The Manaslu Circuit Trek is more than just a remote trek; it’s restricted.
That means you must have a permit before you take a single step in the Manaslu region.
From Jagat to Sama Gaun, you’ll be in a protected zone declared as a Government of Nepal restricted area, where unauthorized entry is illegal and a permit is required to pass through every major checkpoint.
So, why do you need Manaslu circuit trek permit?
Because it’s more than just following the rules; it’s about protecting a sacred, fragile and rare ecosystem:
- The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit helps to preserve ancient Tibetan-influenced cultural heritage.
- It helps to reduce the impact of tourism on the fragile high-altitude ecosystem.
- It offers safety and accountability in a part of the world where you can’t just call for a rescue.
If you try to skip the permit, you’ll get stopped cold at the first checkpoint.
That would be a dream trek over – before you ever get started.
As of June 2025, every trekker must apply for the Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit in Kathmandu via a registered trekking agency, like Nepal Base Camp Treks, or at the Department of Immigration.
Pro Tip: Permits are also used to map the Manaslu Trek route you will take and provide emergency map points for rescue crews to find you.
What Permits Are Required for the Manaslu trek?
You’ll need three official Manaslu Circuit Trek permits to trek the Manaslu Circuit in 2025.
These three permits are all for different purposes, and all of them are essential.
Let’s break down the types of permits needed for manaslu circuit.
Permit 1: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
The compulsory permit that opens the gateway to Manaslu.
This is the main permit you will need to enter the restricted area from Jagat to Sama Gaun.
Issued by the Department of Immigration, it can only be obtained through registered trekking agency companies.
This restricted area permit for Manaslu is charged per day and at a different rate depending on the season (more in the next section).
You are not allowed to trek solo.
You need to have a licensed guide or registered trekking agency and be in a group of at least two people (not including the guide/porter).
Without this Manaslu Circuit trek permit, you cannot legally enter the Manaslu Region; it is the most important permit for the trek.
Permit 2: Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Contribute to the preservation efforts of the Manaslu region.
Once you enter the Manaslu area, keep in mind that you are entering a conservation area, which also requires a permit.
The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit is used to help maintain the trails, protect the local biodiversity and develop rural villages along the route.
Unlike the RAP, the MCAP does not have a date range.
The permit is a one-time fee valid during your entire stay within the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Permit 3: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Additionally, you will need an ACAP, even if you think “I am only doing Manaslu”.
Why?
Because once you cross Larkya La Pass, you will descend back into Annapurna Conservation Area, near Bhimthang and Dharapani, at which point there will be checkpoints.
The ACAP works the same way as the MCAP, meaning there is a flat fee and it’s valid for the entire time you are in Annapurna.
It is easy to forget about the ACAP, but it is important to be aware of it when considering Manaslu Circuit trek permits.
This conservation area is governed by national park and wildlife regulations administered by the Nepal Tourism Boar and checkpoints are strictly enforced.
In any case, if you plan to do the ACAP in conjunction with the Annapurna Circuit Trek, this permit would serve both.
Do I need TIMS for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Short and simple: No.
A TIMS card is still required for many treks in Nepal, but for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2025, it won’t be required.
This is because you will receive a Restricted Area Permit that includes all necessary tracking and data for safety and regulation
So, if you’re trekking Manaslu, just don’t bother with the TIMS.
But if you plan on trekking deeper into the Annapurna region or the Everest region after that, then you will require it.
How Much Do Manaslu Trek Permits Cost in 2025?
So, let’s cut to the chase.
How much does the Manaslu Circuit Trek permit cost in 2025?
The cost of the permit will depend on the timeframe of your trek, the duration of your stay in the restricted area and personal characteristics, like your nationality and whether you’re part of a group.
Here is a simple breakdown, so you are aware of their price in overall cost for Manaslu trek.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit Cost
The RAP costs money per person, per day and it varies by season.
This Manaslu circuit trek permit costs will increase the longer you stay in the restricted area (Jagat to Sama Gaun).
Here’s how this pricing works:
Autumn (Peak Season) – September to November
This is the most popular time to trek, and with good reason: clear skies, killer mountain views and the best weather.
In this peak trekking season, MCAP costs $100 for the first 7 days and $15 per day after that period.
Spring (Shoulder Season) – March to May
This period is still a good time to do Manaslu.
Rhododendrons are in bloom, the weather is dry, but temperatures are warming.
The MCAP cost is USD 75 for the first 7 days and after that, you should pay $10 each day you spend there.
Winter (December to February
Winter offers colder, quieter and more challenging conditions that are perfect for experienced trekkers who appreciate the seclusion.
USD 75 for the first 7 days + USD 10 per day thereafter.
Monsoon (June to August)
This season is wet, muddy and dangerous, but open nonetheless.
Trekking is possible, but only with expert guidance.
The cost is USD 75 for the first 7 days + USD 10 each day thereafter.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit Cost
Unlike RAP, it is a single fee and valid for the entire trek, regardless of the actual length of time or season.
For this manaslu trek permit fee, it costs USD 30 for all foreign nationalities and NPR 1,000 (~USD 8) for SAARC nationalities.
However, it is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
The price of ACAP is the same as MCAP.
It costs $30 for foreign nationals and NPR 1,000 (~USD 8) for SAARC nationals.
This permit is also valid for the duration you spend in the Annapurna region.
Where to Get the Manaslu Trek Permits in Kathmandu
Before you leave on the journey, you have to get your Manaslu Circuit Trek permit, meaning you must do it before you leave Kathmandu.
All these permits cannot be obtained on the trail or from Pokhara.
It is simple, but you must follow the official processes set out by the Government of Nepal.
Apply through Registered Trekking Agencies
You can only get the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu, such as NBCT.
You cannot apply as an independent traveler.
When you book with us, our agency will:
- Register a group of two or more trekkers.
- Provide a licensed guide who is first-aid trained.
- Present your documents to the Department of Immigration.
- Also, arrange the MCAP and ACAP for you.
It takes 1-2 working days and we will take care of everything for you.
Get it directly from the Department of Immigration
The RAP is issued by the Department of Immigration, Dillibazar, Kathmandu but you cannot obtain one without going through a registered agency.
As individual trekkers, you cannot apply for an RAP.
If you need an MCAP and an ACAP, you can get these directly from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara or through a registered trekking agency.
Can I get Manaslu Permit without Guide?
No, you must have a licensed guide with you to obtain the Manaslu Circuit Trek permit.
The government has rules for all trekkers in the restricted area, with all trekkers required to be guided and in a registered trekker group with 2 or more trekkers.
Agencies will pair solo trekkers together “on paper” for the permit. A licensed guide is still needed for permit issuance.
Trekking alone without a guide is not allowed.
What Documents do I need for Manaslu Permit?
Before your trekking agency can apply for your Manaslu Circuit Trek permit, you’ll have to prepare some documents.
These are required to apply for the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), MCAP and ACAP.
Passport, Photos & Visa copy
You will need to provide your valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity).
You also need two passport-sized photos and a clear copy of your Nepal visa (tourist visa is acceptable).
Your passport and photos will be used for government records and issued as official trekking permits.
Tip: It’s wise to keep printed and digital backups of all documents with you during your trek.
Travel Insurance Documents (Recommended)
Even if they don’t formally require them to issue your permit, you should always have travel insurance, especially one that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
Depending on the agency, they may ask for your travel insurance information to ensure your safety in case you become ill with altitude sickness or sustain an injury.
Some travel agencies even require you to prove that you have sufficient insurance before confirming your booking.
Local Trekking Agency
If you book with us, we will submit our registration, itinerary and your assigned guide’s license when applying for your Manaslu Circuit trek permit.
We completely handle the backend parts, and require your collaboration to collect accurate personal details.
Recap of your checklist
Valid passport (original + photocopy)
Nepal tourist visa photocopy
Two passport-size photos
Travel insurance information (recommended)
Trekking agency registration (handled by the agency)
Licensed guide name and group itinerary
Manaslu Trek Permit Validity Period and Rules
Once the permits are received, it’s important to know their validity and rules, in case you want to avoid overstaying or breaking the regulations along the route.
How Long is the Manaslu Circuit trek Permit Valid for?
Each permit has its own validity terms, based on the type and route:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP):
This Manaslu trek permit is only valid for the specific dates as provided on your application, based on the number of planned days in the restricted zone (Jagat to Sama Gaun).
If you want to stay longer, the agency will need to apply for extra days ahead of your trek.
After obtaining your RAP and while you’re on the trail, there is no possibility of getting an extension for the RAP.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
Both the MCAP and ACAP are single-entry permits, with no limit on the duration of time you can spend trekking in the conservation areas.
Once the MCAP and ACAP are issued, they are still valid for the duration of your trek in the respective conservation areas.
If you leave the conservation areas and try to re-enter, then you will have to buy a new MCAP or ACAP.
The Rules for Extension, Changes & Usage
Rule 1: RAP (Restricted Area Permit) cannot be extended on trail
Before applying for RAP, you must first estimate the number of days you want to stay in the restricted area.
If you overstay, you will risk fines and even get denied exit passage at the checkpoints.
Rule 2: Permits are not transferable or refundable
Your name, passport number and dates are printed on the permits.
Those permits cannot be reassigned or refunded, even if your plans change!
Rule 3: Checkpoints are strict
Please expect permit checks at Jagat, Philim, Samagaun and Dharapani.
Officers will check the validity and duration of your RAP and conservation permits, so have your originals and digital copies ready.
Rule 4: Group Integrity is Controlled
Since trekking solo is not permitted, your agency has to confirm that your group can trek together as listed on your application.
Changing the group members during mid-trek is strictly prohibited.
Tip: If you are guessing on the number of days you will be in the restricted area, guess high (overestimating is not hard). There is a big difference in requesting 10 days and using 8 versus requesting 7 and needing 9.
Key Things to Know When You Apply
Before you submit your application and complete your Manaslu Circuit trek permits, there are some important things to consider.
These things can directly affect your permit dates, route flexibility and the overall trekking experience along the Manaslu Circuit trek.
Best times to apply for a permit
The best times to trek and apply for Manaslu Circuit trek permit depend on weather patterns and seasonal demand.
The peak season for trekking Manaslu circuit is from September to November.
During this time, the permits are more expensive, with the RAP cost peaking, but the views are simply unbeatable.
The agency will apply at least 7 days before the start of the trek to receive your permits in time.
March to May is also a popular time when the trails are drier and rhododendrons bloom.
And there are fewer trekkers in times of December to August (winter + monsoon); so, the RAP cost is lower, but it is a more challenging trek.
Again, as long as you plan and apply at least 3–4 days beforehand, you will be fine.
Tip: If you want to trek during festivals in Nepal, you should apply for permits early, as the offices are closed.
Weather Factors during Permit Months
Manaslu’s weather really changes with height.
Even during the best months, nighttime temperatures at Samagaun (3,530m) and Dharamsala (4,460m) can fall below freezing point.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): The skies are clear, trails are dry and demand for permits is high
Spring (Mar–May): Days are warm, trails are in good condition, but there is usually some haze along the trail.
Winter (Dec–Feb): It is cold, snow nearer the Larkya La Pass, most teahouses shut down
Monsoon (Jun–Aug): In this time, trials are slippery, leeches are found and landslides can happen.
Pro Tip: Consider your dates based on weather and not just price.
Altitude & Route Impacting Permit Usage
The Manaslu Circuit is a high trek, peaking at 5,160m at Larkya La Pass.
The altitude range of Manaslu trek does not just affect your health; it can also affect your schedule.
If you suffer from AMS (acute mountain sickness) or need an additional few days to rest in Samdo or Samagaun, your RAP(s) might expire.
So, when calculating how many days you will need to request your restricted permit, consider including 1-2 buffer days in your plans.
Furthermore, your route on the Manaslu Circuit trek starts to merge into the Annapurna region after Larkya La, so make sure your ACAP is also ready and valid, even if you don’t plan to continue the Annapurna trek.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is Manaslu Circuit trek permit cost?
Generally, the Manaslu trek permit costs $135–$205 per person, depending on the time of year and how long you are in the restricted area.
For example, in peak season (September–November), the RAP costs $100 for a duration of 7 days and $15/day extra. The MCAP costs $30 and the ACAP costs $30 and so on.
Spring and off-peak rates are slightly cheaper (the RAP is $75 + $10/day).
Can you do Manaslu trek without a guide?
No. You cannot trek solo.
You can only do so as part of a group (minimum of two trekkers) with a licensed or agency-registered guide.
There are many agencies that will “pair solo trekkers on paper” so that they fulfill this requirement, but then allow trekkers to be independent with their guide.
Do I need an ACAP permit if I’m only doing Manaslu?
Yes. You will be trekking through the Annapurna Conservation Area when you cross Larkya La Pass, so you will definitely need an ACAP permit
The ACAP permit is also required at the exit checkpoints and needs to be obtained before your trek.
What if I lose my permit during the trek?
If you lose your permits, you could be fined, and possibly not allowed to pass at checkpoints.
Always carry your own printed copies along with digital copies on your phone.
If the permit is lost, your agency may be able to help you issue the replacement from Kathmandu, but this could delay your trek.
So, make sure to use a waterproof pouch or document wallet to store your permits.
Where to buy manaslu circuit trek permit in kathmandu
You can obtain the permit for the Manaslu Circuit Trek via a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu who will apply for the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) on your behalf.
As for both MCAP and ACAP permits, you can get it from the Nepal Tourism Board office at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu.
Want to Skip the Hassle? Book a Manaslu Trek Package with Permits Included
Sorting through the permits, figuring out the exact days and coordinating everything with your guide and agency is complicated.
Let’s be real: it takes just one small error to delay your trek or even cancel it altogether.
That is why most trekkers will choose to book a full Manaslu Circuit Trek package through a reputable local company such as Nepal Base Camp Treks.
When you choose to book with us, we take care of:
- All the Manaslu Circuit Trek permits (RAP, MCAP & ACAP).
- Setting up the group and official registration.
- A fully / licensed, English-speaking guide.
- Transparent cost breakdowns and expertise in planning the trip.
No long lineups, no government paperwork, no last-minute surprises.
We take care of the details so you can get your head in the mountains.
Get in touch today to book your trek or feel free to ask us a question.
