The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most scenic and culturally rich Himalayan routes. Known for its rugged landscapes, Tibetan-influenced villages, and the dramatic crossing of Larke Pass (5,160m), Manaslu is often called “the best off-the-beaten-path trek in Nepal.”
However, because of its remote location and cultural sensitivity, Manaslu is classified as a Restricted Area, meaning trekkers must follow specific rules and obtain several permits before entering.

This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about Manaslu trek permits, their costs, requirements, documents, rules, and why they matter.

Why Manaslu Is a Restricted Area

The Manaslu region has a delicate Himalayan ecosystem and a unique Tibetan cultural heritage. To protect these, the Government of Nepal has declared the region a Restricted Area.

The goals of the restricted system are to:

• Preserve cultural authenticity
  
  

• Control tourism volume
  
  

• Protect wildlife and fragile landscapes
  
  

• Prevent illegal border crossings near Tibet
  
  

• Ensure that trekkers travel safely with experts
  
  

Because of this status, trekkers cannot enter the Manaslu region freely like Everest or Annapurna.

Mandatory Rules for the Manaslu Trek

1. No Solo Trekking

Independent trekking is strictly prohibited. You must:

• Trek with a licensed guide, and
  
  

• Be in a group of at least two trekkers
  
  

(If you are alone, a registered trekking agency can “join” you with another group on paper.)

2. Permits Must Be Issued Through a Trekking Agency

Unlike ACAP/Everest permits, the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit cannot be issued individually.
Only government-registered trekking companies can apply for RAP on your behalf.

3. Official Entry Checkpoint: Jagat

Your permit becomes valid from Jagat, where authorities verify:

• Group size
  
  

• Guide license
  
  

• Approved permit documents
  
  

Without proper permits, trekkers are:

• Denied entry
  
  

• Fined
  
  

• Required to return back to Soti Khola/Jagat
  
  

All Required Permits for the Manaslu Trek (Total 5)

To complete the full Manaslu Circuit, you need up to five types of permits depending on your route.

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

This is the main permit for the Manaslu region.

 Peak Season (September – November)

• Foreigners: USD 100 for first 7 days → + USD 15/day
  
  

• SAARC nationals: USD 70 for first 7 days → + USD 10/day
  
  

• Nepalese: Not required
  
  

 Off-Season (December – August)

• Foreigners: USD 75 for first 7 days → + USD 10/day
  
  

• SAARC nationals: USD 50 for first 7 days → + USD 7/day
  
  

• Nepalese: Not required
  
  

RAP Notes:

• Issued only through a trekking agency
  
  

• Cannot be issued at checkpoints
  
  

• Must match your itinerary (days are counted carefully)
  
  

• Extension available at checkpoints if needed
  
  

2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

This covers the entire Manaslu Conservation Area.

• Foreigners: NPR 3000
  
  

• SAARC: NPR 1000
  
  

• Nepalese: NPR 100
  
  

Required from Philim onwards and checked frequently in Samagaun, Samdo, and Lho

3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Required because the Manaslu trail exits into Annapurna after Larke Pass.

• Foreigners: NPR 3000
  
  

• SAARC: NPR 1000
  
  

• Nepalese: NPR 100
  
  

Checked in Bhimthang, Dharapani, and at the ACAP offices.

4. Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (Optional)

If you plan to add Tsum Valley, you need this extra permit.

Peak Season (Sept–Nov)

• USD 40 for first 7 days → + USD 7/day
  
  

Off-Season (Dec–Aug)

• USD 30 for first 7 days → + USD 7/day
  
  

Tsum Valley is also a culturally sensitive Tibetan Buddhist area.

5. Chum Nubri Rural Municipality Permit

This local permit is compulsory for visitors entering Tsum or Upper Nubri.

Peak Season (Sept–Nov)

• USD 100 → + USD 15/day
  
  

Off-Season (Dec–Aug)

• USD 75 → + USD 10/day
  
  

Collected by local authorities to support community development.

Documents Required for Manaslu Permits

Your trekking agency will need:

• Original passport
  
  

• Valid Nepal visa
  
  

• 2–4 passport-sized photos
  
  

• Travel insurance (recommended but sometimes required)
  
  

• Itinerary with entry/exit dates
  
  

• Guide license information (handled by agency)
  
  

Where Are Permits Checked?

Expect permit checks at:

• Jagat
  
  

• Samagaun
  
  

• Samdo
  
  

• Bhimthang
  
  

• Dharapani (ACAP)
  
  

Always carry:
✔ Printed copies
✔ Digital photos on your phone

Why Having a Guide Is Essential

Guides ensure:

• Safety during landslides, river crossings, or altitude issues
  
  

• Proper acclimatization schedule
  
  

• Smooth communication with local communities
  
  

• Permit handling and checkpoints
  
  

• Emergency evacuation support
  
  

They also enhance your cultural experience—especially in Nubri and Tsum Valley.

Total Permit Cost Example (For a 12-Day Manaslu Circuit – Peak Season)

• RAP: USD 100 + (5 extra days × 15) = USD 175
  
  

• MCAP: NPR 3000
  
  

• ACAP: NPR 3000
  
  

Approx total cost: USD 200–230 depending on exchange rate
(Not including Tsum Valley permit)

FAQ: Manaslu Trek Permits (Google Snippet Optimized)

1. Is solo trekking allowed in Manaslu?

No. Solo trekking is strictly banned. You must trek with a licensed guide and at least one other trekkers in your permit group.

2. How much is the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)?

RAP costs USD 100–75 for the first 7 days, depending on season, plus a daily extension fee.

3. Where are Manaslu permits checked?

Permits are checked in Jagat, Samagaun, Samdo, Bhimthang, and Dharapani.

4. Do I need ACAP for Manaslu?

Yes. After crossing Larke Pass, you enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, so ACAP is compulsory.

5. Can I get the permit myself?

No. Restricted Area Permits can only be issued through a registered trekking agency.

6. What happens if I trek without a permit?

You will be fined, denied entry at Jagat, and forced to return.

7. Is Tsum Valley included in the Manaslu permit?

No. Tsum Valley has its own permit, separate from RAP and MCAP.

8. Are permits checked every day?

Not daily, but there are multiple checkpoints throughout the route.