For Manaslu Circuit trek, hiring licensed guide is mandatory. One requires obtaining Restricted Area Permit ( RAP) through a registered trekking company in Nepal and ACAP and MCAP are other necessary permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Here, even solo trekker can obtain RAP but no one can not do Manaslu Circuit Trek independently.
Additionally, to trek around the Manaslu region of Nepal you will need to have the right permits. The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you around Mount Manaslu (8,163m), over the Larkya Pass (around 5,106m) and between the Budhi Gandaki and Marsyangdi valleys.
As part of the trek, you will be entering the Manaslu Conservation Area and a restricted area close to the northern border of Nepal. So, the correct permits will be needed to enter this area along with following any restrictions and having a certified trekking guide.
Main Permits Required
Permit/Requirement | Description
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) |To enter the restricted area.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) |To enter the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) |To enter the correct section of the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Certified trekking guides| For the correct guidance and help managing the safety of the trekking route.
Important Information
A registered trekking agency will be able to provide you with the restricted area permits.
Foreign trekkers will be required to trek with a certified guide.
Restricted areas will typically require 2 foreign trekkers to trek with (not including guide).
Ensure that you are eligible for your permits, have the correct documents and know how much they cost.
Before booking your Manaslu Circuit trek for 2026/2027, ensure you check what the current permit costs are.
Three main permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. This includes the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
Main permits required for trekking Manaslu
Permit | Description
Manaslu RAP| To enter the restricted area within Chumnubri Rural Municipality, Gorkha ($100/75 per person for 1 week | $15/10 per person per day extra)
MCAP | To enter the Manaslu Conservation Area (Rs.3000 for foreigners-Rs.1000 for SAARC Nationals)
ACAP | To enter the Annapurna Conservation Area beyond the Larkya Pass. (Rs.3000 for foreigners-Rs.1000 for SAARC Nationals)
Cost of Restricted Area Permit
According to the official Department of Tourism the following costs are required for the Manaslu RAP.
Trekking Season | Cost (First 7 days) | Cost (Extra days)
Sep-Nov | $100 per person | $15 per person per day
Dec-Aug | $75 per person | $10 per person per day
Extra Permits
MCAP and ACAP will vary depending on your nationality and current regulations. In fact, MCAP and ACAP will cost Rs 3000 for foreigners and Rs 1000 for SAARC nationals.
If you wish to extend your trek to the Tsum Valley then you will also need an extra restricted area permit. This will have different costs based on the season.
Likewise, ensure you have your permits whilst trekking and show them if requested by authorized officials.
Also, a registered trekking agency will be able to provide you with the restricted area permits.
Importantly, your exact permits will depend on your itinerary and current regulations.
The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) will cost you USD $100 for up to 7 days within the restricted area (Sept-Nov). The price will then increase to USD $15 for each extra day.
For Dec-Aug the rate will be USD $75 for up to 7 days and USD $10 for each extra day. It is important to be very careful when calculating how many days you are going to be in the restricted area on your Manaslu Circuit Trek during 2026/2027.
Manaslu RAP Costs by Season
Trekking Season | Cost for 1st 7 Days | Cost for Additional Days
September – November | USD $100 | USD $15
December – August | USD $75 | USD $10
Here, a typical Manaslu Circuit Trek would take around7- 8 days in the restricted area. This will depend on where you enter and exit the area. In this example, we will count 8 days.
Trekking Season | Calculation Total
September – November | USD $100 + 1 x USD $15 USD $115
December – August | USD $75 + 1 x USD $10 USD $85
Here, this does not include the MCAP, ACAP, guiding, accommodation, food or transport costs. You will need to check when you entered and exited the restricted area to work out how much you will actually have to pay.
The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) is for entering the Manaslu Conservation Area and all the protected nature and biodiversity. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is for entering the Annapurna Conservation Area once you have crossed over Larkya Pass (approx 5,106m) on the standard route.
Both of these conservation areas will have a fee based on your nationality, you can find the prices on the Nepal Tourism Board published park entry fee list. These are not interchangeable with the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit.
MCAP & ACAP Permit Fees
Nationality | MCAP | ACAP
Nepali Citizens | NPR 100 | NPR 100
SAARC Nationals | NPR 1,000 | NPR 1,000
Other Foreign Nationals | NPR 3,000 | NPR 3,000
Children under 10 | Free | Free
Things to Note
MCAP – This is for entering the Manaslu Conservation Area.
ACAP – This covers the appropriate section of the Annapurna Conservation Area for the standard Manaslu Circuit.
Children – Children under 10 years old are free from paying to enter the conservation areas (as listed on the Nepal Tourism Board).
Conservation Area Permits – These are usually single use permits and should be carried with you for the duration of your trek.
How Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd. Can Help
Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd. can assist you with organizing the permits through the correct agency. Make sure you get an itemized quote for the RAP, MCAP, ACAP, guiding and any admin charges before confirming your Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026/2027.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires the trekkers to have a licensed guide as per the trekking regulations in Nepal. This is because Manaslu Circuit is a restricted trek and trekkers need to have an authorized guide plus the correct documentation (TIMS card) arranged by the relevant agency.
Foreign trekkers will need to book through an authorized trekking agency. A private guide can be booked so you can trek with just you or a couple but not on your own.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide Requirements:
Requirement | Explanation
Licensed Guide | Trekkers will need a qualified guide.
Registered Agency | The agency will arrange the restricted area permits and documentation.
TIMS Documentation | Check with your agency what TIMS documentation is required.
Permits | Have the correct permits to show at the checkpoints.
Why do you need a licensed guide?
A guide will help you navigate through the remote villages. They can help you find teahouses and arrange accommodation during busy times. They will also help with the local language, village culture and help you communicate with your accommodation. They will monitor the trail, weather, altitude sickness and any delays.
Overall, a guided Manaslu Circuit will help you with the practical aspects of trekking in this remote area. When booking your trip for 2026/2027 make sure your guide is licensed and what documentation is required.
Solo trekkers can now apply for a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit. On the 22nd of March 2026, the Department of Immigration in Nepal amended their restricted area permit rules. They no longer require a minimum of 2 foreign trekkers.
However, solo trekkers will still need to book through an authorised trekking agency. You will still need a licensed trekking guide.
Manaslu Solo Trekking Rules for 2026/2027:
Requirement | Current Status
Solo Permit | Application Yes
Minimum Foreign Trekkers| No longer required for individual RAP application.
Licensed Guide | Required
Registered Trekking Agency| Required to arrange restricted area permits.
Trek on your own | No
Guide to Trekker Ratio | 1 guide can accompany up to 7 trekkers.
Solo Manaslu Options:
Private Guided Trek – Book a licensed guide through an authorized agency. You will have your own itinerary.
Group Trek – Join other trekkers to share the cost of the guide. This will depend on the agency.
Solo Permit – Ask your agency to arrange the restricted area permit for 1 trekker.
Confirm in advance | Check if you are eligible for the permit, what it will cost, guide arrangements and what documentation is required.
You can now trek | Manaslu Circuit on your own but you cannot trek without a licensed guide.
In conclusion, Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd can help solo trekkers to decide whether they want to go on a private guided or group trek depending on what dates and budget they have.
The Manaslu Trek requires a TIMS card to be filled in. This is the Trekkers’ Information Management System. The Manaslu route is one of those that requires TIMS documentation issued by an agency according to the Nepal Tourism Board. It’s important to confirm what the latest requirements are.
Foreign trekkers will also need valid identification and any relevant permits. A registered trekking agency can help you with arranging the correct paperwork, permits and any extra documents required.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Documents
Document | Purpose
Passport Information | To identify a trekkers and apply for permits
Valid Nepal Visa (if required) | To meet immigration requirements
Passport Sized Photos | To provide photos if required
Travel Insurance Information | To help confirm you have the right coverage for trekking and emergencies at high altitude
Restricted Area Permit (RAP)| To allow entry to the restricted area
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)| To cover entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)| To cover the relevant section of the Annapurna Conservation Area
TIMS Documentation (if required)| To meet any requirements for trekking registration.
Key Tips to Consider
Provide your passport information to your trekking agency. Make sure it is correct so they can apply for your permits.
Make sure you have travel insurance that covers high altitude trekking and helicopter emergency evacuation (subject to terms and conditions).
Ensure you have the correct permits and identification with you whilst trekking. Officials may ask to see them.
Confirm whether TIMS documentation is required for your specific route.
Permits and admin can vary between seasons. Make sure you know what documents you’ll need for your 2026/2027 Manaslu Circuit Trek.
To apply for your Manaslu Circuit Trek permits you’ll need to select a government registered trekking agency. You’ll also need to confirm your route. According to the Nepal Tourism Board trekkers must use a licensed guide and TIMS documentation issued by an agency whilst trekking the Manaslu Circuit.
Here, once you’ve selected your agency you’ll need to give them your passport information, valid Nepal visa (if required), photos, travel dates and route. They will organise your RAP, MCAP, ACAP and TIMS documentation.
How to Obtain Manaslu Trek Permits
Step | Action
1. Select an agency Confirm they are registered and can organise restricted area permits.
2. Provide information Provide your passport, photos, visa and route.
3. Confirm costs Check what the RAP costs are for the season, conservation permits and agency costs.
4. Guide Confirm they have a licensed and your trekking arrangements.
5. Apply for permits Let them apply for you and confirm you have your permits.
6. Confirm documents Ensure you have the correct permits and identification.
Key Tips
Ask for the registration information and written information about what is included.
Ensure you have the correct insurance to cover your guide, staff and high altitude trekking.
Apply early to allow time for admin and any changes.
Double check your permits match your route before leaving Kathmandu.
In conclusion, Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd can help you organise your permits, guide and trekking. However, make sure you check what the latest costs and requirements are with the relevant authorities.
Here, the cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026/2027 will depend on the permits you need to apply for, guide cost, accommodation, food transportation and the number of people traveling.
However, Manaslu is an area which needs permits for foreigners to trek here, and will need to go via an approved registered agent to get the correct permits and require to travel with a licensed guide on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
When planning your budget for this trek, the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) costs $100 per person for the first 7 days of your visit between September to November and then a daily rate of $15. Between December to August the RAP costs $75 for the first 7 days and $10 for additional days.
Cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits
Restriction Area Permit Cost:
Permit/Charge Name | Fee
RAP (Sep - Nov) | $100 For 7 Days
RAP (Dec - Aug)| $75 For 7 Days
RAP Additional Days| (Sep - Nov) $15
RAP Additional Days| (Dec - Aug) $10
MCAP (foreign nationals)| NPR 3,000
ACAP (foreign nationals)| NPR 3,000
MCAP (SAARC Nationals| NPR 1000
ACAP ( SAARC Nationals| NPR 1000
Cost of Manaslu Trek Guide and Other Expenses
Along with your permits you need to consider how much a guide will cost when going on your trek. You will typically want to pay a licensed guide, optional porter, accommodation and food and transportation costs.
In 2026/2027 guides charge for Manaslu Circuit Trek around $25-$40 per day and porters $18-$25 per day, however prices vary.
Costs:
Guides- $25-40
Porters- $18-25
Accommodation and food- $30-45
Shared transport- $40-90
What should my Manaslu Trek Package include?
Ensure your trekking agent have a documented list of what is included/excluded before booking,
Permits – RAP, MCAP and ACAP and any additional local charges like Tsum Nubri Local Area Entry Fee
Guide – Licensed guide with agreed wages. Food, accommodation, insurance and transport covered.
Porters – Confirm if there is a porter included and the weight limits for your luggage.
Accommodation & Meals – Check number of nights you’ll be trekking and room type and what meals are included.
Transport – Confirm if transfers are included either Kathmandu to Machha Khola/Soti Khola.
Not Included – Costs could be incurred for international flights, Nepal Visa, personal insurance, tips, drinks, snacks and emergency evacuation.
Importantly, your tailor made quote can be received from Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd. We can also advise on the current cost for your dates, number of people and what services you would require. Ensure you get a current quote for your specific trek.
The best way to apply for your permits to Trek the Manaslu Circuit is to utilize an approved Trekking agent. Whilst the new guidelines allow solo travelers to acquire their RAP, trekking solo without having a licensed guide is not allowed.
In addition to, ensure you get an accurate breakdown for your trip by confirming what the current RAP rates are depending on what season you’re going in, what the current MCAP and ACAP rates are, guide rates, transportation costs and what is included within your package.
With the help of Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd we can ensure your arrangements are organised! Contact us for an up to date quote for 2026/2027.
1. What permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Generally, the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit will be required. The Nepal Tourism Board also state that a TIMS card will be required (issued by your trekking agency). Please check with your registered trekking company for the most up to date information.
2. How much is the Manaslu Restricted Permit?
The Manaslu Restricted Permit costs USD$100 for the first 7 days (Sep-Nov 2026) and USD$15 for each additional day. From Dec-Aug it will cost USD$75 for the first 7 days of your trek and USD$10 for every additional day. This is only for the restricted part of your holiday.
3. Do I need a licensed guide?
Yes. Foreign trekkers will need a licensed trekking guide to go on the Manaslu Circuit. This is stated on the official trekking rules from the Nepal Tourism Board. You will also need to get your restricted permit from a government registered trekking agency. A licensed guide cannot be replaced by a porter. Please check with your trekking company to ensure your guide has the correct qualifications and will provide the right service.
4. Can I have a single permit?
Yes. In March 2026 there were changes to the restricted permit rules allowing single foreign trekkers to apply. However, you will still need to use a registered trekking agency to get the restricted permit and a licensed guide.
5. Can I go on Manaslu Circuit Trek on my own?
Yes. You can organise a private Manaslu Circuit Trek. Since March 2026 single trekkers can apply for restricted permits with a registered agency. However, you will still need a licensed guide. Private treks can be more expensive as you won’t be sharing the guide costs.
6. Do I need both MCAP and ACAP for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes. Generally, you will need both MCAP and ACAP. MCAP covers the Manaslu Conservation Area and ACAP is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. The price for foreign nationals is NPR$3000 each (please check for the most up to date info).
7. Do I need a TIMS card for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit and Manaslu-Tsum Valley both require a TIMS card issued by your trekking agency. Some recent trekking guides state different rules for restricted permits. Please check with your registered agency to confirm if you will need a TIMS card. It’s always best to get written confirmation.
8. Do I need an extra permit for Tsum Valley?
Yes. If you wish to include the Tsum Valley then you will need a Tsum Valley Restricted Permit. This costs USD$40 for the first week (Sep-Nov) and USD$7 for each additional day. From Dec-Aug it will cost USD$30 for the first week and USD$7 per additional day.
9. Can I get all my permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek through my trekking agency?
Yes. Your government registered trekking company can help organise your restricted permit, conservation permits and TIMS card where applicable. They will generally ask for your passport details, valid Nepal visa, itinerary and insurance documents. When booking please ask them to provide a detailed quote so you can see how much your permits will cost.
10. When should I book my guide and permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Please try to book your Manaslu guide and permits a few weeks in advance. Especially during busy seasons like Spring and Autumn. This will allow your agency plenty of time to organise your documents, check your insurance and organise transport and accommodation. Although permits can be organised quickly once everything is in order, you shouldn’t leave it until the last minute for a remote restricted area.
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