Manaslu Trek Permit

Manaslu Circuit Trek is an adventurous journey in the remote Himalayan foothills of Nepal. Numerous preparations are required for this spectacular trek, including itinerary planning, budgeting, etc. However, obtaining the Manaslu Trek permits ranks at the top of this list. Permits are essential for the Manaslu trek, as with every other trek in the country.

Every trekker on this incredible route must have specific permits before starting their trek. The permits are of three types: National Park/Conservation Area permits, Trekkers Information Management System permits, and special permits for Restricted Areas. These permits are issued for the safety of the trekkers on the route. Most of the permit cost goes back to the development of the local community.

The Manaslu Circuit trek permits include Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The permit cost differs according to the trek’s season and the trekkers’ nationality.

Manaslu trekking trails also pass through the restricted areas. These restricted areas are in place to protect and conserve the natural wildlife habitat. Security is another reason for the restriction in the area, as it lies closer to the Tibet-Nepal border. For these reasons, there are special permits required to traverse the region.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek permits are generally expensive in the peak seasons of Spring and Autumn and less expensive in the offseasons. Moreover, if you are a SAARC national, there are specific discounts on the permits. The permit fees for the children are free if they are less than ten years of age.

You can get these permits from the Department of Immigration and the Nepal Tourism Board. Read on for a detailed description of the Manaslu Trek Permits, their costs, and ways to get them.

Manaslu Trek Permits

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit

The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit is essential as you will pass through the restricted areas of the region. The trail trek will lead you through the various checkpoints, where you must show the permits along the trail. You will get the restricted area permit, and the cost of the permit depends upon the itinerary days. They are as follows:

September to November:

The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit costs USD 100 per person during the peak Autumn season from September to November. However, it is only for the first seven days. After that, you will have to pay around USD 15 per person per day.

December to August:

From December to August, the Manaslu Restricted Area permit cost is around USD 75 per person. However, it is only for the first seven days. From then onwards, the permit cost of the Manaslu Restricted Area Trek is around USD 10 per person per day.

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit)

The Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) permit is another required for the Manaslu Trek. However, you will only pass through the Annapurna Circuit trails for a short time. You will need to trek through the region; hence, a permit is required.

Therefore, when you arrive at a certain point of the trek, you will need to show the permit of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The ACAP permit cost remains the same as the MCAP throughout the year.

However, the permit cost is also reduced for SAARC nationals, around Rs. 1000 per person. The cost of the permit is around NRs. 3000 per person if you are a foreigner outside of the SAARC countries. For Nepalese, the ACAP permit is NRs.100. Moreover, children below the age of 10 get this permit for free.

Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit)

The Manaslu Conservation Area Project permit is another essential permit required for the trek. The beautiful trail of the region will take you through the serene landscapes of the region.

You will pass through numerous trails of the region as you go through the incredible courses. You will get the same permit throughout the trek, as the Manaslu Circuit Area Permit does not restrict you based on the length of your stay.

Hence, the permit cost of the Manaslu Circuit Area Permit is NRs. 3000 per person for foreigners and NRs. 1000 per person for trekkers from SAARC countries. Nepalese travelers will need to pay around Rs.100 for this permit, whereas it is free for children who are 10 years and below.

Optional Permits

Tsum Valley Permits

The permit for the Tsum Valley is an optional requirement if you decide to take a side trip in the Tsum Valley region. The beautiful trek in the area will lead you to various challenging terrains in the region’s remote landscapes.

The Tsum Valley permit costs around USD 40 per person in the peak season from September to November. However, it is valid for only one week, and the permit cost is USD 7 per person per day after the first seven days.

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Permit costs USD 30 per person from December to August for the rest of the year. It is valid for one week, and the permit cost is USD 7 per person per day.

TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card

The TIMS card is another optional permit in the region if you decide to extend the trip to settlements in the area, including Muktinath, Jomsom, etc. The TIMS card costs NRs. 1,000 and NRs. 2,000 for Group trekkers and Free individual trekkers (FIT), respectively. In the case of SAARC nationals, the TIMS card costs NRs. 300 and NRs. 600 for Group trekkers and Free Individual Trekkers, respectively.

You can obtain these permits from the Nepal Tourism Board’s offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Important Documents Required for the Manaslu Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires various important documents as follows:

• Original Passport
• Photocopies of Original Passport
• Passport-sized photos (4)
• Nepali visa with arrival stamped.
• Cash
• Travel Insurance.
• Printed Flight tickets.
• A scanned passport.
• Consent letter to Immigration Chief.
• Consent letter of the trekking company with a guarantee.

You can get this permit for the Manaslu Trek from the Nepal Tourism Board’s office and throughout the various checkpoints.

Steps to Get the Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits

Step 1: Fill out the Application Form Online

• Firstly, you need to fill up the .
• You can fill in for the Annapurna Circuit Area Permit (ACAP) and Manaslu Circuit Area Permit (MCAP).
• These forms are available on the websites.
• While writing the application, you should address it to the DG, Department of Immigration, Nepal Government.
• The printed travel itinerary should get uploaded in the form along with the proper length and the journey date.
• Prepare the photocopy of the passport’s main and visa pages.
• Arrange the cash in American dollars, and note down the serial number and denomination.
• Note them on the agency letterhead.

Step 2: Proceed to the Department of Immigration with all the necessary documents listed as follows:

• All the serial numbers and denominations of the dollars should get submitted to the Department of Immigration. You should get the serial numbers and denominations on the agency letterhead.
• Submit all the dollars in cash to the Global IME Bank and receive the deposit slip. It is present on the premises of the Department of Immigration.
• Complete all the verification and updating insurance processes, getting the authority certificate and tax clearance from the central bank.
• After double verification in the process, you will then proceed to the Head of Immigration.
• After final verification, the Head of Immigration will issue his signature.
• After completing the process, you will get the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit printed and stamped with stickers.

Step 3: Go to Nepal Tourism Board for the MCAP and ACAP permits.

The MCAP and ACAP permits are available from the Nepal Tourism Board. To obtain the permit, first, you must fill out the online application form and then pay for it in the local currency. Once you have the permit, you can affix your photograph and get it signed.

Terms and Conditions for the Manaslu Trek Permits

• The Conservation Area Permits are only limited to the premises mentioned in the permit.
• The permits are not transferable or refundable.
• The permits are on a single-person basis
• The trekkers should carry their permits at all times.
• Trekkers need to show their permits at various checkpoints.
• The trekkers should obey the rules and regulations set by the Nepal Government according to the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act.
• Get the permits in advance.
• You can also get these permits at the checking points at an added cost.

Outline Itinerary – Manaslu Trek

Day 1: Kathmandu to Soti Khola Drive

Day 2: Trek Soti Khola to Machha Khola (890m).

Day 3: Trek Machha Khola to Jagat (1350m).

Day 4: Trek Jagat to Deng (1860m).

Day 5: Trek Deng to Namrung (2660m).

Day 6: Trek Namrung to Samagaon (3525m).

Day 7: Acclimatization day.

Day 8: Trek Samagaon to Samdo (3860m).

Day 9: Trek Samdo to Larka La Phedi (4460m).

Day 10: Trek to Bimthang (3610m), crossing Larkya La (5106m).

Day 11: Trek to Dharapani (1920m)

Day 12: Drive to Kathmandu via Besi Sahar

About Manaslu Trek

The Manaslu Trek is a challenging 10-12 day trek, depending on the route and the trekker’s pace. It starts from Besishahar, a small town in the Lamjung district of Nepal.

The trek follows the Marsyangdi River and passes through small villages, dense forests, and terraced fields. It takes trekkers through the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is home to various rare flora and fauna, including birds and animals.

As trekkers make their way through the circuit, they get to experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the Gurung people, the dominant ethnic group in the region. They can also visit ancient monasteries, temples, and villages and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

The Manaslu Trek is known for its challenging terrain, which includes steep inclines, rocky trails, and high-altitude passes. Trekkers should be in good physical condition and prepared for long days of hiking. The trek is best undertaken with a guide and a porter, as they can provide valuable assistance and support throughout the journey.

Despite its challenges, the Manaslu Trek is a rewarding and unforgettable experience. Trekkers who complete the circuit will be rewarded with stunning views of the Himalayas and a sense of accomplishment from tackling a complex and demanding trek.

Tsum Valley Trek Extended

The Tsum Valley is a hidden gem in the Gorkha district of Nepal, located in the remote northern country nestled in the Himalayan mountains. The Tsum Valley is known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and serene atmosphere.

The Tsum Valley Trek is an extended version of the Manalsu trek, allowing you to explore the remote and rugged terrain of the region. The area has many tribal settlements in the village, providing you with a unique regional experience. These landmarks are off the beaten path that many travelers have yet to visit.

The remote landscapes take around 7-8 hours to complete, including beautiful forests, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks. The trek requires extreme strength and stamina as you traverse the challenging terrain, including the Larkya La pass.

Tibetan Buddhism greatly influences the trek trails as the region borders Tibet. There are many Buddhist monasteries, chortens, gompas, and others on the tracks of this unique trek. The region is also famous for Milarepa’s Cave, where the Buddhist legend meditated in the area’s natural caves. Hence, this part is significant both culturally and religiously.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Manaslu Trek Permit

Does the Manaslu Trek Permit have any side trips?

Yes, you can also go on the Tsum Valley as a side trip in the Manaslu Trek.

What permits are necessary for the Manaslu Trek?

The permits required for the trek include Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Manaslu Restricted Area Permit.

Is a TIMS card required for the Manaslu Trek?

No, since you will obtain the special Manalsu Restricted Area Permit, you will not need the Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card permit. You will require the TIMS card if you extend the trek to Manang and Jomsom.

Can you trek solo on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

According to the Nepal Government, the Manaslu Circuit Trek passes through remote and rugged trails that can be quite challenging. Therefore, you should only trek in the region with the help of a professional guide and in a group of at least two.

What criteria need to get fulfilled for the Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits?

To obtain the Manaslu Circuit Trek permits, you need to fulfill the following criteria:

• Obtain the permits from a trekking agency.
• Trek with a licensed professional guide in the region.
• Trek through an authorized trekking agency.
• Trek in a group of at least two members.

Should you obtain the permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in advance?

Yes, the Manaslu Circuit Trek permits require verification through proper documents, so obtaining the permits in advance is recommended.

Where can you obtain the Manaslu Trek permits?

You can obtain the permits for the restricted area from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. Similarly, you can obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit from the Nepal Tourism Board.

Why is the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) necessary while trekking the Manaslu Circuit?

The Manaslu Trek trail passes through a short section of the Annapurna Circuit. Therefore, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) is necessary for the trek.

Does everyone need to obtain permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, everyone except children under 10 years old is required to obtain permits for the trek.

How long does it take to obtain the permit?

It typically takes around two to three hours to obtain the permit, but delays can occur. Therefore, it is advisable to allocate a day for obtaining the permits.

What is the cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek permit?

The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek permit depends on various factors such as the itinerary, duration, nationality, etc. The above section provides detailed information about the cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek permit.

Final Say

Manaslu Circuit Trek is an outstanding trek in the remote and rugged landscape of the region. The beautiful walk in the area will take you through the region’s challenging topography, and the trail will lead you through the incredible Himalayan landscapes of the region.

If you plan to trek in the Manaslu region of Nepal, you will need to obtain a permit from the Nepalese government. This permit is called the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit and is necessary for all trekkers who visit the region. Since the Manaslu region is a restricted area, you will not get the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP). However, there is an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) that you will need to obtain.

In addition to this permit, you may also need to obtain a permit from the Nepal Mountaineering Association if you plan to climb any peaks in the area. It is essential to check with the appropriate authorities and obtain all necessary permits before embarking on your trek. Contact us for more information about the Manaslu Trek in the region and related permits.