Manaslu Circuit Budget Trekking-12 Days

Nepal Visa Info

Getting a visa to enter Nepal is easy, either obtain it online or on arrival visa after arriving at Kathmandu airport. If you want to do it online go through the website of the Immigration Department of Nepal. Ensure that your passport has at least 6 months of validation. If you are planning to get it at Kathmandu airport, carry a copy of your passport-size photo. The visa fees in Nepal are:

• 15 Days Visa costs $30
• 30 Days Visa Costs $45
• 90 Days Visa Costs $125

Responsible Tourism

Responsible Tourism isn’t related to cost but it is one of the major factors to follow during the whole trek. Trekkers must follow certain guidelines inside the restricted region socially and culturally. Performing illegal activities inside the conservation area is strictly prohibited for safe and secure journeys. Likewise, during your stays in the teahouses, respect the lifestyle of the local people. Greet the local people with a smile and gesture to them with “Namaste”. Doing so reflects the sign of respect among each other. Moreover, while visiting the monasteries and temples, wear the simplest clothes as a sign of respect for Buddhism.

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance is the most crucial part of the trip, especially for budget travelers. Most budget travelers hesitate to get travel insurance to save on the cost of the trip. So, do not forget to get good travel insurance that can save your life during the trek. Even on a low budget, travelers can get quality travel insurance that covers necessary medical bills, rescue operations, trip cancellations, and other aspects.

Best Time to go on the Manaslu Trail

The prime time for undertaking the Manaslu trek is generally considered to be the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the most stable weather conditions and clear mountain views. However, these are also the peak tourist seasons, which can translate to higher costs, particularly for permits during the autumn.

• Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures, clear skies, and the added beauty of blooming rhododendrons along the trails. Importantly for budget travelers, the permit costs for the restricted area are typically lower during the spring compared to autumn.
• Autumn (September to November) is another popular choice, characterized by cool, dry weather and exceptional visibility of the Himalayan peaks. However, this season sees the highest number of trekkers, and the cost of the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit is at its peak.

Teahouse Trek as an accommodation in Manaslu.

Accommodation along the Manaslu Circuit is primarily offered in teahouses, which are basic guesthouses. These teahouses provide simple rooms with beds, mattresses, and blankets. The cost of accommodation is generally quite affordable, but it can vary based on the altitude and the trekking season. At lower altitudes, such as in Soti Khola and Machha Khola, a basic room typically costs between USD 5 and USD 10 per night. As you ascend to mid-altitude villages like Namrung and Samagaon, prices might increase slightly to around USD 10 to USD 12. In higher-altitude areas like Samdo and Dharamsala, where supplies are more difficult to transport, the cost can range from USD 10 to USD 15 per night. During the less crowded shoulder and off-seasons, it's often possible to find rooms for even less than USD 5 per night, even at higher altitudes.

Meal items and it’s cost in the Manaslu Region.

Meal options in the teahouses along the Manaslu Circuit primarily consist of hearty and simple meals, with the staple dish being Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles). Other common options include noodles, soups, and basic Western dishes like fried rice or pasta. The cost of meals, similar to accommodation, tends to increase with altitude due to the remoteness and transportation challenges. For breakfast, you can expect to pay around USD 4 to USD 8. Lunch and dinner typically range from USD 8 to USD 10 each, although a plate of Dal Bhat might be available for around USD 5 to USD 10 even at lower altitudes. In higher-altitude areas like Samdo, a simple meal like Dal Bhat could cost between USD 8 and USD 10. Therefore, for the three meals in a day total cost would range from USD 25-30 per day.

How to go to Machhekhola on budget, the starting point of Manaslu Trek?

Reaching the trailhead of the Manaslu Circuit, typically Soti Khola or Machha Khola, from Kathmandu involves a scenic but often bumpy journey. The most budget-friendly option is to take a local bus from Kathmandu to either of these starting points. A local bus ride to Soti Khola or MachhaKhola usually costs around USD 10 to USD 20 per person each way. While this is the most affordable choice, the journey can take anywhere from 7 to 10 hours and might involve multiple stops along the way.

For the return journey from the end of the trek (often Dharapani or Besisahar), similar options are available. You can take a local bus from Besisahar back to Kathmandu for around USD 15 to USD 20 per person. Shared jeeps might also be available from Dharapani to Besisahar for approximately USD 25 to USD 35 per person, followed by a bus to Kathmandu. Therefore, the transportation altogether would cost between USD 80-100 per person from Kathmandu to Kathmandu.

Trekking Guide cost for Budget Manaslu Circuit

Current regulations for trekking in the Manaslu region mandate that all trekkers must be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide from Nepal. Also, they must travel in a group of at least two people to obtain the necessary permits. This means that hiring a guide is not optional but a mandatory factor that adds to your cost. The daily wage for a licensed and experienced trekking guide typically ranges from USD 25 to USD 50, depending on their experience and the trekking agency you book through. This daily cost usually includes the guide's food, accommodation, and insurance. Overland Trek Nepal possesses a regular and experienced trekking guide who is from the same region and has been to that part of the Manaslu several times.

Where can I get the required Manaslu Trekking permit?

As previously mentioned, trekking in the Manaslu region requires obtaining the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Overland Trek Nepal is a government-registered and trusted trekking agency in Nepal that can issue all the required permits. The cost of the permit: MRAP costs USD 75 from December to August, & USD 10 per day for additional days. Likewise, during September to November MRAP costs USD 100 per person, & USD 15 for additional days. Lastly, MCAP and ACAP cost USD 25 per person for each permit.

Fitness and Preparation for the Manaslu Adventure

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is generally considered to be of moderate to challenging difficulty, requiring a reasonable level of physical fitness. Budget travelers should be prepared for long days of walking (5-7 hours on average), often on uneven and rocky terrain, and for significant altitude gains, culminating in the crossing of Larkya La Pass at over 5,106 meters.

Prior physical preparation is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trek. This should include focusing on cardiovascular fitness through activities like running, swimming, or cycling, as well as strength training, particularly for your legs, core, and shoulders, to help you carry your backpack and navigate the challenging terrain. Regular hiking practice, ideally on varied terrain and with a loaded backpack, will also help you build the necessary endurance and get your body accustomed to the demands of multi-day trekking.

Essential gear for the budget Manaslu Trek

Essential gear for the Manaslu trek includes sturdy, well-worn hiking boots with good ankle support, layers of warm clothing to adapt to changing temperatures, a waterproof and windproof jacket, a warm hat and gloves, a comfortable backpack (50-70 liters), a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, and trekking poles for stability. Budget travelers can save money by layering clothing effectively instead of buying specialized heavy gear, and by renting items like sleeping bags and down jackets in Kathmandu. Other important items include a headlamp, a reusable water bottle, water purification tablets or a filter, sunscreen, and a basic first-aid kit. If you do not want to buy sleeping bags, trekking poles, and down jackets, you can hire trekking gear in Kathmandu with a few charges. You can get all the details below in the picture.

How to book a budget trek in Nepal like Manaslu?

If you are on a limited budget and want to explore the Manaslu Region. Then you would be wondering how to book budget Manaslu Trek online. To book the trek with Overland Trek Nepal, you can directly choose the departure date from our package and fill up the form. Otherwise, if you need a customizedManaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary, you can feel free to contact our travel expert via WhatsApp at +9779841920870 or email us. Also, when you book the trek with us, we request our clients to make an advance payment of around 20% as a confirmation. For the payment options, you can check our Bank Information through the Payment Policy which is safe and secure.

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Your Dream Manaslu Trek is Within Reach, Trek with Overland Trek Nepal

The majestic Manaslu region offers an unforgettable trekking experience that combines stunning natural beauty with rich cultural immersion. While the Himalayas might seem like an expensive destination, Overland Trek Nepal presents you with the best Manaslu Circuit Budget Trekking.OurManaslu Trek Guide service will provide unforgettable trekking adventures and lead you to your destination safely.