The Manaslu Circuit trek is one of Nepal’s most beautiful and untouched trekking routes. Every year thousands of trekkers visit this region to experience its natural beauty, remote villages, and authentic Himalayan lifestyle. Many travelers dream of exploring Manaslu alone, enjoying the peaceful trails and the feeling of true adventure. But there is often confusion about whether solo trekking in Manaslu Circuit is allowed in Manaslu or not.
Let’s clear that up once and for all.
Can You Trek Solo in Manaslu Circuit?
Yes, you can trek solo in the Manaslu Circuit, but not completely alone. The Manaslu region is a restricted area of Nepal. According to Nepal’s government rules, you must have a licensed guide and special permits to enter this region. What many people do not know is that you do not need to be part of a group with other trekkers. You can go on the trek as a single traveller with your own guide or porter-guide.
That means even if you are one person, you can still trek the full Manaslu Circuit Trek with the help of a registered guide. You do not need to find another traveller to join you. This is the legal and safe way to enjoy a solo trek in Manaslu.
Why a Guide is Mandatory?
The Manaslu region is located close to the border of Tibet and passes through remote mountain areas where there are no regular police checkpoints or easy access to rescue services. Because of this, the government requires every trekker to be accompanied by a professional guide who is registered with a licensed trekking company.
The guide not only ensures your safety but also helps with communication, logistics, and local connections. Your guide will manage the restricted area permits, accommodation, and transport. They also help you understand local culture, food, and traditions, making your trip more meaningful.
If you prefer to travel light and want some extra support, you can also hire a porter-guide. A porter-guide can carry your backpack while also guiding you throughout the trek.
How Manaslu Treks and Expedition Helps Solo Trekkers?
At Manaslu Treks and Expedition, we make solo trekking simple and stress-free. We understand that many adventurers prefer to travel independently and enjoy the mountains at their own pace.
Our team will arrange everything you need for your solo trek, including:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (for the final part of the route)
- A government-licensed guide or porter-guide
- All trekking logistics, transportation, and local support
Even if you are only one person, we will organize the permits and guide for you. This way, you can legally and comfortably complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek without needing another traveler to join.
Ready to plan your solo Manaslu Circuit Trek
Cost of Hiring a Guide or Porter-Guide In the Manaslu Trek
Hiring a guide or porter-guide in Manaslu is more affordable than many trekkers expect.
- Guide cost: USD 30 to 35 per day
- Porter-guide cost: USD 30 to 35 per day
The cost includes their food, accommodation, insurance, and salary. When you book through Manaslu Treks and Expedition, we make sure your guide is experienced, friendly, and well-trained in mountain safety and first aid.
Why Solo Trekking with a Guide is the Best Option?
Even though you cannot trek completely alone, traveling solo with your own guide offers the best experience.
Here are some reasons why:
- You have the freedom to walk at your own pace and set your daily schedule.
- You can choose where to eat, rest, and stay overnight.
- You get personal attention and local insights from your guide.
- You stay safe and legally compliant with Nepal’s trekking rules.
- You avoid the pressure of joining a group of strangers.
Many solo trekkers say that having a guide by their side gave them more confidence to enjoy the trail fully.
Permits Required for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
To trek in the Manaslu region, you will need three main permits:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – Issued by the Department of Immigration, only available through a registered trekking agency.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) – Required for conservation entry.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – Needed for the last section of the trek after crossing Larkya La Pass.
Our agency will prepare all permits for you. You just need to provide your passport and visa copy, a few passport-size photos, and we handle the rest.
Best Time for Solo Trekking in Manaslu
The best seasons for trekking the Manaslu Circuit are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). During these months, the weather is stable, the sky is clear, and the mountain views are stunning.
Winter (December to February) can be very cold with heavy snow around the Larkya Pass. Monsoon season (June to August) brings rain and leeches, making the trail slippery. If you plan to go solo, we recommend choosing autumn or spring for safety and comfort.
Transportation to and from the Manaslu Circuit
The Manaslu Circuit trek usually starts from Machha Khola and ends at Dharapani, where the road connects with the Annapurna Circuit trail.
From Kathmandu to Machha Khola, there are two main options for transportation:
- Local Bus: The local bus leaves early in the morning from Gongabu Bus Park in Kathmandu. The journey takes around 8 to 9 hours, depending on road conditions. The cost is about USD 10 per person (round trip).
- Private Jeep: If you prefer more comfort and flexibility, you can hire a private jeep directly to Machha Khola. The jeep can take 6 to 7 hours and costs around USD 190 per jeep (one way).
After completing the trek from Dharapani to Kathmandu, you also have the same transportation options:
- Local Bus: Around USD 10 per person.
- Private Jeep: Around USD 190 per jeep (one way).
Taking a jeep is faster and more comfortable, while the bus is a budget option that gives you a more local experience. Both options are available daily, and your trekking agency can help you arrange the tickets in advance.
Permit Costs for Solo Trekkers in the Manaslu Circuit Trek
| Permit Type | Required For | Cost per Person | Issued By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manaslu Restricted Area Permit RAP | Between Jagat and Samagaon | USD 100 for the first 7 days then USD 15 per additional day | Department of Immigration |
| Manaslu Conservation Area Permit MCAP | Entry to the Manaslu region | USD 30 | Nepal Tourism Board |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ACAP | Entry to Dharapani and Annapurna region | USD 30 | Nepal Tourism Board |
| Local Municipality Entry Fee | Entry checkpoints in villages such as Soti Khola to Jagat area | USD 8 | Local Rural Municipality |
Ready to plan your solo Manaslu Circuit Trek
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Solo Trekking in the Manaslu Circuit
1. Can I trek solo in the Manaslu Circuit?
Yes, you can trek solo in the Manaslu Circuit, but not completely alone. You must hire a licensed trekking guide or porter-guide through a registered agency. The government of Nepal does not allow independent trekkers to enter the restricted area without a guide.
2. How many permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit trek?
You will need four permits in total: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and the Local Municipality Entry Fee. Your trekking agency will arrange all of these for you.
3. How much does it cost to hire a guide or porter-guide in Manaslu?
The cost of hiring a licensed guide or porter-guide ranges from USD 30 to 35 per day. This includes their food, accommodation, insurance, and salary. Hiring through a local agency ensures experienced and insured staff.
4. What is the total cost of permits for solo trekkers?
For solo trekkers, the total permit cost is approximately USD 168. This includes RAP, MCAP, ACAP, and the local municipality entry fee. The exact amount can vary depending on how many days you spend in the restricted area.
5. How can I travel from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and back from Dharapani?
You can reach the Manaslu starting point by local bus or private jeep. A local bus costs around USD 10 per person, while a private jeep costs around USD 190 one way. The same transport options and costs apply for the return trip from Dharapani to Kathmandu.
