Manaslu region is a classified, restricted area, so almost all trekking routes within the Manaslu Conservation area require entry permits. Thus, the most arisen question among the travelers is related to the Manaslu Trekking Permit and their Cost.
The trails of Manaslu Circuit Trek are a bit more costly than your estimated budget. The expenses list is unceasing and must be paid with no exception. You are liable to pay for every expense from entry permits to the accommodation along with trek guides.
As Manaslu Trek is a remote tour, you cannot travel around the region without a guide. So, hiring a tour convoy is compulsory when trekking inside the Manaslu Conservation area.
The Government of Nepal declared the Manaslu area (between Jagat to Dharapani) a restricted region to control tourism. So, individual or solo trekkers are not allowed to trek.
There must be a minimal of two trekkers in a group who are accompanied by a local guide. In addition to these rules, you should only process your permits through a registered agency. A freelance guide cannot issue you with the needed Manaslu trekking permits.
Where is Manaslu Circuit Trek Located?
Among various major treks, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the closest trailheads near Kathmandu. This Circuit trek walks you around the foothills of Mount Manaslu.
Mount Manaslu is one of the eight-thousander peaks and the eighth highest mountain in the world. This mountain lies at 8163 m/ 26781 ft above sea level in the Mansiri Himal range.
Every year the routes are crowded with both trekkers and climbers looking forward to circling the unspoiled terrains. This classic trek features epic scenarios, close encounters with local people, and experience of ancient culture.
You also cross one of the highest Himalayan passes, Larkya La Pass, at 5213 m elevation above sea level. Also, you get to witness snowy peaks like Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, Himal Chuli, Shringi, Saula, and Langpo.
What are the Required Permits and how much is their Cost?
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted area and a part of the conservation area, so you need trekking permits to complete the trek. Thus trekkers are usually curious about the Manaslu Trekking Permit Cost.
A trekking permit is compulsory if you want to travel in the remote routes of the Manaslu region. So, making permits is the first thing to do after planning the trip.
It is best to keep in mind that the trekking permits are issued to groups only, so solo treks are out of option for you. There are three different permits needed for the trip and an additional one if you merge Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley.
The Manaslu Trekking Permit Cost mainly depends on the length of time you will be spending in this region.
Allow us to mention to you the permits and their cost below:
1. Special restricted Area Permit (RAP)
The special restricted area permit is necessary when traveling from Jagat till you cross Sama Gaon. After that, you will need another entry permit to continue the trek once you cross the village.
The Manaslu Trekking Permit Cost for a Special restricted area depends on the number of days you spend between Jagat and Dharapani. Sama Gaun is the last checkpoint for Special Restricted Area Permit.
Cost for this permit From September to November:
During these months, the RAP costs about USD 100 per person for the first seven days. Then from the eighth day onwards, you pay an additional USD 15 per person each day.
Cost for this permit From December to August:
Similarly, the Special Restricted Area Permit costs about USD 75 per person for the first seven days during these months. After that, each day, you need to pay an extra amount of USD 10 per person.
P.S. Trekkers don’t need printed photos for a Special restricted area permit as they will be published on the pass when uploaded online.
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP)
You require the Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit ( MCAP Permit) from Philim. It is because this beautiful place is the starting point for the Manaslu conservation area.
The Manaslu Trekking Permit cost for the MCAP permit remains the same throughout the year. Also, there is no change in price even if the no. of days you spend inside changes.
For SAARC countries: USD 10; NPR 1000 per person
For foreign countries: USD 30; NPR 3000 Per Person
P.S. Trekkers need to carry a printed photograph for the MCAP Permit.
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)
The final pass needed for Manaslu Circuit Trek is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. You need to carry this entry pass from Dharapani until you exit from Besisahar.
The ACAP Cost also remains the same throughout the year.
ACAP cost for SAARC Countries: USD 10; NPR 1000 per person
ACAP cost for Foreign countries: USD 30; NPR 3000 per person
P.S. Trekkers need to carry a printed photograph for the MCAP Permit.
Every Trekker must carry a TIMS Card if they want an entry in the restricted region. But you do not need this card for Manaslu Trek unless you are planning to extend the trip towards Annapurna Circuit from Dharani.
Unlike in the Manaslu Circuit trek, guides are optional when trekking inside the Annapurna region. You can travel solo in the ACAP trails, but we recommend not to for your safety.
Locations to purchase the Entry Permits
At Kathmandu (for ACAP and MCAP): Nepal Tourism Board, Bhrikutimandap
Opening Hours ( from Sunday to Friday): 9 am to 5 pm (time may differ during public holidays)
At Pokhara (for ACAP only): Nepal Tourism Board, Tourist Service Centre, Pardi Damside
Opening Hours ( from Sunday to Friday): 10 am to 5 pm ( time may differ during public holidays)
At Besisahar, Lamjung (for ACAP only): ACAP entry permit counter, Besisahar
Opening Hours (Sunday to Friday): 10 am to 5 pm (time may differ during public holidays)
A Few Notes regarding the Manaslu Trekking Permit
- All the Manaslu Trekking Permit costs are inclusive of 13% VAT compliance but the national park fees are exclusive of 13% VAT.
- You don’t need to pay entry fees for children under ten years old.
- Two recent passport-size photos are required for each permit except for RAP.
- You need to apply individually for MCAP and ACAP entry permits.
- The fees for entry permits are non-refundable and non-transferable
- The entry permits are valid for one-time use only.
- Travelers entering the Conservation area will abide by the rules and regulations of the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029 B.S.
- Trekkers must carry their entry permit along with them throughout the trek.
Frequntly Asked Questions
We here at Radiant treks are frequently asked about the Manaslu Trekking permits Cost. So, we have answered a few of them below:
How should I apply for a Manaslu Trekking Permit?
You should apply for the Manaslu Trekking Permits from a professional agency that is legally registered under the Nepal Government Act.
Can an individual apply for the Manaslu Trek Permit?
This is one of the most asked questions by the trekkers, and the answer is no. An individual can not apply for the Manaslu Trek permit; there should be a minimum of two trekkers in a group.
Is hiring a Guide or porter compulsory for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Manaslu region lies in a restricted area, so the government and authorities have made it compulsory to hire one professional license holder guide. But hiring a porter is entirely optional; you can if you want.
Do we need a TIMS Card for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
No, the TIMS card is not compulsory for the Manaslu trek, but you will need it if you plan on Extending the tour to Annapurna Circuit.
How many pp-size photographs do we need?
You will need a total of two printed photographs and one scanned photograph. The printed photos are necessary for ACAP and MCAP, while scanned ones for RAP.
How many days does it take to issue a permit?
It doesn’t take days but only about one and half hours max to issue a permit. However, it might take longer if the online system is down and needs to be done manually.
Can the permits be issued before we arrive in Nepal?
Typically, you can not issue permits in advance because the Immigration department needs your original passport and visa details. However, in some cases, it can be done with a scanned copy of passport, e-copy of flight tickets to Nepal, and visa number.
Do we need a separate permit for Tsum Valley Trek?
Yes, you need to make a separate permit for the Tsum Valley trek, known as the special restricted area permit. The price of the RAP permit differs according to the months and the length of time.
Can you issue permits during public holidays or on a Saturday?
No, the immigration department remains close during public holidays, so you need to issue them in advance before the long holidays.