In recent years, the Manaslu Circuit Trek has been gaining popularity for its untouched landscapes, off the beaten track and 8th highest peak views. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Manaslu Trek permit fees for 2025 & 2026.
Since the area is classified as a restricted zone, costs vary by season. The permit process can be a bit confusing as well for new trekkers. Glorious Himalayan is here to provide a clear and complete guide to all required permits and their prices.
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Manaslu Trek Permit Fees 2025 & 2026
If you are looking to trek in the Manaslu Region, you will need to obtain mainly three permits. In recent years a fourth permit has also been added to the list. Many opt for Tsum Valley in the Manaslu Circuit Trek which will require a permit as well.
1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit Fees (RAP):
The restricted permits in this area vary upon season. The fee for the first week is mandatory and you have to pay additional fees for every other day.
- December to August: USD 75 for the first week and USD 10 for each additional day.
- September to November: USD 100 for the first week and USD 15 for each additional day.
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit Fees (MCAP):
The Conservation Area Permit fees depend on whether you are from a SAARC nation or another.
- SAARC nationals: Entry fee Nrs 1000 per person (roughly USD 8)
- Non-SAARC nationals: Entry Fee Nrs 3000 per person (roughly USD 22)
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit Fees (ACAP):
In the Manaslu Circuit Trek you also have to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area (Dharapani-Besisahar). Same as MCAP, the fees are different for SAARC and non-SAARC nationals.
- SAARC Nationals: NRs 1000 per person
- Non SAARC Nationals: NRs 3000 per person
4. Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit Fee:
The permit fee for Chumnubri Rural Municipality is NRs 1000 per person for foreigners.
5. Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit Fees:
Tsum valley restricted area permit is an optional if you want to add Tsum valley trek in your Manaslu circuit trek itinerary.
1. From December to August: USD 35 for the first week and USD 7 for each additional day.
2. From September to November: USD 40 for the first week and USD 7 for each additional day.
How to get Manaslu trek permits online?
Individual groups or solo trekkers can’t obtain online permits of the Manaslu region due to a restricted zone. Therefore, you should go through the local trekking company in Kathmandu to issue the permits.
Trekkers can get the online permits of MCAP and ACAP individually from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara. But you cannot get the permits of restricted areas such as Manaslu and Tsum valley regions. Another local permit can also be obtained at Chumnubri Rural municipality permit office in Gorkha along the entry point of the Manaslu trek route.
As you are well informed with the Manaslu Trek Permit Fees, we will look into how we obtain the necessary permits. The required documents to issue the permits are:
- Passport: Valid minimum 6 months from entry, with a copy of the bio page.
- Nepal Tourist Visa: A copy of a valid visa sufficient to cover trekking days
- Passport-size digital photos for the permits.
- Trek Itinerary: An outline plan itinerary of your trek, including entry and exit dates for specific areas.
You should provide the necessary documents to a trekking agency and they will help you get the essential permits. As Manaslu Circuit Trek covers a restricted area you will have to consult with a registered trekking agency in Nepal.
Why Manaslu Area is restricted?
Some parts of the Manaslu regions are enlisted in the restricted area for visitors. The Manaslu area is located in the north-central area of Nepal. It is home to 33 species of mammals, over 110 species of birds and 3 species of reptiles. About 2000 flowering plants in this region make the area vibrant for trekkers.
Many local rural villages full of Tibetan culture inhabit this region. For the preservation of natural resources and ethnic communities, the Government of Nepal has designated this area as restricted region of Nepal. Also, the rules help preserve the pristine environment and reduce the local dependency on the ecosystem. The permits fees help promote ecotourism to improve livelihood of the local people in the MCA region.
Manaslu vs. Annapurna Circuit Permit Costs – Which is Cheaper?
As the Manaslu region is a restricted area compared to Annapurna, you probably know the answer to this question. Manaslu Trek Permit Fees include RAP, MCAP, ACAP, Chunbari Municipality and also Tsum Valley (opt). The 10-day trek in this region roughly equates to USD 175-180. Meanwhile, the Annapurna Circuit Trek requires you to get an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) Permit only. The permit fee for a single entry trek is around USD 25 per person.
Even though the Manaslu Circuit Trek is fairly expensive than the Annapurna, it’s better for seeking a remote and authentic Himalayan experience. The trail is less crowded compared to Annapurna. Also, the Tibetan-influenced culture is unique to this region.
What is the cost of Manaslu Trek Permits Fees for Indian citizens?
Here is the trek permits fees of Manaslu region for Indian travelers.
| Region | Fees/Cost | Duration |
| Manaslu Restricted Area | $100 (from September to November) $75 (from December to August) | 7 Days |
| Tsum Valley Restricted Area | $40 (from September to November) $30 (from December to August) | 7 Days |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | Nepalese Rupees 1,000 | For single entry |
| Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) | Nepalese Rupees 1,000 | For single entry |
| Chumnubri Rural Municipality Local Permit | Nepalese Rupees 1,000 | For single entry |
Is solo trekking in the Manaslu Region allowed?
Unfortunately, solo trekking is not allowed in the Manaslu region. Due to restricted area, only organized groups tours through the local trekking agencies are allowed to trek in this region.
What is the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek is March-May and September-November as the weather is clear and visibility is great. Autumn (Sept-Nov) is costlier compared to spring (March-May).
Do I need a guide for Manaslu Trek?
Yes, you are required to hire a licensed guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek through the registered local trekking company. You are not allowed to enter restricted area of Manaslu region without hiring a local guide.
How long does it take to trek the Manaslu Circuit?
The trek typically takes 12 to 14 days to complete. It can also be extended to 15-20 days with a side trip to Tsum Valley.
Is a TIMS card required for Manaslu Trek?
No, a TIMS card is not required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Nepal tourism board and Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal tried to implemented TIMS card all over the Nepal’s trekking routes but due to the local government restrictions and conflict between Nepal tourism board and Trekking agencies association of Nepal TIMS card is not mandatory at the moment.
