Nepal
Kathmandu 44600
The mighty Himalayas lure adventure seekers from all over the world. If you are a passionate trekker looking for your next big challenge, consider the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal. Before undertaking this iconic teahouse trek around the 8th highest peak in the world, you will need to obtain the Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit.
This legendary route encircles the imposing Mount Manaslu, reaching 8,163 meters into the sky. Traversing through rich forests, high passes, and lovely villages, the Manaslu Circuit Trek rewards you with stunning mountain vistas and a profound cultural experience.
As your trusted trekking partner, we want to provide you with all the information you need to obtain for the Manaslu Circuit Trek permits. We’ll take you step-by-step through the permit application procedure in this blog. We will also go over some crucial advice, such as when and where to apply for permits and how much they cost.
1. Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu
After crossing Sama Gaun on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will enter a region that requires a special permit – the Special Restricted Area Permit. The Nepal Government has declared the area between Jagat and Dharapani as a restricted zone. This is because the region lies close to the Tibetan border. Due to security reasons, trekkers must obtain this permit to traverse the restricted area beyond Jagat.
Where to Obtain the Special Restricted Area Permit
It is important to note that only registered trekking agencies can apply for and obtain the Special Restricted Area Permit on your behalf. Independent trekkers will have to go through a recognized agency to get this permit. As your trusted trekking partner, we will handle the application and acquisition process for you.
Cost of the Special Restricted Area Permit
The cost of the permit varies based on the number of days you intend to stay between Jagat and Dharapani.
- For the autumn season (September to November):
- USD 100 for the first week in the restricted area
- USD 15 per additional day spent in the restricted area
- For spring (March to May), winter (December to February) and monsoon (June to August) seasons:
- USD 75 for the first week in the restricted area
- USD 10 per additional day spent in the restricted area
The permit cost is priced per person. We will assess your itinerary and trek duration to determine the total permit cost for your group.
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit
The Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit is required to help conserve the pristine region of Manaslu. This permit fee supports environmental protection and community development in the area. The Manaslu Conservation Area starts from the village of Philim, beyond which this permit is mandatory.
Where to Obtain the MCAP Permit
Trekkers can obtain the Manaslu Conservation Area Project permit from Kathmandu’s Nepal Tourism Board office. Permits are issued upon payment of the necessary fee. It is advised to acquire this permit well in advance of your trek.
Cost of the MCAP Permit
- For SAARC nationals: NPR 1000 per person
- For other foreign nationals: NPR 3000 per person
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
While hiking the Manaslu Circuit, you will enter the Annapurna Conservation Area from Dharapani to Besi Sahar. Hence, you need the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit for this section. This permit fee goes towards the conservation and sustainable development of the Annapurna region. You will need to present the ACAP permit at the checkpoint when entering the conservation area at Dharapani.
Where to Obtain ACAP Permit
You can obtain the ACAP permit from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara. It is best to acquire this permit in advance before starting your trek. As your guides, we will get the ACAP permit and your other trekking permits.
Cost of ACAP Permit
- For SAARC nationals: NPR 1000 per person
- For other foreign nationals: NPR 3000 per person
Having this permit allows you to experience the natural and cultural majesty of the Annapurna region on your Manaslu Circuit trek.
Required Documents For Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit
To obtain trekking permits for the Manaslu Circuit, you will need to submit the following documents:
- 2 passport-sized photos
- 1 scanned passport photo for the online Manaslu Restricted Area Permit form
- Valid passport photocopy
- Travel Insurance
- Nepal tourist visa and flight tickets
As your trekking organizer, we will inform you about any additional documents required by the permit office. Having these documents ready in advance will ensure a smooth Manaslu Circuit Trek permit application process before your trek.
Terms & Conditions Regarding Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits
Here are the key terms and conditions for obtaining Manaslu Circuit trekking permits:
- Children under 10 years do not require trekking permits
- Individual entry permits are required for MCAP and ACAP
- Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable
- Permits are valid only for a single entry into the conservation area
- Trekkers must abide by conservation area rules and regulations
- Permits will not be issued at trail checkpoints, only at Kathmandu & Pokhara offices
- Permits must be carried at all times and shown at checkpoints
- Permit fees include 13% VAT and applicable government taxes
- Independent trekking is prohibited beyond Samagaon
- Follow designated trails; no alternate routes are allowed
- Hire a registered local guide for group treks
Let us know if you need any clarification on the Manaslu Circuit Trek permit terms and conditions for the Manaslu Circuit trek!
Does Manaslu Circuit Trek require a TIMS card?
A frequently asked question is whether a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card is necessary for the Manaslu Circuit trek. The answer is no; you do not need a TIMS card specifically for the Manaslu Circuit. The TIMS card is mandatory only if you plan to combine the Annapurna Circuit trek with the Manaslu Circuit by connecting the two routes at Dharapani.
Is it necessary to hire a guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Since the Manaslu region is a restricted area, it is mandatory to have at least one licensed professional guide accompany any group trek. Having an experienced local guide makes it much easier and safer for trekkers to navigate the route without getting lost.
The guide can also communicate with locals on behalf of the group. Additionally, a knowledgeable guide provides valuable insights into the geography, culture, and community of the Manaslu region.
Final Say
A passionate trekker’s must-visit destination should be the Manaslu Circuit Trek, with its remote mountain vistas and rare cultural interactions. However, in order to make this trip, the necessary documentation and permits are needed.
We hope this blog has provided a comprehensive overview of the Manaslu Circuit Trek permits – from where to get them to how much they cost. Our experienced team is always ready to help you obtain permits and embark on the trek of a lifetime in the Manaslu region.
Let the magic of the mountains call to you soon! Contact us to begin planning your epic Manaslu Circuit Trek adventure.
You might also like:
1. Everest Base Camp Trek Permit
2. Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit
3. Langtang Trek Permit
