Manaslu Circuit Trek is a scenic and remote trek in Nepal. You circumnavigate Mount Manaslu at 8,163 meters, the 8th highest peak in the world.
You will pass through an incredible panoramic view of snowcapped mountains, the deep canyons of rivers, the remote villages, as well as the exclusive Tibetan-influenced culture.
On top, we will be at Larke La Pass (5,106 meters), and one can have an astonishing view of 360 degrees of the Himalayan range.
The trekkers in the restricted region of Manaslu need special permits from the Government of Nepal. These are established to regulate the flow of visitors, save the environment, and conserve local cultures.
The first thing to do is to get those Manaslu Circuit trek permits right, and this will also ensure the legal and trouble-free crossing of the beautiful Manaslu area.
List of required permits for the Manaslu Circuit trek
To trek the Manaslu Circuit, you must acquire three major permits. The same are mandatory for all trekkers and enable conservation of the environment, tourism management, and safety.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
According to the rule of the Government of Nepal, the Jagat to Dharapani falls under the Manaslu region. Therefore, trekkers need to acquire a Special permit called the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) exists to maintain a manageable number of visitors and ensure the cultural and environmental sensitivity of the place, which is located close to the Tibetan border.
RAP price differs according to season. Between September and November, the permit costs $100 per individual during the initial 7 days and $15 per each extra daily basis.
Between January and August, the permit costs for the first 7 days are $ 75, and an additional $10 per day.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Entrance into the Manaslu region requires the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). Such a permit assists in conservation, protection of the environment, and sustainable development of residents.
Since the majority of the trekking trail lies within this conservation area, all trekkers should have this permit.
The MCAP may be obtained at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office or online on their official site. It is priced at NPR 3,000 (per person) or approximately $ 22.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Manaslu Circuit Trek is centered in the region of Manaslu but ends up in Annapurna, which is achieved on the other side of the Larke Pass, where we arrive at Dharapani.
This section of the trail falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area, and the trekkers will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) as well.
The ACAP is an initiative that preserves the biodiversity and enhances ecotourism in the Annapurna region. It is also available at the Nepal Tourism Board, like the MCAP.
This is a payment of NPR 3,000 (approximately $ 22) per individual, and the fee covers the entire Annapurna region.
Where can I obtain Manaslu Circuit trek permits?
Since the trek passes through a restricted zone, not every field permit is issued upon one's own. The following is how one is required to obtain all the necessary permits:
Registered trekking agencies in Nepal can only issue the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
This permit cannot be applied for by independent travellers. You require a team of at least two persons and a licensed guide.
Your travel agency will collect your documents, complete the application, and file them at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. Agencies will issue permits in a few days.
In the case of the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), you can also use a trekking agency.
You can get it directly at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) in Kathmandu or in Pokhara. These permits are also easily applicable; you need not be in a group.
Documents needed for permit application
To get the necessary permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, trekkers will have to present the following documents:
- A passport that is valid for at least 6 months.
- 2 passport-sized photos.
- A passport-size photo page copy.
- A Nepal entry visa (pasted in your passport).
- Trek plan and details of the trek route.
- Guide and agency info, which is required for RAP.
Can I trek solo in the Manaslu Circuit?
No, solo trekkers are not allowed in the Manaslu Circuit. In a restricted area, the government has made it a rule that all trekkers must go in groups of at least two and with a licensed guide.
This rule is a part of Nepal's push to ensure the safety of trekkers and to preserve the sensitive border area near Tibet.
Trekking alone in remote and underdeveloped regions like Manaslu is risky, which is a result of tough trails, sparse communication, and few rescue options in case of emergencies.
That is why the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) can only be obtained via a registered trekking agency, which in turn is responsible for the guide and group management.
For solo travellers, the best option is to join a group that is organized by a trekking company.
Validity and Checkpoints
The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is for the restricted section of the trek, which is between Jagat and Dharapani, and we issue it for several days that correspond to your planned itinerary.
In the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), we do not have strict time frames, but your permit should be valid for the length of your trek.
The major permit checkpoints include Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Dharapani. Also, you should always carry your permits with you and present them when asked.
Important rules and regulations to follow
While in the Manaslu region, it is necessary to follow all that is set forth by the government and local authorities.
As of now, we report that for the restricted area,s a licensed guide is required for trekking and that individual solo trekking is strictly off limits to do by yourself.
Group size is kept low to reduce our impact on the environment and, at the same time, to maintain safety.
Each visitor should respect local customs, not litter, and use only designated trails. Campfire camping in unofficial areas and going off the marked paths is not allowed.
Also, always have your permits and identification with you, and follow what the checkpoint staff and guides tell you to do.
Final tips for getting your permits
For a stress-free trekking experience, we recommend going through a certified trekking agency, where the process is known to run smoothly and without issue.
These companies are used to the application process and will have no issues in getting your permits for you.
Get your permits a few days before your trek; some, like the RAP, do have a processing time, and enjoy your trek.
