Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit

Seeking an unforgettable Himalayan journey far from the crowds? The Manaslu Circuit is an awesome trail to go trekking in Nepal! It's pretty isolated, and people haven't been able to explore it for very long – only since 1991. If you're up for an adventure and want to experience the real Nepal and its villages, this is the perfect spot. The best part? You can trek here any time of year! This 2026 guide provides clear, step-by-step details on the permits required, their costs, and how to get them smoothly.

This 2026 guide covers everything you need to know about the Manaslu circuit trek permit — from required documents and application steps to the latest 2026 rule changes. The most important document you'll need is the Manaslu restricted area permit (RAP), issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.

NEW IN 2026: Several permit rules have changed this year. See the highlights below and read our full Nepal Restricted Area Permits 2026 guide for a complete overview of all updates.

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Why Are Permits Necessary for the Manaslu Trek?

The Manaslu region is classified as a restricted area by the Government of Nepal to preserve its unique environment and culture. As such, trekkers must obtain special permits and follow the specific regulations:

• Solo trekking is now more accessible — the minimum two-person requirement has been relaxed in 2026.
• Solo trekkers can now obtain a Restricted Area Permit through a registered trekking agency.
• A licensed guide remains mandatory for all trekkers..
• Permits must be arranged through registered trekking agencies.
• There are multiple checkpoints along the trail where permits are verified. Checkpoints now use QR-based verification for faster processing.

Want to know more about trekking independently? Read: Can I Do the Manaslu Circuit Without a Guide?

2026 Key Updates to Manaslu Permits 

The following changes took effect in Spring 2026 and apply to all trekkers planning the Manaslu Circuit:

• Applicable Region: Jagat to Dharapani
• Issued By: Department of Immigration, Kathmandu
• Requirements:
• Minimum two-person rule relaxed in 2026 — solo trekkers may now apply through a registered agency
• Licensed trekking guide
• Registered trekking agency
• Cost:

• September to November:
• USD 100 per person for the first 7 days
• USD 15 per person for each additional day
• December to August:
• USD 75 per person for the first 7 days
• USD 10 per person for each additional day

Note: The duration is calculated based on the number of days spent between Jagat and Dharapani.

2. Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit

• Applicable Region: Entry point at Jagat
• Issued By: Chumnubri Rural Municipality, Sirdibas, Gorkha
• Cost: NPR 1,000 (~USD 8) per foreigner
• Where to Obtain: On-site at the Chumnubri Rural Municipality Office in Jagat

This local permit supports community development and is mandatory in addition to the RAP.

3. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit

• Applicable Region: Philim to Bhimtang
• Issued By: National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC)
• Cost:
  NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals
  NPR 3,000 (~USD 25) for foreign nationals
• Validity: No time restriction within the trek duration

4. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit

• Applicable Region: Dharapani onward, after crossing Larkya La Pass
• Validity: No time restriction
• Cost:
• NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals
• NPR 3,000 (~USD 25) for foreign nationals
• Issued By: NTNC

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Optional: Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit

If you plan to extend your trek to the Tsum Valley, an additional permit is required:

• Cost:
  • September to November: USD 40 per person per week
  • December to August: USD 30 per person per week
• Issued By: Department of Immigration via registered trekking agency

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Where to Obtain Your Permits

It's strongly recommended to obtain your permits before commencing your trek. While it's possible to acquire permits at certain checkpoints, doing so will incur a 100% surcharge.

NEW in 2026: Pre-arrival digital permits are now available through registered trekking agencies. Using your visa application details, permits can be fully processed before you land in Nepal — saving time and eliminating the need to wait in Kathmandu.

1. Kathmandu:

Nepal Tourism Board, Bhrikutimandap:

• Offers both ACAP and MCAP permits
• Operating Hours: Sunday to Saturday (except public holidays), 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Department of Immigration, Anamnagar:

• Issues the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

2. Pokhara:

Nepal Tourism Board, Tourist Service Centre, Pardi Damside:

• Offers ACAP permits only
• Operating Hours: Sunday to Saturday (except public holidays), 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

3. Besisahar, Lamjung:

ACAP Entry Permit Counter:

• Offers ACAP permits only
• Operating Hours: Sunday to Saturday (except public holidays), 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

4. Jagat:

Chumnubri Rural Municipality Office:

• Issues the Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit
• Obtainable on-site upon entering the region

Note: Children under 10 years old are exempt from entrance fees.

Required Documents for Manaslu Trekking Permits

• Passport: A photocopy of the main information page of your valid passport.
• Agency Letterhead (for RAP): Your trekking agency will prepare a letter with the serial numbers of the US dollar bills used to pay the RAP fees (or mobile banking payment confirmation).
• Trekking Itinerary: A printed outline of your day-to-day trekking plan, showing entry and exit points.
• Travel Insurance: A copy of your travel insurance policy that includes coverage for high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation.
• Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos (for the MCAP and ACAP permits) and one scanned photo (for the online RAP application).
• Nepal Visa: A photocopy of your valid Nepal tourist visa.

Note: Your registered trekking agency, such as Places Nepal, will help ensure all documents are correctly prepared and submitted.

Step-by-Step Guide to Acquiring the Manaslu Permit

Step 1: Online Application

• Fill out the online application forms for both the ACAP and MCAP permits separately.
• Submit the completed online applications to the Director General, Department of Immigration.
• Include a printed copy of your detailed trekking itinerary, including your planned trekking dates.
• Submit a photocopy of your passport's main page and your visa page.
• Arrange your necessary funds in US dollar notes.
• Important: Write down the serial number and denomination of each bill on your trekking agency's letterhead, or pay through online mobile banking.

Step 2: Visit the Department of Immigration

• Head to the Department of Immigration in Anamnagar.
• Deposit your US dollars to Global IME Bank (located within the Immigration Department) along with your trekking agency's letterhead containing the serial numbers of each bill. Collect the deposit slip.

Agency Verification:

• Present your agency's up-to-date guide insurance, tax clearance certificate, and valid authority certificate from the central bank for verification.
• NEW in 2026: The registered trekking agency is now fully responsible for emergency rescue and logistical arrangements throughout the duration of your trek.

Permit Processing:

• Initial Verification: The first officer will verify the trekker details submitted online against your passport information and print a new slip.
• Second Verification: The second officer will review the details and forward the file to the Head of Immigration.
• Director General Approval: The Director General of Immigration will review and sign the file.
• Permit Issuance: The first officer will print individual permits, affix them to stickers, and fill in the necessary details. The second officer will then sign the stickers.
• Final Stamp: The first officer will apply the final stamp to the stickers, completing the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
• NEW in 2026: Permits include a QR code for fast verification at all checkpoints along the route — no more delays at trail entry points.

This step only covers the issuance of the Manaslu RAP. You still need to obtain the separate ACAP and MCAP permits as part of the overall permit process.

Step 3: Obtain MCAP and ACAP Permits

• Visit the Nepal Tourism Board office (Kathmandu or Pokhara) to obtain the MCAP and ACAP permits.
• Pay the permit fees in Nepalese Rupees.
• Submit the printed online application forms for each permit.

Receive Permits:

• The Nepal Tourism Board will print your permits.
• Affix your printed photograph to the permit.
• The Nepal Tourism Board staff will sign your permits.

Your permits are now ready! Ensure you carry all original permits during the trek, as there are multiple checkpoints. QR verification at checkpoints makes the process significantly faster.

Summary of Permit Costs

Many trekkers ask about the Manaslu trekking permit cost before booking-here's a complete breakdown:

Terms & Conditions - Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits

• Individual Permits: You'll need separate entry permits for both the Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP).
• Single Entry & Non-Refundable: The permits are valid for one entry only and cannot be refunded.
• Restricted Access: You can only enter the specific areas within the Conservation Areas as designated by your permit.
• Adhere to Regulations: You must follow all the rules and regulations outlined in the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act of 2029 B.S. (1973).
• Carry Permit at All Times: Always carry your entry permit with you and present it upon request by Conservation Area personnel. QR-enabled permits speed up checkpoint verification.
• The facilitating trekking agency bears full responsibility for emergency rescue and logistical support throughout the trek.
• One licensed guide may accompany a maximum of 7 trekkers.(2026)

Additional Tips

• Advance Planning: Begin the permit application process at least a week before your intended departure. With the new 2026 digital system, your agency can start this process before you even arrive in Nepal.
• Keep Copies: Photocopy all permits and IDs in case of loss or checkpoint requests.
• Use a Trusted Agency: Only registered trekking agencies can help you obtain the RAP. Plan your budget early, as the Manaslu trekking permit cost varies by season and trekking duration.
• Solo Trekkers: As of 2026: Solo trekking is now permitted — you no longer need to find a second trekker to join your group. You still need a licensed guide and a registered agency.

Contact Us:

If you have any questions about obtaining permits for the Manaslu Trek, please don't hesitate to contact us. We also offer permit stress free Manaslu Circuit Trek packages.

Trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek

A remote and off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure in Nepal. The trek covers roughly 160 km (100 miles) and involves 5–7 hours of hiking per day through villages, forests, and the Larke high pass.

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