What Permits Are Required for the Manaslu Expedition?
Are you planning to do the Manaslu expedition in Nepal? And doing research for the permits required and how to obtain it? Well, in this blog we are discussing about each and every permits you need to make your Manaslu climbing dream come true.
Also, please keep in mind that Manaslu expedition can not be done solo you will need the group of climbers and a peak climbing agency. The agency themselves provides you the permit so this blog is to in form you rather than tell you how to get it by yourself.
Why Are Permits Required for the Manaslu Expedition?
Before understanding the complete list required for Manaslu expedition its important for you to know what why is it required to have a it before climbing. Well, the main reason to get the permit is that the price you for it goes to the environmental protection where they protect the wild life and maintain the trails for trekker, they use it for the culture protection as the region lies inside the restricted area due to which its important and they limit the trekker.
Also, the money goes to village development, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and the preservation of Tibetan Buddhist culture. When you pay, you are investing directly in local communities.
Manaslu Expedition Permit (Climbing Permit)
As you are climbing the Mount Manaslu at an altitude of 8,163 meters above sea level the first permit you require is of course the Manaslu climbing permit which is issues by the National Mountaineering Associations (NMA) and Nepal tourism Board office (NTB).
The permit cost is 1800 USD in the spring as it is the best season to climb Manaslu, USD 900 in Autumn as it is the 2nd best season to climb and USD 450 in winter and Monsoon as it is the off seasons and not suggested as well. Also, when you take this permit the Laison officer is included.
| Season | Permit Authority | Permit Cost (USD) | Includes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | NMA / NTB | 1800 | Liaison Officer | Best season to climb Mount Manaslu |
| Autumn | NMA / NTB | 900 | Liaison Officer | Second best climbing season |
| Winter | NMA / NTB | 450 | Liaison Officer | Off-season, not recommended |
| Monsoon | NMA / NTB | 450 | Liaison Officer | Off-season, not recommended |
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP/RAP)
Another permit which you will require is the Manaslu Restricted Area permit as you know the Manaslu region shares its border with the Tibet and it is protected by China Because of cultural sensitivities and national security concerns, the Nepalese government controls exactly who enters and when.
The price for the permit is 100 USD for 1 week and 15 USD addon after 1 week in spring. Also, in autumn you will need to pay USD 75 for 1 week and USD 10 after every day add on.
| Season | Duration | Permit Cost | Extra/Addon Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | 1 week | USD 100 | USD 15 per additional day after 1 week |
| Autumn | 1 week | USD 75 | USD 10 per additional day after 1 week |
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Another permit you required to enter inside the Manaslu region is the Manaslu Conservation Area permit which is often called as MCAP in short form. The main reason to get this permit is that price you pay goes for the conservation purpose and managed by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) to protect the bio diversity inside the area. The cost for the permit is Nprs, 3000 which is fixed however the dollar rates may change so check the exchange rate accordingly.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is another permit required to enter inside the region. You might wonder why ACAP? I am going inside the Manaslu well, It is because after you do the summit then the route follows crossing the Larke la pass and drive from Tiliche, Besisahar or the Dharapani and this villages lies inside the Annapurna region due to which it is also the most important permit to get without this they will not let you enter inside the region which will force you to follow the long route of the Manaslu circuit.
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
Another permit is the Trekkers Information Management System often called as the TIMS card. It is optional card when you get the Restricted area permit it’s not mandatory however, sometimes they might ask you so its important for you to have it with yourself. The price for this permit is 20 USD per person.
Suggested Read:
Best Time to Do the Manaslu Expedition
How to prepare for the Manaslu expedition
Where and How to Obtain Manaslu Expedition Permits?
You can get all the Manaslu summit permits via the registered trekking and climbing agency such as the Summit 8000. We will provide you every permit so you don’t have to worry for anything and you can complete your mountaineering in Nepal easily.
You will need to give us some of your documents so that we can submit and get the permits for you. The documents required are:
- Passport copy (minimum 6 months validity)
- Copy of your Nepal Tourist Visa
- 2–4 recent passport-sized photographs
- Travel insurance certificate (must cover emergency helicopter evacuation up to 6,000 m)
- For the Climbing Permit: proof of prior high-altitude climbing experience
Key Rules and Regulations for the Manaslu Expedition (2026 Update)
· There are some key rules and regulations for the Manaslu expedition which is mandatory and you will need to follow it which includes:
- · All trekkers and climbers must be accompanied by a licensed guide from a TAAN-registered agency. The guide-to-trekker ratio is 1:7. Guides are verified at all major checkpoints.
- · As of March 2026, solo trekking is now allowed in the Manaslu restricted zone. Previously, a minimum group of two was required. You must still use a registered agency and licensed guide.
- · Permits must be on your person throughout the trek and presented at every checkpoint Jagat, Dharapani, Samdo, and others. Authorities are strict. Do not leave permits at base camp.
- · Conservation area permits (MCAP, ACAP) are not issued at checkpoints. If caught without one, you may be issued a permit on the spot at a 100% surcharge. Always get permits in advance.
- · All permit fees include 13% VAT and applicable government taxes. Make sure prices quoted by your agency are inclusive of tax before you pay.
- · The Department of Immigration is closed on Saturdays and public holidays. Always build at least one full working day in Kathmandu before your trek starts for permit processing.
Manaslu Peak Climbing Permit Cost Summary (2026)
| Permit | Who Needs It | Cost (Foreigners) | Issued By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expedition (Climbing) Permit | Summit climbers | $1,800–$2,000/person | Dept. of Tourism |
| Restricted Area Permit (RAP) | All trekkers & climbers | $100/week (Autumn) / $75/week (Other seasons) | Dept. of Immigration |
| Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) | All trekkers & climbers | $23 USD flat | Nepal Tourism Board |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | Full circuit trekkers | $30 USD flat | Nepal Tourism Board |
| TIMS Card | Trekkers | $20 USD | TAAN / NTB |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Permits required for Manaslu expedition
Can I get Manaslu permits independently without an agency?
No. The Restricted Area Permit and Climbing Permit must be applied for through a TAAN-registered trekking agency. You cannot obtain them individually, even if you visit the government offices yourself.
How long does it take to get the permits?
Most permits are processed within 1–2 working days once all documents are submitted. The RAP requires your original passport, so it cannot be started before you arrive in Kathmandu. Plan for at least 2 full days in Kathmandu before your trek begins.
Are Manaslu permits refundable if I cancel?
Generally, permits are non-refundable once issued. Some agencies may be able to arrange partial refunds in exceptional circumstances, but do not count on it. Travel insurance with a cancellation clause is strongly recommended.
Do SAARC nationals pay the same fees?
No. Citizens of SAARC countries (India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Maldives, Afghanistan) typically pay significantly reduced rates often in Nepali Rupees rather than USD for conservation area permits like MCAP and ACAP. The RAP and Climbing Permit fees may differ; confirm with your agency.
What happens if I trek without a permit?
Permit checkpoints are stationed at multiple points along the Manaslu trail. If you are caught without valid permits, you will be turned back immediately and may be fined. In serious cases, further legal action can be taken. There is no safe way to bypass the permit system.
Is a liaison officer required for the Manaslu Expedition?
Yes. The Manaslu Climbing Permit includes a government liaison officer, who is required for all 8,000-meter expeditions in Nepal. The liaison officer is assigned by the Department of Tourism and must accompany the expedition.
Can I get permits in Pokhara instead of Kathmandu?
The Nepal Tourism Board has offices in both Kathmandu and Pokhara for MCAP and ACAP permits. However, the RAP and Climbing Permit must be processed in Kathmandu. Most trekkers and climbers start from Kathmandu, making it the logical base for all permit processing.