Manaslu Region Trekking Permits: A Complete Guide for Every Route

The Manaslu Region in Nepal is a secret treasure that provides you with the experience of Himalayan wonders, and the stunning Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters) stands at its heart. The northwest part of Nepal showcases its natural purity, wildlife diversity, and traditional cultural heritage. The Manaslu Base Camp has typical forest scenery with local villages and spectacular views of mountain ranges. The Manaslu region trekking route has a quiet atmosphere and presents you with an adventurous alternative to mainstream routes like the Everest region or Annapurna region.

Protecting the environment along with local communities requires distinct permits for those wanting to explore the Manaslu Region because of its administrative restrictions. The essential permits required to trek in this area are the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) combined with the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). A trek through the restricted zone must have an MRAP as its main requirement and this document becomes available only to trekkers with a licensed guide. If you are planning to visit the Manaslu Conservation Area, you need to obtain an MCAP, whereas if you intend to reach areas covered by the Annapurna Conservation Area must have an ACAP.

When venturing to both Tsum Valley and Chumnubri, you must obtain two further documents: the Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and a local authorization for Chumnubri. You will need these permits because they target particular areas and provide essential protection for the local populations and nature preservation activities. You can apply for the permits online or obtain it individually, however, here at Yeti Hikes, we keep you away from the permit hassle and manage it for you.

Manaslu Circuit Trek: Permits and documents

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an extraordinary experience of exploring the wild natural beauty alongside the hidden majesty of the Manaslu region in Nepal. The trek leads you through the terrain of isolated Tibetan settlements and perfect Himalayan views, including the world's eighth-tallest peak, Mount Manaslu.

You will start your journey through the Gorkha District, a location full of  Nepali cultural traditions and Tibetan Buddhist territory. The Soti Khola, Samgaun, and Samdo village has the unaltered traditions of the Nubri and Tsumba communities that date back hundreds of years. During the trek, you will discover impressive rocky mountain peaks alongside dense forests and the peaceful Budi Gandaki River flowing at steep riverbanks.

As you trek through the Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters), one of the highest trekking paths on the journey, you will see beautiful views of Mt. Manaslu, Himalchuli, and even the Annapurna ranges. You can encounter various cultural activities throughout the journey, including viewing the ancient Pungyen Monastery, prayer flags dancing in the wind, and traditional stone-paved trails.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is restricted and requires special permit and also need a certified guide to ensure safety and precaution. Since 1991, the Nepalese government permitted the foreign citizens to trek but under controlled conditions. It is not very crowded or famous like the Everest or Annapurna Region, but it is known as the "Hidden Gem of Nepal".

The required permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

• The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) is issued by the Department of Immigration, Kathmandu.
• It is required for the section from Jagat to Dharapani, which is classified as a restricted zone.
• The permit will be checked at Jagat Checkpost.
• The MRAP is date-specific, and you will need at least two trekkers with a licensed guide to obtain it.

Cost of Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
September to November	USD 100 per person for the first 7 days. USD 15 per additional day.
December to August	USD 75 per person for the first 7 days. USD 10 per additional day.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

• The Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu, issues the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
• It is required to enter and trek within the Manaslu Conservation Area, from Soti Khola to Samagaun.
• The main checkpoints for the MCAP include:
  • Philim Checkpost
  • Deng Checkpost
  • Namrung and Lho
  • Samagaun
• The MCAP is not date-specific and does not require a group or guide.

Cost of Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Nepali Citizens	NPR 100/ USD 0.75 per person
SAARC Citizens	NPR 1000/ USD 7.50 per person
Foreigners	NPR 3000/ USD 22.50 per person

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

• The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is issued by the National Trust for Conservation (NTNC).
• It is required to enter and trek around the Annapurna Conservation Area as the trail enters the Annapurna Region after the Larkya La Pass.
• The permit will be checked at Dharapani village.
• The ACAP is not date-specific, and no group or guide is required to trek the rout. However, it is recommended for safety reasons.

Cost of Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Nepali Citizens	NPR 100/ USD 0.75 per person
SAARC Citizens	NPR 1000/ USD 7.50 per person
Foreigners	NPR 3000/ USD 22.50 per person

Chumnubri Rural Municipality Local Permit

• The Chumnubri Rural Municipality Local Permit is issued by the Chumnubri Rural Municipality Office in Gorkha District, Nepal.
• It is required to pass the Chumnubri region, particularly villages like Jagat, Philim, Namrung, Lho, and Samagaun.
• The main checkpoints for the Chumnubri  Local Permit include:
  • Jagat Checkpoint
  • Philim Checkpoint
  • Namrung Checkpoint
  • Lho Checkpoint
  • Samagaun Checkpoint
• The permit is date-specific, and you will need at least two trekkers with a licensed guide to obtain it.

Cost for Chumnubri Rural Municipality Local Permit
September to November	USD 100 per person for the first 7 days. USD 15 per additional day.
December to August	USD 75 per person for the first 7 days. USD 10 per additional day.

Tsum Valley Trek: Permits and documents

The Tsum Valley Trek is a sacred exploration of Nepal's hidden Himalayan valley in the northern part of the Gorkha District. The trek reveals the pristine natural scenery and historical roots of the Tsumba people, who originated from Tibet. The Tsum Valley trekking route leads you through the religious monuments and alpine woodlands amid mountain views of Ganesh Himal, Boudha Himal, and Himalchuli.

You will pass through the Budi Gandaki River valley and reach the Tibetan Buddhist heartland, Chumling village, Chhokang Paro, and Nile village. You will pass by beautiful ancient villages and their traditions alongside friendly inhabitants and monasteries. The paths lead you through the Rachen Monastery and Mu Gompa, which holds the area's major historical significance in addition to the ancient mani walls and chortens.

The Tsum Valley was restricted until 2008 and requires special permits and registered guides to trek. The valley is associated with the saint Milarepa, and pilgrims still visit caves that are believed to be his meditation site. The Tsum Valley Trek is a secluded adventure through its tranquil paths toward meaningful spiritual interaction as it immerses you into Himalayan magical experiences beyond typical tourist routes. The location is truly a "Hidden Buddhist Sanctuary" within the Nepalese heartland.

The required permits for the Tsum Valley Trek are:

Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

• The Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is issued by the Department of Immigration, Kathmandu.
• It is required for trekking within a restricted zone in the Tsum Valley region, from Lokpa to Chhekampar and Nile.
• The permit will be checked at the Chumling Checkpost.
• The RAP is date-specific, and you need at least two trekkers with a licensed guide to obtain it.

Cost for Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
September to November	USD 40 per person for the first 7 days. USD 7 per additional day.
December to August	USD 30 per person for the first 7 days. USD 7 per additional day.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

• The Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu, issues the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
• It is required to enter and trek within the Manaslu Conservation Area, from Soti Khola to Samagaun.
• The main checkpoints for the MCAP include:
  • Philim Checkpost
  • Deng Checkpost
  • Namrung and Lho
  • Samagaun
• The MCAP is not date-specific and does not require a group or guide.

Cost for Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Nepali Citizens	NPR 100/ USD 0.75 per person
SAARC Citizens	NPR 1000/ USD 7.50 per person
Foreigners	NPR 3000/ USD 22.50 per person

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) 

The ACAP is not required for the Tsum Valley Trek if you start the trek from Soti Khola. It is only required if you enter the Tsum Valley from the Annapurna Region through Dharapani. 

• The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is issued by the National Trust for Conservation (NTNC).
• The permit will be checked at Jagat Checkpost.
• The ACAP is not date-specific, and no group or guide is required to trek the rout. However, it is recommended for safety reasons.

Cost for Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Nepali Citizens	NPR 100/ USD 0.75 per person
SAARC Citizens	NPR 1000/ USD 7.50 per person
Foreigners	NPR 3000/ USD 22.50 per person

Manaslu Base Camp Trek: Permits and documents

The Manaslu Base Camp Trek is a scenic journey to the foot of Mount Manaslu, where you can admire the world's right-highest peak in the remote Gorkha District of Nepal. You will explore the Manaslu Conservation Area, where you can discover both the Himalayan wilderness and the enduring Tibetan Buddhist culture of the territory. The path takes you through wilderness forests and high mountain territories with peaceful villages, which reveal magnificent views of the Himalchuli peak, Ngadi Chuli, and the mighty Manaslu mountain itself.

From Soti Khola, you will follow the Budi Gandaki River and pass through remote villages like Sama Gaon and Samdo, where the traditional customs of the Nubri and Tsumba communities remain authentic. The magnificent peaks, glacier views, and landscape become more breathtaking with every step. As you reach Manaslu Base Camp, you will have a mesmerizing view of Mount Manaslu along with its glacier structures, which rise to a height of 4,800 meters (15,748 feet).

The Manaslu Base Camp Trek requires special permit along with the trained guide because of the restricted areas. The base camp trek is ideal if you want to experience peaceful connections with nature and the vibrant local culture. You will pass the ancient Buddhist monasteries along with chortens and mani walls that enhance the peaceful and sacred atmosphere of the trek. You will have an unforgettable hike into both the Himalayan wilderness and the Tibetan Buddhist culture during the Manasu Base Camp Trek. 

The required permits for the Manaslu Base Camp Trek are:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

• The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) is issued by the Department of Immigration, Kathmandu.
• It is required for the section from Jagat to Dharapani, which is classified as a restricted zone.
• The permit will be checked at Jagat Checkpost.
• The MRAP is date-specific, and you will need at least two trekkers with a licensed guide to obtain it.

Cost for Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
September to November	USD 100 per person for the first 7 days. USD 15 per additional day.
December to August	USD 75 per person for the first 7 days. USD 10 per additional day.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

• The Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu, issues the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
• It is required to enter and trek within the Manaslu Conservation Area.
• The ACAP will be checked at the Jagat Checkpost.
• The MCAP is not date-specific and does not require a group or guide.

Cost for Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Nepali Citizens	NPR 100/ USD 0.75 per person
SAARC Citizens	NPR 1000/ USD 7.50 per person
Foreigners	NPR 3000/ USD 22.50 per person

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)  

• The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is issued by the National Trust for Conservation (NTNC).
• It is required to enter and trek around the Annapurna Conservation Area as the trail enters the Annapurna Region..
• The permit will be checked at Dharapani village.
• The ACAP is not date-specific, and no group or guide is required to trek the rout. However, it is recommended for safety reasons.

Cost for Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Nepali Citizens	NPR 100/ USD 0.75 per person
SAARC Citizens	NPR 1000/ USD 7.50 per person
Foreigners	NPR 3000/ USD 22.50 per person

Rupina La Pass Trek

The Rupina La Pass Trek is a challenging and unexplored path within the Manaslu region. It is a journey of genuine Himalayan scenery and ancestral mountain traditions of Nepal. The trek reaches 4,720 meters (15,486 feet), linking the lower Gorka region with the Tibetan-influenced highlands near the Manaslu Conservation Area. It is an ideal experience through the pristine territories as you bypass the crowded hiking routes of both the Everest region and the Annapurna region.

The journey starts from the cultural district of Gorkha, where you pass through forests, alpine pastures, glacial rivers, and ethnic communities like the Gurung and Tamang. After passing through the Manaslu mountain range, you will reach the steep and isolated trail, which reveals itself in all its glory. You will need to push yourself to the limit throughout the final part of this journey that leads up to Rupina La because the views from the summit and the feeling of completing this off-the-beaten-path trek are unparalleled.

The Rupina La Region requires the Manaslu Restricted Area permit and a licensed guide for support. The Rupina La Pass Trek is a memorable journey because of its authentic Himalayan gem, dramatic natural landscapes, peaceful walking trails, and immersive cultural attractions.

The required permits for the Rupina La Pass Trek are:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

• The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) is issued by the Department of Immigration, Kathmandu.
• It is required for the section from Jagat to Dharapani, which is classified as a restricted zone.
• The permit will be checked at Jagat Checkpost.
• The MRAP is date-specific, and you will need at least two trekkers with a licensed guide to obtain it.

Cost for Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
September to November	USD 100 per person for the first 7 days. USD 15 per additional day.
December to August	USD 75 per person for the first 7 days. USD 10 per additional day.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

• The Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu, issues the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
• It is required to enter and trek within the Manaslu Conservation Area, from Soti Khola to Samagaun.
• The MCAP will be checked at the Jagat Checkpost.
• The MCAP is not date-specific and does not require a group or guide.

Cost for Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Nepali Citizens	NPR 100/ USD 0.75 per person
SAARC Citizens	NPR 1000/ USD 7.50 per person
Foreigners	NPR 3000/ USD 22.50 per person

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)  

The ACAP is only required if you are entering the Rupina La Pass Trek from the Annapurna Region (e.g., through Dharapani).

• The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is issued by the National Trust for Conservation (NTNC).
• The permit will be checked at Dharapani village.
• The ACAP is not date-specific, and no group or guide is required to trek the rout. However, it is recommended for safety reasons.

Cost for Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Nepali Citizens	NPR 100/ USD 0.75 per person
SAARC Citizens	NPR 1000/ USD 7.50 per person
Foreigners	NPR 3000/ USD 22.50 per person

Nubri Valley Cultural Trek (Short version of Manaslu Circuit)

The Nubri Valley Cultural Trek is a cultural adventure through scenic landscapes that is also a shorter and easier alternative to the Manaslu Circuit. The path leads you through Tibetan Buddhist communities in stunning mountain landscapes. You can avoid the Larkya La Pass challenge and choose the Nubri Valley trek to experience genuine Himalayan culture effectively.

The start point is in the lower Gorkha region, where you will walk up following the Budi Gandaki River to visit villages, including Lho and Shyala, before reaching Sama Gaon. The Nubri settlement consists of inhabitants whose culture mirrors their Tibetan descent through their traditional ways of life, dress habits, linguistic practices, and spiritual traditions. The view of Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli and the historical Ribung Gompa and Pungyen Gompa, together with prayer wheels, charters, and stone mani walls, define the Nubri Valley Cultural Trek. 

The trek does not cross high-altitude passes, but it still ventures into remote territory and reaches an altitude of 3 500 to 3 800 meters. Because it is in the Manaslu Conservation Area, the Nubri Valley Cultural Trek requires a Restricted Area Permit from government authorities and a local licensed guiding service. If you seek the essence of the Himalayas with natural scenery and cultural and spiritual calmness, the Nubri Valley Trek is here for you!

The required permits for the Nubri Valley Cultural Trek are:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

• The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) is issued by the Department of Immigration, Kathmandu.
• It is required as the Nubri Valley is a restricted area.
• The permit will be checked at Chumling Checkpost.
• The MRAP is date-specific, and you will need at least two trekkers with a licensed guide to obtain it.

Cost for Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
September to November	USD 100 per person for the first 7 days. USD 15 per additional day.
December to August	USD 75 per person for the first 7 days. USD 10 per additional day.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

• The Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu, issues the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
• It is required to enter and trek within the Manaslu Conservation Area, from Soti Khola to Samagaun.
• The permit will be checked at the Jagat Checkpost.
• The MCAP is not date-specific and does not require a group or guide.

Cost for Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Nepali Citizens	NPR 100/ USD 0.75 per person
SAARC Citizens	NPR 1000/ USD 7.50 per person
Foreigners	NPR 3000/ USD 22.50 per person

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)  

The ACAP is not required for the Nubri Valley Cultural Trek if you enter the region via Gorkha (starting from Soti Khola). However, if you enter from the Annapurna Region (through Dharapani), the ACAP will be required.

• The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is issued by the National Trust for Conservation (NTNC).
• The permit will be checked at Dharapani village.
• The ACAP is not date-specific, and no group or guide is required to trek the rout. However, it is recommended for safety reasons.

Cost for Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Nepali Citizens	NPR 100/ USD 0.75 per person
SAARC Citizens	NPR 1000/ USD 7.50 per person
Foreigners	NPR 3000/ USD 22.50 per person

Chumnubri Rural Municipality Local Permit

• The Chumnubri Rural Municipality Local Permit is issued by the Chumnubri Rural Municipality Office in Gorkha District, Nepal.
• The main checkpoint for the Chumnubri Local Permit is Chumnubri Checkpost.
• The permit is date-specific, and you will need at least two trekkers with a licensed guide to obtain it.

Cost for Chumnubri Rural Municipality Local Permit
September to November	USD 100 per person for the first 7 days. USD 15 per additional day.
December to August	USD 75 per person for the first 7 days. USD 10 per additional day.

Lower Manaslu Trek

The Lower Manaslu Trek is a cultural experience in the magnificent foothills of Mount Manaslu. You will explore the Gurung cultural development and historic site with picturesque landscapes within the terrain of lower Gorkha. People who want to experience authentic village life, ancient traditions, and scenic views without challenging high elevations should consider the Lower Manaslu Trek.

Your journey starts from Gorkha, where you will visit significant landmarks like Gorkha Durbar alongside Gorakhnath Cave Temple. You will then walk up through rhododendron woods and terraced agricultural land to visit the three villages: Sirandanda, Barpak, and Laprak, which suffered greatly during the 2015 earthquake but received caring community restoration. These communities showcase the strong nature and cultural heritage of the Gurung people.

Your journey will lead you to various spectacular views that embrace Mount Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and the surrounding hills of mid-hill terrain. You can undertake the Lower Manaslu Trek conveniently since it demands neither special permits nor the need to acclimate at high altitudes, thus allowing beginners, families, and time-bound explorers to participate. The Lower Manaslu trek combines traditional cultural sights with mountain landscape beauty to provide a peaceful getaway from tourist zones across Nepal's critical cultural areas.

The required permits for the Lower Manaslu Trek are:

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

• The Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu, issues the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
• It is required to enter and trek within the Manaslu Conservation Area.
• The main checkpoints for the MCAP is Jagat Checkpost.
• The MCAP is not date-specific and does not require a group or guide.

Cost for Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Nepali Citizens	NPR 100/ USD 0.75 per person
SAARC Citizens	NPR 1000/ USD 7.50 per person
Foreigners	NPR 3000/ USD 22.50 per person

Chumnubri Rural Municipality Local Permit

• The Chumnubri Rural Municipality Local Permit is issued by the Chumnubri Rural Municipality Office in Gorkha District, Nepal.
• The main checkpoint for the Chumnubri Local Permit is Chumnubri Checkpost.
• The permit is date-specific, and you will need at least two trekkers with a licensed guide to obtain it.

Cost for Chumnubri Rural Municipality Local Permit
September to November	USD 100 per person for the first 7 days. USD 15 per additional day.
December to August	USD 75 per person for the first 7 days. USD 10 per additional day.

Essential Documents for Permits

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP):

• Passport Copy: A clear copy of your valid passport.
• Passport-sized Photos: Typically, 1 or 2 passport-sized photos may be required.
• Trekking Permit Application: You will need to fill out a form provided by the trekking agency or the government office.
• Trekking Agency Registration: If you are trekking with a licensed guide, you may need to show the details of the agency handling your permit (if applicable).

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):

• Passport Copy: A copy of your valid passport.
• Passport-sized Photos: Typically, 1 or 2 passport-sized photos may be required.
• Trekking Permit Application: A form for ACAP, which can be filled out through an agency or at the ACAP office.

Chumnubri Rural Municipality Local Permit:

• Passport Copy: A copy of your valid passport.
• Trekking Permit Application: A form provided by the Chumnubri Rural Municipality Office or the trekking agency.
• Trekking Guide: If applicable, the name and registration details of the licensed trekking guide.

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP):

• Passport Copy: A clear copy of your valid passport.
• Passport-sized Photos: Typically, 1 or 2 passport-sized photos may be required.
• Trekking Permit Application: A form for MRAP, which can be filled out through a trekking agency or at the Department of Immigration.
• Trekking Guide Details: The details of your licensed trekking guide (solo trekking is not allowed).
• Itinerary: A detailed trekking itinerary that aligns with the dates of the MRAP.
• Minimum Two Trekkers: A minimum of two trekkers is required to obtain the permit.

Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP):

• Passport Copy: A clear copy of your valid passport.
• Passport-sized Photos: Typically, 1 or 2 passport-sized photos may be required.
• Trekking Permit Application: A form for RAP, which can be filled out through a licensed trekking agency or at the Department of Immigration.
• Trekking Guide Details: The details of your licensed trekking guide (solo trekking is not allowed).
• Itinerary: A detailed trekking itinerary that aligns with the dates of the RAP.
• Minimum Two Trekkers: A minimum of two trekkers is required to obtain the permit.

Hassle-Free Permit Management with Yeti Hikes

Yeti Hikes assists you with the permit process for exploring the Manaslu Region. Our role as a registered trekking agency in Nepal allows us to obtain all essential permits for your trips as a licensed authority with a track record in this field. All permits for the Manaslu Conservation Area, Tsum Valley protected zones, and beyond into the Annapurna Conservation Area originate from our agency through proper procedures and follow all government regulations.

Our service starts as soon as you book your trek. We will obtain your passport information and present the required official paperwork to the appropriate authorities. Arranging a licensed guide is necessary because restricted area permits require their services. Yeti Hikes eliminates all bureaucratic difficulties you. Your Himalayan adventure should focus on enjoyment because our team will organize permits and logistics with professional diligence.