The Manaslu Circuit Trek sits in a restricted zone of Nepal, which means the permit requirements are more involved than most Himalayan treks. Before you set foot on the trail, you need to have the right documents in order — not just for legal compliance, but because checkpoints along the route will turn you back if anything is missing.
This guide covers every permit you need, what each one costs, and exactly where to get them.
Why Manaslu Requires Special Permits
Unlike the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, the Manaslu region is classified as a Restricted Area by the Government of Nepal. This designation limits independent trekking and requires travelers to be accompanied by a licensed guide at all times. The restriction exists to protect the fragile ecology of the area and to preserve the cultural integrity of communities along the route.
This means your permit stack will be larger than most Nepal treks.
The Four Permits You Need
1. Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
The RAP is the most important — and most expensive — permit on the list. Without it, you cannot legally enter the Manaslu Restricted Area.
| Season | Cost | |--------|------| | September – November (peak) | $100 per person per week | | December – August (off-peak) | $75 per person per week |
Most trekkers complete the circuit in 14–16 days, meaning you will need two weeks of coverage. That comes to $200 per person during peak season.
Where to obtain it: Department of Immigration in Kathmandu (Maitighar) or through a registered trekking agency. You cannot get this permit at the trailhead or anywhere along the route.
Key requirement: Your licensed guide's details must be included on the application. The RAP is issued in conjunction with guide registration — this is why you must book your guide before applying.
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
This permit covers the conservation area that encompasses the majority of the trekking route.
- Cost: NPR 3,000 (~$22) per person
- Valid: For the full duration of your trek
- Where to obtain: Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) in Kathmandu, or sometimes at the entry point (confirm current rules before travel)
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
If you complete the full circuit and exit via Dharapani, you will cross into the Annapurna Conservation Area. This requires a separate permit.
- Cost: NPR 3,000 (~$22) per person
- Where to obtain: Kathmandu (DNPWC office) or at Besisahar before continuing
Not all trekkers take this exit. If you return the same way you entered, you may not need the ACAP. Confirm your planned route before your trip.
4. TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
The TIMS card registers your trekking activity with the Nepal Tourism Board and acts as an emergency contact record.
- Cost: NPR 2,000 (~$15) for independent trekkers; free if booked through a registered agency
- Where to obtain: Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara
Permit Checkpoints on the Route
Permit checks happen at multiple points along the circuit. Be prepared to show all original documents — not photocopies — at each location.
| Checkpoint | What Is Checked | |------------|-----------------| | Jagat (approximately Day 2) | All permits, first major inspection | | Samagaon | All permits checked again | | Samdo | Spot checks possible | | Dharapani (exit) | ACAP checked for those exiting through Annapurna region |
Keep your permits in a waterproof bag and accessible at all times. Officials may ask to see them without warning.
Summary: Total Permit Costs
For a 14-day peak season trek with a full circuit exit through Dharapani:
| Permit | Cost (USD approx.) | |--------|--------------------| | RAP (2 weeks, peak season) | $200 | | MCAP | $22 | | ACAP | $22 | | TIMS (independent) | $15 | | Total | ~$259 |
Important Notes
- Apply early. Processing is usually same-day or next-day with an agency, but don't leave it to the morning of your departure.
- Bring multiple passport photos. Each permit application requires 2 photos. Bring at least 6–8 total.
- Originals only. Never mail or courier your original permits. Keep them on your person throughout the trek.
- Guide is mandatory. The RAP will not be issued without a registered guide attached to your application. There is no workaround.
Getting your permits sorted before reaching Kathmandu's trekking district saves time and stress. Most reputable agencies handle the entire permit process as part of their package — one less thing to manage on a complex logistical trek.