Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits & Fees (Updated May 2026)

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted trekking area in Nepal. Trekkers must obtain special permits through a registered trekking agency and travel with a licensed trekking guide.

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP / RAP)
September – November
USD 100 per person for the first 7 days
USD 15 per person per day after 7 days
December – August
USD 75 per person for the first 7 days
USD 10 per person per day after 7 days

The permit is required for the restricted section between Jagat and Dharapani and can only be issued through a registered trekking agency.

2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Foreign Nationals: NPR 3,000
SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000
Nepali Citizens: NPR 100

The permit is valid throughout the year.

3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Foreign Nationals: NPR 3,000
SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000
Nepali Citizens: NPR 100

Required because the trek exits through the Annapurna region after crossing Larkya La Pass.

4. Chumnubri Rural Municipality Entry Fee
Foreign Nationals: NPR 1,000
SAARC Nationals: NPR 200

Collected for local community development in the Manaslu region.

TIMS Card Update (2026)

A TIMS Card is generally NOT required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek when you already have the Restricted Area Permit (RAP). However, it may be required if you continue trekking on other routes where TIMS regulations apply.

Important Rules (2026 /2027)

✅ Licensed trekking guide is mandatory.

✅ Restricted Area Permit must be arranged through a registered Nepali trekking agency.

✅ As of March 2026, solo trekkers can obtain a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit without needing a second foreign trekker, but a licensed guide is still compulsory.

Typical Permit Cost for the Standard Manaslu Circuit Trek

Autumn (September–November):

RAP: USD 100
MCAP: NPR 3,000
ACAP: NPR 3,000
Chumnubri Fee: NPR 1,000

Winter/Spring/Summer (December–August):

RAP: USD 75
MCAP: NPR 3,000
ACAP: NPR 3,000
Chumnubri Fee: NPR 1,000

Most trekkers complete the restricted section within 7 days, so no additional RAP days are usually required.

The journey to the Manaslu Circuit Trek begins with an overland drive from Kathmandu into the remote Budhi Gandaki Valley of western Nepal. While Arughat was traditionally the main starting point of the trek, recent road developments have extended vehicle access further north to Soti Khola and even Machha Khola in favorable conditions. Today, many trekkers choose to begin walking from Machha Khola to reduce road walking and maximize their trekking experience for Manaslu Trek .

Public Bus Transportation

Local buses and micro buses depart daily from Kathmandu in the early morning, usually between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM. Vehicles leave from Kathmandu’s Gongabu New Bus Park and travel through Dhading, Arughat, and the Budhi Gandaki Valley toward the Manaslu region. Depending on road conditions and the final destination, like Machhikhola …  the journey typically takes between 7 and 10 hours.

The public bus remains the most economical transportation option for budget trekkers. Ticket prices generally range from USD 8 to 12 per person, depending on the destination and season. Advance booking is usually not required, although seats can fill quickly during the peak trekking months of spring and autumn.

Private Jeep Option

For greater comfort and flexibility, trekkers can hire a private 4WD jeep from Kathmandu directly to Soti Khola or Machha Khola. The drive follows the Prithvi Highway before entering the rugged mountain roads beyond Arughat. A private jeep significantly reduces travel stress and is highly recommended during the monsoon season or for groups carrying trekking equipment.

Travel time by private jeep is usually 7 to 9 hours, depending on weather and road conditions. The road is paved up to Arughat, while the section beyond becomes rough, narrow, and occasionally affected by landslides during the rainy season.

Road Conditions in 2026 may 30th

Road infrastructure in the Manaslu region continues to improve each year. Vehicle access now commonly reaches Machha Khola, and in some seasons extends even further toward Philim and nearby villages. However, trekkers should still expect rough mountain roads, river crossings, dust during dry months, and occasional delays caused by landslides during the monsoon season.

Transportation Assistance

The Nepal Guide Info Team can assist trekkers with transportation arrangements, including public bus tickets, shared jeep reservations, and private vehicle hire according to individual schedules and group size. Early transportation planning is recommended during the popular trekking seasons of March to May and September to November.

Whether you choose a local bus for an authentic Nepal travel experience or a private jeep for convenience, the scenic drive through rural hills, river valleys, and traditional villages provides an exciting introduction to the spectacular Manaslu Circuit Trek