Opened to trekkers in 1991, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s restricted trekking regions. The region is protected by the Nepal government and untouched by modern civilization retaining its rich cultural tapestry, pristine beauty, and diverse landscape. Hence, trekkers are required to get a Manaslu permit to enter this region.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit includes three documents: the Manaslu restricted area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and the Annapurna Conservation Area permit.

The most important thing to know about getting the Manaslu trek permits is that you need to book with local trekking agencies that can only get the trek permits and also you cannot trek solo. You must be in a group of two and a mandatory guide for the Manaslu trek.

The reason behind these rules and regulations is to conserve and preserve the historical, cultural, and natural resources of the Manaslu region making it one of the world’s best off-the-beaten trails.

Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

As mentioned earlier, Manaslu is a protected area that’s why you need a Manaslu Restricted Area permit. This permit is necessary while trekking from Jagat to Sama Gaun. The area from Jagat to Sama Gaun and the villages in between are restricted. The restricted and traditional villages include Deng, Namrung, Jagat, Namlung, and Samagaon.

Criteria to get Manaslu Restricted Area Permit

1. You must book with an agency
2. A group of two is a must – a travel agency will help the group joining
3. A local trekking guide is a must

Permit Cost

(From September to November): per week US$ 70 / per day US$ 10

(From December to August): per week US$ 50 / per day US$ 7

Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP)

Manaslu region is rich in biodiversity. Part of the Manaslu trek covers the conservation area where flora and fauna are protected. The conservation area starts at Philim and the cost of  MCAP is utilized for maintaining and managing the wildlife in the area. So, to enter those areas you need MCAP.

MCAP Cost

For SAARC Nationals: 10 USD i.e. NPR 1000 per pax

For Non-SAARC Nationals: 30 USD i.e NPR 3000 per pax

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)

Another must-have permit is ACAP. The Manaslu trek extends to the Annapurna region of Nepal beyond Bhimtang and Dharapani. Although the trek in Annapurna extends for a few days only, you still have to get this permit.

ACAP Cost

ACAP for SAARC Nationals: 10 USD i.e. NPR 1000 per pax

ACAP for Non-SAARC nationals: 30 USD i.e. NPR 3000 per pax

Here is the outline itinerary of the Manaslu Circuit Trek for the understanding of the permit:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

Day 03: Drive to Sotikhola (710m) – 8/9 hour

Day 04: Trek to Maccha Khola (900m) – 6 /7 hour

Day 05: Trek to Jagat (4625m) – 6 /7 hour

Day 06: Trek to Deng (804m) – 6 /7 hour

Day 07: Trek to Namrung (2630m) – 6/7 hour

Day 08: Trek to Samagaon (3530m) – 6/7 hour

Day 09: Hike to Pungyen Gompa and return to Samagaon (3530m) – 5/6 hour exploration

Day 10: Trek to Samdo (3860m) – 4/5 hour

Day 11: Rest Day in Samdo (3860m)

Day 12: Trek to Dharamsala/Larkya Base Camp (4460m) – 4/5 hour

Day 13: Trek to Bimthang (3720m) – 8 /9 hour

Day 14: Trek to Tilije (2300m) – 5/6 hour

Day 15: Trek to Tal (1700m) – 5/6 hour

Day 16: Trek to Syange (1080m) 6 /7 hour

Day 17: Drive to Kathmandu (1400m) – 7/8 hour drive

Day 18: Final departure

Where to get Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits?

To obtain the necessary permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you can visit several locations in Nepal.

In Kathmandu, permits such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Manaslu Restricted Region Permit, and the TIMS card are available at the Nepal Tourism Board in Bhrikutimandap. The office operates from 9 AM to 5 PM, Sunday through Friday, and remains open on Saturdays and public holidays.

In Pokhara, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) can be obtained at the Nepal Tourism Board office, which is also open from 9 AM to 5 PM, Sunday through Friday. Additionally, the ACAP can be acquired at the ACAP Entry Permit Counter in Besisahar, which operates from 10 AM to 5 PM, Sunday through Friday.

What are the documents required?

1. Valid original passport.
2. Four Passport size photos.
3. Nepalese visa.
4. Travel Insurance Papers.
5. Flight ticket copies display arrival and departure.
6. Scanned copies of passport and Nepalese visa.
7. Consent letter to Immigration chief.
8. Consent letter of your trekking agency.

Note: Children under 10 years of age do not require to pay any entrance fee.