MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK – 15 DAYS: BUDGET & PACKING GUIDE

Manaslu Circuit Trek – 15 Days: Budget & Packing Guide

Manaslu Circuit Trek – 15 Days: Budget & Packing Guide

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The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a breathtaking journey around Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world's eighth-highest peak. It is a less crowded alternative to the Annapurna Circuit, offering stunning Himalayan scenery, remote villages, and Tibetan Buddhist culture. Since this trek falls under a restricted area, it requires special permits and proper planning. Below, we provide a detailed breakdown of costs and a packing guide to help you prepare for this adventure.





Estimated Cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek (15 Days)


The total cost depends on factors such as trekking style, accommodation choices, and whether you hire a guide and porter.



1. Required Trekking Permits


The Manaslu region is a restricted area, so independent trekking is not allowed. You must obtain the following permits through a registered trekking agency:





  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)





    • September to November: USD 100 for the first 7 days, then USD 15 per extra day




    • December to August: USD 75 for the first 7 days, then USD 10 per extra day






  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): USD 30




  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): USD 30




  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: USD 20




Total permit cost ranges between USD 150-200 per person.



2. Guide and Porter Fees


Hiring a guide is mandatory for the Manaslu trek, and porters are optional but helpful for carrying heavy loads.





  • Licensed guide: USD 25-35 per day




  • Porter: USD 15-25 per day (carries up to 20-25 kg)




Total guide and porter cost ranges between USD 400-600 for the entire trek.



3. Transportation Costs




  • Kathmandu to Soti Khola (starting point)





    • Public bus: USD 10-20 per person




    • Private jeep: USD 150-200 (split among passengers)






  • Besisahar to Kathmandu (return)





    • Public bus: USD 10-20 per person




    • Private jeep: USD 150-200 (split among passengers)






Total transportation cost is around USD 50-100 per person.



4. Accommodation Costs


The trek follows a teahouse trekking system, with simple but comfortable lodges available in most villages.





  • Teahouse lodging: USD 5-10 per night




  • Higher altitude lodges may be slightly more expensive




Total accommodation cost ranges between USD 75-150 for 15 days.



5. Food & Water Costs


Food prices increase with altitude due to transportation challenges.





  • Meals (Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, etc.): USD 5-10 per meal




  • Boiled water refills: USD 1-3 per liter (cheaper than bottled water)




  • Hot drinks (tea, coffee, etc.): USD 2-5 per cup




Total food cost ranges between USD 250-400 for 15 days.



6. Miscellaneous Costs




  • Travel insurance: USD 100-150 (must cover high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation)




  • Charging devices: USD 2-5 per charge (higher in remote areas)




  • Hot showers: USD 3-5 per use




  • WiFi access: USD 2-5 per session




Total miscellaneous costs range between USD 50-100.



Total Estimated Budget for 15 Days


The estimated total cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek falls between USD 1,000 to 1,500 per person, depending on personal preferences and additional expenses.






Backpacking Essentials for the Manaslu Circuit Trek


Packing smart is crucial for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, where you’ll face diverse weather conditions, from hot lowlands to freezing high-altitude passes.



1. Essential Clothing




  • Base layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms




  • Mid layers: Fleece or light down jacket for insulation




  • Outer shell: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants




  • Trekking pants and shirts: Lightweight, quick-drying material




  • Thermal underwear: Essential for cold nights




  • Warm hat and gloves: Protects against cold at higher altitudes




  • Neck gaiter or buff: Shields against dust and cold winds




  • Woolen or synthetic socks: At least 3-4 pairs




  • Gaiters (optional): Useful for snow or mud




2. Footwear




  • Trekking boots: Sturdy, waterproof, and well broken-in




  • Camp shoes/sandals: For relaxing at lodges




3. Sleeping Gear




  • Sleeping bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C (essential for high altitudes)




  • Sleeping bag liner: Adds warmth and keeps the bag clean




4. Trekking Gear




  • Backpack (50-60L): Large enough for all essentials




  • Daypack (20-30L): For carrying daily necessities




  • Trekking poles: Reduces knee strain on steep sections




  • Headlamp with extra batteries: Essential for early morning treks




  • Water bottles and purification tablets: To reduce plastic waste




5. Personal Hygiene & Toiletries




  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+) & lip balm: Protection from strong UV rays




  • Sunglasses (UV protection): Crucial for snow glare




  • Basic first aid kit: Includes altitude sickness pills, pain relievers, and bandages




  • Toilet paper & wet wipes: Not always available in lodges




  • Hand sanitizer: For hygiene in remote areas




6. Electronics & Miscellaneous




  • Camera or smartphone: For capturing stunning landscapes




  • Power bank or solar charger: Limited charging points along the route




  • Notebook & pen: For journaling your trek




  • Snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolate): For extra energy on the trail







Conclusion


The Manaslu Circuit Trek (15 Days) is a rewarding yet challenging adventure, requiring proper budgeting and preparation. With an estimated budget of USD 1,000 - 1,500, you can cover permits, food, lodging, and a guide/porter, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trek.


Packing light but efficiently is essential, especially for dealing with the cold at high altitudes. By planning ahead and ensuring you have the right gear, you can make the most of this spectacular trek around Mount Manaslu.

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