Manaslu Trek Requirements: What Visas and Permits Do You Need?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a beautiful trek in Nepal, but because it is a restricted area, you need special permits to go there. You also need a regular Nepal visa. Without these permits, you won’t be able to start the trek, which can cause problems or delays. 

It’s important to know what permits you need, how much they cost, and where to get them. In this guide, we will explain everything in easy steps so you can get ready for your trek without any trouble. With the right information, your trip will be smooth and enjoyable.

Why Is the Manaslu Trek a Restricted Area?

What Is a Restricted Area?

A restricted area is a region in Nepal where access is limited to protect nature, culture, and local communities.

You need special restricted area permits for Manaslu to trek in this area.

Why Is the Manaslu Region Restricted?

Proximity to Tibet: The Manaslu region is close to the border with Tibet, which requires careful monitoring and control. This proximity makes the area sensitive and restricts access to ensure security and proper management of the border.

Why Do You Need Special Permits?

The permits help the government regulate the number of trekkers and protect the area.

You must get Nepal trekking permits, including the restricted area permit for Manaslu.

Why You Must Have a Guide

Trekking alone is not allowed in the Manaslu region.

You must trek with a licensed guide and be part of a group organized by a trekking agency.

Why These Rules Are Important

They keep trekkers safe.

They protect the environment and local culture.

They provide jobs for guides and porters, helping local families.

By getting the right permits and following these rules, you can enjoy a safe and smooth trek while helping protect the Manaslu region.

Types of Permits Required for the Manaslu Trek

To trek in the Manaslu region, you need three main permits: the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits are mandatory, and each serves a specific purpose to ensure both environmental protection and proper regulation of trekkers. Below is a detailed explanation of each permit.

Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Manaslu 

The Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu is the most important permit required to trek in this region. Since the Manaslu trek passes through a government-defined restricted area, the RAP is mandatory for all trekkers. This permit helps the Nepal government monitor and manage tourism while protecting the region’s sensitive environment and culture.

Permit Costs:

• Peak Season (September to November): USD 100 per person for the first 7 days. After 7 days, it costs USD 15 per person per day.
• Off-Season (December to August): USD 75 per person for the first 7 days. After 7 days, it costs USD 10 per person per day.

Where to Get the Permit:

• You can obtain the RAP through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. Independent trekking is not allowed, so a licensed guide is required to apply for this permit.
• The permit is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Duration:

• The permit is valid for the number of days you plan to stay in the restricted area as mentioned in your itinerary.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) 

The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) is required to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is managed by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC). The main purpose of the MCAP is to support environmental conservation efforts and protect the region’s natural resources, wildlife, and biodiversity.

Permit Fees:

• For foreigners: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25) per person.
• For SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000 per person.

Where to Get the Permit:

• The MCAP can be obtained at the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
• Trekking agencies often handle this permit for you as part of their service.

Validity:

• The MCAP is valid for the duration of your trek within the Manaslu Conservation Area.

By contributing to the MCAP fee, trekkers help fund environmental protection programs, trail maintenance, and support for local communities living within the conservation area.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) 

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is required because the Manaslu Circuit Trek also passes through parts of the Annapurna Conservation Area. Even though the primary trekking route is in the Manaslu region, trekkers must obtain the ACAP to complete the trek.

Permit Fees:

• For foreigners: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25) per person.
• For SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000 per person.

Where to Get the Permit:

• The ACAP can be obtained at the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
• Trekking agencies can also arrange this permit for you.

Validity:

• The ACAP is valid for the duration of your trek within the Annapurna Conservation Area.

This table consolidates all the permit costs, making it easy for trekkers to understand what’s required.

How to Obtain Manaslu Trek Permits

Getting the right permits is essential for anyone planning the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Since the region is a restricted area, there are specific rules and steps to follow. Below is a simple step-by-step guide on how to get a Manaslu trek permit and the documents needed for Manaslu trek permits.

Required Documents for Manaslu Trek Permits

To apply for the necessary permits, you need to have the following documents ready:

• A valid passport copy (ensure the passport has at least 6 months validity).
• Two recent passport-sized photographs (for the permit application).
• Trekking agency authorization letter: This is mandatory for obtaining the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and must come from a registered trekking agency.

Why You Must Work With a Registered Trekking Agency

The Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu cannot be issued to individuals. You must go through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. This rule ensures the safety of trekkers and protects the area’s environment and culture. Additionally:

• A licensed guide is mandatory for trekking in the Manaslu region.
• The trekking agency will handle the permit process, making it easier and faster for you.

Where to Get the Permits

You can obtain the Manaslu trek permits from the following offices:

• Nepal Tourism Board (NTB): Located in Kathmandu and Pokhara, this is the main permit-issuing office.
• Your trekking agency will typically apply for permits on your behalf.

Permit Application Process

• Submit the required documents (passport copy, photos, and trekking agency authorization).
• Pay the permit fees for the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
• Double-check all details, including trekking dates and route, as changes after permit issuance can be difficult.

Final Tip

Working with a reliable trekking agency like Manaslu Trek Nepal simplifies the process and ensures you have the correct permits without any hassle. By preparing the documents needed for the Manaslu trek in advance, you’ll save time and avoid delays, allowing you to focus on enjoying your adventure in the Manaslu region.

Visa Requirement for Trekking in Nepal

To trek the Manaslu Circuit, you need a valid Nepal tourist visa. Below are the details:

Where to Obtain a Nepal Tourist Visa

1. On Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA):
   • Most trekkers prefer to get their visa on arrival at Kathmandu’s international airport.
   • Process: Fill out the arrival form at the airport, provide a recent passport-sized photo, and pay the visa fee in cash (USD preferred).
2. Online Application Before Arrival:
   • You can apply for a visa online through the Nepal Immigration Website.
   • Fill out the form, upload a passport photo, and bring a printed confirmation to the airport for a quick and easy process.

Visa Costs

Extending Your Visa

If you decide to extend your trek or stay longer in Nepal, you can extend your visa at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Cost:

• $45 for an additional 15 days.
• $3 for each additional day after the initial extension.

Key Notes

• Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
• Multiple Entries: If you plan to visit neighboring countries (e.g., Bhutan, Tibet) and re-enter Nepal, ensure you get a multiple-entry visa.
• Permits Are Separate: The visa is required to enter Nepal but does not include trekking permits (RAP, MCAP, ACAP).

Why Solo Trekkers Cannot Trek Manaslu Independently

The Manaslu region is a restricted area, and the Nepal government does not allow solo trekking here. To trek in Manaslu, you must hire a licensed guide or join a group through a registered trekking agency to get the special permits for Manaslu trek.

Why Are Solo Trekkers Not Allowed?

1. Government Rules:
   • The Nepal government has set strict rules to protect the Manaslu region’s environment and culture.
   • To get the special permits for Manaslu trek, you need to be part of a group and have a guide.
2. Safety on the Trail:
   • The Manaslu trek passes through remote and rough trails, which can be hard to follow on your own.
   • A licensed guide will keep you safe, help you stay on track, and provide support in emergencies like injuries or altitude sickness.
3. Better Experience:
   • Guides help you understand the local culture, traditions, and important landmarks along the way.
   • Hiring guides and porters also helps local communities by providing jobs.

Independent vs Group Trekking in Manaslu

Solo trekking is not allowed in the Manaslu region. By trekking with a guide or group, you follow the rules, stay safe, and have a more enjoyable trip.

For an easy and trouble-free trek, trusted companies like Magical Nepal can arrange your guide, permits, and everything else you need for the Manaslu trek.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a stunning trek, but you need the right permits and visas to complete it. The main permits required are the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). You also need a valid Nepal tourist visa to enter the country.

Following the rules, like trekking with a licensed guide or group, is important to keep you safe and to protect the environment and local culture. Having these permits ready before your trek will save you time and trouble.