- 17, Oct 2025 | Khilak Budhathoki
Getting ready for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is exciting, and one key part of the adventure is getting your Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits. These permits help you follow the rules, support local communities, and protect the environment in this restricted area. Knowing the costs, types, and how to apply for them makes your trek smoother and helps you avoid fines.
Whether you are a first-time trekker or returning for an extended journey, knowing which permits are required and how to obtain them is essential. Here, we will be discussing the most updated Manaslu Circuit Trek permits information for 2026.
Check the latest permit fees and plan your trek hassle-free with a licensed trekking agency like Himalaya Trekking Nepal.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits are official permission from the Nepalese government that let trekkers enter the Manaslu restricted area. Manaslu is a restricted region because it’s fragile, remote, and needs extra care to keep both trekkers and local communities safe.
All trekkers have to follow government rules, which means traveling in groups of two or more with a licensed guide. This keeps everyone safe, helps local people get work, and supports responsible trekking. Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits also let authorities track visitors and protect the nature and culture of the Manaslu region.
Before you start your trek, it is important to know which permits are mandatory and which are optional. The following list provides all the Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits required in 2026, including their costs, validity, and issuing authorities.
The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is needed for the main Manaslu Circuit Trek route from Jagat to Dharapani. The Department of Immigration manages this permit to make sure all trekkers travel legally in this sensitive area.
Coverage area: From Jagat to Dharapani
Seasonal fees: Costs are higher during popular trekking seasons like autumn and spring, and lower in the quieter months
Validity: Normally valid for 7 days, with options to extend if needed
Requirements: Minimum of 2 trekkers traveling with a licensed guide
Issued by: Department of Immigration in Kathmandu
The Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit is needed for the entire trek, and the funding from this permit goes on to help protect the Manaslu region. It also supports maintaining trails, lodges, and other environmental projects.
Purpose: Environmental conservation and trekking regulation
Cost: USD 30 for all foreigners
Issued by: NTNC offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara
Required for: Entire Manaslu region
After Dharapani, the trek goes into the Annapurna Conservation Area. You need an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit for this part to help keep tourism safe and protect nature.
Coverage: Dharapani to Besisahar
Cost: USD 30 for foreigners, NPR 1000 for SAARC nationals
Issued by: NTNC offices
Notes: Often purchased together with MCAP for convenience
The Tsum Valley Trek Permit is optional and only needed if your trek extends into this side valley. It is considered a restricted area due to its remoteness and cultural significance.
When required: For treks that go into Tsum Valley
Seasonal fees: Higher in autumn and spring, lower in the off-season
Coverage area: Tsum Valley
Issued by: Department of Immigration
Notes: Many trekkers combine it with the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for longer trips.
The Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit is a new Manaslu permit 2025, introduced to support local infrastructure and development.
Cost: NPR 2000 - 3000 (approx. USD 15 - 20)
Obtained via: Local authorities or registered trekking agencies
Purpose: Supports conservation, local projects, and trekking infrastructure
Notes: Mandatory for certain local checkpoints
Most trekkers also need a Nepal Trekking Permit, called a TIMS card. It helps keep you safe and track your route. You get it from the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN).
Cost: USD 20 for foreigners, NPR 1000 for SAARC countries
Purpose: Keeps trekking safe, records your route, and helps with rescue if needed
Issued by: TAAN offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara
Notes: Sometimes not needed in restricted areas, but it’s usually a good idea to get one
|
Permit Type |
Required Area |
Issued By |
Cost (USD) |
Notes |
|
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) |
Jagat-Dharapani |
Dept. of Immigration |
Seasonal |
Mandatory |
|
MCAP |
Manaslu Region |
NTNC |
Fixed 20 |
Required |
|
ACAP |
Dharapani-Besisahar |
NTNC |
0 (foreigners), 1000 NPR SAARC |
Required |
|
Tsum Valley Permit |
Tsum Valley |
Dept. of Immigration |
Seasonal |
Optional |
|
Chumnubri Municipality Permit |
Local Area |
Local Gov |
20-25 approx |
New 2025 |
|
TIMS Card |
Trekking Route |
TAAN |
20 (foreigners) |
Recommended |
Plan ahead and secure all your Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits today. We at Himalaya Trekking Nepal can help you handle fees, documents, and approvals, so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek needs a few permits to enter and trek legally in the restricted areas. Each permit helps follow government rules, protect nature, and support local communities. Knowing the costs ahead of time makes planning easier and ensures everything goes smoothly at the Manaslu Permit Checkpoints. The main Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits include:
|
Permit |
Cost (Foreigners) |
Cost (SAARC) |
Validity |
Issued By |
|
RAP |
$100 (autumn), $75 (spring/off-season) |
$70 (autumn), $50 (spring/off-season) |
7+ days |
Department of Immigration |
|
MCAP |
NPR 3000 |
NPR 1000 |
Entire trek |
NTNC office |
|
ACAP |
NPR 3000 |
NPR 1000 |
Dharapani-Besisahar |
ACAP office |
|
Tsum |
$35 |
NPR 1000 |
As required |
Department of Immigration |
|
Chumnubri |
NPR 1000 |
NPR 1000 |
7+ days |
Local Government |
Special note: RAP is valid for 7 days, and if your trek exceeds this period, it must be renewed ($10) at local authorities or checkpoints before continuing.
To get your Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits, you need to have all the papers ready. These prove who you are, show your trek route, and make sure you follow the Manaslu permit rules so everything goes smoothly without any delays.
Valid passport & Nepal visa copy
Passport-size photos
Trek itinerary & licensed guide details
Travel insurance (recommended)
Trekking agency registration proof
Getting your Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits is easy if you follow the right steps. Knowing how and where to apply makes sure your permits are issued properly and meet all the Manaslu Permit Requirements.
Step-by-Step Process
Choose a government-registered trekking agency.
Submit passport, visa, and passport photos.
Confirm trek route and group details.
Pay the applicable permit fees.
Permit processing usually takes 1-2 working days.
Where to Apply
Department of Immigration, Kathmandu
NTNC offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara
Verified trekking agencies can process all permits on your behalf
Skip the stress of permit paperwork. Let experts from Himalaya Trekking Nepal process your Manaslu Trek permits, so you can hit the trail with confidence and peace of mind.
During the trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits are checked at multiple points along the route. Knowing the main Manaslu permit checkpoints helps ensure smooth verification and avoids delays during your journey.
Jagat
Philim
Namrung
Samagaon
Dharapani
Officials may check RAP, MCAP, ACAP, and Tsum permits at each checkpoint. To avoid delays, always carry both digital and paper copies.
Everyone trekking on the Manaslu Circuit has to follow certain rules for their permits. Knowing these rules helps you stay safe, follow the law, and have an easy, trouble-free trek in the restricted areas.
A minimum of 2 trekkers is required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
A licensed guide registered with the NTB must accompany the group
You can’t do a Manaslu Solo Trek in restricted areas.
Always check your permit’s validity - extensions are possible if needed.
Missing or expired permits can lead to fines.
Following some simple tips can help trekkers save money and avoid issues with Manaslu Trekking Permits. These tips make sure you meet all the Manaslu Permit Requirements and keep your trek easy and stress-free.
Apply early so you don’t get delays, especially in busy seasons.
Use trusted trekking agencies like Himalaya Trekking Nepal.
Check your route, group size, and guide details before paying.
Keep receipts and extra copies of all your Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek permit system makes sure your trekking is safe, legal, and eco-friendly. The main permits are RAP, MCAP, ACAP, Tsum Valley, Chumnubri Municipality, and TIMS. Knowing the costs, required papers, checkpoints, and rules helps trekkers avoid fines and have an easy, smooth trip.
Contact Himalaya Trekking Nepal to process your Manaslu Trek permits hassle-free and focus on enjoying the trek without worry.
No. Solo trekking is not allowed in the restricted area. You must trek with at least one other person and a licensed guide.
The total cost varies by season and permit type. RAP, MCAP, ACAP, Tsum Valley (optional), Chumnubri Municipality, and TIMS combined range between $100-$150+ for foreigners.
Permits are issued at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu, NTNC offices in Kathmandu/Pokhara, or through a verified trekking agency.
TIMS cards are generally recommended for safety and tracking, even in restricted areas.
Most permits require in-person submission, but trekking agencies can process them on your behalf.
You may face fines or be denied access at checkpoints. Keep multiple copies of all permits.
Yes. Autumn and spring seasons are peak periods, and fees for RAP and Tsum Valley are higher than in the off-season.
Travel Director
Khilak Budhathoki is the co-founder and lead trekking guide at Himalaya Trekking Nepal, a locally owned and operated adventure company based in Kathmandu. Born and raised in the foothills of Nepal, Khilak developed a deep love for the mountains from an early age. With over a deca...