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To legally trek Nepal’s Manaslu Circuit in 2025, you’ll need three main permits: the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Here’s the industry’s most detailed walkthrough—costs, documents, application steps, insider tips, and FAQs.
1. Quick Answer: Which Permits Do I Need?
You must secure these three permits before starting the Manaslu Circuit (Jagat–Dharapani):
● Restricted Area Permit (RAP):
● $100 per person (first 7 days: Sep–Nov)
● $75 per person (first 7 days: Dec–Aug)
● Add $15/day (Sep–Nov) or $10/day (Dec–Aug) after 7 days
● Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP):
● $30 per person (no time limit)
● Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
● $30 per person (no time limit)
● Tsum Valley (if included):
● $40/week (Sep–Nov), $30/week (Dec–Aug)
All permits must be obtained via a registered Nepali trekking agency; a licensed guide and a group of at least two foreign trekkers are legally required.
2. Why Are Permits Mandatory?
● Protection: The Manaslu region is designated “restricted” due to proximity to Tibet, sensitive culture, and fragile environment.
● Management: Permits fund conservation, pay for trail/bridge maintenance, and support local communities.
● Safety: Mandating guides and groups reduces rescue and security risks in this remote, high-altitude area.
|
Permit |
Fee (Sep–Nov) |
Fee (Dec–Aug) |
Where Needed |
Notes |
|
RAP |
$100 first 7 days, then $15/day |
$75 first 7 days, then $10/day |
Jagat–Sama Gaon |
Agency/2+ trekkers min., guide compulsory |
|
MCAP |
$30 (flat) |
$30 (flat) |
Philim–Bimthang |
All trekkers—obtain in Kathmandu or via agency |
|
ACAP |
$30 (flat) |
$30 (flat) |
Dharapani onwards |
Needed if you exit Manaslu via Dharapani (standard route) |
|
Tsum Valley |
$40/week (then $7/day) |
$30/week (then $7/day) |
If adding Tsum |
Extension only; must clarify route with agency |
Sample Total Permit Fee (14-day trek, Sep–Nov):
RAP ($115), MCAP ($30), ACAP ($30) = $175 USD/person
4. Step-by-Step: How to Get the Permits
1. Choose an accredited trekking agency.
You must use a registered Nepali operator; independent trekking is illegal. A list of government-authorized companies is on the Department of Tourism website.
2. Submit documents:
● Scanned passport main page / valid Nepal visa
● 2 printed passport photos (recent)
● Trekking dates, route, and contact details
3. Agency handles payment and process:
● RAP processed at Department of Immigration (Kalikasthan, Kathmandu)
● MCAP/ACAP issued by Nepal Tourism Board (Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu/Pokhara)
● Payment by USD (bring new/undamaged bills)
4. Collect and verify:
Permits usually ready within a few hours to one business day. Your agency provides originals stamped with your personal details.
TIP: Apply 2–3 days ahead of your trek start date. Government offices are closed on Saturdays and public holidays.
5. Rules: No Solo Trekkers, Guide Requirement, Group Size
● Solo trekking on Manaslu is forbidden by law.
At least 2 foreign trekkers, with a government-licensed guide and issued via a registered agency.
● Guides ensure safety (escort, language, local rules).
● “Ghost trekkers” (fake second name to get a permit): illegal, heavily fined if caught.
● All permits list trekker and guide by name and passport number for checkpoints.
● Tsum Valley side trek: If you plan to detour for 4–8 days into Tsum, you must request and pay for the Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (separate, not included in standard Manaslu RAP).
● Agent will process this in addition to main RAP; same group/guide rules apply.
● Price: $40/week (Sep–Nov), $30/week (Dec–Aug), $7/day after.
● Passport (valid for 6+ months)
● Nepal Tourist Visa/Arrival Stamp
● Passport Photos (2–4, can get in Thamel for $1–2)
● Kathmandu hotel details
● Emergency contact info (for agency)
● Printed itinerary with start/end locations and dates
● Payment for permit fees (USD, clean bills)
Note: Your agent handles all applications, but you must check all permit dates and spellings before leaving Kathmandu.
8. Where Are Permits Checked?
● Police and conservation checkpoints throughout the trek, especially:
● Jagat (start of RAP zone)
● Philim, Deng, Namrung (random)
● Samagaon (major checkpoint)
● Lho, Samdo, Bimthang (exiting)
● Guides hand your permits to each checkpoint—keep a copy on your phone as backup.
● Penalties: Fines, trek disqualification, and mandatory return if you lack valid permits.
● Wrong dates: Always allow buffer days for weather/transport delays.
● Solo/invalid group: Never attempt alone—the risk of fines and forced trek exit is high.
● Old/damaged USD bills: Nepalese offices require clean, undamaged notes.
● High season queues: In October/November, apply early to avoid office lines.
● Lost permit: Some offices can re-issue with your agency’s help, but plan ahead.
10. FAQ: Manaslu Permits
Do I need ACAP if I finish Manaslu at Dharapani?
Yes—Dharapani is the Annapurna entry (required by every trekker who exits Manaslu Circuit by the standard route).
Can I get a permit myself as a tourist?
No, only a Nepali agency may apply for RAP/MCAP/ACAP; independent applications are not possible.
How many trekkers are required for a permit?
Minimum two foreign trekkers by name (plus a registered guide from an agency).
If my trekking partner cancels, can I still go alone?
No. Permits are voided if you start solo; join a group or match with another trekker via your agency.
Do I need permits for children?
Yes—children require all regular permits; same fees apply.
Are fees refundable/transferable?
No; permits are only valid for your name, dates, and route—non-refundable.
How early should I arrange permits?
At least 2 days before start for smooth processing; longer in October/November.
Do I need a TIMS card on Manaslu?
No. TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) is NOT required for Manaslu Circuit, but is for some other Nepal treks.
Also Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits Guide 2025: The Definitive, Step-by-Step Authority
