Manaslu Trek Permit: Requirement, Fees and Costs

Manaslu Region (between Jagat and Dharapani) has been declared a restricted area by the Nepal Government for a while now. The primary reason is to control tourism and keep track of incoming and outgoing travelers.

Independent trekkers are not allowed in Manaslu, so it is mandatory to obtain a special entry permit through a registered agency in Nepal. According to current government policy, a minimum of two trekkers accompanied by a local guide is required. 

Since your permit is subject to being processed through a registered agency like us (MCT), freelance guides cannot issue permits for the Manaslu Region.

Essential Permits for Your Manaslu Trek

The Nepalese government designates the Manaslu region as a restricted area, requiring a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) for trekkers. This permit system helps manage tourism and protect the region’s unique environment and culture.

Beyond the MRAP, two additional permits are crucial for a responsible trek:

• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): Supports conservation efforts within the Manaslu Conservation Area.
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Required for some Manaslu treks that enter the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP): Cost and Requirements

• September to November: USD 100 for the first week, USD 15 per additional day.
• December to August: USD 75 for the first week, USD 10 per additional day.

While a digital passport-sized photograph used to be required for the MRAP, the process has been updated. Now, upon arrival in Nepal and during your visa application process, Nepalese immigration will capture your biometrics. This photo will be used for your MRAP and other trekking permits.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) Simplified

The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) is your gateway to exploring the Manaslu region. You’ll obtain this permit at Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu. We do arrange all the requirements for you Manaslu Region treks.

Fixed Fee for All:

The MCAP offers a straightforward pricing structure: USD 30 per person, regardless of how long your trek lasts within the area. This fixed fee applies year-round, making budgeting for your adventure easier.

One Simple Requirement:

To secure your MCAP, all you need is a single printed passport-sized photograph. With this permit in hand, you’re ready to embark on your Manaslu adventure!

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Explained

Exploring Further with the ACAP Permit:

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) comes into play if your Manaslu trek ventures into the Annapurna Conservation Area. This permit is required to trek Manaslu because. while we are trekking Manaslu we exit through Annapurna Conversation Area. This section typically begins in Dharapani and continues until you exit the ACAP region through Besi Sahar.

Fixed Fee for Everyone:

Similar to the MCAP, the ACAP boasts a transparent pricing structure. You’ll pay a fixed fee of USD 30 per person, irrespective of the duration of your trek within the ACAP. This consistent price applies throughout the year.

Completing the Permit Trio:

Obtaining the MRAP, MCAP, and ACAP permits grants you access to the essential permits for your Manaslu adventure.

TIMS Card: An Alternative for Non-Restricted Areas:

For treks outside restricted zones, you might encounter the requirement for a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card instead of an MRAP.

TIMS Card Update: New Procedures for Obtaining Your Permit

While TIMS cards were previously obtainable upon arrival at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, there’s been a recent change. As of now, you’ll need to go through a registered trekking agency in Nepal to acquire your TIMS card.

The good news is the process remains straightforward. We as a registered agencies, we will assist you in obtaining the card and typically just require your passport and trek details. We’ll handle the registration on your behalf, ensuring a smooth permit process for your Nepal adventure.

Manaslu Region Trekking List:

Manaslu Trekking Permit In Nepal – Frequently Asked Questions  

Note: The Department of Immigration only provides special RAP permits.    

However, if you wish to issue a Conservation Area Project Permit such as MCAP and ACAP, it is possible to issue a permit after you provide us with the required details. 

The Background Process For Issuing Manaslu Restricted Area Permit:

Estimated Cost: 100 USD

MCT has been known for quality trekking and touring activities in Nepal. Being one of the top trekking agencies, we believe in total transparency and this is how we issue a Manaslu trekking permit for you, read on!

Related: The Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trekking

STEP 1: Fill out the online application form

Source: http://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/

• Fill up the online application form : (http://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/trekking-permit)
• Fill up separate online applications for MCAP and ACAP.
• Send the application to the Director General, Department of Immigration.
• Provide the printed itinerary with trekking dates.
• Provide a photocopy of your passport and visa (each).
• Arrange US Dollars and write the serial number and denomination of each note on the agent’s letterhead.

Step 2: Go to the Department of Immigration office with the following documents

• Head over to the Department of Immigration in Anamnagar.
• Submit the US Dollars along with the letter containing the serial numbers to the Global IME Bank counter (inside the Immigration Department) and collect the deposit slip.
• Verify the official document. Make sure to carry the agency’s up-to-date guide insurance, tax clearance, and valid authority certificate from the central bank.
• An officer will verify the details of trekkers submitted online with the passport and then print a new slip.
• A second officer will again verify the details and forward the file to the Head of Immigration.
• The Head of Immigration (Director General) will make the final verification and issue his signature.
• Now print each permit and put it on the stickers.
• The second officer will now sign the stickers.
• Again, present it to the first officer and s/he will put the final stamp to the sticker and the Manaslu permits are ready.

Now, we only need to issue permits for MCAP and ACAP.

Related: Manaslu Circuit Activities: You May Know

Step 3: Go to the Nepal Tourism Board to issue MCAP and ACAP permits:

• Drive to Nepal Tourism Board (https://www.welcomenepal.com/)
• Pay the permit fee in local currency
• Submit the printed online application form
• The officials will print the permit and place your printed photograph
• They will sign the form and DONE, you are ready to go!

Do not get overwhelmed since we as a trekking agency will handle these for you.

Related: How to find the best trekking agency in Nepal?

Related: Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost: A complete cost breakdown

MCT is keen on developing customer relations along with top-notch quality services to travelers from all around the world. Our travel experts with well over a decade of experience in tourism will be more than glad to help you. Book a trip to Manaslu in Nepal at an affordable price with MCT to explore the wonders of Nepal.

Any queries regarding trekking permits or trekking in Nepal are welcome at info@manaslucircuittreks.com or call us directly at +977 9851179975 or WhatsApp us at +977 9851179975.