Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit 2027

Which Permits Are Required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek? 

The traditional route crosses restricted and protected natural areas. Several permits are required: 

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

The Restricted Area Permit is the primary authorization required for trekking in the restricted Manaslu region. It is required to enter the designated wards of Chumnubri Rural Municipality in the Gorkha District.  

According to the Department of Immigration’s trekking routes and permit fees page and the Department of Tourism’s guidance on trekking in restricted areas, the published seasonal rates are as follows: 

For example, if your restricted-area permit covers 10 days during September to November, the cost under this schedule would be USD 145. You would pay USD 100 for the first seven days and USD 45 for the remaining three days. Similarly, a 10-day permit from December to August would cost USD 105. 

The RAP covers the restricted-area section of the trek and does not necessarily cover the entire duration of your trekking package. The number of permit days required depends on your itinerary and the dates specified on the permit. 

2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

The MCAP authorizes trekkers to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area. This protected region is important for conserving local forests, river valleys, mountain habitats, and wildlife. 

According to the published park entry fee schedule from the Nepal Tourism Board, the costs are:

• Foreign nationals from outside the SAARC region: NPR 3,000 per person
• SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000 per person
• Nepali citizens: NPR 100 per person
• Children under 10 years old: Free 

The MCAP is separate from the Restricted Area Permit. Paying the RAP fee does not remove the requirement to obtain a conservation area permit.  

3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) 

The traditional trek route continues beyond Larkya La Pass toward Bhimthang and Dharapani, entering the Annapurna Conservation Area. An appropriate ACAP is required for this section. 

As per the published Nepal Tourism Board rates:

• Foreign nationals from outside the SAARC region: NPR 3,000 per person
• SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000 per person
• Nepali citizens: NPR 100 per person
• Children under 10: Free 

Both MCAP and ACAP are required for the standard Manaslu Circuit route. If you change your itinerary or combine Manaslu with another trekking region, ask your agency whether additional permits or amendments to your existing documents are necessary. 

4. Is a TIMS Card Required?

TIMS stands for Trekkers’ Information Management System. It records information about trekkers and their journeys, supporting trekking management and safety. 

According to Nepal Tourism Board guidance, the trek is among the routes for which guide and TIMS-related requirements are listed. The published fees are: 

• Other foreign nationals: NPR 2,000 per person
• SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000 per person

The board advises trekkers using these routes to contact a government-registered trekking agency to arrange the required guide and TIMS card. Some older trekking guides state that TIMS is not required for Manaslu because the route already requires a Restricted Area Permit. However, the current Nepal Tourism Board guidance includes the Manaslu Circuit among routes with listed TIMS requirements. 

5. Local Municipality Entry Fee

The local municipality fee of the Manaslu Region charges NPR 1,000 per person and is locally known as the Chumnubri Rural Municipality Local Permit. It pays for trail upkeep and community projects. Usually, your trekking package booking agency has already paid it for you. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit Cost in 2027

The total permit cost depends on your nationality, the trekking season, and the number of days covered by your Restricted Area Permit. 

The table below provides a planning estimate for adult trekkers for MCAP, ACAP, and TIMS. The RAP is listed separately in US dollars. 

Note: All fees listed in NPR are in Nepalese rupees. You can convert these amounts into your local currency using the current rate to estimate your expenses. Depending on your trekking agency’s payment arrangements and applicable permit payment rules, you may be able to pay in your currency through an approved method. Exchange rates and transaction fees may affect the final amount. 

The figures above are based on the published fee schedules. They are not a guarantee that the same rates will remain in effect throughout 2027. Spending additional days in the restricted area increases the RAP cost. 

These figures cover permit costs only. They do not include guide and porter services, transportation, accommodation, meals, travel, insurance, or personal expenses. 

Paying Permit Fees in Your Own Currency

International visitors can estimate their expenses in their own currency using the current exchange rate for the listed amounts in NPR. 

The amount you ultimately pay may vary because of exchange rate fluctuations, bank charges, and payment service fees. You must pay official permit fees in Nepalese currency using the payment method approved by the relevant authority. 

But most trekking companies can accept payments in your preferred currency from your country, and permits are paid here in Nepali currency, which is included in the package costs. 

For the full package prices and details of included services, visit Global Adventure Trekking’s (GAT) Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days.  

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Manaslu Permit Requirements for SAARC Nationals and Indians 

Indian citizens and nationals of other eligible SAARC countries receive reduced published fees for MCAP, ACAP, and TIMS. The Restricted Area Permit follows a separate seasonal fee schedule, regardless of conservation-area fee concessions. 

Visa and Identity Documents for Indian Trekkers

Indian citizens must obtain the same required permits as other foreign trekkers for the Manaslu Circuit, although they generally do not need a Nepal tourist visa. For complete details regarding the Nepal tourist visa, see the guide Nepal Tourist Visa: How to Apply Online (eTA) or on Arrival. 

Permit Fees for Indian Citizens 

• MCAP: NPR 1,000 per person 
• ACAP: NPR 1,000 per person
• TIMS: NPR 1,000 per person
• RAP: According to the applicable seasonal rate
• Local Entry Fee: NPR 1,000 per person

Visa exemption does not mean that restricted-area trekking rules can be ignored. Provide your agency with the required identification documents and confirm which documents the relevant authorities accept for permit issuance. 

Permit Fees for Nationals of Other SAARC Countries

SAARC includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Nepali citizens have separate domestic conservation-area rates, while eligible non-Nepali SAARC nationals generally qualify for the published SAARC rates.  

The published fees for eligible non-Nepali SAARC trekkers are: 

• MCAP: NPR 1,000 per person 
• ACAP: NPR 1,000 per person
• TIMS: NPR 1,000 per person
• RAP: According to the applicable seasonal rate
• Local Entry Fee: NPR 1,000 per person

Confirm your nationality category and total permit costs before submitting your application with an authorized trekking agency. 

What Documents Are Required for Manaslu Trek Permits

Prepare your documents in advance to submit the permit application without unnecessary delays. 

The following documents are commonly requested: 

• A passport valid for at least six months from your travel date
• A clear color scan copy of your passport’s identification page
• A copy of your Nepal visa or visa submission number (Indian citizens are exempt)
• One passport-sized photograph or a digital photograph in the required format
• Your confirmed itinerary and travel dates
• Travel insurance details that cover high-altitude trekking and helicopter rescue, ideally to at least 6,000 meters.
• Any additional information or forms requested by the permit authorities

Indian citizens should ask their agency which identification documents are accepted for permit applications. Nationals of other countries should also confirm the requirements applicable to their nationality.   

Check your name, passport number, and travel dates carefully to ensure they match your travel documents. Incorrect information may require corrections before departure. 

How to Apply for the Manaslu Permit

The Manaslu restricted area is not a destination where you should expect to obtain all your permits after arrival. The Restricted Area Permit must be arranged through an authorized trekking agency. 

Complete documentation and compliance with the procedures in effect at the time of application are essential. Rather than relying on a guaranteed processing time, have a consultation with your agency when your application is expected to be completed.

How Long It Takes

The Department of Immigration lists same-day processing for applications submitted before 1 PM. Processing time varies because during busy season, every agency applies at once, and processing can stretch to two or three days. Reach Kathmandu at least two days before the trek starts and avoid tight flight connections around permit days. 

Rules Every Trekker Must Follow

• A licensed guide is compulsory: Every trekker entering the restricted Manaslu region must be accompanied by a licensed guide arranged through a registered trekking agency. Your guide helps manage the required permits and presents them at checkpoints when requested.
• Solo trekkers can now apply: Since March 22, 2026, the minimum requirement of two trekkers for a restricted-area permit has been removed. You can apply individually through a registered trekking agency, but you must still trek with a licensed guide. One guide may lead a maximum of seven trekkers under the revised rules. 
• Arrange permits before reaching the trail: Your restricted-area permit must be arranged through an authorized trekking agency before entering the restricted section. Checkpoints do not issue the permit, and trekkers without the required documents may be refused entry. 
• Plan around office hours and public holidays: Allow enough time for permit processing, especially during the busy spring and autumn seasons. Confirm the Department of Immigration’s current office hours and holiday arrangements with your agency, and submit your documents early to avoid delays. 

Permit Checkpoints on the Trail

Permits are checked at several points. Jagat is the first point. Others follow in villages such as Deng, Namrung, Samagaon, and Samdo, and the last is Dharapani, where ACAP is checked as you leave the circuit. Your guide handles the formalities, but keep photos of every permit on your phone as a backup, because paper gets wet near the river. 

Common Permit Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying too few restricted days and finding out at a checkpoint
• Skipping the TIMS card 
• Reaching Jagat without Nepali cash for the local fee
• Changing the route after permits are issued, which needs fresh paperwork in Kathmandu
• Treating permits as transferable or refundable when they are neither

Can I Trek the Manaslu Circuit Solo in 2027?

Yes, Nepal’s Department of Immigration removed the previous minimum requirement of two trekkers for restricted-area trekking permits in March 2026. 

Well, this change does not mean independent trekking without a guide is permitted. According to the department’s notice, solo trekkers must still apply through an agency and trek with a guide. The restricted area also has a maximum limit of seven trekkers per guide. 

If you’re travelling alone, discuss guide costs, permit dates, and other additional charges for a private room with your agency before booking. 

The key point is that you can trek alone without joining a group, but you must still follow the agency and guide requirements for the restricted area. 

Is a Separate Permit Required for Tsum Valley?  

Yes, Tsum Valley is a separate restricted area; an additional Restricted Area Permit is required if you plan to visit as part of your Manaslu Circuit trek. 

Rates for Tsum Valley: 

These fees are additional to the Manaslu RAP and the other permits required for the combined journey. Confirm the applicable fees and the number of days covered by the permit before departure. 

Tsum Valley is not included in the standard Manaslu route. If you want to explore both areas, plan the additional journey before your permits are issued. For details of the extended itinerary, see GAT’s Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley-18 Days package. Most trekkers love to add extra side trips like the Pungyen Gompa Hike, Tibet View Hike, Samdo Viewpoint,Kal Taal Hike, and Serang Gompa for an extended experience of the Himalayan region.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit

How many permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

According to the currently published guidance, the standard route requires the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, MCAP, ACAP, and TIMS. A Chumnubri rural local municipality entry fee also applies and should be confirmed with your agency.

How much does the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit cost?

According to the published rates, the fee from September to November is USD 100 per person for the first seven days and USD 15 for each additional day. From December to August, the fee is USD 75 for the first seven days and USD 10 for each additional day.

Do Indian citizens need permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, Indian citizens must obtain all the required trekking permits. They generally do not need a Nepal tourist visa, but they must meet the entry documentation requirements and follow the applicable restricted-area trekking rules.

Do SAARC nationals pay lower fees for Manaslu permits?

Eligible nationals of SAARC countries pay lower published fees for MCAP, ACAP, and TIMS. The Restricted Area Permit follows a separate seasonal fee schedule.

Is TIMS required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Nepal Tourism Board guidance lists the Manaslu Circuit among the routes with guide and TIMS-related requirements. Include TIMS in your permit planning and confirm the current requirements with your agency when submitting your application.

Can I obtain my permits after reaching Machha Khola?

Do not expect to obtain all your documents at the trailhead. The Restricted Area Permit must be arranged through an authorized trekking agency, so complete the required process before starting your trek.

Can I trek Manaslu without joining a group?

Yes, the previous minimum requirement of two trekkers was removed in March 2026. However, solo trekkers must still apply through a registered agency and trek with a licensed guide.

Is the Manaslu Circuit permit also valid for Tsum Valley?

No, Tsum Valley is a separate restricted area and requires an additional permit.

Are the published permit fees guaranteed to remain the same throughout 2027?

No, the fees in this guide are based on the published schedules available as of October 2026. Government rates, local fees, and application procedures may change. Confirm the applicable costs before making payment.

Plan Your Manaslu Circuit Trek with Local Experts

Arranging your permits before departure makes budgeting easier and helps avoid unnecessary delays. Make sure you confirm the required documents, the dates covered by your Restricted Area Permit, conservation-area fees, TIMS, and any applicable local charges.

Global Adventure Trekking can help you arrange permits, guide services, and travel plans for the Manaslu region.

For the complete itinerary, current package price, and details of included services, explore our Manaslu Circuit Trek, 14 Days package. If you want to explore Tsum Valley alongside Manaslu, see our Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley, 18 Days package.

Before booking, contact Global Adventure Trekking to confirm the latest permit requirements and fees for your nationality and travel dates.