Cheapest Way to Do the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal

If you are looking for the cheapest cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal, you are not alone. That is exactly what I wanted when I first looked into this beautiful but lesser-known trekking route. I wasn’t looking for a luxury trip. I just wanted real mountain views, quiet trails, and a chance to experience village life without spending too much. And I’m happy to say it’s possible if you plan smart and keep things simple.

Here’s how I did the trek on a tight budget, what I learned on the trail, and a few things I think you should know before you go.

Why I Chose the Manaslu Circuit

I had already heard a lot about the Everest and Annapurna regions, but I wanted something less crowded. The Manaslu Circuit seemed like a good mix of adventure, culture, and peace. What pulled me in even more was that it still feels like old Nepal—quiet villages, stone houses, mountain paths, and kind people who live far from modern life.

And the best part? You can still do it without spending a fortune if you keep things basic.

Trekking with a Guide Is a Must

One of the first things I learned is that you cannot trek Manaslu alone. It’s a restricted area, which means you must have a registered guide and be part of a group (at least two trekkers). Since I was traveling solo, I found a trekking agency in Kathmandu that helped match me with another trekker. This helped me keep the cost low and still meet the rules.

The guide was more than just someone to lead the way—he helped with translation, finding good teahouses, and understanding the culture. I would definitely recommend hiring a local guide.

What the Trek Was Really Like

The trek took me about 14 days, starting from Machha Khola and ending in Dharapani. The trail was a mix of river valleys, forests, small villages, and high mountain paths. The highest point was Larke Pass (5,106 meters), which was tough but worth it.

The days were long—we usually walked 6 to 8 hours a day—but the trail was quiet and peaceful. I didn’t see big trekking crowds, which made the journey feel more personal. There were small villages every day, and I got to see how people really live in the mountains—farming, cooking over firewood, and walking everywhere.

Staying and Eating Along the Way

I stayed in teahouses, which are basic guesthouses along the trail. Most of them had wooden beds, simple meals, and shared bathrooms. It wasn’t fancy, but it was more than enough after a long day of walking.

For food, I usually ate dal bhat, which is rice, lentils, and vegetables. It’s the most filling meal you can get, and it gives you free refills. I also had noodle soup, fried rice, and Tibetan bread when I wanted a change.

To save money, I always ate where I stayed. That way, many teahouses gave me a room either for free or for a very low price.

Getting There and Getting Back

The trail doesn’t start right outside Kathmandu. First, I took a long local bus ride to Arughat, and then a jeep to Machha Khola. The roads were bumpy, but taking local transport helped me save a lot compared to a private jeep.

After finishing the trek in Dharapani, I took another jeep and a bus back to Kathmandu. It was tiring, but I didn’t mind because it helped me stick to my budget.

How I Kept Things Cheap

Here’s what helped me keep my spending low:

• Traveled with a partner to share guide and permit costs

• Used local buses instead of private transport

• Brought snacks like peanuts and biscuits from Kathmandu

• Purified water using a filter instead of buying bottles

• Rented gear instead of buying new items

• Didn’t spend on extras like Wi-Fi or charging unless needed

Final Thoughts

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most real and peaceful treks I’ve done in Nepal. It gave me a deep look into mountain life, quiet walking days, and a strong sense of adventure. And yes, it’s possible to do it on a tight budget if you prepare right and keep things simple.

If you're thinking about trekking and worried about money, don’t be. You don’t need fancy gear or expensive tours. With a good plan, a trusted guide, and an open mind, you can experience the Manaslu Circuit without spending more than you need to.

This trek gave me more than I expected and I did it the simple way.