If you’ve been dreaming about a trek that combines raw Himalayan wilderness, cultural authenticity, and adventure - the Manaslu Circuit Trek is your perfect destination. But before setting out on this off-the-beaten-path journey, there’s one crucial question every trekker must ask:
What are the permits required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Unlike other popular routes such as the Annapurna or Everest regions, the Manaslu region is classified as a restricted area by the Government of Nepal. This means you can’t just pack your bags and start walking - you need specific Manaslu trekking permits that ensure conservation, local development, and regulated tourism.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Manaslu Circuit Trekking Permits - including their types, costs, rules, and application process. We’ll also explain how Best Heritage Tour makes the entire permit process smooth, fast, and hassle-free for you.
Why You Need Permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu region lies in the Gorkha District of central Nepal, near the Tibetan border. Because of its cultural sensitivity, proximity to the border, and ecological significance, the area has been designated as a restricted trekking zone.
To preserve the region’s culture and environment, the Nepal government requires all trekkers to have official permits. These permits also ensure that travelers respect the local traditions, wildlife conservation rules, and tourism regulations.
Simply put, these permits are your legal access passes - they protect both you and the local communities.
Types of Permits Required for Manaslu Circuit Trek
To trek the Manaslu Circuit, you need four main permits:
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Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
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Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit
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Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
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Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Each serves a different purpose - together, they regulate trekking, ensure safety, and contribute to local conservation projects.
1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
The Manaslu RAP is the most important permit for this trek. It is mandatory for all trekkers entering the region between Jagat and Dharapani, the restricted section of the route.
You can only obtain the RAP through a registered trekking agency in Nepal, like Best Heritage Tour, as solo trekkers are not allowed in this area.
Key Details:
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Only issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.
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Requires at least two trekkers in a group and a licensed guide.
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Valid for one entry only and charged per person.
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit
The MCAP permit supports conservation efforts in the Manaslu region. It’s used to protect the area’s flora, fauna, and cultural heritage.
You’ll need this permit from Philim village onwards (within the Manaslu Conservation Area).
This permit can be obtained from either:
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The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or
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Through your trekking agency like Best Heritage Tour.
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
The ACAP permit comes into play once you cross Larkya La Pass and enter the Annapurna region near Dharapani.
It’s required to ensure proper conservation and sustainable tourism practices within the Annapurna Conservation Area.
This permit is also available through the NTB office or your trekking company like Best Heritage Tour.
4. Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
The TIMS Card is designed to ensure trekkers’ safety and maintain proper records of trekking activities in Nepal.
However, note that TIMS is optional for the Manaslu region, as the RAP already includes detailed tracking of trekkers.
Still, some agencies prefer obtaining it as an additional security layer - especially if your itinerary connects to Annapurna trails.
Manaslu Trekking Permit Costs (in USD)
Below is a simple table outlining the current Manaslu Circuit Trekking permit costs as of 2025.
(Rates may vary slightly by season and government policy.)
|
Permit Type |
Cost (per person) |
Issuing Authority / Where to Get |
Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Manaslu RAP |
USD 100 per person for the first 7 days (USD 15 per additional day) |
Department of Immigration, Kathmandu |
Mandatory; requires a registered trekking agency |
|
MCAP Permit |
USD 30 |
Nepal Tourism Board (Kathmandu or Pokhara) |
Needed for the Manaslu region |
|
ACAP Permit |
USD 30 |
Nepal Tourism Board (Kathmandu or Pokhara) |
Needed after crossing Larkya La Pass |
|
TIMS Card |
USD 20 (optional) |
Nepal Tourism Board / Trekking Agency |
For record and safety |
Where and How to Get These Permits
Getting trekking permits in Nepal can sound complicated - but with a professional agency like Best Heritage Tour, the process becomes completely hassle-free.
Here’s how it works:
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Contact a registered trekking company (like Best Heritage Tour).
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Provide your documents, including:
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Valid passport copy
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Two recent passport-size photos
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Nepal visa copy
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Trekking itinerary details
-
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Pay the permit fees (as listed above).
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Wait 1 working day for processing - Best Heritage Tour will handle everything at the Department of Immigration and NTB offices.
Important: Individual trekkers cannot apply for the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit on their own.
You must travel with a licensed guide and be part of a registered group.
Rules and Regulations for Manaslu Trekking Permits
To ensure smooth trekking and responsible tourism, the Government of Nepal has established clear rules for Manaslu trekking:
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Minimum group size: 2 trekkers are required for the RAP.
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Licensed guide mandatory: You must be accompanied by a government-authorized trekking guide.
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Permit validity: Valid only for the specific route and duration mentioned.
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Checkpoints: You must show permits at various police and conservation posts.
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Single entry only: RAP allows entry once - re-entry is not permitted.
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No transfer: Permits are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Following these rules helps preserve the fragile ecosystem and supports the sustainable development of remote mountain communities.
Documents Required for Manaslu Permits
To obtain all your permits, you’ll need:
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Valid passport (minimum 6-month validity)
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Valid Nepal visa
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Two (2) passport-size photographs
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Confirmed trekking itinerary
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Details of your guide and agency
Best Heritage Tour will handle all paperwork and submission procedures on your behalf.
Why Hiring a Registered Agency is Important
Many trekkers wonder why they can’t apply for the permits independently.
The answer lies in the Restricted Area Regulation Act - which mandates that only government-registered trekking companies can apply for the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
By booking your trek through Best Heritage Tour, you:
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Ensure full legal compliance
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Get a licensed and experienced trekking guide
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Avoid the hassle of handling multiple government offices
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Receive support with transportation, accommodation, and logistics
Essentially, your agency ensures your trek is safe, authorized, and well-managed from start to finish.
How Best Heritage Tour Makes the Permit Process Easy for You
At Best Heritage Tour, we understand that paperwork shouldn’t stand between you and your adventure.
Here’s how we simplify everything:
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We handle all permit applications on your behalf.
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We keep you updated at every step.
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We provide official receipts and copies of all permits.
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We assign experienced local guides familiar with Manaslu’s terrain and culture.
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We organize full-service trekking packages - accommodation, meals, and transportation included.
So, while we take care of your permits, all you need to do is prepare your backpack and camera!
Conclusion: Trek Freely, Legally, and Safely in the Manaslu Region
Trekking in the Manaslu Circuit is a life-changing adventure - a journey through Himalayan landscapes, Buddhist villages, and pristine wilderness. But it all begins with the right trekking permits.
With Best Heritage Tour, you won’t have to worry about complex forms or rules. Our experienced team handles every detail, from obtaining permits to planning logistics, so you can focus purely on the joy of trekking.
Contact Best Heritage Tour for Manaslu Trek Permits & Bookings
Phone / WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197 | +977-9810043046
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com | bestheritagetour@gmail.com
Info & Booking: www.bestheritagetour.com
Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Author: Best Heritage Tour
Date: 15th October, 2025
