Manaslu Restricted Area Permit: Complete 2026 Guide

The Manaslu Circuit is widely regarded as one of Nepal's finest treks—a journey that rivals the classic Annapurna Circuit in scope and beauty while receiving a fraction of the foot traffic. Circling Manaslu (8,163m), the world's eighth-highest mountain, this remote trek takes you through dense subtropical forests, ancient Tibetan Buddhist villages, and over the dramatic Larkya La pass at 5,160 meters. But accessing this remarkable route requires navigating a permit system that is more complex than most Nepal treks.

Unlike the straightforward permits for Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna region, the Manaslu Circuit requires a restricted area permit in addition to conservation area and trekking registration permits. This guide breaks down every aspect of the Manaslu permit system in 2026: what permits you need, how much they cost, the group and agency requirements, the step-by-step application process, checkpoints along the route, and strategies for avoiding common problems.

Table of Contents

1. Why Is Manaslu a Restricted Area?
2. Understanding the Manaslu Permit Structure
3. Restricted Area Permit: Costs and Details
4. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
5. TIMS Card for Manaslu
6. Total Permit Cost Breakdown
7. Group Requirement and Agency Rules
8. Required Documents
9. Step-by-Step Application Process
10. Processing Time and Lead Times
11. Checkpoints on the Manaslu Circuit
12. Seasonal Fee Variations
13. Combining Manaslu and Tsum Valley Permits
14. Common Issues and Solutions
15. Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is Manaslu a Restricted Area?

The Manaslu region carries a restricted area designation for several interconnected reasons that distinguish it from Nepal's open trekking areas.

Border Proximity to Tibet

The Manaslu Circuit runs along Nepal's border with Tibet (China's Tibet Autonomous Region) for a significant portion of the route. The Larkya La pass and the villages north of it—particularly Samagaun and Samdo—sit very close to the Chinese border. Nepal maintains restricted access to border regions as part of its diplomatic relationship with China and for security considerations.

Cultural Preservation

The communities along the Manaslu Circuit—particularly Samagaun, Samdo, and the villages of the Tsum Valley—maintain strong Tibetan Buddhist traditions, customs, and ways of life. The Nubri and Tsum people have preserved cultural practices, monastic traditions, and architectural styles that have been diluted or lost in more accessible regions. The restricted area designation limits visitor numbers to protect this living heritage.

Environmental Sensitivity

The Manaslu Conservation Area encompasses diverse ecosystems, from subtropical forests in the lower valleys to alpine meadows and glacial environments at higher elevations. The area is home to endangered species including the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and red panda. Restricted access helps manage environmental impact from trekking tourism.

Controlled Development

By limiting the number of trekkers, Nepal controls the pace of tourism development along the route. This prevents the rapid, sometimes haphazard growth of tea houses and services that has transformed some sections of the Annapurna Circuit. The Manaslu route retains a wilder, less commercialized character partly because of these restrictions.

Understanding the Manaslu Permit Structure

The Manaslu Circuit requires three separate permits, each serving a different purpose and obtained from different authorities. Understanding this layered structure prevents confusion.

Layer 1: Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

This is the primary permit that grants access to the restricted zone. It's issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and requires agency involvement, a minimum group size, and a licensed guide.

Layer 2: Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

This conservation permit funds the Manaslu Conservation Area Project, which manages the protected area surrounding the trek route. It's separate from the restricted area permit and is obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board office.

Layer 3: TIMS Card

The Trekkers' Information Management System card registers you in Nepal's trekker safety database. This is the same permit used for most other Nepal treks and is obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board counter.

All three permits must be obtained before starting the trek. Your trekking agency typically handles all three simultaneously.

Restricted Area Permit: Costs and Details

The Manaslu restricted area permit uses a weekly rate structure that varies by season.

Fee Structure for Foreign Nationals

| Season | Duration | Cost per Person | |--------|----------|----------------| | Peak Season (September-November) | Per week (7 days) | $100 USD | | Off Season (December-August) | Per week (7 days) | $75 USD |

Fee Structure for SAARC Nationals

| Season | Duration | Cost per Person | |--------|----------|----------------| | Peak Season (September-November) | Per week (7 days) | $50 USD | | Off Season (December-August) | Per week (7 days) | $35 USD |

How the Weekly Rate Works

The permit is issued in weekly blocks. If your trek takes 14 days, you need a two-week permit. If it takes 15 days, you technically need a three-week permit. The standard Manaslu Circuit takes 12-16 days, meaning most trekkers need a two-week permit.

Key detail: The week is calculated from the date the permit becomes valid, not from the day you enter the restricted area. Make sure your permit start date aligns with when you'll actually arrive at the first checkpoint (Jagat).

Payment

• Fees are paid in USD cash or equivalent Nepali Rupees at the Department of Immigration.
• The fee is non-refundable once issued.
• Most agencies collect the fee from trekkers and handle payment on their behalf.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

The MCAP is separate from the restricted area permit and funds conservation within the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Cost

| Nationality | Fee | |------------|-----| | Foreign nationals | NPR 3,000 (~$22 USD) | | SAARC nationals | NPR 1,000 (~$7.50 USD) |

What the MCAP Covers

The Manaslu Conservation Area was established in 1998 and covers 1,663 square kilometers. The conservation area project uses permit revenue for:

• Wildlife habitat protection (snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan black bear)
• Forest conservation and anti-poaching patrols
• Community development programs in villages along the circuit
• Trail maintenance and waste management
• Environmental education in local schools

Where to Obtain

The MCAP is available from:

• Nepal Tourism Board counter in Kathmandu (Pradarshani Marg, near Bhrikutimandap)
• Nepal Tourism Board counter in Pokhara
• Your trekking agency can obtain it on your behalf

Required Documents for MCAP

• Passport photocopy (information page)
• Two passport-sized photos
• Completed application form

TIMS Card for Manaslu

The TIMS card is Nepal's universal trekker registration system and is required for the Manaslu Circuit just as it is for most other treks.

Cost

| Type | Fee | |------|-----| | Individual (FIT) TIMS | NPR 2,000 (~$15 USD) | | Group/Agency (GIT) TIMS | NPR 1,000 (~$7.50 USD) |

Since Manaslu requires agency involvement, most trekkers obtain the group (GIT) TIMS at the lower rate.

Purpose

The TIMS card creates a safety record of your trek. In emergencies—natural disasters, political unrest, or individual accidents—authorities use TIMS data to locate and account for trekkers. The system proved vital during the 2015 earthquake response.

Total Permit Cost Breakdown

Here's what a typical Manaslu Circuit trekker pays in total permit fees:

Peak Season (September-November): 2-Week Trek

| Permit | Cost (Foreign National) | |--------|------------------------| | Restricted Area Permit (2 weeks) | $200 USD | | Manaslu Conservation Area Permit | NPR 3,000 (~$22 USD) | | TIMS Card (Group) | NPR 1,000 (~$7.50 USD) | | Total | ~$230 USD |

Off Season (December-August): 2-Week Trek

| Permit | Cost (Foreign National) | |--------|------------------------| | Restricted Area Permit (2 weeks) | $150 USD | | Manaslu Conservation Area Permit | NPR 3,000 (~$22 USD) | | TIMS Card (Group) | NPR 1,000 (~$7.50 USD) | | Total | ~$180 USD |

Comparison with Other Major Treks

| Trek | Total Permit Costs (Foreign) | |------|----------------------------| | Everest Base Camp | ~$80 USD | | Annapurna Circuit | ~$60 USD | | Manaslu Circuit (Peak) | ~$230 USD | | Upper Mustang | ~$537 USD | | Upper Dolpo | ~$545 USD |

The Manaslu permit costs sit in a middle ground—more expensive than open-area treks but far more affordable than the premium restricted areas.

Group Requirement and Agency Rules

The Manaslu restricted area has specific requirements for group composition and agency involvement.

Minimum Group Size: Two Trekkers

The regulation mandates a minimum of two trekkers for the restricted area permit. You cannot obtain a Manaslu restricted area permit as a solo trekker.

How this works in practice:

• Couples, friends, or families of two or more automatically qualify.
• Solo travelers need to be paired with at least one other trekker. Most agencies maintain rosters of solo travelers looking for Manaslu partners and can arrange pairings.
• Some agencies will pair a solo trekker with a staff member to technically meet the requirement, though this practice depends on the agency.

Registered Agency Requirement

The permit must be processed through a trekking agency registered with:

• TAAN (Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal)
• NTB (Nepal Tourism Board)

The agency submits all paperwork, makes payments, and takes responsibility for the group's compliance with restricted area regulations.

For help selecting a reliable agency, see our guides on choosing a trekking agency and best agencies for the Manaslu Circuit.

Licensed Guide Requirement

A licensed trekking guide must accompany the group throughout the entire Manaslu Circuit. The guide must be registered with the Nepal government and carry valid credentials. This requirement exists independently of the 2024 solo trekking policy—it has always been mandatory for restricted area treks.

Your agency provides the guide as part of the trek arrangement. The guide serves multiple functions:

• Navigation through remote and sometimes poorly marked trail sections
• Communication with local communities (many residents in the upper Manaslu valley speak Nubri or Tibetan dialects rather than Nepali)
• Permit checkpoint coordination
• Emergency response coordination
• Cultural interpretation and etiquette guidance

Required Documents

Prepare the following documents before your agency submits the permit application:

For the Restricted Area Permit

1. Valid passport — Minimum 6 months validity beyond your trek end date. Agency needs a clear photocopy of the photo/information page.

2. Passport-sized photographs — Three photos per person (35mm x 45mm). Some agencies accept digital photos for the application, but bring physical copies as backup.

3. Valid Nepal visa — Your tourist visa must be valid for the duration of the trek.

4. Agency booking confirmation — Your agency provides documentation of your booking, including trek dates, group members, and agency registration details.

5. Trek itinerary — A detailed day-by-day itinerary prepared by your agency, specifying overnight stops and duration in the restricted area.

6. Travel insurance documentation — Proof of insurance covering emergency helicopter evacuation at altitudes up to 5,200 meters (Larkya La is 5,160m). See our travel insurance guide.

7. Emergency contact information — Name, relationship, phone number, and email of a contact outside Nepal.

For MCAP and TIMS

• Passport photocopy
• Two passport-sized photos each
• Completed application forms (available at NTB counter)

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Book Your Trek (3-6 Months Before)

Select and book with a TAAN-registered agency. Provide all required documents. Confirm whether the quoted price includes permits.

Step 2: Agency Prepares Application (1-2 Weeks Before Trek)

Your agency compiles the application package:

• Completed restricted area permit forms
• Group member passport copies and photos
• Agency registration and TAAN documentation
• Detailed trek itinerary
• Insurance documentation

Step 3: Application Submission (2-4 Days Before Trek Start)

The agency submits the application in person at the Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu. The application cannot be submitted online or by mail.

Step 4: Fee Payment

The restricted area permit fee is paid at the time of submission. Your agency typically collects the fee from you in advance and makes the payment.

Step 5: Processing (1-3 Working Days)

The Department of Immigration reviews the application and issues the permit. Processing times:

• Off-season: Usually 1 working day
• Peak season (Sep-Nov): 1-3 working days
• Holidays/weekends: Department is closed; plan accordingly

Step 6: MCAP and TIMS (Same Day or Following Day)

While the restricted area permit is being processed, the agency obtains the MCAP and TIMS card from the Nepal Tourism Board counter. These are typically issued the same day.

Step 7: Permit Collection

The agency collects all permits and delivers them to you before departure. Verify all details (dates, spelling, passport number) immediately.

Step 8: Depart for the Trailhead

With all three permits in hand, you're ready to travel to the trailhead at Soti Khola or Arughat. Most trekkers travel by jeep from Kathmandu.

Processing Time and Lead Times

Recommended Planning Timeline

| Timeframe | Action | |-----------|--------| | 4-6 months before | Research agencies, compare options, book | | 2-3 months before | Send documents to agency, confirm insurance | | 2-4 weeks before | Agency finalizes itinerary and prepares application | | Arrival in Kathmandu (Day 1) | Agency submits permit application | | Day 2-3 | Permits processed and collected | | Day 3-4 | Travel to trailhead, begin trek |

Last-Minute Applications

While same-day or next-day processing is sometimes possible (especially in off-season), we strongly recommend against relying on last-minute applications:

• Nepal's numerous public holidays can close government offices unexpectedly
• Peak season volumes create backlogs
• Any document errors require additional time to resolve
• The Department of Immigration is closed on Saturdays and government holidays

Build at least 2 buffer days in Kathmandu before your planned departure to the trailhead.

Checkpoints on the Manaslu Circuit

Your permits will be verified at several checkpoints along the circuit. Keep all three permits (restricted area, MCAP, and TIMS) in an easily accessible waterproof pouch.

Jagat Checkpoint

Location: Jagat village (1,340m), approximately 2-3 days into the trek from Soti Khola.

This is the primary checkpoint marking entry into the Manaslu restricted area. Officers thoroughly check all three permits, verify passport details, and record your entry. This is the strictest check on the route.

What happens here:

• Officers compare your passport to the permit details
• Entry date and time are logged
• Group composition is verified against the agency paperwork
• Guide credentials are checked

Deng Checkpoint

A secondary checkpoint at Deng village where permits are rechecked. This is typically a quicker verification.

Samagaun Area

In the Samagaun area (3,530m), near Manaslu Base Camp, there may be additional permit checks. This is the largest settlement in the upper circuit and serves as a hub for acclimatization.

Samdo Checkpoint

Near Samdo village (3,860m), close to the Tibetan border, another checkpoint verifies permits. Given the proximity to China, this checkpoint is particularly attentive.

Dharapani (Exit)

When you descend from the Larkya La and reach Dharapani on the Annapurna Circuit side, there's a final check confirming your exit from the restricted area. If you plan to continue trekking in the Annapurna region, you'll need separate Annapurna permits.

Seasonal Fee Variations

The Manaslu restricted area permit uses a two-tier seasonal pricing structure.

Peak Season: September through November

Rate: $100 USD per week per person

This three-month window covers the most popular trekking period. Conditions are excellent:

• Post-monsoon clear skies and stunning mountain views
• Moderate temperatures at lower elevations
• Stable weather for the Larkya La crossing
• Villages and tea houses are fully operational
• Highest demand for permits, potentially longer processing times

Off Season: December through August

Rate: $75 USD per week per person

This nine-month window covers everything outside peak season, including:

Winter (December-February): Cold temperatures, possible snow at higher elevations, and the Larkya La may be impassable due to snow. Some tea houses close. Only experienced winter trekkers should attempt this season. See our winter trekking guide.

Spring (March-May): The second-best season for the Manaslu Circuit. Rhododendron blooms in the lower forests, warming temperatures, and increasingly clear skies. Late spring can be warm at lower elevations but the Larkya La is usually passable by mid-March.

Monsoon (June-August): Heavy rainfall makes the lower sections of the circuit muddy and prone to landslides. Leeches are prevalent. The trail between Soti Khola and Jagat is particularly vulnerable to monsoon damage. Not recommended for most trekkers, though the upper sections receive less rainfall.

Strategic Timing for Savings

If your schedule is flexible, trekking in early September or late November/early December can offer peak-season conditions at off-season permit rates, depending on when exactly the seasonal pricing kicks in. Confirm the exact transition dates with the Department of Immigration, as they sometimes adjust by a few days.

Combining Manaslu and Tsum Valley Permits

The Tsum Valley is a sacred Himalayan valley that branches off from the Manaslu Circuit route, offering a side trek into one of Nepal's most culturally pristine areas. Combining Manaslu Circuit with the Tsum Valley is increasingly popular and requires understanding the overlapping permit structure.

Tsum Valley Permit Requirements

The Tsum Valley is also a restricted area, requiring its own restricted area permit. The fee structure mirrors the Manaslu Circuit:

| Season | Cost per Week | |--------|--------------| | Peak (Sep-Nov) | $100 USD | | Off-Season (Dec-Aug) | $75 USD |

Combined Trek Permit Strategy

If you plan to trek both the Manaslu Circuit and the Tsum Valley, you need:

1. Manaslu restricted area permit — For the main circuit
2. Tsum Valley restricted area permit — For the Tsum Valley extension
3. MCAP — Single permit covers both areas (same conservation area)
4. TIMS — Single card covers the entire trek

The restricted area permits are separate applications but can be submitted simultaneously. Your agency handles both.

Typical Combined Itinerary

A combined Manaslu-Tsum Valley trek takes approximately 20-24 days:

• Days 1-5: Soti Khola to Lokpa (junction with Tsum Valley trail)
• Days 6-11: Tsum Valley circuit (Lokpa to Mu Gompa and back)
• Days 12-20+: Continue Manaslu Circuit (Lokpa to Larkya La to Dharapani)

Cost for Combined Trek

| Permit | Peak Season Cost | |--------|-----------------| | Manaslu Restricted Area (3 weeks) | $300 USD | | Tsum Valley Restricted Area (1 week) | $100 USD | | MCAP | NPR 3,000 (~$22 USD) | | TIMS | NPR 1,000 (~$7.50 USD) | | Total | ~$430 USD |

Common Issues and Solutions

Issue 1: Solo Traveler Struggling to Find a Partner

Problem: You want to trek Manaslu but can't find a second person for the group minimum.

Solution: Contact multiple agencies and ask to be placed on their "partner matching" list. Agencies with regular Manaslu departures—especially during peak season—often have solo travelers looking for partners. Online trekking forums and social media groups for Nepal trekking are another good resource. Book 3-4 months in advance for the best matching chances.

Issue 2: Permit Dates Don't Match Actual Trek Dates

Problem: Flight delays, weather, or health issues cause your actual trek dates to differ from the permit dates.

Solution: If you start later than your permit's start date, you lose days from your validity but the permit remains valid. If you need to extend, this must be done at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu—not possible once you're on the trail. Build 1-2 buffer days into your permit duration beyond your planned itinerary.

Issue 3: Larkya La Closed Due to Snow

Problem: Heavy snowfall makes the Larkya La pass (5,160m) impassable, and your permit is ticking.

Solution: This is primarily a risk in early/late season or during unseasonable weather. If the pass is temporarily blocked (usually 1-3 days), most trekkers wait at Dharamsala or Bimthang. If it becomes clear the pass won't open within your permit window, you'll need to return the way you came. There are no permit refunds, but experienced agencies plan itineraries with buffer days for exactly this scenario. For more on this pass, see our Larkya La pass guide.

Issue 4: Trail Damage from Monsoon/Landslides

Problem: Sections of the trail between Soti Khola and Jagat are notoriously unstable, especially after monsoon.

Solution: Your agency and guide should have current trail condition information. Alternative trail sections sometimes exist when main routes are blocked. In worst cases, the trek may need to be postponed. Confirm trail conditions with your agency within a week of departure.

Issue 5: Agency Hasn't Processed Permits on Time

Problem: You arrive in Kathmandu and your agency hasn't started the permit process.

Solution: This should never happen with a reputable agency, but if it does:

• Immediately press the agency for a timeline
• The permit can sometimes be fast-tracked in 1 day during off-season
• During peak season, delays can derail your schedule
• This situation is a serious red flag about agency quality—see our TAAN verification guide for future reference

Issue 6: Confusion About What's Included in Agency Price

Problem: You thought permits were included in your agency package, but they're listed as extras.

Solution: Always get written confirmation (email) of exactly what's included in the agency price before paying a deposit. Specifically ask: "Does the quoted price include the Manaslu restricted area permit, MCAP, and TIMS card?" Get the answer in writing.

Issue 7: Entering the Restricted Area Without Proper Permits

Problem: A trekker attempts to pass the Jagat checkpoint without the restricted area permit.

Solution: There is no solution at the checkpoint—you will be turned back. The restricted area permit must be obtained in Kathmandu before starting the trek. There is no way to purchase it on the trail or at checkpoints.

Comparison: Manaslu Permit vs. Other Restricted Area Permits

For trekkers deciding between restricted area treks, here's how the Manaslu permit compares:

| Feature | Manaslu Circuit | Upper Mustang | Upper Dolpo | |---------|----------------|---------------|-------------| | Restricted Area Fee | $100/week (peak) | $500/10 days | $500/10 days | | Conservation Permit | NPR 3,000 | NPR 3,000 (ACAP) | NPR 3,000 | | Min. Group Size | 2 trekkers | 2 trekkers | 2 trekkers | | Agency Required | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Licensed Guide | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Typical Duration | 14-16 days | 10-14 days | 14-28 days | | Total Permit Cost | ~$230 USD | ~$537 USD | ~$545 USD | | Best Season | Sep-Nov | Mar-May, Sep-Nov | Jun-Sep, Sep-Nov | | Difficulty | Challenging (5,160m pass) | Moderate (3,800m max) | Very Challenging |

The Manaslu Circuit offers the best value among restricted area treks, combining a world-class trekking experience with permit costs that are less than half of Upper Mustang or Upper Dolpo.

Planning Your Manaslu Trek

With the permit system understood, here are resources for planning the complete Manaslu Circuit experience:

• Route overview: Manaslu Circuit route guide
• Detailed itinerary: Manaslu Circuit 14-day itinerary
• Cost breakdown: Manaslu Circuit cost guide
• Agency selection: Best agencies for Manaslu Circuit
• Pass preparation: Larkya La pass guide
• All Nepal permits: Nepal trekking permits explained
• TIMS details: TIMS card guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I trek the Manaslu Circuit independently without an agency?

No. The Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area that requires a registered trekking agency, a minimum group of two trekkers, and a licensed guide. Independent trekking is not permitted regardless of experience level.

Is the $100/week fee per person or per group?

The restricted area permit fee is per person. Each trekker in the group pays individually. A group of two trekkers on a two-week peak-season trek pays $400 total in restricted area permit fees ($200 each).

What happens if I need to evacuate mid-trek? Do I get a permit refund?

No. Restricted area permit fees are non-refundable regardless of circumstances, including medical evacuation, weather-related cancellation, or early termination. This is why comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Your insurance should cover trip interruption costs, which may include the permit fee depending on your policy.

Can I get the permits in Pokhara instead of Kathmandu?

The restricted area permit can only be obtained from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. The MCAP and TIMS can be obtained in either Kathmandu or Pokhara, but since you need to be in Kathmandu for the restricted area permit anyway, it's most efficient to get all three permits in Kathmandu.

How far in advance should I book my agency?

For peak season (September-November), book 3-6 months in advance to ensure availability and allow time for partner matching if you're solo. For off-season treks, 1-3 months is usually sufficient.

Do I need a separate permit if I want to visit Manaslu Base Camp?

No. The restricted area permit and MCAP cover the entire Manaslu Conservation Area, including side trips to Manaslu Base Camp from Samagaun. No additional permits are required for the base camp excursion.

Can I continue from the Manaslu Circuit to the Annapurna Circuit?

Yes, the Manaslu Circuit ends at Dharapani, which is on the Annapurna Circuit trail. However, you'll need separate permits for the Annapurna region—an ACAP permit and potentially a new TIMS card (depending on what was specified on your original TIMS). Plan these additional permits before departing Kathmandu.

What if the Larkya La is impassable? Can I use the permit later?

The permit is valid only for the dates specified. If the Larkya La is blocked and you cannot complete the circuit, you must return the way you came. There are no extensions available on the trail and no carry-over of unused permit days to a future trek. This is a key reason to plan your trek during optimal weather windows.

Are there any discounts for students, seniors, or children?

There are no discounts on the restricted area permit for any category of foreign national. The SAARC rate is the only reduced fee available. Children pay the same rate as adults.

Is the minimum group size enforced at checkpoints?

Yes. Officers at the Jagat checkpoint verify the number of trekkers against the permit paperwork. If your permit lists two trekkers but only one arrives, this creates a discrepancy that officers will flag. If a group member drops out before the trek, the agency should update the paperwork accordingly.

Can I add extra days to my permit mid-trek?

No. Permit extensions or modifications can only be made at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. Once you're on the trail, the permit cannot be altered. Plan your permit duration with buffer days included.

What currency should I bring for permits?

The restricted area permit fee is denominated in USD. Bring clean, undamaged US dollar bills. The MCAP and TIMS fees are in Nepali Rupees. Your agency will advise on the exact amounts and may accept various currencies for conversion.

How does the Manaslu permit compare to the Everest Base Camp permits?

The Manaslu Circuit requires significantly more paperwork, higher fees, and agency involvement compared to Everest Base Camp, which only needs a Sagarmatha National Park permit and TIMS (no restricted area permit, no agency requirement beyond the guide mandate). However, the Manaslu Circuit sees far fewer trekkers, offering a more solitary mountain experience.

Final Thoughts

The Manaslu Circuit's permit system is more complex than standard Nepal treks, but the requirements are logical and the costs remain reasonable compared to other restricted area destinations. The restricted status is precisely what makes the Manaslu Circuit special—it preserves the remote, uncrowded character that distinguishes this trek from the busier Annapurna and Everest routes.

By choosing a reputable agency, preparing documents early, budgeting for all three permits, and building buffer days into your Kathmandu schedule, the permit process becomes a manageable part of what will likely be one of the most rewarding treks of your life. The views of Manaslu's massive peak, the cultural richness of the Nubri villages, and the exhilarating Larkya La crossing make every dollar of the permit fee worthwhile.

For a complete overview of all Nepal trekking permits, see our comprehensive permits guide.