Even paying three times the usual price for a climb is well worth it.
Depending on the weather, you can even take sunrise photos like those in guidebooks using your smartphone.
Ideally, it's best to arrive at the Manohara Convention Center a little before 4:00 AM (I arrived between 3:45 AM and 3:50 AM).
Groups are formed on a first-come, first-served basis, and those who check in first go up first. Depending on the guide, some groups climb quickly with only a brief explanation, while others, like my group, take their time with a thorough explanation (a large Chinese group that arrived later went up first…).
Around 4:30-4:40 AM, names will be called and group assembly will begin, so observe what's happening around you and listen carefully.