The Manalsu region is a restricted area of Nepal that requires a few special permits beyond the usual trekking visa if you want to trek here. Part of the Manaslu Circuit trail lies close to the Tibet border area. It also passes through two conservation zones — the Manaslu Conservation Area and the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Therefore, to be eligible to trek in this circuit, all foreign trekkers must obtain the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
The Nepal government has enforced these permits to protect the border region and support conservation. Authorities will check your permits at key points like Jagat on entering and Dharapani on exiting the trail.
The rules for the Manaslu Circuit trek Nepal are stricter than on most other routes. But do not let that scare you off, as the permit system is totally manageable once you understand it.
The Three Permits You Need
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Located near the Tibetan border, the Manaslu region is a restricted area. As such, the RAP is the most important permit to obtain if you need to trek the Manaslu Circuit. The government requires you to carry this special permit to enter the region.
The RAP regulates visitors’ access along with raising funds for local communities. This permit should be obtained through a registered trekking agency, like Radiant Treks. Individuals cannot apply for this permit.
Likewise, solo trekking is also not allowed. The law mandates that there must be two trekkers with a licensed guide in order to get this permit. The RAP is checked at the Jagat and other check posts along the trek. So, make sure you carry it with you at all times.
Permit Cost:
- USD 100 for the first 7 days from September to November. You need to pay USD 15 per day as an extra if your trek is more than 7 days.
- USD 75 for the first 7 days from December to August, plus USD 10 per day for an extra stay.
Validity: The permit is issued by the Department of Immigration of Nepal for the number of days you choose. It is usually based on your itinerary from Jagat to Dharapani. If you extend your stay beyond the covered days, then you should pay the extra daily fee.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
The National Trust for Nature Conservation issues the MCAP that is valid for trekking in the entire Manaslu Conservation Area. You can get this permit at the counters of the Nepal Tourism Board as well.
The conservation area begins from Philim up to Larkya La Pass on your Manaslu Circuit trail. The funds generated from MCAP support the management of the conservation area, wildlife conservation, and different community projects. This pass is non-transferable as well as non-refundable.
Permit Cost:
- NPR 3,000 per person (USD 22-25). It is not a per-day fee. Instead, one permit covers your entire Manaslu trek within the conservation area.
Validity: It is valid for a single entry and for the duration of your stay in the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
You need this permit during your descent towards Dharapani from the Larkya La Pass. That is because you enter the Annapurna Conservation Area in this stretch of the Manaslu Circuit trek. The National Trust for Nature Conservation issues ACAP.
The fund from the permit fee is used for the larger Annapurna park and community development there.
Permit Cost:
- NPR 3,000 per person (USD 22-25). It is a one-time fee and is reusable if you continue your trek into the Annapurna Circuit trek as well.
Validity: The ACAP covers your entire trek within the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Documents and Application Process
There are a few documents that you need to submit and follow a step-by-step process to be eligible to obtain the aforementioned permits.
Passport and Visa: You must have a valid passport with a validity of at least 6 months and a Nepal tourist visa. They are required to apply for the permits. Most tourists get a Nepal visa on arrival in Kathmandu. Nonetheless, include a clear copy of your passport and visa page to apply for the permit. Or your trekking agency will attach these copies to the application form.
Passport-Sized Photos: Bring at least 2 to 4 recent photos. You might need to submit at least 2 photos for the permit.
Trekking Itinerary: An outline of your trek should also be submitted. It should include details, like the start and finish dates of the trek, the route to follow, and the number of trekking days. This is essential to deciding the validity of your permit.
Travel Insurance: You may also show a copy of your travel and trekking insurance in the process. The policy should cover high-altitude medical evacuation. While this is not always formally required for the permit application, many agencies and officials often want you to show it to them. They want to see it as proof of the safety measures you have taken.
Application Form: Pay the agency, and it will submit everything to the Department of Immigration or the National Trust for Nature Conservation. Processing normally takes 1 to 2 working days. Once you receive the permit, check the details to see if the name of each permit matches your passport name to avoid confusion.
Groups, Guides, and Other Rules
The Manaslu Circuit trek permit system is in place for your safety as well as to keep this Himalayan gem pristine. One of the rules requires the trekkers to trek in a group of at least two foreigners, plus a licensed guide. Solo adventures are not allowed.
Likewise, you should hire a guide through a legit Nepali agency. That is because they are the only ones who can provide you with the Restricted Area Permit.
Expect checkpoints at spots like Jagat, Philim, Namrung, Samagaun, and Dharapani. You need to show your originals (RAP, MCAP, ACAP) in these places. You might face fines if you are not able to present the permits. They may make you return or impose other penalties. Nonetheless, if you follow the rules, you can complete the Manaslu Circuit trek without any worry.
But if you want the experience of the Himalayas without the two-week commitment, the Mount Everest helicopter tour could be another option. Or choose to go on a helicopter tour of Annapurna Base Camp.
