If you are planning to trek in the Manaslu circuit and wondering what the cost might be for the Indians who are willing to do the trek, you have clicked on the correct site, as in this blog we will be discussing the Manaslu circuit trek cost for Indians, as the costs for Nepalese nationals, Indian nationals, and foreign nationals are different depending upon the accommodations, transportations, permits, gear rentals, meals, and extra costs.

Let’s discuss in detail the Manaslu circuit trek for Indians:

Transportation

Transportation is the first cost that you will be spending for the Manaslu circuit trek. As you will be arriving in Nepal from India. If you are using flights, then your cost for a round trip will be around INR 30,000, and if you are using a vehicle, then your costs depend on the places you are staying in; commonly it’s INR 5,000 to reach Nepal by land. After reaching Nepal, you will need to reach the Jagat village, which is the starting point for the Manaslu trek, which will cost you around NPR 25000 per vehicle, which can be shared among your trekking group or fellow trekkers.

After that, when ending your trek in Dharapani, you will again need to pay extra for the return to Kathmandu, costing around NPR 25000. But if you are a backpacker, then you can use the shared public vehicles, which will cost you NPR 2000 for reaching Jagat and NPR 2000 for reaching Kathmandu.

Suggested Read: How to Reach the Manaslu Circuit Trek Starting Point from India?

Accommodations

After transportation, another cost you will be paying extra money for is the accommodations in the cities and during the trek. If you are staying in the standard hotel, then it is NPR 3000 per night for the city. And when trekking the lower region of the Manaslu circuit, it will cost you around NPR 1000 per room on a twin-sharing basis, and in the upper region, like Samagaun and Samdo, the cost will be NPR 2000 on a twin-sharing basis.

You cannot have the solo room during the trek in the higher and lower regions as well, as there are limited guest houses and tea houses, making everyone share so that everyone can stay in a warm and cozy place. The teahouses are also basic in facilities, due to which you will need to pay extra for the electricity and wifi.

Permits

Another place that impacts your trekking cost is the permits. As the Manaslu region lies within the Manaslu Conservation Area and Manaslu Restricted Area, you will need permits like the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Restricted Area Permit (RAP), and as you will be exiting via the Dharapani, which lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, you will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) as well.

The restricted area permit price is 100 USD for 1 week and a 15 USD add-on, and during the off-seasons, it’s 75 USD for the first week and a 10 USD add-on per day. The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit is NPR 3000, and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is NPRS 3000 for 15 days.

Guide and Porter

A guide and a porter are very essential for you, as the Manaslu circuit trek is inside a restricted area, and trekking inside the restricted area without a guide is prohibited, due to which it’s necessary to have a guide with you, and if you have heavy, loaded bags, then it’s necessary to have a porter as well. The guide will charge you from 20 USD to 40 USD depending on the experience of the guide.

And a guide is necessary as well during the trek, as he will guide you through the trial for paths, foods, accommodations, exercises, and everything, and during your emergency, the guide will also be one of the first to help you, so always hire a guidefrom a reputable trekking agency like us. Porter will also charge you 25 USD to 40 USD for a 20 kg weight limit. Your total costs for guide and porter combined will be 60 USD per day on average.

Foods and Meals During the Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost for Indian Nationals

Foods and meals during the Manaslu circuit trek are another cost where you will be spending a good amount of money, as it’s for your safety and energy, as you will need to eat a balanced and healthy diet to overcome the muscle soreness, soreness in the muscles, and joint pains. For Indian trekkers, it’s important to note that while Nepal and India share cultural similarities, traditional Indian dishes may not be readily available throughout the Manaslu region.

Most teahouses and lodges serve basic Nepali and Tibetan-style meals like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), Tibetan bread, pancakes, and eggs. Vegetarian options are widely available, but the taste and spice level might be milder compared to Indian standards. On average you will be spending INR 2000 to INR 3000 per day for meals and water.

Miscellaneous Costs During the Manaslu Circuit Trek for Indian Nationals

Miscellaneous costs during the Manaslu Circuit Trek for Indians can add up quickly, even though they may seem minor individually. Common expenses include charging electronic devices (around NPR 200–500 per device), hot showers (NPR 300–500), and limited Wi-Fi access in some villages (NPR 300–800). Additionally, trekkers may need to pay for bottled water, snacks, toilet paper, laundry (if available), and occasional trekking gear replacements or rentals. Tips for guides and porters are also customary and should be factored into your budget. While some may choose to use a Nepali SIM card for mobile data, coverage is unreliable in higher regions. To stay prepared, it’s wise to carry personal essentials like power banks, toiletries, and first-aid items.

Frequently Asked Questions about Manaslu Circuit Trek cost for Indian Nationals

How much does the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost for Indians?

The total cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek for Indian trekkers typically ranges from ₹45,000 to ₹70,000, depending on group size, guide/porter services, meals, permits, and accommodation choices.

What are the permit costs for Indian citizens for the Manaslu Trek?

Indian citizens need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Permit costs are slightly lower for SAARC nationals, including Indians. Expect to pay around $70–USD 100 total, depending on the season. You can check the updated permit costs from here as well.

Are permits cheaper for Indians compared to other foreigners?

Yes, SAARC nationals like Indians receive discounts on MCAP and ACAP permits, although the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) has a fixed rate for all.

How much do meals cost per day on the Manaslu trek for Indians?

On average, Indian trekkers should budget around NPR 2,000 to NPR 3,000 per day (₹1,200–₹1,900) for meals and drinks during the trek.

Is accommodation expensive on the Manaslu Circuit for Indians?

Accommodation is generally affordable, costing around NPR 500 to NPR 800 per night. In some villages, if you eat at the same teahouse, rooms may be offered for free or at a minimal charge.

Do Indian trekkers need to hire a guide for the Manaslu Trek?

Yes, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory for all trekkers in the Manaslu region, including Indian nationals. Guide charges range from $25 to USD 35 per day.

Is hiring a porter necessary for Indians on the Manaslu Circuit?

Hiring a porter is optional but highly recommended. Porter costs are around $20 to USD 25 per day, and they help carry up to 20–25 kg of gear.

What’s the total budget for a solo Indian trekker on the Manaslu Circuit?

A solo Indian trekker should budget around ₹60,000 to ₹75,000, including permits, guide fees, food, lodging, transport, and miscellaneous costs.

Can Indian groups reduce the cost of the Manaslu Trek?

Yes, group treks can significantly reduce the overall cost per person by splitting the guide fee, porter fee, and transportation costs.

Are there any hidden or extra costs on the Manaslu trek for Indians?

Yes, miscellaneous expenses like hot showers, device charging, snacks, Wi-Fi, water purification, and tips can add NPR 10,000–15,000 to your total cost.

What is the cost of transportation from Kathmandu to the Manaslu trailhead?

Transportation (public bus or private jeep) from Kathmandu to Soti Khola or Machha Khola costs ₹1,000 to ₹4,000 depending on the mode and comfort level.

Can Indians do the Manaslu Circuit Trek without an agency?

No, due to the restricted area status, solo trekking is not allowed. You must go through a registered trekking agency with a licensed guide.

How many days is the Manaslu Trek, and how does that affect the cost?

The trek usually takes 12 to 16 days. Longer treks naturally cost more due to extra days of food, lodging, and guide/porter wages.

Do Indians need travel insurance for the Manaslu Trek?

While not mandatory for Indian citizens, it’s highly recommended to have travel or medical insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergencies.

Are Indian vegetarian meals available during the Manaslu Trek?

While Indian dishes are rare, vegetarian options like dal bhat, noodles, rice, potatoes, and porridge are widely available throughout the trail.

Can Indians carry their food to save money on the trek?

Yes, you can carry ready-to-eat Indian food (like theplas, MTR packs, or dry fruits), but weight and convenience may limit how much you can carry.

Are Indian SIM cards usable during the Manaslu Trek?

No, Indian SIMs won’t work. You can buy a local Nepali SIM (NTC or Ncell) in Kathmandu, but the signal is limited on the trek.

What currency should Indian hikers carry during the trek?

Carry Nepali Rupees (NPR) in cash. ATMs are only available in Kathmandu, so withdraw enough before leaving for the trek.

Are there ATM or money exchange options on the trail for Indians?

No, there are no ATMs or money changers on the Manaslu trail. You must exchange or withdraw money in Kathmandu before the trek.

How can Indian travelers book a budget-friendly Manaslu Circuit trek package?

You can book through local Nepali trekking agencies like us as we offer budget packages tailored for Indian trekkers, usually costing around ₹45,000 to ₹60,000 with shared services.

Tags: circuit trekking, Hiking, manaslu circuit trek, manaslu trek, nepal, trekking