Embarking on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a journey into the heart of the "Spirit Mountain." It is a raw, rugged, and culturally immersive alternative to the more crowded Annapurna and Everest trails. However, because this region lies along the sensitive border between Nepal and Tibet, it isn't as simple as just lacing up your boots and heading out.
At Best Heritage Tour, we believe that a successful Himalayan adventure begins long before you reach the trailhead. Navigating the labyrinth of Manaslu Circuit Trek permits is the first and most crucial step. For 2026, the Nepal government maintains strict regulations to preserve the fragile ecosystem and the ancient Tibetan-Buddhist culture of the Nubri and Tsum valleys.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know about permit costs, mandatory requirements, and the step-by-step application process for 2026.
Why is the Manaslu Region Restricted?
The Manaslu region was only opened to trekkers in 1991. To this day, it remains a Restricted Area. This designation serves three primary purposes:
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Cultural Preservation: By limiting the number of visitors, the government helps protect the pristine traditions of the Gurung and Tibetan-descendant communities.
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Environmental Protection: The Manaslu Conservation Area (MCA) is home to rare species like the snow leopard and red panda. Strict permit tracking prevents over-tourism.
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Border Security: Due to its proximity to the Tibetan border, the area requires higher security monitoring by the Department of Immigration.
Important Note: Because of these restrictions, solo trekking is strictly prohibited in the Manaslu region. You must be at least two trekkers in a group, accompanied by a licensed Nepali guide.
The Four Essential Permits for 2026
To complete the full Manaslu Circuit, you will need four distinct permits. If you are also planning to visit the hidden Tsum Valley, a fifth permit is required.
1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
This is the most critical permit. It is required for the stretch between Jagat and Sama Gaon. The cost fluctuates based on the season:
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Autumn (September - November): $100 USD per person for the first 7 days. Every additional day costs $15 USD.
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Winter, Spring, & Summer (December - August): $75 USD per person for the first 7 days. Every additional day costs $10 USD.
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
This permit is required to enter the protected ecological zone. Unlike the RAP, the cost is fixed year-round:
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Foreigners: 3,000 NPR (approx. $23 USD)
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SAARC Nationals: 1,000 NPR
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
You might wonder why you need an Annapurna permit for a Manaslu trek. The Manaslu Circuit officially ends in Dharapani, which is the entry point for the Annapurna Circuit. To legally walk the final stretch from the Larkya La Pass down to Besisahar, you must have an ACAP.
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Foreigners: 3,000 NPR (approx. $23 USD)
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SAARC Nationals: 1,000 NPR
4. Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit
Introduced recently to support local infrastructure, this local entry fee is paid on the trail:
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Cost: 1,000 NPR (approx. $8 USD) for all foreigners.
Summary of Permit Costs (2026 Estimates)
|
Permit Type |
Peak Season (Sept-Nov) |
Off-Peak (Dec-Aug) |
Required For |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Restricted Area (RAP) |
$100 (7 days) + $15/day |
$75 (7 days) + $10/day |
Jagat to Sama Gaon |
|
Conservation (MCAP) |
~ $23 |
~ $23 |
Philim onwards |
|
Annapurna (ACAP) |
~ $23 |
~ $23 |
Dharapani to exit |
|
Local Municipality |
~ $8 |
~ $8 |
Chumnubri area |
|
TOTAL (Estimated) |
$154 + extra days |
$129 + extra days |
Full Circuit |
Mandatory Requirements: Can You Go Alone?
The short answer is no. The Department of Immigration will not issue a Restricted Area Permit to an individual. To be eligible, you must meet these criteria:
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The Power of Two: You must be a minimum of two trekkers in your group. If you are a solo traveler, we at Best Heritage Tour can often pair you with another solo trekker "on paper" to secure your permit, though you can trek with your guide.
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Licensed Guide: You must be accompanied by a government-licensed trekking guide. "Freelance" guides without agency affiliation cannot process these permits.
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Registered Agency: Only trekking agencies registered with the Nepal Government and TAAN (Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal) can apply for the Manaslu RAP.
The Step-by-Step Application Process
Obtaining these permits is a logistical hurdle that involves physical visits to government offices in Kathmandu. When you book with Best Heritage Tour, we handle this entire process for you. However, here is what the workflow looks like for 2026:
Step 1: Document Collection
Before you arrive in Nepal, you will need to provide:
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A clear scan of your Passport (must have at least 6 months validity).
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A copy of your Nepal Tourist Visa.
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4 passport-sized photographs.
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Travel Insurance details (must specifically cover emergency helicopter evacuation up to 6,000m).
Step 2: The Physical Passport Rule
The Department of Immigration requires your original passport with the physical visa sticker to issue the RAP. This means we cannot get your permit until you land in Kathmandu. We usually collect your passport on Day 1 and have your permits ready by the afternoon of Day 2.
Step 3: Online Filing
Best Heritage Tour will upload your details to the online portal of the Department of Immigration and the Nepal Tourism Board for the MCAP and ACAP.
Step 4: Checkpoint Verification
Once on the trail, your guide will manage the "Log Book." You will stop at various police and conservation checkpoints (Jagat, Philim, Namrung, and Dharapani) where your permits will be stamped and verified.
Pro-Tips for a Hassle-Free Trek
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Carry Cash: While permit fees are often included in your tour package, the Chumnubri Local Permit is often paid in cash on the trail. Keep some Nepalese Rupees (NPR) handy.
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Avoid Counterfeit Permits: Never trust an individual offering "cheap" permits without an agency. You will be turned back at the Jagat checkpoint, and you could face significant fines.
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The "Buffer" Day: Always plan at least one full working day in Kathmandu before your trek starts. Since the Immigration office is closed on Saturdays and public holidays, this "buffer" ensures your original passport can be processed for the RAP.
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Tsum Valley Add-on: If you have an extra 3-4 days, the Tsum Valley is a spiritual sanctuary. The permit costs an additional $40 USD (Autumn) or $30 USD (Off-peak) for the first week.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a life-changing experience, but the red tape can be daunting. The 2026 regulations are designed to ensure that while you enjoy the breathtaking views of the world's 8th highest peak, the local culture and environment remain protected for generations to come.
At Best Heritage Tour, we don't just provide permits; we provide peace of mind. Our veteran guides know every stone of the Larkya La Pass, and our office team handles the bureaucracy so you can focus on the adventure.
Are you ready to explore the untouched wilderness of Manaslu? Contact us today to start planning your 2026 departure, and let us handle the permits while you prepare for the journey of a lifetime!
Phone / WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197 / +977-9810043046
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com
Website: www.bestheritagetour.com
Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Author: Best Heritage Tour
Date: 5th February, 2026
