Why you should never skip getting permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
One should never avoid granting the permits, if they are thinking about opting for the Manaslu Circuit Trail, well, getting the Manaslu Restricted Area and other permits linked with it, simply play a major role in making your trip a hassle-free journey, and most importantly, safe at the same time. Let's take a brief overview of the reason for accessing the permits and what effect it has on making your expedition to the Manaslu region - a safe adventure.
Legal Requirement to enter the restricted area
Manaslu region is one of the most protected areas, which is highly protected by the government of Nepal and is highly monitored by the Nepalese military, ensuring that the Himalayan flora and fauna abundant here are highly conserved and don't get affected by the huge number. of hikers that leave their footprints here. The main reason to give this territory high protection is also to protect the unique culture, so the tradition of locals residing here does not get harmed or spoiled by the unnecessary chaos that they simply prefer to avoid. However, if someone still avoids the regulation without attaining the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and enters the area, then the rule breaker must bear thousands of dollars in fines and penalties, if they are tracked down by the military.
Safety and Security
Maybe you find following the rules difficult, but getting permission is actually about staying safe out on the thrilling Manaslu Trail. Each time you register for a permit, the authorities know who is at the mountain and when the climb is scheduled. If something like adverse weather conditions, altitude sickness, or an accident happens, search and rescue teams will find you where you are. The officials use your permit to find and support trekkers as needed. If you’re without permits, people won’t know where you are, so if you get into difficulty, they may arrive too late or not at all.
Environment Protection
The presence of a permit protects the beauty of the Manaslu trek route. By having a permit, you promise to leave no trash, keep to the marked paths and be considerate to any wildlife you see. Funds collected through permits are put to cleaning the mountains and making repairs on trails. Using the system, rangers limit visitor numbers by area to avoid plants and animals being harmed by too many people. When you get a permit, you contribute to making sure this natural gem can be enjoyed by generations to come.
Cultural Preservation
This did go deep in my heart, knowing that the locals in Manaslu have been there for ages with some extraordinary traditions. A portion of the fees from permit issuance goes directly into their communities for schools and health clinics. Isn't that cool? There's more, though, and that is, the sum of the permit process imparts knowledge on their culture so you will hopefully not be disrespectful to them. These people have sincerely opened their arms to the trekkers. So, the least they expect is for us to arrive educated and respectful. Would you agree with that?
Mandatory Guide And Group Rules
Guess what? You cannot trek Manaslu Region on your own. Well, it is against regulations! You must have at least one other individual and a licensed guide. Doesn't seem so easy, right? But try looking at it from this perspective: A guide is your mountain superhero, who knows about every route and every weather change and everything to do if something goes wrong. Then having a companion means that, while you are struggling or exhausted, your friend is watching out. Those are not just randomly made rules; they are there to save people who got into severe trouble while going alone.
Avoiding Dangers To The Region
What happens when too many people show up anywhere without any plan? Chaos! The same thing could happen at Manaslu if anyone just walked in whenever they felt. They might camp in unsafe places, or maybe even light a fire where it should not be done, or leave trash all over. The beauty of these mountains would be so quickly compromised! The permit system keeps a record of who arrives and when, ensuring the region is not overcrowded.
Avoid Fines And Penalties
Money issues are rarely talked about, but here's the truth! Being caught without having the proper permits could cost you way more than if you had just bought them in the first place! The fines are huge, and deportation from Nepal could even be on the table. There are even cases where return has been banned for years! Can you imagine trying to explain this to your mates back home? The airport officers also check for such aspects upon your departure. So, why risk all that disgrace and extra money when permits are cheaper to get beforehand?
Manaslu Trek Permit Cost
So, planning your Manaslu Trekking is also about having to pay for many different permits and not just one; you will require permits depending on the trailhead you are opting for, and the cost also varies depending on the duration of your stay within these premises. The permit cost is quite on the expensive side, unlike other easily accessible expeditions. That is why, in comparison, Manaslu Circuit Trek costs compromises of hundreds of dollars and falls under a less crowded trailhead as well. Hence, here are the key details regarding the Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit Cost that includes the combined trip of Tsum Valley as well, so you can know the comprehensive details.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
This is the big one, the main Manaslu Trek permit that allows you entry into the Manaslu Circuit Trekking route. Think of it as your VIP pass to enter this special restricted area. The government controls who goes in and when, so this permit is a matter of utmost importance. However, you cannot apply for this permit on your own; you have to go through a registered trekking agency of Nepal, which will do the paperwork for you.
The charge varies per the time of year during which one wishes to trek. When it is busy season, as the best time to visit Manaslu Circuit is spring or autumn, with the weather nice, you will pay more than you do in the quiet months of winter or monsoon. The permit is granted for particular dates, so make sure your trekking agent is very exact about timing when he applies on your behalf.
September to November (Peak Season):
- Foreigners: USD 100 per week (NPR 13,500)
- SAARC Nationals: USD 70 per week (NPR 9,500)
- Nepalese Citizens: Not required
For each additional day beyond one week:
- Foreigners: USD 15 per day (NPR 2,000)
- SAARC Nationals: USD 10 per day (NPR 1,350)
December to August (Off-Peak Season):
- Foreigners: USD 75 per week (NPR 10,000)
- SAARC Nationals: USD 50 per week (NPR 6,700)
- Nepalese Citizens: Not required
Additional days:
- Foreigners: USD 10 per day (NPR 1,350)
- SAARC Nationals: USD 7 per day (NPR 950)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Here is your money going into protecting this beautiful area you will be trekking through! Here’s where your money is spent on saving and preserving the nature you’ll see on the path. The area you will trek in nearly covers the entire Manaslu Conservation Area, and this pass helps protect and conserve the area. Your donation helps protect animals, fix trails and assist the communities that look after this area. The permit is issued at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu, but your trekking agency can get it for you if you prefer. You’ll be given a small card when you pick up your permit and it must be shown at checkpoints within the park by the guards. The funds from your permit go towards securing the wildlife and their homes for future trips.
- Foreigners: USD 30 (NPR 3,000)
- SAARC Nationals: USD 10 (NPR 1,000)
- Nepalese Citizens: USD 1 (NPR 100)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Why exactly must you have an Annapurna permit to trek in Manaslu? Great question! A part of the Manaslu Circuit actually does run through the Annapurna Conservation Area, especially toward the end of the circuit when one is proceeding to Dharapani. So in a way, you end up walking through two different conservation areas in an adventure.
Just like the MCAP, this permit is a source of funding for conservation efforts, but this time for the Annapurna region. A few lose sight of the fact that this permit is also required because their attention is fixed on Manaslu, so don't! The checkpoints will certainly ask for it, and you wouldn't want to get stranded without the proper documentation.
- Foreigners: USD 30 (NPR 3,000)
- SAARC Nationals: USD 10 (NPR 1,000)
- Nepalese Citizens: USD 1 (NPR 100)
Additional Permits for Tsum Valley Trek (If Combined)
A few trekkers also choose to go beyond Manaslu and experience the Tsum Valley. However, if you want to visit this area, you must also apply for two additional permits. Tsum Valley requires special permission, so the government limits who may go there.
Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
With this permit, you can reach one of Nepal’s most isolated and unspoiled valleys. For centuries, the Tsum Valley Trek has not been linked to the wider world and those living there still have traditional ways of life. The reason the area is so protected is that only a small number of visitors are allowed each year.
Like the common Manaslu RAP, this permit must be obtained through a registered trekking agency. The cost of the permit is higher when you go during the most popular times for trekking. Thanks to the money, the valley is being conserved by stronger efforts and gives support to the local Tibetans.
September to November:
- Foreigners: USD 40 for the first 7 days (NPR 5,400)
- SAARC Nationals: USD 40 for the first 7 days (NPR 5,400)
- Nepalese Citizens: Not required
- Each additional day: USD 7 (NPR 950)
December to August:
- Foreigners: USD 30 for the first 7 days (NPR 4,000)
- SAARC Nationals: USD 30 for the first 7 days (NPR 4,000)
- Nepalese Citizens: Not required
- Each additional day: USD 7 (NPR 950)
Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit
This permit from the government might seem regular and easy, but it is important to make your visit to Tsum Valley smooth! Tsum Valley is part of the Chumnubri local government area and tourists there need their own special permit. Think about it as a way for the community to understand who’s visiting and how tourism helps its people. Every time you purchase this permit, you’re contributing to the well-being of those living in an extremely remote part of the globe. Most likely, your trekking agency will manage all your permits, so there’s no need for you to go to multiple offices.
- Foreigners: USD 100 per week ( NPR 13,500)
- SAARC Nationals: USD 100 per week ( NPR 13,500)
- Nepalese Citizens: Not required
- Additional days: USD 15 per day ( NPR 2,000) for foreigners and SAARC nationals
How To Obtain Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Choose a Registered Trekking Agency
You are only allowed to obtain a Manaslu RAP through a licensed trekking agency chosen by the Nepali government. You can get the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit at the agency or the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
2. Prepare Required Documents
Get all necessary documents for the permit issuance.
3. Submit Application Forms
On your behalf, the trekking agency prepares and submits your Manaslu Restricted Area Permit application to the Department of Immigration. The Nepal Tourism Board is where you go to submit your MCAP and ACAP application, along with the needed fees and photos.
4. Pay Permit Fees
Application fees are based on the time of year and your country of citizenship and must be paid at the same time you apply. The agency will let you know the total amount you need to pay and oversee the payment procedures.
5. Wait for Permit Issuance
It usually takes 24 to 48 hours to process and deliver a permit. When your permit documents are prepared, the trekking agency will send you the information to collect them.
6. Collect Permits Before Trekking
Make sure you obtain the ACAP, RAP and MCAP permits prior to starting your trek.
7. Note Group and Guide Requirements
At least two people in your party are required for the Manaslu Restricted Area; you cannot visit solo. You will need to bring a local, certified guide along with you during the entire trekking adventure.
Required Documents For Manaslu Trek Permits
Passport
Ensure your passport’s validity for at least six months. It confirms who you are and which country you belong to. Make sure to hand in a clear photocopy of the main page of your passport when you apply for your permit. A Nepal tourist visa stamp must be inside a valid passport. The application will not be successful unless you provide a valid passport and visa.
Passport-Sized Photographs
You are required to submit two to four recent passport-sized photos for your Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). A single scanned photo is also needed for the application of the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) online. The pictures should be in clear view, against a simple background, and display only your face. Trekkers are recognized by their pictures during processing for permit processing and during checkpoints.
Travel Insurance Certificates
You must present travel insurance to register, and it needs to include coverage for trekking activities and helicopter evacuation in an emergency. It’s crucial since it protects you if something unexpected happens in the remote area. You need to have the insurance papers with you throughout the entire trek. You may not receive your permit if you have not arranged proper insurance.
Nepal Tourist Visa
You should make sure your Nepal tourist visa is properly stamped in your passport before getting permits. A visa is needed for you to enter Nepal and go trekking. It is possible to apply for a tourist visa after landing at airports or beforehand from Nepalese embassies. You must have a visa that extends from the beginning to the end of your stay in Nepal.
Trekking Itinerary and Flight Tickets
A few trekking agencies may need you to give them basic information about your trekking schedule and route. Ticket requests are sometimes needed when planning trips to and from Nepal. Authorities use these documents to learn about your schedule and confirm that you follow the rules set in your permit. In case of an emergency, a clear itinerary can be useful.
Rules and Regulations for trekking to the Manaslu region
- Your guide will lead you along the entire trek so you must always stay with them. Always stay with your group, because leaving them on your own is against the rules and could result in problems.
- Every trekker should go through registration at every police checkpoint. You’ll need to hand over your permits and your passport and they’ll note your personal details in the logbook.
- You can only set up camp in areas labeled by local law. No matter how lovely an area appears, you still can’t pitch your tent there freely.
- Under no circumstances may you take photos in or near military facilities, border locations or limited areas. Only shoot beautiful mountain scenes and locations with cultural significance.
- You have to finish your journeys by the planned dates on the permits. When you want to stay even longer, getting a permit extension ahead of your original permit’s expiry is necessary.
- It is necessary to get special permission to fly drones, use satellite phones or add other communication equipment. Shipments of electronic devices usually require separate import permits from customs.
- You are required to walk on the marked trails shown on official maps. You can’t use unmarked paths inside the park without permission.
- Make sure all your waste is disposed of properly only in the right places. Anyone caught littering in the conservation area may have to pay a large fine.
- It is not allowed to disturb animals, remove plants or pick up anything from nature. Maintain the area in the way you discovered it.
- You should only stay at registered lodges or the spots marked for camping. Living with local families where you don’t have the correct permits is against the rules for foreigners.
Group Size and Guide Requirement for Approval
You cannot trek Manaslu alone! As per the government requirement, any Manaslu trekking party can be of two or more people with an authorized guide accompanying them at all times. Of course, that was not some made-up law by the government aimed at discouraging independent trekkers! The mountains there can be exceedingly dangerous, and weather changes in a moment. The local guide, who knows every trail and challenge, has saved innumerable lives over the years. Your local guide will speak the language, know how and where to get help in emergencies, and be aware of the customs of each village you walk through. So, to be clear: even if you are with a bunch of your friends, you have no choice but to have a licensed guide with you.
Where to get Manaslu Trek Permits in Nepal?
You can only purchase a paper permit in Nepal, during your stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara. It is not possible to purchase the Manaslu RAP along the route; it must be arranged by a registered trekking company. MCAP and ACAP permits can be acquired straight from the offices of the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu, Pokhara or Besisahar. The office of the Nepal Tourism Board is open during regular hours in Kathmandu from 9 am to 5 pm every Saturday and Sunday, except for public holidays. In both Pokhara and Besisahar, regular office hours are when you can pick up your ACAP and MCAP permits
Validity and Extension of Manaslu Trek Permits
Depending on the permit type, Manaslu trek permits have different validity periods. The Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu is mostly issued for 7 days from the date of issue. Trekkers who stay more than 7 days in the restricted area will need to pay extra for their subsequent days there. MCAP and ACAP permits, however, have an entire one-year validity from the day of purchase. Therefore, once purchased, those permits can be used at any time within 365 days. If the trek runs over the RAP validity, trekkers need to file for an extension before the expiry of the permit. Extensions are approved by the trekking agency or the authority from whom the permit was obtained.
Conclusion
Getting the right permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is more than just about obeying the law; it is about having an exciting and safe adventure. With permits in place, life is easier for you: all you have to do is gaze at the majestic mountains and meet the locals. The permits are also instrumental in conserving the place and sustaining the livelihoods in the regions.
At first, it might seem like a complicated part to prepare for the trek, but don't stress! With the help of reputable agencies such as Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition, everything is so much easier. We manage every permit you need and work on your behalf to get everything processed once your booking is confirmed. Contact us for more!
FAQs
Can I trek independently without a guide to Manaslu?
You cannot do independent trekking in the Manaslu region. It is prohibited for most people and you have to be with a group of two or more, plus a guide, to ensure safety and to keep the environment protected.
Do Nepali citizens need permits for the Manaslu Trek?
Generally, Nepali citizens do not have to arrange a restricted area permit, but they might still need other area-specific local permits. Still, they must obey each rule and stick with a group that has a guide in the restricted zones.
How can a foreign trekker obtain the permits?
It is not possible for foreign trekkers to apply for the permits themselves. Your permits can only be arranged by a registered trekking company in Nepal. Everything will be handled by the company, and your paperwork will be sent to the government. Just hand over your passport, some photos, and travel insurance, and pay the costs.
How to extend my Manaslu Trekking permits?
You can arrange to have your permit extended by your agency even before it expires. If you don’t have enough time and wish to stay longer, you will need to pay more, mainly for the Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
How long is the permit valid?
The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit is valid for seven days, but it may be extended as well. Generally, both the MCAP and ACAP permit last for one year after they are issued.
Can you issue permits for Manaslu on your own?
There is no way for you to get the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit alone. It is necessary to arrange your trek via an agency that the government has approved. Although people may obtain MCAP and ACAP directly, they are most often managed by agencies for convenience.
Do I need separate permits for Tsum Valley?
If trekking in Tsum Valley along with Manaslu, a special Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit, together with Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permits, is required too.
