---

• Share:

---

What Makes Manaslu Special?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is special due to its combination of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a remote, less crowded experience compared to other popular treks .

Key features include:

Stunning Scenery: The trek offers panoramic views of Mount Manaslu (8,163m) and other Himalayan peaks, transitioning from tropical forests and rice paddies to high alpine environments with sparse vegetation . The Larkya La Pass (5,160m) provides particularly breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru .

Authentic Cultural Immersion: The region is predominantly inhabited by ethnic Gurung, Magar, and Bhotia communities with a deep Tibetan Buddhist culture . Trekkers encounter traditional elements like monasteries (e.g., Pungyen Gompa), chortens, prayer wheels, and mani walls, offering insight into local religious practices and community life .

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: Unlike more crowded routes, the Manaslu Circuit Trek provides a genuine trekking experience with fewer tourists, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and an untouched Himalayan environment .

Diverse Flora and Fauna: The Manaslu Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, protects a variety of plant species, including rhododendrons and orchids, and wildlife such as Himalayan tahr, snow leopards, and red pandas .

Teahouse Trekking: Despite its remote nature, the trek offers teahouse accommodations, allowing trekkers to travel with lighter packs and connect with other hikers and locals .

Why Are Permits Required for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Think of permits as your passport into nature’s protected zones. The Manaslu region falls under a restricted area set by the Nepalese government to control tourism, preserve local culture, and protect the environment.

Thus, you can’t just show up and start walking. You’ll need special documents. This helps ensure that trekkers respect local traditions and the fragile ecosystem.

Types of Permits Needed

To trek the Manaslu Circuit, you’ll need three different permits:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Let’s break them down one by one.

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

This is the most essential permit and applies to the stretch from Jagat to Sama Gaun. Because this part of the trek is considered restricted, the RAP must be obtained through a government-registered trekking agency and with at least two trekkers in your group.

Cost of RAP (based on trekking season):

September to November: USD 100 per person for the first 7 days; USD 15/day after that.

December to August: USD 75 for the first 7 days; USD 10/day after.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

This permit is needed because the final days of the Manaslu trek overlap with the Annapurna region, especially after crossing the Larke Pass.

ACAP Cost:

USD 30 per person (flat rate)

No time restrictions

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

This is for the initial entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area before you hit the restricted zone.

MCAP Cost:

USD 30 per person (flat rate)

No time restrictions

Permit Costs and Seasonal Prices

Here’s a simple table for clarity:

Permit	Peak Season (Sep-Nov)	Off-Season (Dec-Aug)
RAP	$100  (7 days) + $15/day	$75 (7 days) + $10/day
MCAP	$30	$30
ACAP	$30	$30

Note: All prices are per person and non-refundable.

Required Documents for Permit Application

Ready to apply? Here’s what you’ll need:

• Valid passport (at least 6 months valid)
• Nepal visa
• 4 passport-size photos
• Travel insurance copy (mentioning trekking at altitude)
• Itinerary of your trek
• Guide and agency details

Keep both physical and digital copies, just in case.

How to Apply for Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek

There are two main ways to get the permits:

Option 1: Through a Trekking Agency

This is the most common and recommended method. The agency handles everything like paperwork, payments, and coordination.

Option 2: Go in Person (Only for ACAP and MCAP)

You can apply for ACAP and MCAP yourself at:

Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara

But remember: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) must go through an agency, and you must have a guide.

Can I Get Permits Myself?

Short answer? Not all of them.

You can get ACAP and MCAP on your own, but you cannot get the RAP unless you’re working with a licensed agency and trekking in a group of two or more with a registered guide.

Why You Need a Registered Trekking Agency

The government mandates that all restricted area permits, like RAP, be issued only through registered trekking agencies like Excellent Himalaya Trek and Expedition. These agencies not only ensure you follow the rules but also provide experienced guides, porters, and logistical support.

A legit agency will:

Handle permits fast and efficiently

Ensure safety and compliance

Do I Need a Guide for Manaslu Trek?

Yes, you do.

Guides are compulsory for this trek, and for good reason. The terrain is remote, signs are sparse, and villages are far apart. A guide ensures:

• Your safety
• Proper navigation
• Cultural interpretation
• Emergency support

Besides, they’re often great storytellers and mountain buddies.

Time-Saving Tips for Travelers

Want to breeze through the process?

Choose an experienced agency with Manaslu experience.

Double-check your itinerary and ensure it matches your permit zone.

Have your documents ready in both printed and scanned versions.

Avoid weekends and public holidays at permit offices.

Mistakes to Avoid

Some common errors trekkers make:

Thinking they can trek solo (you can’t in Manaslu!)

Trying to get RAP without an agency

Ignoring the ACAP permit after crossing Larke Pass

Not factoring in extra days for delays — especially during monsoon or winter

Picking an unregistered or shady agency

Stay informed. Stay smart.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular adventures  but it comes with some red tape. The good news? Once you understand how to i get Manaslu trekking permits, the rest is pure magic.

Let a trustworthy agency like Excellent Himalaya Trek and Expedition handle the hassle while you focus on packing your boots and camera. And remember  the permits aren’t just papers; they’re your key to a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I trek to Manaslu without a guide?
No. A registered guide is mandatory due to the region’s restricted status and remote conditions.

2. How long does it take to get Manaslu trekking permits?
If done through an agency, permits can be processed within 1–2 working days, assuming all documents are ready.

3. Can solo travelers do the Manaslu trek?
Technically no. You need to be in a group of at least two trekkers..

4. Do children need trekking permits for Manaslu?
Yes. All trekkers, regardless of age, must have valid permits, including children.

5. Are permits checked along the trail?
Absolutely. Multiple checkpoints exist, and permits will be checked at places like Jagat, Deng, and Samdo.