Manaslu Trek Permits : Cost, Rules & How to Apply

Introduction – Why Permits Are Necessary for the Manaslu Circuit

Before you step into Nepal’s remote Manaslu region, you’ll need a proper Manaslu Circuit Trek permit. The Manaslu region is one of the restricted areas of Nepal, which lies from Jagat to Dharapani. The restricted nature of the Manaslu region is due to its shared border with Tibet and its fragile cultural heritage.

Therefore, independent trekkers as well as trekkers without a licensed guide are not allowed to enter the Manaslu region. Similarly, the documents required for the Manaslu trekking, including the Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, need to be processed through a registered agency.

The Manaslu region consists of the Manaslu Conservation Area and the Annapurna Conservation Area. The conservation area is home to some of the exotic flora and fauna available on the planet. Some of the wildlife present in the conservation area are: Himalayan Tahr, Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Musk Deer, Impeyan Pheasant, and others. These permits are thus part of a long-term strategy to protect the Himalayan ecosystem, which is highly vulnerable due to mass tourism.

Likewise, the license is issued to safeguard the cultural richness of the Manaslu area. The area consists of the Nubri and Tsum Valleys, which are highly influenced by Tibetan traditions, monasteries, and centuries-old lifestyles that remain unchanged. By controlling the number of trekkers each season, Nepal can preserve the environment and the traditional lifestyle of the Manaslu region.

In this blog, we will help you cover everything you need to know about the Manaslu trekking permits. From the types of licenses required, their costs, and specific rules that must be followed, we will help you with a smooth application process for the Manaslu permit.

For the complete overview of the Manaslu Circuit Trekking trail, don’t forget to explore one of our detailed Manaslu Circuit Trek guides.

Types of Permits Required for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Three different trekking permits are essential for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. These are the Manaslu Trek Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). In some cases, another permit, which is the Trekkers Information Management System Card (TIMS), is also required. 

There are check posts with government officials stationed who mandatorily check the acquisition of these trekking permits. Failure to obtain any of these documents will not allow trekkers to enter further. Here is a brief description of the licenses and their costs:

Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required for Jagat to Sama Goan. The cost of the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit depends upon the month of travel, which is as follows:

• September to November:USD 100 per person for the first week and additional USD 15 per person from the eighth day onward.
• December to August:USD 75 per person for the first week and additional USD 15 per person from the eighth day onward.

You can obtain the permit from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. 

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit is essential to enter the protected area of the Manaslu Conservation Area. The area boasts a rich biodiversity, so the permit is regulated to preserve the rare flora and fauna. The cost of MCAP is based on nationality, which is as follows:

The MCAP is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board located in Kathmandu or Pokhara. To obtain the license, a copy of a passport, a passport-sized photo, and the permit fee are required. Trekkers need to stay in line during the peak season to obtain the permit, which can be hectic. To avoid paperwork, a trekking agency can obtain the permit on your behalf upon contact.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, which falls under the Annapurna Circuit. The permit is required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek as it partially covers the parts. The permit is issued to protect and conserve the Annapurna region and its rich biodiversity. The cost of the ACAP permit is based on nationality, which is as follows:

The ACAP is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board located in Kathmandu or Pokhara. To obtain the license, a copy of a passport, a passport-sized photo, and the permit fee are required. Trekkers need to stay in line during the peak season to obtain the permit, which can be hectic. To skip the hassle, a licensed Nepalese trekking agency can obtain the permit on your behalf upon contact.

TIMS card (only in some cases)

The Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card is a trekking permit for all the trekking areas in Nepal, which the Nepal Tourism Board issues. The card is authorized to assess the number of trekkers in each trekking area per year, which enables the safety and well-being of trekkers. The cost of a TIMS Card is as follows:

• Foreigners:NPR 2000, about USD 16 per trekking route per person per entry.
• SAARC Countries:NPR 1000, about USD 8 per trekking route per person per entry.

Manaslu Circuit Permit Costs (Updated 2025/2026)

The Restricted Area Permit is the most critical trekking permit out of all for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The cost of RAP can vary according to the season, with permit costs during the peak season (March to May and September to November) being higher than those during the off-season (December to February and June to August). 

However, other permits, including the MCAP and ACAP, have the exact cost throughout the year. Although the Manaslu Circuit Trek mandatorily requires a minimum of two trekkers, some exceptions may apply, which involve additional costs and special approvals from government bodies. Here is a breakdown of the Manaslu Trek Permit Cost:

For the complete Manaslu Trek Cost Breakdown, including permits, guide, trekking expenses, transport, and accommodation, please read our blog: Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Breakdown.

What are the Rules & Requirements to get a permit for the Manaslu Trek?

As the general idea is out there about the importance of the Manaslu Circuit Trekking permit, its importance, and how one can obtain it. But besides that, there are specific rules and regulations that trekkers need to follow to trek inside the Manaslu Circuit legally. These rules and regulations are designed to ensure safety, protect biodiversity, and promote sustainable tourism.

Minimum Group Size

Solo or independent trekkers are not allowed in the Manaslu region. The government mandates that at least two trekkers, accompanied by a licensed guide, are required to obtain a Restricted Area Permit.

Registered Trekking Agency

Trekkers cannot apply for a pass individually and must be booked through a government-registered trekking agency. The company is responsible for handling all the paperwork and logistics on behalf of the trekkers interested in the Manaslu trek. Applying through a registered company ensures compliance with the local regulations and confirms the validity of the licensed guide.

Required Documents

Along with the Manaslu Circuit trekking permits, trekkers need to submit some additional documents to process the licenses before departure. The additional documents include:

• A valid passport (with at least 6 months' validity)
• A valid Nepal visa
• Passport-sized photos (usually four copies)

Entry and Exit Checkpoints

There are several checkpoints along the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Route, including Jagat, Ghap, Samagaon, Dharapani, and others. In these checkpoints, trekkers need to submit the required permit and some additional documents. If there is no proper documentation, trekkers are not allowed to enter. The case is the same for both the entry and exit points, which must be recorded appropriately.

Do check the link to Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty & Preparation.

Do's:

• Travel in a group of at least two trekkers (excluding the guide). This is a mandatory rule to obtain the Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
• Hire a licensed trekking guide from a registered Nepali trekking agency. A government-licensed guide is only allowed to enter the restricted area with trekkers.
• Carry valid travel documents: passport (with at least 6 months' validity), Nepal visa, and recent passport-size photos.
• Keep your documents with you at all times to present at entry and exit checkpoints.
• Double-check names, dates, and passport numbers on your license before starting.

Don't:

• Attempt to trek solo without special arrangements: it's generally prohibited.
• Use an unregistered agency or freelance guide, as permits will not be issued.
• Enter restricted sections without the correct license, even if you have MCAP or ACAP.
• Lose your permit: replacements are difficult and time-consuming to obtain.

Follow the above-mentioned Manaslu trekking rules and regulations strictly to ensure a smooth and legal trek. Prepare for the challenges beforehand and plan accordingly. To understand more about the difficulty and proper preparation, check out our Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty and Preparation Guide.

How to Apply for Manaslu Circuit Permits/Manaslu Permit Application Process

Here are a few steps for how to get the Manaslu trekking permit:

• Step 1: Select a registered authorized trekking service provider Pvt. Ltd.
• Step 2: Prepare your documents, including a Valid passport, a Nepal visa with sufficient validity, and a passport-size photo.
• Step 3: Submit the Document to the necessary agencies, including the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu and the Regional Tourism Office in Pokhara.
• Step 4: Wait for the Processing Time.
• Step 5: Make Payment. Nepalese rupees in cash are recommended.
• Step 6: Collect the permit and begin the trek.

Check out the Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary once the documents are secured.

Best Time to Apply for Manaslu Circuit Permits

The best time to apply for the Manaslu Circuit Permits is to use at least 2-3 days in advance of your intended trekking date. Early planning allows you to avoid stress and uncertainty. Trekkers should avoid last-minute applications in peak season. During peak season, many trekkers are applying for permits, so the processing time may be longer. This can affect the trekking period if the acquisition of the license is not timely.

Early application can guarantee a smooth start and secure the desired Manaslu Trek Itinerary. Waiting at the last minute can cause risk of postponements with limited flexibility.

See our complete guide on the Best Time to Trek Manaslu Circuit.

Tips to Avoid Permit Issues

• Choose a licensed trekking agency with good reviews: Only registered agencies can obtain the permit. A trusted company can ensure the smooth operation of the paperwork.
• Check your permit details for spelling and date errors: Look for errors in the name, passport number, and trekking date. Minor spelling mistakes can cause issues in check posts.
• Keep spare photocopies and digital copies in your phone: Carry spare photocopies and digital copies in your phone for safety. You can print a new one in case of loss of the original.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying through an unregistered company.
• Submitting false or blurred passport copies.
• Forgetting to confirm trekking dates according to the itinerary.

Conclusion – Smooth Your Manaslu Trek Experience

From understanding the cost of the Manaslu Trekking to permit requirements, it is always beneficial to be aware of the rules and regulations governing the trek. In-depth knowledge of the application process and criteria can help plan for a smooth Manaslu Circuit trekking experience. Similarly, it is necessary to secure the permit early through a registered trekking company.

Also, after obtaining the permit, be sure to double-check the details and avoid last-minute stress. With the proper Nepal Trekking Permits in your pocket, the mountains are yours to explore stress-free.

Suppose you are ready to start the journey with us. Book Your Manaslu Circuit Trek. Let our sherpas and strong porters guide you through the adventure of a lifetime. The Manaslu Circuit Trek awaits.