The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and culturally sensitive route in Nepal, circling Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth-highest peak.

Unlike more commercialized trails like Everest or Annapurna, Manaslu remains a restricted and protected zone, requiring trekkers to obtain mandatory permits to ensure environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and controlled tourism.

Why Permits Are Mandatory

• Environmental Protection: The trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP), which are ecologically fragile. Permit fees directly fund conservation efforts, trail maintenance, and waste management.

• Cultural Sensitivity: The region is home to Tibetan Buddhist communities, where unrestricted tourism could disrupt local traditions. Permits help regulate visitor numbers.

• Legal Compliance: The Nepalese government designates Manaslu as a Restricted Area, meaning independent trekking is prohibited. Violators face fines, deportation, or trek termination.

Restricted Vs. Conservation Areas

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Required for the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (Manaslu RAP) and Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit. These zones have strict entry controls due to their proximity to the Tibetan border and cultural significance.

• Conservation Area Permits (MCAP/ACAP): Cover environmental protection in the Manaslu Conservation Area and overlapping sections of the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Role of Permits in Controlled Tourism

• Limit Overcrowding: A fixed number of permits is issued per season, reducing environmental strain.

• Support Local Economies: Permit fees fund community projects, schools, and healthcare in rural villages.

• Safety Enforcement: Permits require trekkers to use licensed guides and travel in groups of at least two, ensuring emergency support in this remote region.

Without proper permits, trekkers risk being turned back at checkpoints (e.g., Jagat, Dharapani, or Samdo), where officials verify documents. Compliance ensures a seamless trek while contributing to the region’s sustainability.

Note: All permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be arranged through Trek Me Nepal, ensuring full compliance with government regulations.

Overview of Required Permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

To trek the Manaslu Circuit legally, you must obtain several permits, each serving a distinct purpose based on the region’s conservation status and government regulations. Below is a detailed breakdown of all mandatory permits, their coverage, and associated costs.

1) Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

Purpose: Required for entry into the Manaslu Restricted Zone, a controlled area near the Tibet border with limited access to protect cultural and geopolitical sensitivities.
Validity: Issued for a specific duration (typically matching your trek itinerary).

Things to Note:

• Non-negotiable requirement: Must be obtained through a registered trekking agency (individual applications are not accepted).

• Checkpoints: Verified at Jagat, Samdo, and other police posts along the route.

2) Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

Purpose: Funds conservation efforts in the Manaslu Conservation Area, covering biodiversity protection and sustainable tourism initiatives.
Validity: Single-entry permit valid for the entire trek duration.

Things to Note:

• Covers the entire Manaslu region, including villages like Samagaun and Lho.

• Issued at the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or through registered agencies.

3) Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Purpose: Required for the section of the Manaslu Circuit that overlaps with the Annapurna Conservation Area (e.g., Dharapani to Besishahar).
Validity: Single-entry permit valid for the duration of the trek.

Things to Note:

Often confused as optional, but mandatory if your trek exits via Besishahar (standard Manaslu Circuit route).

Can be obtained at the ACAP office in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or through agencies.

4) Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (If Applicable)

Purpose: Required only if adding the Tsum Valley detour, a culturally restricted zone with ancient Tibetan Buddhist villages.
Validity: Duration-specific, similar to MRAP.

Things to Note:

• Issued alongside the MRAP but requires a separate fee.

• Checkpoints: Strict enforcement at Lokpa and Chhekampar.

5) Chumnubri Rural Municipality Entry Permit

Purpose: A local permit introduced in recent years, funding rural infrastructure projects in the Chumnubri region (part of the Manaslu trek route).

Things to Note:

• Often overlooked but increasingly enforced at checkpoints like Machhakhola.

• It can be arranged by your trekking agency in Kathmandu.

Keep in Mind

• All permits except ACAP must be arranged via a registered trekking agency (independent applications are not permitted for restricted zones).

• Permit checks are strict: Missing any permit risks fines or expulsion from the trek.

• Costs are non-refundable, so confirm your itinerary before applying.

Cost Breakdown of Each Permit for Manaslu Circuit Trek (2025/2026 Season)

1) Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

Key Notes:

• Mandatory for all trekkers.

• Fees are per person; the minimum charge is for 7 days.

• Must be arranged through a registered trekking agency.

  

2) Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

Key Notes:

• Covers the Manaslu Conservation Area.

• Obtainable at NTNC offices or through agencies.

3) Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Key Notes:

• Required only if exiting via Besishahar.

• No seasonal variation.

4) Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit

The Tsum Valley extension requires additional permits separate from standard Manaslu Circuit permits. This remote area has special protection due to its cultural significance and border proximity.

Key Notes:

• Add-on permit for Tsum Valley detours.

• Separate from MRAP fees.

5) Chumnubri Rural Municipality Entry Permit

Key Notes:

• Enforced at checkpoints like Machhakhola.

• Often included in agency packages.

6) Inclusions & Exclusions

What’s Covered by Permit Fees:

• Entry rights to restricted/conservation areas.

• Conservation and community development funds.

• Basic trail maintenance and waste management.

What’s NOT Covered:

• Guide/porter services (mandatory but paid separately).

• TIMS card (not required for Manaslu).

• Visa or insurance costs.

7) Group Size & Guide Requirements

Minimum group size: 2 trekkers (solo travelers must join a group).
Mandatory costs:

• Licensed guide fee: $25–$35 USD/day (paid directly to agency).

• Porter (optional): $15–$20 USD/day.

Note: Permit fees are fixed per person; guide costs are additional.

Things to Remember:

• Permits are non-negotiable and non-refundable.

• Fees are per person, with no group discounts.

• Pay in USD or NPR (rates fixed by Nepal government).

• Registered agencies handle payments (no DIY option for restricted permits).

Where and How to Get the Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Obtaining the necessary permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek involves specific procedures and authorized channels. Below is a comprehensive guide to acquiring all required permits through proper channels.

1) Agencies Authorized to Issue Permits

The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) and Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit can only be obtained through government-registered trekking agencies in Nepal. These agencies must be:

• Licensed by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)

• Members of the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN)

• Authorized to operate in restricted areas

Key Points:
Individual trekkers cannot apply directly for restricted area permits
Agencies handle the entire application process on your behalf
They submit the required documents to the Department of Immigration

2) Government Offices for Permit Processing

For conservation area permits (MCAP and ACAP), you have more options:

In Kathmandu:

• Department of Immigration: For MRAP processing (via agency only)

• National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC): For MCAP

• ACAP Office: For Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

• Tourist Service Center: For general permit inquiries

In Pokhara:

• NTNC Office: For MCAP

• ACAP Office: For Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Processing Times
MRAP: 1 business day (through agency)
MCAP/ACAP: Immediate issuance during office hours

3) Kathmandu vs Pokhara Permit Application

Important Notes:

• Restricted area permits (MRAP, Tsum) must start processing in Kathmandu

• Conservation permits (MCAP, ACAP) can be obtained in either city

• Pokhara options are limited to non-restricted area permits

4) Required Documents for Permit Applications

All permits require:

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)

• Nepal visa copy

• Passport-sized photos (2 copies)

• Completed application form

• Trekking itinerary

• Travel insurance proof

• Agency confirmation letter (for restricted permits)

Special Requirements:

• MRAP requires guide's license copy and agency registration documents

• Tsum Valley permit needs additional route details

5) Step-by-Step Application Process

Choose Authorized Agency: Select a registered trekking company
Submit Documents: Provide all required paperwork to the agency
Payment: Pay permit fees to the agency (USD or NPR)
Agency Processing: They submit to the Department of Immigration
Collection: Agency collects permits (1-2 business days). Verification: Check all details are correct before the trek

Timeline Recommendations

• Start the process at least 3 days before the trek departure

• Allow extra time during peak seasons (March-May, September-November)

6) Permit Collection and Verification

• Physical permits will be issued on official government paper

• Contains: QR code, trekker details, dates, and authorized zones

• Verify that all information matches your passport exactly

• The agency should provide copies before the trek departure

Checkpoint Procedures:

• Original permits must be shown at all checkpoints

• Checkpoints at Jagat, Deng, Samagaun, and Samdo

• Authorities record permit details at each stop

Permit Conditions & Legal Requirements for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek come with strict legal requirements set by the Nepalese government. Failure to comply can result in fines, expulsion from the trek, or legal action. 

1) Minimum Group Size Requirement

Rule: A minimum of 2 foreign trekkers is required to obtain the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP).
Exception: Solo trekkers must join an existing group through a registered agency.
Verification: Checkpoints will confirm group size at Jagat, Samagaun, and other stops.
Reason:

• Safety in remote areas

• Reduced environmental impact

2) Compulsory Licensed Guide

Requirement: All trekkers must hire a government-licensed guide registered with the Nepal Tourism Board.
Guide Qualifications:

• Valid trekking guide license

• First aid and altitude training

• Registered with a legal trekking agency

• Documentation: The guide must carry:

  • Their license copy

  • Trekkers' permit copies

  • Emergency contact details

• Penalty: Trekking without a guide risks:

  • Immediate trek termination

  • NPR 20,000+ fine (≈$150 USD)

  • Possible deportation

3) Permit Checkpoints Along the Trail

Permits are verified at multiple checkpoints.

Procedure at Checkpoints:

• Present original permits + passport

• Guide registers group details

• Officials stamp/log permit numbers

4) Additional Legal Conditions

Permit Validity:

• Strictly valid only for specified trek dates (no extensions on trail).

• Dates cannot be changed after issuance (new permit required).

Restricted Areas:

• No deviation from approved route (e.g., no side trips to Tibet border).

• Tsum Valley requires a separate permit even if adding mid-trek.

Environmental Rules:

• No camping outside designated areas.

• Strict no-littering policies (fines up to NPR 10,000).

Permit Extension, Refunds & Changes for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Nepalese government maintains strict policies regarding modifications to trekking permits. Understanding the regulations for extensions, refunds, and changes is essential for trekkers planning the Manaslu Circuit.

Permit Extensions Mid-Trek

Extensions are only possible for the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) and Tsum Valley Permit, and must be processed before the original permit expires.

To extend a permit, your guide must first notify the registered trekking agency, which will then submit a formal request to the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. The process takes 1-2 business days and requires payment of additional fees at the same daily rate as the initial permit.

Extensions are limited to a maximum of 7 additional days and are subject to approval. Conservation permits (MCAP and ACAP) cannot be extended under any circumstances, meaning trekkers would need to purchase new permits if their plans change.

It's important to note that no on-the-spot extensions are granted at trail checkpoints.

Refund Policies

All permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are non-refundable once issued, with very few exceptions. Partial refunds may be available if a trek is cancelled before the permit has been issued, though agencies typically retain a processing fee.

In cases of government-ordered trail closures due to natural disasters or other emergencies, trekkers may receive prorated refunds for unused days, but this requires official documentation of the closure.

Medical emergencies may qualify for partial refunds (typically 50-80%) but require submission of hospital reports and other supporting documents to immigration authorities.

No refunds are provided for changes of mind after permit issuance, incomplete treks due to personal reasons like altitude sickness, or lost/damaged permits.

Changing Trek Dates or Plans

Changes to trek dates are possible before permit issuance with at least 72 hours notice and no additional fees. However, after permits have been issued, any changes to restricted area permits (MRAP and Tsum Valley) require purchasing new permits at full cost, as the original permits become invalid.

Conservation permits (MCAP and ACAP) may be reused if the new trek dates fall within the original validity period. Route modifications, such as adding Tsum Valley to an itinerary, always require a new permit application. Reducing the trek duration forfeits any unused days without refund.

Replacing Lost or Damaged Permits

Lost or damaged permits can be replaced by submitting a police report (for lost permits) and an official letter from the trekking agency explaining the circumstances. The replacement fee is NPR 5,000 (approximately $38 USD) per permit, and processing takes one business day in Kathmandu.

Damaged permits must be surrendered when applying for replacements. Trekkers should note that digital copies or photos of permits are not accepted at checkpoints, so physical copies must be carried at all times.

Key Considerations

Planning trek dates carefully is crucial, as changes after permit issuance are costly and time-consuming. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover non-refundable permit costs in case of unexpected changes.

Working with a licensed trekking agency like Trek Me Nepal ensures proper handling of administrative issues and compliance with all regulations.

Myths vs Facts: Manaslu Permit Edition

Several misconceptions persist about Manaslu trekking permits.

Myth 1: Solo Trekking is Allowed

Fact: The Manaslu Restricted Area requires:
Minimum 2 trekkers per group
Government-licensed guide at all times
Solo travelers must join existing groups through registered agencies.

Myth 2: TIMS Card Replaces Manaslu Permits

Fact: The Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card:
Not valid for Manaslu Restricted Area
Separate MRAP/MCAP permits remain mandatory
Only applies to non-restricted trekking regions

Myth 3: Off-Season Means Fewer Rules

Fact: While permit costs are lower, December-August:
Same documentation required
Identical group/guide regulations apply
Checkpoints remain operational year-round

Identifying Fake Agencies

Red flags include:

• Offers to bypass permit requirements

• Prices significantly below standard rates

• No TAAN/NTB registration number

Note: Trek Me Nepal holds valid NTB/TAAN accreditation for transparent permit processing.

Bipin Thapa Magar

Guide of the Year | Operations Manager & Chief Planner | Trek Me Nepal

Bipin Thapa Magar is a highly experienced trekking and expedition professional with over 20 years in Nepal’s adventure tourism industry. He began his journey in 2004 as a porter and gradually advanced... Read More