figures mentioned in this guide should be treated as estimates rather than fixed guarantees.
Unavoidable Costs to Consider
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is strictly regulated by government rules, which means certain expenses are fixed and unavoidable for all foreign trekkers. These required costs support controlled tourism, environmental protection, and safety in remote Himalayan regions.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
The highest required cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the Restricted Area Permit. This permit is issued only through registered trekking agencies and is directly tied to your itinerary and trekking duration. The permit system helps manage visitor numbers and preserve the cultural integrity of the region. Due to these regulations, the permit represents a substantial portion of the overall budget and cannot be bypassed.
For March (non-peak season):
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Charged per week.
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Additional charges apply for extra days.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
The MCAP is a fixed conservation fee applied to all trekkers entering the Manaslu region. The collected funds are used for environmental conservation, trail maintenance, and local community development. Unlike the restricted area permit, this fee is not dependent on trek length or season and is required regardless of the duration of stay.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
The ACAP is required because the Manaslu Circuit Trek exits into the Annapurna Conservation Area at Dharapani. Although most of the trek lies within the Manaslu region, this permit is necessary to complete the route. The fee supports conservation and infrastructure maintenance in the Annapurna area. This cost is often overlooked by trekkers but is strictly checked at official checkpoints.
Government Requirements Include:
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A certified guide.
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Permit processing through a registered agency.
Licensed Guide & Agency Processing
Unlicensed guides are not permitted on the Manaslu Circuit under current trekking regulations. Registered agencies manage all permit paperwork and logistics in compliance with government requirements. These services also include guide insurance and legal responsibility during the trek. As a result, these costs are standardized and apply to all trekkers.
Guide and Porter Cost Breakdown
Guide Costs
The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires a licensed guide, which is essential for logistics and safety. Guides handle route planning and altitude management, coordinate with teahouses, and resolve unforeseen challenges such as changes in weather or health issues. Their daily rates are based on professional experience, legal authorization, and responsibilities in a remote high-altitude environment. Therefore, guide costs vary based on several factors, including:
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Experience.
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Language proficiency.
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High-altitude training.
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Insurance coverage.
A professional guide ensures:
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Safety on high passes.
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Cultural interpretation.
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Smooth navigation in weather-affected conditions.
Porter Costs
Although porters are not mandatory, hiring one is highly recommended by most international Manaslu Circuit trekkers. The physical effort of carrying a full pack is significant due to the trek’s length, high altitude, and unpredictable weather conditions. By hiring a porter, trekkers can focus on acclimatization, stability, and enjoyment rather than fatigue. In practical terms, a porter:
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Reduces physical strain.
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Supports local employment.
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Enhances enjoyment and safety of the trek.
Ethical trekking practices emphasize fair wages, insurance, and appropriate load limits, all of which affect the overall cost.
Food and Drink Costs During the Trek
The cost of food on the Manaslu Circuit Trek continues to rise with altitude and distance from road access. The area is remote; therefore, all provisions must be carried by porters or pack animals, which directly affects pricing in higher villages. Food is designed to provide sufficient energy for long trekking days, with menu options becoming more limited at higher elevations. It is important to plan a realistic daily budget for food and beverages, especially on a two-week trek.
Expect:
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Three meals per day
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Simple yet high-calorie meals
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Higher prices for meat, bottled drinks, and imported snacks
Hot beverages such as tea, coffee, and ginger lemon are common, but their costs accumulate over a multi-day trek.
Transportation Costs: Getting There and Back
The Manaslu Circuit Trek involves a significant amount of transportation, as the trailheads cannot be easily reached via paved roads. Travel includes long drives on rough roads, and levels of comfort can vary greatly depending on the mode of transport used. March is also a seasonal period that impacts vehicle availability and pricing. Balancing cost, time, and comfort in transportation can affect the overall trekking experience.
Kathmandu to Machha Khola/Soti Khola
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Public bus (cheapest, most time-consuming)
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Shared jeep (a balance of convenience and price)
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Private jeep (most expensive, but fastest)
Dharapani to Kathmandu/Pokhara
Most trekkers return from Dharapani by:
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Shared jeep to Besisahar
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Connecting bus onward
Transport costs are influenced by road conditions, fuel prices, and seasonal demand
Additional and Hidden Costs Many Trekkers Miss
Beyond major costs like permits and guides, small daily costs are often overlooked in the planning process. These costs increase with altitude, where facilities are more limited. While each expense may not seem significant initially, they accumulate as the trek progresses. Awareness of these costs can help prevent budget surprises on the trail.
These minor costs often surprise first-time trekkers:
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Electronic device charging
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Hot showers
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Wi-Fi access
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Snacks and bottled water
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Tips for guides and porters
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Additional days due to weather or acclimatization
Though individually small, these costs add up quickly over two weeks.
Total Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Scenarios (March 2026)
The pricing for the Manaslu Circuit Trek can vary greatly depending on the trekking style, services chosen, and group size. To help international trekkers plan effectively, it’s useful to consider three basic scenarios (budget, mid-range, and premium). Each scenario reflects different levels of comfort, support, and convenience.
Budget Trekker (Shared Services)
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Basic teahouses
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Shared jeep transport
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Minimal extras
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Estimated total: Affordable with careful budget management
Mid-Range Trekker (Most Common)
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Professional guide
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Porter support
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Balanced comfort and safety
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Estimated total: The most popular and comfortable option for most international trekkers
Luxury/Comfort-Oriented Trekker
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Private transport
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Maximum porter support
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Flexible itinerary
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Estimated total: More expensive, more comfortable, and more convenient
Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Worth the Cost?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is generally regarded as one of the most gratifying treks in Nepal, although it is more expensive than most trekking routes. The higher cost reflects its remote location, restricted-area regulations, and required services, but it also adds to a unique and authentic trekking experience. Trekkers must weigh the investment against the incredible natural scenery, cultural intimacy, and isolation the trail presents. For those who find the trek worth every dollar, the experience clearly justifies the investment.
For trekkers seeking:
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Fewer crowds
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True Himalayan culture
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Dramatic mountain scenery
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A quieter, more immersive environment
The Manaslu Circuit offers an incredibly rewarding experience that transcends its cost, providing a rare opportunity for such an exceptional adventure.
FAQs
1) How does traveling in March affect accommodation prices on the Manaslu Circuit?
The spring trekking season starts in March, which means teahouses gradually raise their rates as demand increases. In villages such as Samagaon and Dharamsala, which are at higher altitudes, prices are particularly affected by limited supply. Booking in advance through an agency may secure better rates.
2) Are there seasonal surcharges for guides and porters in March?
Yes, because March is the beginning of the spring trekking season, experienced guides and porters may charge higher daily rates due to high demand. Rate negotiations typically occur through licensed agencies, so planning ahead is advised.
3) How much do trekking insurance costs add to the overall budget?
Trekking insurance covering high-altitude hiking, emergency evacuation, and medical emergencies can cost an average of $3–7 per day, depending on the coverage. For a 12–14-day hike, this represents a noticeable addition to the budget, but it is strongly recommended for safety and to meet professional guide requirements.
4) Do transportation costs rise due to early spring road conditions?
In March, roads to Machha Khola and Soti Khola may remain challenging due to lingering winter conditions. Jeep operators may offer safer vehicles at a premium price or charge additional fees for 4x4 service. This should be included in the total transportation cost for travelers.
5) How much should trekkers budget for snacks and energy supplements in March?
Cold morning temperatures and long trekking days increase demand for high-energy foods, protein bars, and bottled beverages. Budget approximately $3–7 USD per day, with slightly higher costs in remote villages due to supply transportation challenges.
6) Does March trekking affect hot shower and charging fees?
In March, a few higher-altitude teahouses might charge more for a hot shower or electricity due to a lack of fuel and generators. Trekkers should budget an extra $2–5 per night if they plan to use these services regularly.
7) Are there extra permit fees if a trek is extended due to weather delays in March?
Yes, if trekkers extend their itinerary due to snow, wind, or altitude acclimatization needs, additional days will incur extra RAP or MCAP fees. These are normally calculated in advance by the agencies; however, in case of unexpected weather, the overall permit cost would be slightly higher.