The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most adventurous and remote trekking routes in Nepal. It takes you around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest peak. This trek is special because it combines natural beauty with rich culture. Along the trail, you pass through quiet villages, Buddhist monasteries, ancient mani walls, and forests filled with rhododendrons and pine. Unlike the busy Everest and Annapurna routes, the Manaslu Circuit is less crowded, making it a great choice for trekkers who want a peaceful, challenging, and cultural Himalayan experience.
Because the Manaslu region is a restricted area, every trekker must have special permits. These permits are required by the Government of Nepal to protect the environment, support local communities, and ensure responsible tourism. You cannot enter the Manaslu region without them, and they are only issued through a registered trekking company with a licensed guide. This blog will guide you step by step about which permits you need, how to get them, and why they are important—so your trek will be safe, legal, and stress-free.
The Manaslu region is a restricted area of Nepal, which means trekkers cannot freely enter without following the rules set by the Nepal Government. To explore this border area near Tibet, you need a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit along with other Manaslu Trek Permits. These permits are required not only for safety regulations but also to protect the fragile environment and the unique local culture. The government has made it mandatory to trek with a licensed guide and an authorized trekking company, ensuring controlled tourism and secure travel in this remote part of the Himalayas.
Compared to Everest or Annapurna, where trekking is more flexible, trekking rules in Nepal are stricter for Manaslu. This helps keep the region peaceful, less crowded, and sustainable for future visitors. Permit fees directly support environmental protection, local development, and community welfare. By regulating visitors, the system promotes sustainable trekking, ensures safety, and respects the traditions of mountain villages. In short, Manaslu Trek Permits make trekking here safe, organized, and eco-friendly while preserving both nature and culture.
Types of Permits Required
When trekking in the Manaslu region, you need three main permits. First is the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which is issued by the Department of Immigration in Nepal. This is required because the Manaslu region is marked as a restricted area due to its location close to the Tibetan border. The cost of the RAP changes depending on the season (autumn, spring, or off-season), and it is compulsory for every trekker. You also cannot trek here alone – you must go with a registered trekking company and a licensed guide. This rule ensures safety, cultural preservation, and controlled tourism in the area.
Next, you will need the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), which is managed by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC). This permit fee supports the conservation of wildlife, forests, and local culture within the Manaslu Conservation Area. In addition, because the Manaslu Circuit Trek usually exits through the Annapurna region, you also need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). This protects the natural beauty of the Annapurna area and supports local communities along the trail. In short, to complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek legally and responsibly, every trekker must have a RAP, MCAP, and ACAP permit.
To trek in the Manaslu region, you need three main permits: the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The RAP price changes with the season. From September to November (peak season) it is USD 100 per person for the first week, then USD 15 per day after that. From December to August (off-season) it is cheaper — USD 75 per person for the first week, then USD 10 per day after that. The MCAP and ACAP have fixed prices of USD 30 each per trekker. So, for a normal 14-day trek, one person spends about USD 160–200 in total permit fees, depending on the season.
If you also plan a side trip to Tsum Valley, there is an extra Restricted Area Permit fee. This costs USD 40 per person per week from September to November, and USD 30 per week from December to August. This is in addition to your Manaslu permits. So, trekkers who want to explore both Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley will need to pay more. These rules are set by the Government of Nepal to protect the culture, environment, and border security. Having the right permits makes your trek safe, legal, and hassle-free.
To get the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), trekkers cannot apply on their own. Only a registered trekking agency in Nepal ( Nature Heaven Treks & Expedition) can issue this permit on your behalf. The process is simple: you give your agency a copy of your passport, valid Nepal visa, travel insurance details, and your trekking itinerary. The agency will then prepare and submit everything to the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. A TIMS card is not required for the Manaslu region, so you only need the RAP (plus ACAP and MCAP entry permits). This system ensures safe, controlled, and sustainable trekking in this sensitive border area of Nepal.
The whole process of getting the RAP usually takes just one working day if you have all your documents ready. That’s why it is important to arrange your permits through your trekking agency before starting the trek. The agency not only handles the paperwork but also provides a licensed trekking guide, which is mandatory in this region. With agency support, you don’t have to worry about permits, rules, or formalities — everything is managed smoothly so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.
When trekking in the Manaslu region, there are some important rules and conditions that every traveler must follow. First, you cannot trek alone — a minimum of 2 trekkers plus a licensed guide is required by the Government of Nepal. This rule is mainly for your safety, security, and cultural respect in the restricted area. All permits are issued for specific dates and routes only, which means you cannot use them on other treks or outside the approved timeline. Trekking outside these conditions is not allowed and can lead to fines or being stopped by authorities.
Another important rule is that solo trekking is not permitted in the Manaslu region. This ensures that trekkers are always with a professional guide who can help in case of emergencies and also protect the local environment and traditions. You must always carry your original permits or copies with you during the trek, because there are several checkpoints along the route where officers will check them. Following these rules not only keeps you safe but also supports sustainable tourism, local communities, and environmental protection in the Manaslu Conservation Area.
When planning the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it is very important to work with a registered and experienced trekking agency. A licensed agency makes sure you get the right permits, guides, and support staff for your journey. Many trekkers do not know that fake or invalid permits still exist, and using them can cause big problems, like being stopped at checkpoints or even fined. With a trusted company, everything is arranged legally and properly, so you don’t have to worry. Agencies also know how to handle last-minute changes, weather issues, or health concerns during the trek, which keeps your adventure safe and smooth.
At Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition, we take care of everything for you—from obtaining the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), to arranging guides, porters, and transport. This means you can simply enjoy the trek without stress. We believe in safe, legal, and sustainable trekking in Nepal, which protects both you and the local communities. So, if you want a hassle-free adventure with expert guidance, book your Manaslu Circuit Trek with Nature Heaven Treks. We promise you a secure, enjoyable, and unforgettable journey in the Himalayas.
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