Talk to an Expert (Rewati)
Nepals Government has designated the area between Jagat and Dharapani, known as the Manaslu Region, as a restricted zone aimed at regulating tourism in the vicinity. This move entails the prohibition of independent trekkers from accessing Manaslu. Instead, trekkers are required to acquire a specialized entry permit.
In accordance with government regulations, trekking groups must consist of a minimum of two individuals, accompanied by a local guide. Furthermore, it is imperative that the permit application is processed through an authorized agency. Freelance guides are not empowered to issue the mandatory permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
There are three distinct permits that are obligatory for this trekking venture. Additionally, should one choose to combine the Manaslu and Tsum Valley treks, an extra permit is requisite.
This permit is mandatory for the stretch between Jagat and Sama Gaun. An alternate entry permit (ACAP) is required after crossing the village of Sama. The cost of the Manaslu RAP hinges on the duration spent between Jagat and Dharapani. The last checkpoint for this permit is situated in Sama Gaun.
September to November: USD 100 per person for the initial seven days and an added USD 15 per person per day from the eighth day onward.
December to August: USD 75 per person for the initial seven days and an additional USD 10 per person per day from the eighth day onward.
It is important to note that a printed photograph is not obligatory for the Manaslu RAP, as it is digitally uploaded and printed on the permit itself.
For information on the cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, refer to the related article.
This permit is requisite upon reaching Philim, marking the commencement of the Manaslu Conservation Area. The cost of this permit remains consistent throughout the year at USD 30 per person. The fee remains unchanged, regardless of the number of days spent within the MCAP region.
A printed passport-sized photograph is obligatory for the MCAP permit.
This permit is mandatory from Dharapani until exiting the Annapurna Conservation Area at Beshi Sahar. The cost remains a constant USD 30 per person year-round, irrespective of the duration spent within the ACAP region.
Similar to the MCAP permit, a printed photograph is required for the ACAP permit.
Upon securing the RAP and both conservation area permits, there is no necessity to obtain a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card, unless one intends to proceed to the Annapurna Circuit from Dharapani.
It should be noted that while hiring a guide is not obligatory for the Annapurna region, trekking alone is possible. However, for safety reasons, it is recommended to at least engage a porter. To gain insights into a comparison between the Manaslu trek and the Annapurna Circuit, explore Hayley's account, a client of Mountain Magic Treks.
Mountain Magic Treks often fields inquiries regarding Manaslu permits. Rewati, a seasoned trekker of Manaslu, provides answers to common queries. Additionally, a comprehensive fourteen-day Manaslu Trek Report by Rewati is available. Further insights can be gained from the comprehensive guide on the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trekking.
Where can I procure the requisite permits?
Individual trekking permits for Manaslu cannot be obtained independently. The involved agency is responsible for managing the permit application process. Details on the permit issuance process are provided below.
Is a TIMS Card necessary for the Manaslu trek?
A TIMS Card is not mandatory. However, if one continues towards the Annapurna Circuit from Dharapani, a TIMS Card becomes necessary. The ACAP Permit can suffice for the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Why is an Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit needed for the Manaslu Trek?
As part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, one treks from Dharapani to Beshi Sahar, which falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Despite the brief duration spent within ACA, obtaining the permit is essential.
What is the cost of the Manaslu permit?
Both the Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation Area permits are priced at USD 30 per person each, except for citizens of SAARC countries. However, the cost of the restricted area permit varies based on the days spent between Jagat and Sama Gaun.
How many photographs are required?
Two printed passport-sized photographs, along with a scanned photograph, are needed. Printed photos are for ACAP and MCAP permits, while the scanned image is uploaded for the online application of the Manaslu RAP.
How long does the permit issuance process take?
Usually, a minimum of 90 minutes is required for permit issuance. There are instances when the online system encounters issues, leading to manual processing that can extend to a few hours.
Can permits be obtained before arriving in Nepal?
Typically, permits cannot be procured in advance, as the Department of Immigration mandates verification with the original passport and relevant visa details. In specific cases, advance issuance is possible, requiring a scanned copy of the passport's main page, electronic flight tickets to Nepal, and visa details if already acquired.
Can a permit be acquired for a solo trekker?
No, individual permits are not issued. The concept of a "ghost" permit exists for solo trekkers, wherein two permits are obtained by utilizing another person's passport. After issuance, the trekker can proceed with a guide.
Is a separate permit necessary for the Tsum Valley?
Yes, a distinct permit is mandatory for the Tsum Valley. The cost is USD 40 per person per week, with an additional USD 7 per person per day from September to November, and USD 30 per person per week, with an extra USD 7 per person per day from December to August.
Can permits be obtained on Saturdays and public holidays?
No, the Department of Immigration is closed on public holidays, necessitating advance permit issuance if an extended public holiday is anticipated.
Step 1: Completing the Online Permit Application
Fill out the online application for the trekking permit.
Complete separate applications for ACAP and MCAP.
Address the application to the Director General of the Department of Immigration.
Provide the printed itinerary with trekking dates.
Submit photocopies of the passport's main page and visa page.
Prepare American dollars, documenting serial numbers and denominations on the agency's letterhead.
Step 2: Visiting the Department of Immigration
Visit the Department of Immigration in Anamnagar.
Submit the American dollars to Global IME Bank, collect the deposit slip.
Verify official documents, including guide insurance, tax clearance, and central bank authority certificate.
First officer verifies online trekker details with passports, and prints a new slip.
Second officer re-verifies and forwards the file to the Head of Immigration.
Head (Director General) verifies and provides signatures.
First officer prints individual permits, attaches stickers.
The Second Officer signs the stickers after filling in details.
First officer affixes the final stamp to the sticker, completing the Manaslu RAP.
Step 3: Obtaining MCAP and ACAP Permits from Nepal Tourism Board
Visit the Nepal Tourism Board.
Pay the permit fee in local currency.
Submit the printed online application form, obtain the permit.
Attach the printed photograph, obtain the sign-off.
For queries related to Manaslu trek permits or to avail of the budget-friendly Manaslu Circuit trek, feel free to contact us. Complete details and quotations for your Manaslu Circuit trek can be accessed here.
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