Are you considering trekking to Everest Base Camp but are uncertain about whether to undertake the journey? Are you curious about what makes this trek truly special? Worry no more. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about Everest and explain why it deserves a place on your bucket list. Without further delay, let’s begin.
Are you planning to trek the Himalayas and wondering how your body handles high altitude? What are the symptoms of altitude sickness? How can you prevent it, and what should you do if it strikes you on the trail? Is altitude sickness dangerous, and can you still trek safely to Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, or Langtang Valley without any risk? If these questions are running through your mind, don’t worry, we’ve got every answer covered. Let’s start with a detailed guide on:
Are you dreaming of trekking to Everest Base Camp solo, but wondering, Is it really safe? Can you complete the trail without a guide? How do you handle altitude sickness, food, accommodation, navigation, or emergencies while trekking solo? What will your daily budget look like, and what should you pack for such a journey? If these questions are running through your mind, you’re not alone. Many solo adventurers share the same excitement mixed with uncertainty.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is a dream for many who are into adventure, but it’s also one of the most challenging treks in the world, reaching altitudes above 5,300 meters. Due to the extreme conditions, hiring a guide and a porter is not a luxury-it may be essential for safety and enjoyment. A guide ensures that you go correctly and safely on the trails, while a porter takes care of your heavy gear as you focus on the trek itself.
Are you planning to visit the Annapurna Circuit trek in February and wondering why you should do it? What is the route map of the Annapurna circuit in February? What is the cost of the Act, what are the weather conditions of the act, and is there a detailed itinerary of the Annapurna circuit trek in February, or might any other questions be striking your mind? Well, we have an answer for every question. Let’s start with a detailed:
Are you planning to trek in the Annapurna circuit during December but worrying about the cold weather, snowfalls, tea houses’ availability, preparations, costs, and everything? Well, we have the answer for your questions, as in this blog, we will be discussing every question that you thought of during your research. So, let’s start with a detailed overview of the topic.
A guide and porter are essential and most important for your trek. As you will be trekking to the highest altitude of 5416 meters, it’s very important to trek with a guide and let a porter carry your weight so that you can trek easily. But as it’s important, still, people are confused about where to hire the guide and porter, whether I should hire or not, whether I will need to pay extra for the guide and porter, and many more questions arise in their minds.
In this blog, we’ll answer all the key questions about guides and porters on the Annapurna Circuit, including why you need them, costs, rules, and what’s included in their services, and everything, so let’s get started.
Why do you need to hire a guide for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
First and foremost, the question that may strike your mind is, why do you need to hire a guide for the Annapurna circuit trek when you can do the solo trek? Well, a guide is not just about navigation, but it’s about safety, navigation, altitude sickness support, cultural insights, logistics and communications support, moral support, and many more. A guide is necessary for you throughout the trek. A guide is a person who will enhance your trekking experience. A guide is your best friend for the trek, who will help you in every condition.
Experienced guide walking alongside trekkers on the scenic Annapurna trail.
What is the cost for hiring a guide for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The cost for hiring a guide for the Annapurna circuit trek depends on your requirements. If you want a well-experienced and licensed guide for the Annapurna Circuit, then you will need to pay 30 USD to 40 USD per day. If you want to hire a guide who speaks your native language, like German, French, Spanish, or any other language, and he is well-experienced and licensed, then you will need to pay up to 50 USD per day. If you are hiring a guide who is just a beginner, which is not suggested, but still, if you do it, you can get the guide for 20 to 25 USD as well.
Can I trek to the Annapurna circuit without a guide?
Yes, you can trek to the Annapurna circuit without a guide, but it is not suggested, as the Annapurna circuit takes you to an altitude of 5416 meters, which is one of the highest passes in Nepal, making it difficult for you to trek through this place. Also, without a guide, you will face safety issues, navigation issues, you will miss the cultural insights, and you stress a lot during the trek.
Will I need to pay for the Guide foods, accommodations, and Insurance?
No, you will need to pay for the guide’s food, accommodations, and insurance when you hire a guide for the Annapurna circuit trek. If you are hiring a guide from a reputed trekking agency like us, then the guide’s costs you pay per day already include the food, accommodations, and insurance. But if you are hiring a guide who is a freelancer, then you might need to pay extra, as they are not registered with the company, so every burden of their costs will be on you.
Why do you need to hire a porter for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
A porter is very important for your trek as he not only carries your weight, but he also lets you experience the region without any stress. A porter will carry your 20 to 20 kg weight in duffel bags, which will include your entire weight. A porter will help you to acclimate properly, as he will carry your weight, you will have less strain on your back, and it will help you to conserve your energy. When you are hiring a porter, it will also help you to overcome your fatigue-related mistakes and injuries. It will also increase job creation in the market.
A porter walking on the Annapurna Circuit while carrying large trekking bags on his back.
What is the cost for hiring a porter for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The cost of hiring a porter for the Annapurna circuit trek is 20 to 30 USD per day. The porter carries 20 to 25 Kg of your weight. If your weight exceeds the limit, you might need to pay extra. If you hire a local porter when reaching the starting point of the Annapurna circuit, you might find the porter more affordable.
Can I trek to the Annapurna Circuit without a porter?
Yes, you can trek to the Annapurna circuit without a porter, but it’s important for you to realize that without a porter, your trek will be very difficult. You will need to carry your weights, which might be of 10 to 15 kg, on your back, which increases the strain on your back. You might feel tired carrying the heavy bags and walking. You might not be able to acclimate properly, which might lead to Acute Mountain sickness and altitude sickness. If you want to keep your trekking budget affordable, then you can avoid the porter; otherwise, you must hire a porter for your trek.
Will I need to pay for the porter’s food, accommodations, and Insurance?
No, you will not need to pay for the porter’s food, accommodations, and insurance, as the cost you pay for them includes all fees if you hire from a trekking agency. But, just like the guide, if you hire a local porter or a freelancer, then you might need to pay for their costs as well.
Where can I hire a guide and Porter for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
You can hire a guide and porter via registered trekking agencies like Adventure Vision Treks (us). If you hire a guide and porter from the registered trekking agencies, then you will not need to pay any extra fees for food, accommodations, or insurance. A company-registered guide is most trustworthy, and they will help you in every place and rescue you in need with the help of the company.
By Facebook groups
You can also hire a guide and porter from the Facebook groups. The freelancers, guides, and porters post regularly on the Facebook groups like Guide and Porter for the Annapurna circuit, Trekking in Nepal, and many more. You can contact them by messaging them or calling them. When you hire from Facebook, you need to check their license to avoid theft and scams.
By visiting the starting point in Jagat, Besisahar, or Chame
You can also hire a guide and porter by reaching the starting point of the trek, which is Jagat, Besisahar, or Chame. When you arrive there, you will see lots of freelance guides and porters asking the trekkers if they want to hire them. But Rembert has said that if you hire a local guide and porter and there are any kinds of emergency situations, you might not get help or rescue as they have no contact with the trekking agencies or any authorities.
Are you planning to trek in the Annapurna circuit and researching the circuit trek cost? Well, we have an answer for you, as in this blog, we will be discussing every cost from minimum to maximum that you will need to bear during the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Are you planning to trek the Annapurna Circuit and wondering what permits are required to enter the conserved area without any difficulties? You are in the right place. In this blog, we will discuss the permits required for the Annapurna Circuit trek, along with the cost of the permits and the places where you can obtain them. Well, without any delay, let’s get to our topic which is Permits required for the Annapurna circuit trek:
Sample of the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) required for trekking in Nepal.
Annapurna conservation area permit is used to regulate trekking and conserve natural & cultural heritage in the Annapurna region. As the Annapurna Conservation Area is highly protected in Nepal, and it features highly conserved biodiversity, Trekking without a permit is not allowed in this protected area.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit cost
The Annapurna conservation area permit costs differently for people according to their nationality. If you are a foreign national and your country is not a member of the SAARC, it means you will need to pay the NPRs.3000. If you are from SAARC national countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka then you will need to pay Nprs.1000. If you are the local of Nepal means you will not need to pay any kinds of fees for the permits but in case the check posts asks you will need to pay NPRS. 100 for the ACAP permit.
Where to get the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for the Annapurna Circuit trek?
You can get the Annapurna conservation area permit online by visiting the site: https://epermit.ntnc.org.np/. If you are trying to get online but are not able to get a permit by any chance, then you can get the ACAP for the Annapurna circuit trek by visiting the Nepal Tourism Board office (Bhrikuti Mandap). If you are in Pokhara, then you can get the ACAP permit by visiting the NTNC Office (near Pokhara Lakeside).
By any chance, if you are not able to get online or visit the board offices physically, then you will not need to worry, as considering the last option, you can get the permit at the starting point of the Annapurna circuit trek, which is Besi Sahar, a beautiful village located in the Annapurna region.
What documents are required for the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit?
The documents required for the Annapurna Conservation Area permit for the Annapurna Circuit trek are:
Copy of passport.
Passport-sized photographs (usually 2).
Fee in Nepali Rupees (cash).
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) permit, which is another permit that you will require to trek during the Annapurna circuit trek. The TIMS permit is a mandatory trekking permit that is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) for the trekkers’ safety, to manage trekking routes, and to keep records of all visitors.
TIMS Card Sample
Not only is TIMS required to help the authorities track trekkers in case of emergencies (altitude sickness, accidents, natural disasters). It supports sustainable trekking management in Nepal. The TIMS also helps to provide insurance coverage for local trekking staff.
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card Cost
The trekker’s Information management system costs NPR 1,000 for foreign nationals. But if you are from the SAARC countries, then it would cost you NPR 300. If you are a local of Nepal, then you will not need to get the TIMS card, but it is suggested to register yourself to get help in need, as without the TIMS, the authorities may not be able to know about you.
Where to get the TIMS permit?
If you are planning to get the TIMS permit by yourself, then you will need to visit the Nepal Tourism Board Office (Bhrikuti mandap) in Kathmandu, which is just 10-minute walk from Thamel. If you are planning to get the TIMS card in Pokhara valley, you will need to visit the NTB Office, Lakeside. But if you don’t want to visit the offices physically, then you can contact the licensed trekking agencies like Adventure Vision Treks (us). We can arrange it for you from our portal, as we get the permits online as well.
Documents required for the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card
The documents required for the TIMS card are the same as the ACAP permit, which are:
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.
Mahindra Scorpio vehicle used for transportation during the Manaslu Circuit Trek, parked on a mountainous dirt road.
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.
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.
Jagat Village in Nepal with stone houses, terraced fields, and green hills in the background.
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.
Traditional Nepali Thakali Khana Set with rice, lentil soup, vegetables, pickles, and meat served on a metal plate.
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.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Package
Duration: 12 Days Best For: Adventure Seekers & Culture Lovers Price: 790 USD Only Includes: Transportation, Accommodation, Guide, TIMS & Permits
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.
