Manaslu Circuit Permit Cost Breakdown (2026 Guide)

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a stunning long-distance route in Nepal. It circles Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) and passes through remote villages, deep valleys, and the impressive Larkya La Pass. Because the Manaslu region is a restricted area, trekkers need special permits to enter.

Knowing the cost of the Manaslu Circuit permit is important for planning your trek. These permits help manage tourism, protect local culture, and support conservation in the region.

For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, trekkers need three permits:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

This guide explains the full permit cost for 2026 and how each permit works.

Permits Required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

You need three different permits to complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Each one covers a specific section of the route and serves a specific purpose.

These permits together allow trekkers to legally trek through the Manaslu region and exit through the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

The Manaslu region is restricted because it is close to the Tibetan border and has unique Nubri and Tsum cultures that need protection. To control tourism and access, trekkers must get a Restricted Area Permit (RAP).

This permit is needed for the part of the trek between Jagat and Dharapani, which is the main restricted section of the Manaslu Circuit.

RAP Permit Cost

The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit cost depends on the season and the number of days spent in the restricted area.

Important notes about the RAP:

• The permit must be issued through a licensed trekking agency
• Independent trekking is not allowed
• At least two trekkers are required for the permit
• A licensed guide must accompany the group

Because of these rules, most trekkers get their permits through a trekking package with a Nepali company.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

You need the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area, which helps protect the fragile Himalayan environment around Mt. Manaslu.

This area is home to many kinds of wildlife, alpine forests, and traditional villages that rely on sustainable tourism.

MCAP Permit Cost

Revenue from MCAP permits supports conservation programs, trail maintenance, and community development projects in the Manaslu region.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Although the trek starts in the Manaslu region, it enters the Annapurna Conservation Area after you cross the Larkya La Pass.

Dharapani is where the trek enters the Annapurna region. For this reason, trekkers also need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

ACAP Permit Cost

The ACAP permit supports conservation initiatives and tourism management throughout the Annapurna region.

Total Permit Cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

It helps to know the total permit costs when planning your Manaslu trek.

Here is an example of permit costs for a typical 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek during peak season.

In total, the total Manaslu Circuit permit cost generally ranges between USD 150–200 per person, depending on the trekking duration and season.

These permit fees do not include the cost of guides, accommodation, meals, or transportation.

Important Permit Rules for the Manaslu Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek has several important permit regulations that trekkers must follow.

Key rules include:

• A minimum of two trekkers is required
• The trek must be arranged through a licensed Nepali trekking agency
• A licensed guide must accompany the trekking group
• Independent trekking is not allowed in the restricted region
• Permits are checked at multiple checkpoints along the route

These rules are in place to keep trekkers safe and manage tourism in the remote Manaslu region.

Where to Get Manaslu Trek Permits

The Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu issues permits for the Manaslu trek.

Trekkers cannot get the restricted area permit on their own. Permits must be arranged through a licensed trekking agency in Nepal.

We at Achieve Treks handle all your permit arrangements before your trek, so you have the right documents for checkpoints along the trail.

Why Manaslu Has a Restricted Area Permit

The Manaslu region was opened to trekkers relatively recently compared to other popular trekking areas in Nepal.

The restricted permit system exists for several reasons:

• The region lies close to the Tibetan border
• Local Tibetan-influenced cultures require preservation
• Controlled tourism helps protect fragile mountain ecosystems
• It supports sustainable development for remote Himalayan communities

Because of these rules, Manaslu stays less crowded and feels more authentic than many other trekking routes.

Is the Manaslu Trek Worth the Permit Cost?

Many trekkers find the Manaslu Circuit Trek to be one of the most rewarding experiences in Nepal.

Compared with the Everest or Annapurna regions, the Manaslu trek provides:

• Fewer crowds on the trail
• Authentic Himalayan villages and monasteries
• Dramatic mountain scenery around Mt. Manaslu
• The thrilling crossing of Larkya La Pass (5,106m)

When you look at the total cost of the Manaslu trek, the permit fees are small compared to the amazing experience you get.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how the permit system works is an important step in planning your Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Trekkers need three permits:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Altogether, these permits usually cost about USD 150 to 200 per person, depending on the season and how long you trek.

Since the Manaslu region is restricted, trekkers must go with a licensed guide and arrange permits through a registered trekking agency.

Arranging your permits in advance helps make your trek smooth and enjoyable in one of Nepal’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions.

FAQs

How much is the Manaslu Circuit permit cost?

The total Manaslu Circuit permit cost typically ranges between USD 150–200 per person, depending on the season and number of days spent in the restricted area.

What permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Trekkers need three permits: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

Can you trek Manaslu without a guide?

No. Independent trekking is not allowed. Trekkers must hire a licensed guide and obtain permits through a registered Nepali trekking agency.

Why is the Manaslu region restricted?

The region is close to the Tibetan border and has culturally sensitive communities. The restricted permit system helps preserve local culture and regulate tourism.

How long is the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit valid?

The RAP is issued for a specific number of days. The first 7 days have a fixed fee, and additional days require extra charges depending on the season.