Planning to trek in the Manaslu region? Understanding the Manaslu Trek Permit Cost and requirements is essential before starting your adventure.
The Government of Nepal has a policy requiring special permits for some trekking areas, particularly those along open borders or connected to other countries. Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, also shares a border with China (Tibet). Some of the extraordinary trekking routes, such as the Tsum Valley, Larke La Pass (5,106m), and Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m), also border Tibet.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek lies in a restricted area of Nepal, meaning trekkers must obtain special permits issued by the government. In this complete guide, you’ll learn about the required permits, updated costs, rules, and how to get them easily.
Which Permits Do You Need For The Manaslu Trek?
You need three different permits and one Chum Nubri Municipality Entry Permit (fee) to trek in the Manaslu region.
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP/RAP)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
All required permits must be obtained in Kathmandu before starting the Manaslu Circuit Trek. However, the Chum Nubri Rural Municipality Entry Permit can be issued locally in Jagat.1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP/RAP)
You need a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to trek from Jagat to Dharapani, which lies in a restricted area of the Manaslu region. If you are planning a 13-day Manaslu Trek Itinerary, this permit is enough for a week, as most trekkers complete the restricted area within 7 days. The cost of the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) varies by season and depends on the duration of your planned Manaslu trek itinerary.
- September to November (Peak Season): USD 100 per person for the first 7 days, plus an additional USD 15 per person per day after 7 days.
- December to August (Off-Season): USD 75 per person for the first 7 days, plus an additional USD 10 per person per day after 7 days.
NOTE: If you plan to take the Tsum Valley side trip during the Manaslu trek, an additional restricted permit is required. From September to November, it will cost USD 40 per person for the first week and an additional USD 7 per day thereafter. From December to August, the cost will be USD 30 per person for the first week, with an additional USD 7 per person per day thereafter.2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
You need the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) to trek in the Manaslu region from Soti Khola or Machha Khola to Dharapani. There is no day limit for this permit; it remains valid until you exit the conservation area at the endpoint.
- Foreigners: NPR 3,000 (~USD 25)
- SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000
- Nepali Citizens: NPR 100
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
You need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to trek in the Annapurna region from Dharapani, the endpoint of the Manaslu Trek, to Besisahar. There is no day limit on this permit, and if you would like to continue from Dharapani to the Annapurna Circuit trail, you can use it at no additional cost.
- Foreigners: NPR 3,000 (~USD 25)
- SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000
- Nepali Citizens: NPR 100
Both MCAP and ACAP have fixed prices throughout the year. The price in dollars depends on the exchange rate on the day permit is issued.4. Chum Nubri Rural Municipality Entry Permit
The Chum Nubri Rural Municipality has started collecting an entry fee for foreigners entering the Manaslu region at Jagat. This money will go toward developing the trail and supporting local communities.
- NPR 1,000 (~USD 7) Per Person
Manaslu Trek Permit Cost (Updated)
To complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you must obtain three different permits and one Chum Nubri Municipality Entry Permit in Jagat. Here we provide the latest cost breakdown:
| S.N. | Permit Name | Sep - Nov | Dec - Aug | Extend Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP/RAP) | USD 100 / Week | USD 75 / Week | USD 15/Per Day USD 10/Per Day |
| 2. | Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) | Rs. 3000 (~USD 25) | Rs. 3000 (~USD 25) | X |
| 3. | Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | Rs. 3000 (~USD 25) | Rs. 3000 (~USD 25) | X |
| 4. | Chum Nubri Municipality Entry Permit | Rs. 1000 (~USD 7) | Rs. 1000 (~USD 7) | X |
Total permit cost typically ranges from USD 150 to USD 200, depending on your trekking duration.Manaslu Trek Permit Rules (Updated 2026)
If you are planning the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it is essential to understand the latest permit rules and regulations before your journey. Here are the latest rules you must follow:
- You cannot trek independently in the Manaslu region; you must hire a registered trekking guide.
- You must arrange all Manaslu Trek permits through a government-registered trekking agency in Nepal.
- You can trek solo (minimun two trekkers not required), but you must hire a licensed guide to obtain the permit.
- A maximum of 7 trekkers can apply together for the Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
- One registered guide can lead a group of up to 7 trekkers; however, if the group exceeds 7 people, the group must hire an additional guide.
- You can now apply for the Manaslu trek permit online using a Visa Submission Number; however, a registered agency must still process it.
- No need for physical paperwork when applying for permits, as restricted permits are now issued digitally.
- You cannot obtain Restricted Area Permits on Saturdays or public holidays in Nepal, so you should plan accordingly.
Note: Nepal has recently allowed solo trekkers in restricted areas. Solo trekkers can obtain the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for the Manaslu Circuit Trek; however, hiring a registered guide and applying through a government-registered trekking company are mandatory.Documents Required For Manaslu Permit
If you are planning the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you must prepare the following documents to obtain the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and other necessary trekking permits in Nepal.
- Passport Copy (must be valid for at least 6 months from your travel date).
- Nepal Visa Copy or Visa Submission Number (you can apply online or get a visa on arrival in Nepal).
- Passport-Size Photo (a recent digital photo is enough; no need for a printed copy).
- Travel Insurance (must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 5,000m+).
- Trek Itinerary (agency provided)
- Guide License
- Guide & Porters Insurance
How To Get Manaslu Trek Permit?
You cannot get the permit yourself. Follow this process:
- Contact a registered trekking agency.
- Submit a copy of your passport, passport-sized photographs, and insurance details.
- The agency applies through the Nepal Immigration Board and the Nepal Tourism Board.
- Permits are issued within one day.
You cannot apply for a restricted area permit on your own. Most trekkers obtain their permits through local operators for convenience.Best Time For Manaslu Trek
The choice of the best season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is not just about weather; your permit cost, trekking experience, and overall logistics are also directly affected by it.
Since the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) has seasonal pricing, planning your trek at the right time can help you maximize your experience while managing costs effectively.
| Season | Months | Weather & Trekking Experience | Permit Cost (RAP) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March-May | Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, moderate temperatures, fewer crowds | Lower Cost: USD 75 (first 7 days) + USD 10/day | Best value, balanced experience, budget-conscious trekkers |
| Autumn | September-November | Crystal-clear mountain views, stable weather, dry trails, busy season | Higher Cost: USD 100 (first 7 days) + USD 15/day | Best weather, photography, first-time trekkers |
Permit Comparison: Manaslu Trek vs Everest Trek vs Annapurna Trek
| Trek Region | Permits Required | Total Permit Cost | Restricted Area | Guide Requirement | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manaslu Circuit | RAP + MCAP + ACAP | ~USD 125-150 | Yes | Mandatory | Single trekkers can obtain RAP permits; however, the permit must be applied through a registered trekking company, and a licensed guide is mandatory. Independent trekking is not allowed (new rules 2026). |
| Everest Base Camp | Sagarmatha National Park + Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Permit | ~USD 50 | No | Not Mandatory (But Recommended) | Easy permit process, can trek independently |
| Annapurna Circuit | ACAP Permit | ~USD 25 | No | Not Mandatory | Cheapest and most flexible trekking region |
Manaslu Trek Permits For Children
If you are trekking in Nepal with a child under 10, you may be wondering how much the trekking permit costs. Yes, many people ask me this question. The Trekking permit fee, including Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), is free! However, you must still complete all permit application processes and submit the necessary documents; the authorities waive only the cost; you still follow the same process as adults.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The total Manaslu Trek permit cost in 2026 is approximately USD 150–200 per person, depending on the season. This includes the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and a local municipality fee. RAP cost varies by season, while MCAP and ACAP have fixed fees.
You need three main permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek: the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). In addition, your trekking agency collects a small local municipality fee.
No, you cannot obtain a Manaslu Trek permit without a licensed guide. Nepal government regulations require all trekkers in the Manaslu region to be accompanied by a government-registered trekking guide. You may not trek independently or unguided in this restricted area.
Yes, solo trekkers can now obtain a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. However, they do not allow independent solo trekking. All trekkers, including solo travelers, must be accompanied by a licensed guide, and an authorized agency in Kathmandu must process the permit.
A registered trekking agency can only issue Manaslu Trek permits in Kathmandu. The Department of Immigration and the Nepal Tourism Board process the permits, and trekkers cannot obtain them directly on the trekking route or at checkpoints.
The processing of Manaslu Trek permits usually takes 1 working day by a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu. Once you submit your documents, the agency handles the entire application process with the relevant government offices.
You need a valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity, a Nepal visa, passport-size photos (digital accepted), travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, and a trekking itinerary. Your trekking agency will also handle guide details and permit applications.
No, you cannot obtain the Manaslu Trek permit on arrival at the airport or at trekking checkpoints. All permits must be arranged in advance through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu before the trek begins.
The Manaslu RAP is valid for a specific number of days based on your trekking route and season. It is charged per week and must cover the full duration of your restricted area entry. Additional days require an extra payment per day.
Permits are required to protect the fragile ecosystem of the Manaslu Conservation Area, regulate tourism in the restricted region, and support local communities. The permit system also ensures safety and controlled access in remote Himalayan areas.
No, a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card is not required for the Manaslu Trek. The Manaslu region is a restricted trekking area regulated by the Government of Nepal, so trekkers must obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) instead of TIMS.
No, a minimum of two trekkers is not required to obtain the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP). A single trekker can apply for the RAP through a registered trekking company and must be accompanied by a licensed guide, as per new rules of the Government of Nepal.
Conclusion
The Manaslu trek permit cost may seem higher than that of other trekking routes in Nepal; however, it helps ensure environmental protection, cultural preservation, and a safer trekking experience. In fact, these permits play a crucial role in maintaining the region’s natural beauty and supporting local communities. Therefore, while the total permit cost of around $150–$200 might initially appear expensive, it is actually a meaningful investment. Moreover, when compared to your overall trekking budget, this cost remains relatively small. Ultimately, it is a necessary expense that contributes significantly to both sustainability and safety throughout your journey.
Compared to other treks like Everest and Annapurna, the cost of the Manaslu trek is only expensive for the permit. Still, the food and accommodations are comparable to those of others. If you’re planning the Manaslu Circuit Trek, make sure to arrange your permits through a reliable agency and prepare all necessary documents in advance.
If you require any additional information beyond what we have mentioned above, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are happy to give you further information.
