Permits for Manaslu Trek

The Manaslu region falls under the Nepal government’s restricted region category. Independent trekkers are restrained from visiting the Manaslu route between Jagat and Dharapani, and visitors must obtain permits for Manaslu trek. The Manaslu Conservation Area was established in 1998 to conserve nature’s gifts. Ever since, the authorities have controlled the entry of trekkers to some extent. 

In addition to the necessary permits, trekkers need to follow specific laws during the Manaslu trek. The government has introduced various rules to guarantee the trekkers’ safety and to conserve the environment. Each trekker must carry three different permits for the Manaslu trek. Further, freelance trekkers can not issue necessary permits. The minimum permitted group size is 2, along with a local guide. 

Necessary Permits Required for Manaslu Trek 

The Manaslu trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area and the Annapurna Conservation Area. Since these are restricted regions, you need permission to trek there. The government of Nepal retains strict authority to control tourism in the area. Every trekker must obtain permission to trek in conservation and restricted areas. 

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit allow trekkers to commute through the conservation areas. The authorities ensure each individual has these permits before letting them in the conservation areas. Further, the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit provides access to the trails passing through the restricted regions. Each permit’s cost varies depending on your geographical location.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

writer about the permit, why it is needed, where to get it, and its cost in a table like: 

The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit grants trekkers access to trails inside the conservation area. Authorities stationed at Philim check the validity and authenticity of the permit, which is valid for a single entry. You can obtain the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit from the Nepal Tourism Board’s offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara. 

The cost of the Manaslu Conservation Area permit is as follows:

Note:

• SAARC refers to the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, which includes countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh

Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) allows access to restricted areas inside the Manaslu region. The region from Jagat to Sama Gaun is restricted. You need to obtain an RAP to enter Jagat village. The Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu issues the RAP for the circuit. 

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) 

Once you reach Dharapani, you must obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to proceed further. The area from Dharapani to Besisahar falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area. The Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu and Pokhara issues the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.

Step-by-step procedure to obtain Manaslu Terk Permit

Step 1: Complete the online application for trekking permits

• Complete the online application for your trekking permit.
• Submit separate applications for ACAP and MCAP permits online. 
• Send the application to the Director General of the Department of Immigration.
• Forward the printed itinerary with trekking dates and a photocopy of your passport’s main and visa pages.
• Write down each USD note’s serial numbers and denominations on the agent’s letterhead.

Step 2: Visit the Department of Immigration with the required documents for Manaslu Restricted Area Permit

• Head to the Department of Immigration in Anamnagar to obtain RAP and deposit the USD and the letterhead.
• Confirm the official documents, including the agency’s current guide insurance, tax clearance, and valid authority certificate from the central bank.
• The first officer will cross-check the online submitted details for RAP with your passport and generate a new slip. The second officer will verify the details.
• The Director General of Immigration will review and sign off on the documents.
• Return to the first officer, who will print and place the individual permits on the stickers.
• The first officer will fill in the permit details, and the second officer will sign the stickers. Likewise, the first officer will stamp the sticker, completing the Manaslu RAP process.

Visit the Nepal Tourism Board for ACAP and MCAP permits.

• Drive to the Nepal Tourism Board to pay the permit fee in local currency. Also, submit the printed online application form.
• They will issue the MCAP and ACAP permits.
• Attach your printed photograph to the permit, and they will sign it.

Required Documents to Apply for Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit 

Due to the government’s strict policy regarding conservation areas and restricted regions, you must furnish the necessary details and documents to gain the permits. After reviewing the paperwork, the authorities grant you the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.

Things/ Rules to Consider for the Manaslu Trek Permit 

• Visitors must possess a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit. 
• Independent trekkers are prohibited. Each trekking group must at least consist of 2 individuals.
• Children under the age of 10 do not need to apply for the permits.
• You need 2 passport-sized photos to apply for each permit. 
• The permits are for single entry and are nonrefundable.
• Each trekking group must have a local tour guide.
• Trekkers must follow all the acts and guidelines set forth by the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029 B.S. (1973). 
• Only registered travel agencies can assist in acquiring the necessary permit. Freelance guides do not have such authority.
• Permits should be carried for the entire duration and should be shown at checkpoints.

Places to Obtain Manaslu Trek Permits

Manaslu Trek Permit Checkpost 

Checkpoints are established throughout the trek to ensure the validity and authenticity of the permits. Nepal Police and Nepal Army officials are responsible for checking the necessary permits. 

Final Say 

Permits are mandatory for trekkers on the Manaslu Region Trek. Without the necessary details, officials will not allow unauthorized entry. Obtaining the licenses ensures you abide by all the rules of the Nepal Government. While obtaining the permits can be a hassle, the tourist agencies help you get the licenses. 

Manaslu Trek remains one of Nepal’s unique trekking expeditions. The scenic trail offers views of Everest, Annapurna, and the Manaslu range. The harmony and diversity between the locals make for an immense cultural immersion. The government controls the tourist activities in the region to preserve the beauty of the Manaslu and Annapurna regions.