Permits Required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek and other Frequently Asked Questions

27th Apr, 2025

- himalayaheart

The seclusion of the Manaslu region in the Himalayas offers a trekking experience that you will remember for a lifetime. However, there are key details you should be aware of before planning your trip to Manaslu. This blog post provides information regarding the permits required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek and addresses other commonly asked questions. 

Drawing from inquiries we receive from individuals around the globe, we have compiled this article. Although it contains questions specific to the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it primarily covers general information. From trekking permits to weather patterns, you will find valuable insights about this adventure.

Permits Required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Regarding trekking in Manaslu, one of the most frequent inquiries pertains to the Manaslu Circuit Trek permit. Since the Manaslu region is classified as a restricted area, you will need to acquire a specific permit to undertake the trek. The cost of the Manaslu trekking permit is somewhat higher compared to trekking permits for more popular areas in the Himalayas. 

You must obtain this special permit in addition to the standard trekking permit to embark on a trekking journey in Manaslu. The cost of the special permit varies depending on the season: it is USD 100 for the first seven days and USD 15 for each additional from September to November, while from December to August, it costs USD 75 for the first seven days and USD 10 per day for any extra days. 

Additionally, you are required to purchase an MCAP permit and ACAP, which is priced at around USD 30 per person for each region.

Once you possess all these necessary permits, you will be ready to trek in the Manaslu region.

Topic Discussion on Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled some general questions that people often ask specifically regarding the Manaslu Circuit Trek and trekking in that area. Let's explore these frequently asked questions about trekking in Manaslu.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Difficulty

A common concern regarding the Manaslu Circuit Trek is its level of difficulty. Many individuals wonder whether they will be able to complete the trek and inquire about how challenging it is. Being a high-altitude trekking adventure, the trek presents a strenuous level of difficulty. 

To successfully complete the trek, you need to be in good physical condition. This trek requires you to cross a mountain pass that rises above 5,000 meters from sea level. The increasing altitudes, daily altitude variations, rugged terrain, and the winding trails with ascents and descents make this adventure quite demanding. 

Weather Conditions in the Manaslu Region

Another frequently asked question regarding trekking in Manaslu pertains to the weather conditions. Aside from inquiries about the Manaslu Circuit Trek permit, many people are curious about the climate. 

During your trek in the region, you will encounter a variety of weather conditions. You will traverse through warmer river valleys at lower altitudes up to alpine climatic conditions in the mountains. 

As you ascend to higher altitudes, you will experience the harsh and cold weather directly influenced by the snow-capped peaks. While at these elevated points, you will be in close proximity to the mountains.

Accommodation and Food

Travelers often express their concerns regarding their overnight lodging and the food available during the trek. Many ask us about the accommodation options and meals in the Manaslu area.  

In the past, finding suitable lodging in the region was quite challenging. However, with an increase in visitors, trekkers can now find decent basic teahouse accommodations for overnight stays in the area.  

Similar to other mountainous regions in Nepal, Manaslu offers a limited selection of food, predominantly featuring Dal Bhat. Menu options are restricted, but the meals provided during your trek will be sufficient to sustain you in the mountains.  

Solo vs. Group Trek  

A primary question that many people pose is whether they can trek independently in Manaslu. The permit required for the Manaslu circuit trek is a special permit, indicating that you will be trekking in a restricted area. Regions that necessitate a special permit require travelers to be in a group. Therefore, solo trekking in Manaslu is not permitted. To fully enjoy the adventure in the region, you must be accompanied by a guide and a porter or a guide/porter.  

Individual trekking is prohibited not only in Manaslu but also in other restricted zones. Whether you choose to trek in Tsum Valley, around the circuit, or combine Tsum Valley and Manaslu in one trip, you will need to trek in a group.  

These are the topics we summarized the questions we get frequently from the potential travelers to the region. If you have any questions, please let us know.