Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits 2026/27: The Complete Cost and Rules Guide
Are you planning for the spiritual Manaslu Circuit Trek? If you are, then you must probably have one big question:
What permits do I need, and how much do they cost? Right?
This recently updated Manaslu Permit Guide (revised in September, 2026) will precisely answer all your questions. At Nepal Pyramids, we arrange all these permits every season for trekkers around the world, including SAARC nationals. That is to say, we know where most trekkers get stuck and confused when it comes to Manaslu Permits. The outdated permit information and non-inclusion of the New Local Municipality Permit make it really hard for trekkers to know exactly which permits are required and their real costs.
By the end of this Revised Manaslu Permit Guide, you will have a very good idea of each permit, where it is issued, and how much it will cost per person.
Now let's get started; below is the full, current breakdown of every permit you need for the Manaslu Circuit Trek from 2026 onwards and their cost per person.
Why Manaslu Needs More Permits Than Everest or Annapurna
Manaslu lies in a remote region of West Central Nepal. It is close to the Tibet border, and due to its sensitive location, the Nepal Government has classified it as a Restricted Area. Manaslu, being a restricted area, still feels so untouched and raw, and every trekker requires a special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter.
This RAP permit rule doesn't apply to Everest or the Annapurna trails. This RAP is what protects the region's authenticity. You will experience fewer crowds, cleaner trails, and the remote traditional villages that still feel like from the medieval era. Moreover, besides the RAP, you would require an MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit) because Manaslu falls under the protected area management of the Manaslu Conservation Project. Eventually, the Manaslu Circuit ends up joining the legendary Annapurna Circuit Trail, so to enter this Annapurna region you would require an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit).
Because of all this, the Manaslu Circuit requires more permits than Everest or Annapurna.
Why is Manaslu a restricted area?
- Close to the Tibet (China) border: it is a sensitive international border zone
- National security reasons: the Nepali government needs to monitor and control foreign movement in such border areas.
- Protects fragile mountain communities: limit commercialization to preserve local culture and traditional village life
- Environmental conservation: to reduce pressure on the area's forests, wildlife, and trails
- Authenticity: to offer a more genuine mountain experience than busier routes like Everest or Annapurna
What are the Permits
- RAP or Restricted Area Permit (Special Trekking Permit)
- MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit)
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
- Manaslu Rural Municipality Permit (Local Permit)
Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits: Full Cost Table, 2026/27
| Permit | Foreign Nationals | SAARC Nationals | Nepali citizens |
| Restricted Area Permit (RAP) - Autumn (Sep - Nov) | USD 100/week + USD 15/day beyond 1 week | USD 100/week + USD 15/day beyond 1 week | Not Applicable |
| Restricted Area Permit (RAP) - Rest of Year (Dec - Aug) | USD 75/week + USD 10/day beyond 1 week | USD 75/week + USD 10/day beyond 1 week | Not Applicable |
| MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit) | NPR 3,000 | NPR 1,000 | NPR 100 |
| ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) | NPR 3,000 | NPR 1,000 | NPR 100 |
| Local Municipality Permit (new permit, introduced in 2024) | NPR 1,000 | NPR 1,000 | NPR 100 |
The cost of Permit fees can change without notice. However, Nepal Pyramids confirms live pricing before every departure.
1. Restricted Area Permit (RAP): The Big One
This RAP is one of the crucial and mandatory permits to enter the restricted area of Manaslu. The price of the permit changes according to the season, and it is priced per week. After one week, per-day charges are applied.
- Autumn (September - November), peak season: USD 100 for the first week, then USD 15 for every additional day
- Rest of the year (December - August): USD 75 for the first week, then USD 10 for every additional day
The RAP applies equally to foreign and SAARC nationals. There shall be no discount based on nationality. Unlike the National Park Entry Fee and the Conservation Permits, even SAARC nationals are to pay the same amount as every other foreign national. However, Nepali citizens do not require RAP permits.
How is RAP issued and the New Rules
- The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is issued entirely online by the Department of Immigration, Nepal.
- It is issued only to registered, licensed Local Travel Agencies.
- An individual foreigner cannot walk into the immigration office and apply for RAP in person.
- Nepal Pyramids submits the application on your behalf and receives the RAP permit electronically.
A few strict New Rules
- Every trekker must be accompanied by a registered, licensed guide and must be affiliated with a local trekking company.
- The good news is that the old rule requiring a minimum of two trekkers to issue a RAP has been removed. Now, even a single (solo) trekker can be issued a RAP through a licensed local company with a guide.
- Insurance is now mandatory since the company needs to submit it online to issue a RAP.
2. MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit)
Since the route ot Manaslu Circuit Trek falls under the Manaslu Conservation Area Project, this conservation permit is mandatory alongside the RAP:
- Foreign nationals: NPR 3,000
- SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000
- Nepali citizens: NPR 100
NOTE: This permit is a one-time payment, and it is valid for your entire time inside the conservation area. It is without limitation. However, if you exit the conservation area you cannot re-enter with the same permit.
Where it's issued
MCAP is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu OR Pokhara. Nepal Pyramids Trekking arranges all these in advance alongside the RAP permit.
3. ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
I have witnessed that many trekkers are surprised that the Manaslu Circuit needs an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit). In reality, it is true that the Manaslu Circuit requires an ACAP, and it's a mandatory permit. The truth is, the classic Manaslu Circuit route exits via Dharapani, which falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area. This means you now enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, for which you require an ACAP permit
The fee structure for the ACAP permit:
- Foreign nationals: NPR 3,000
- SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000
- Nepali citizens: NPR 100
NOTE: Like MCAP, the ACAP is also a one-time payment, and it is valid without limitation. If you want to continue the Annapurna Circuit Trek after exiting Manaslu, the same ACAP permit will be valid until you exit the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Where is it issued
Like MCAP, the ACAP is issued through the Nepal Tourism Board / Annapurna Conservation Area Project office. We arrange all these permits before you arrive in Kathmandu.
4. Manaslu Rural Municipality Permit (Introduced in 2024): New Permit
This Manaslu Rural Municipality Permit is the new local permit introduced in 2024 that most trekking company blogs miss in their blog posts or their Manaslu package. The Manaslu Rural Municipality Permit is collected by the local municipality along the route and applies to everyone.
- Foreign nationals: NPR 1,000
- SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000
- Nepali citizens: NPR 100
If you find a blog post that does not mention this Local Municipality Permit, then understand that the information dates from before 2024.
Where and how it's paid
The RAP, MCAP, and ACAP can all be arranged in advance. However, the Local Municipality Permit fee is collected on the trail itself, at a checkpoint run by the local municipality. It is paid in cash, so if you are paying by yourself, you can pay in cash on the trail. As for Nepal Pyramids, it's all included in the package, and your Trek Leader will deal with it.
How Nepal Pyramids Handles Your Manaslu Permits
The RAP, MCAP, and ACAP permits required for Manaslu Circuit trips are arranged before you land in Kathmandu. As for the Manaslu Rural Municipality Permit, it will be arranged on the trail by your trek leader. It's all covered.
Before applying for RAP, MCAP, and ACAP, we will ask you for:
- Copies of your passport,
- Insurance details in PDF, and
- A clear image of your passport photos.
Your Trek Leader will have all the above mentioned permits and your details required to obtain the Local Municipality Permit on the way. He will take care of all the entries and required registration at checkpoints where necessary. After the trek is done, probably on your last night, he will hand you over all the permits, which you can take home as souvenirs.
Are you ready to trek to Manaslu? Check out our Manaslu Circuit Trek via Larke Pass - full itinerary, pricing, and permits included.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many permits do I need for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Three core permits: RAP, MCAP, ACAP, and the Local Municipality Permit added in 2024.
How much does the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit cost?
USD 100/week in autumn (Sep - Nov) or USD 75/week the rest of the year, for both foreign and SAARC nationals, with extra daily charges beyond one week.
Do I need insurance for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, an all-inclusive insurance including Helicopter Evacuation is a must for Manaslu Circuit Trek as we need to submit it online while applying for the RAP permits.
Can I trek Manaslu solo without a guide?
No, you need to be affiliated with a registered trekking agency and must have a licensed guide, and the RAP is only be issued through a registered agency with a licensed guide.
Do Nepali citizens need these permits?
Nepali citizens are exempt from the RAP and pay a nominal NPR 100 for MCAP, ACAP, and the Local Municipality Permit.
What is the total permit cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
For a typical 14-day autumn itinerary, a foreign trekker pays around USD 100 for the RAP plus roughly NPR 7,000 combined for MCAP, ACAP, and the Local Municipality Permit. The RAP is the variable cost since it scales with trek duration and season.
What documents do I need to apply for Manaslu permits?
A passport-sized photo, a clear scan of your passport's main page, and your travel insurance details. Your trekking agency files these with the Department of Immigration for you and gets the electronic permit; you don't apply in person.
Are permits checked along the Manaslu Trail?
Yes. Army and police checkpoints at Jagat, Deng, and Sama Gaun check the RAP, MCAP, and Local Municipality Permit, so keep your originals and passport on hand throughout the trek. With us your Trek leader does all these.
Do I need an extra permit for Tsum Valley?
Yes. Tsum Valley is a different restricted area and requires a separate Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit, priced by week and season, in addition to the standard Manaslu permits.
Can I get a refund if I end my trek early?
No. Permit fees are non-refundable once issued, no matter how many days you actually trek.
