13 Feb 2024 8 min to read
The Manaslu Circuit is one of Nepal’s most rewarding treks. It circles the eighth-highest mountain in the world, crosses the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 m, and passes through villages that still feel remote. Because the trail runs close to the Tibetan border, it is a restricted area, and you can’t just show up and start walking.
So what does the Manaslu Circuit permit actually cost? In short, expect to pay about USD 165 to USD 260 per person in permit fees, depending on the season and how many days you spend inside the restricted zone. Here is the full breakdown.
The classic circuit needs three main permits, plus one small local fee:
If you add the Tsum Valley side trip, you also need a separate Tsum Valley RAP.
| Permit | Cost (foreign trekkers) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RAP, Sept–Nov (peak season) | USD 100 for the first 7 days, then USD 15/day | Set by the Department of Immigration |
| RAP, Dec–Aug (off-season) | USD 75 for the first 7 days, then USD 10/day | Cheaper outside autumn |
| MCAP | NPR 3,000 (about USD 23–30) | One-time fee, same all year |
| ACAP | NPR 3,000 (about USD 23–30) | One-time fee, same all year |
| Local municipality fee | NPR 1,000 | Paid on the trail near Jagat or Philim |
| Tsum Valley RAP (optional), Sept–Nov | USD 40 for the first 7 days, then USD 7/day | Only if you add Tsum Valley |
MCAP and ACAP are set in Nepali rupees, so the dollar amount shifts slightly with the exchange rate. Many agencies quote about USD 30 each because they include processing.
The RAP is the biggest part of your permit budget, and it is the only one that changes with the season.
Autumn costs more because it is the busiest time on the trail. If your dates are flexible, spring (March to May) or the winter months can save you money. Just weigh that against weather and trail conditions.
Both conservation permits cost NPR 3,000 per foreign trekker. SAARC nationals pay NPR 1,000, and Nepali citizens pay NPR 100. Children under 10 are generally free.
Many first-time trekkers ask why an Annapurna permit is needed on a Manaslu trek. After crossing Larkya La, the trail descends through Bimthang and Tilije to Dharapani, which lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. So ACAP is required even though the trek is known as “Manaslu.”
Most trekkers spend around 10 days inside the restricted zone. Here is what that looks like:
Autumn (September–November), 10 days in the RAP zone
Off-season (December–August), 10 days in the RAP zone
Adding Tsum Valley in autumn: budget roughly USD 230 or more in total permits, since the Tsum Valley RAP is an additional USD 40 plus any extra days.
You cannot apply for the RAP yourself. It must be processed by a government-registered trekking agency in Nepal, and you need a licensed guide to accompany you in the restricted area.
Recent rule changes worth knowing:
To apply, your agency will typically need:
Your guide carries the permits and handles the checkpoints at Jagat, Philim, Namrung and beyond, so you never have to queue at a counter.
Yes. Permits are only one part of the budget. You should also plan for:
Most complete Manaslu Circuit Trek packages, permits included, range from roughly USD 850 to USD 2,200 per person, depending on group size, comfort level and trek length.
1. What permits do I need for the Manaslu Circuit trek?
You need the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
2. How much does the Manaslu RAP cost?
From September to November it’s USD 100 for the first 7 days, then USD 15 per extra day. From December to August it’s USD 75 for the first 7 days, then USD 10 per extra day.
3. How much is the MCAP?
It costs NPR 3,000 (about USD 23–30) for foreign trekkers. The fee is the same all year.
4. Why do I need an ACAP for a Manaslu trek?
After Larkya La, the trail exits through Dharapani, which lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area.
5. How much is the ACAP?
It costs NPR 3,000 (about USD 23–30) for foreign trekkers, with no seasonal change.
6. What is the total permit cost for the Manaslu Circuit?
Expect about USD 165–260 per person. A 10-day autumn trek comes to roughly USD 205, and the same trek in the off-season to roughly USD 165.
7. Can I apply for the Manaslu permit myself?
No. The RAP must be processed by a government-registered trekking agency.
8. Is a guide compulsory on the Manaslu Circuit?
Yes. A licensed guide must accompany you throughout the restricted area.
9. Can I trek Manaslu solo?
Yes, since March 2026, but only with a registered agency and a licensed guide.
10. Is there still a two-person minimum?
No. The minimum of two foreign trekkers was cancelled on March 22, 2026.
11. Do I need a separate permit for Tsum Valley?
Yes. The Tsum Valley RAP is an add-on, costing USD 40 for the first 7 days in autumn, then USD 7 per extra day.
12. What is the local municipality fee?
It’s a one-time NPR 1,000 fee collected on the trail near Jagat or Philim. Your guide usually pays it.
13. Do I need a TIMS card for Manaslu?
Most operators don’t list it as required for this route, but some still do. Your agency will confirm.
14. What documents are needed to apply?
You need a passport copy valid for at least 6 months, passport-size photos, your trek dates and your insurance details.
15. Is travel insurance mandatory?
Since 2026, you’re expected to show insurance covering high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation.
16. How much extra do I pay if I stay longer?
Each extra day in the restricted zone costs USD 15 in autumn and USD 10 in other months.
17. Which season has the cheapest permit?
December to August. The RAP is USD 25 cheaper for the first week and USD 5 less per extra day than in autumn.
18. Do permit prices differ by nationality?
The RAP is the same for all foreigners. MCAP and ACAP are NPR 3,000 for foreigners, NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals and NPR 100 for Nepali citizens.
19. Where are permits checked on the trail?
They’re checked at posts including Jagat, Philim and Namrung. Your guide handles all entries.
20. Should I carry cash for permit-related fees?
Yes. Many checkpoints don’t accept cards, so keep a small buffer of Nepali rupees for local fees.
The Manaslu Circuit permit cost is higher than many other Nepal treks, but it buys you a quieter trail, remote villages, and one of the most spectacular passes in the Himalaya. Budget about USD 165 to USD 260 for permits, plan your dates around the season, and book through a trusted agency that handles the paperwork.
Ready to plan your trek? Contact us for a custom Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary with all permits arranged.
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