What Makes Tsum Valley Trek Special?
What makes the Tsum Valley Trek truly special is its deep spirituality. Also known as the “Valley of Happiness,” Tsum is a sacred pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists and the ancestral homeland of the Tsumba people.
Similarly, what sets Tsum apart is its untouched remoteness. The valley remained isolated from the rest of the world for centuries and was officially opened to trekkers only in 2008. Because of this, its raw beauty and rich culture have remained largely intact.
Most of the time, Tsum Valley is often combined with the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It allows you to experience the grandeur of Manaslu while exploring one of Nepal’s most culturally unique regions.
Permits Required For The Tsum Valley Trek In 2025
To trek in the sacred Tsum Valley in 2025, you will need three key permits: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (Special Permit)
The Manaslu Special Permit is the golden key that unlocks access to the remote and sacred Tsum Valley. Since the valley falls within a government-designated restricted zone in the Manaslu region, this permit is absolutely mandatory for all trekkers.
It is issued exclusively by the Nepal Immigration Offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara. This permit regulates tourism in sensitive border areas and preserve the region’s fragile cultural and environmental heritage.
To obtain this permit, you must be part of a group of at least two trekkers accompanied by a licensed guide registered with a trekking agency. Solo trekking is strictly prohibited for safety and security reasons.
The cost of this special permit varies by season. During the peak trekking months from September to November, the fee is USD 100 for the first seven days and USD 15 for each additional day. From December to August, it’s slightly cheaper at USD 75 for the first seven days and USD 10 per additional day.
You should understand that your permit duration starts counting from Jagat, the official entry checkpoint into the restricted area.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
It plays a vital role in protecting the rich biodiversity and fragile ecosystems of the Manaslu region, including the Tsum Valley. By requiring this permit, the Nepalese government ensures that every trekker contributes directly to conservation efforts, trail maintenance, and the sustainable development of local communities.
You can obtain the MCAP easily from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara, and it costs NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 23) per person. Unlike restricted area permits, the MCAP has no time limit.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is another essential permit for the Tsum Valley Trek, especially if your route passes through or ends in the Annapurna region. Since the most common route takes you through Dharapani at the end, you will need this permit.
This is because the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit treks link into the Annapurna trail network, which is yet another conservation area. Here, you can easily obtain the ACAP from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara, and it comes at a fixed cost of NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 23) per person.
Much like the MCAP, this permit has no time limit, giving you the freedom to explore without the pressure of strict deadlines.
What Documents Do You Require For The Permits?
When applying for the Tsum Valley Trek permits, being prepared with the right documents can save you time and hassle. You can only obtain these permits via registered trekking agency and you will need to present a few itmes.
First, you will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. You will also need to provide four passport-sized photos, typically used for the MCAP and ACAP permits. Additionally, do keep a few photocopies of your passport, as they are often required when processing both the restricted area permit and the conservation area permits.
Likewise, you will also need to submit a copy of your travel insurance, especially one that covers high-altitude trekking and medical emergencies. Alongisde it, you need to portray your trek itinerary and trekking guide details.
Tsum Valley Trek Permit Regulations (Updated 2025)
- Your trekking group must have a minimum of two trekkers.
- Solo trekking is strictly prohibited in the Tsum Valley (as it's part of the restricted Manaslu region).
- Your trekking group must be accompanied by a liscensed trekking guide. Also, note that, freelance guides are not acceptable.
- You must apply for the permits through an officially registered trekking company in Nepal.
- You will need to apply the permits beforehand as no permits are issued at the entry point or checkpost.
- You must present your permits at several checkpoints, including Jagat, Lokpa, Philim, Chumling, Chhekampar, and Mu Gompa.
- If you fail to show your permits in required checkpoints, you may be fined or at worst, denied for further trek.
- Once issued, permits are non-refundable and non-transferable, even if your plans change or the trek is cut short.
- The Manaslu Special Permit is date-specific, and the duration is calculated from Jagat onward.
- There is no time limit on ACAP or MCAP once issued, but your trek must remain within the stated entry and exit points.
- For the permits, you will need to show valid documents such as passport, Nepal visa page, passport-size pictures, and travel insurance details.
Cost Summary Table (2025 Updated Rates)
Permit Type | Time Period | Cost | Where To Get |
Manaslu RAP | Sept to Nov | USD 100 for 7 days & USD 15 for each additional day | Immigration Office (Kathmandu/Pokhara) |
Manaslu RAP | Dec to Aug | USD 75 for 7 days & USD 10 for each additional day | Immigration Office (Kathmandu/Pokhara) |
MCAP | All year | NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 23) | NTB (Kathmandu/Pokhara) |
ACAP | All year | NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 23) | NTB (Kathmandu/Pokhara) |
Important Tips On Getting The Permits
- Since permit processing takes time, you must apply for the permit few days before the trek.
- The government offices in Nepal including Immigration and Tourism Board are closed during the weekends and public holidays, so you should target to issue permit during workdays.
- You should hire a registered trekking agency to handle all paperwork, guide coordination, and ensure compliance with current regulations.
- Keep both the hard copy and scanned versions of the permits on your phone/cloud and carry printed copies for checkpoint inspections.
- As the permit durations (especially for the Manaslu Special Permit) are tied to your route and timeline, starting from Jagat, you should confirm your itinerary with the agency.
- Permit regulations can occasionally change, therefore, you must verify the latest updates with your agency or Nepal Tourism Board.
Penalties For Not Following Permit Regulations
Ignoring permit regulations on the Tsum Valley Trek can lead to serious consequences, both for trekkers and their guides. Authorities have ramped up monitoring and enforcement since 2024, due to growing environmental and safety concerns in Nepal’s restricted regions.
If you are caught trekking without the required permits or a licensed guide, you could face several possible circumstances. You may get hefty fines, immediate removal from the trail, and even legal action that might affect your future travel to Nepal.
Along the route of the Tsum Valley, there are several checkpoint officers stationed at various points like Jagat, Lokpa, and Chumling. These officers have the authority to deny your trek, seize incomplete permits, or escort unauthorized trekkers back to the nearest village. Moreover, trekking agencies that ignore the rules risk suspension or legal penalties.
Conclusion
Respecting the permit rules for the Tsum Valley Trek is about more than just following regulations, it’s about trekking responsibly. These permits fund vital conservation efforts, protect delicate mountain ecosystems, and empower local communities through sustainable tourism. It also ensures your safety and legal travel within a remote corner of Nepal.
If you are planning this unforgettable journey, let Nepal Trekking Experts take care of the logistics. Their experienced team makes the permit process stress-free and ensures you trek with a licensed guide, follow updated routes, and make the most of your time in the Himalayas.
FAQs
Do I need a special permit to trek in Tsum Valley?
Yes, the Tsum Valley lies in a restricted area of the Manaslu region, so you will need a Manaslu Special (Restricted Area) Permit in addition to MCAP and ACAP.
Can I trek to Tsum Valley solo?
No, solo trekking is not allowed. You must trek in a group of at least two people with a licensed guide from a registered agency.
How much does the Tsum Valley permit cost in 2025?
The Manaslu Special Permit costs USD 100 for the first 7 days (Sep to Nov) or USD 75 (Dec to Aug), with extra daily fees thereafter. MCAP and ACAP cost NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 23) each.
Where can I get the permits?
You can get the permits in advance through a registered trekking agency. The agency will process them at the Immigration Department and Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Is the ACAP permit always required for Tsum Valley?
Only if your trek exits through the Annapurna region (e.g., via Dharapani). Otherwise, ACAP isn’t necessary.
What documents do I need for the permits?
You will need a valid passport, Nepal visa, passport-sized photos, and your trekking itinerary arranged by a registered agency.
Are permits checked along the trail?
Yes, permits are checked at multiple checkpoints, including Jagat, Lokpa, and Chumling.
Can a freelance guide help me get the permit?
No, only guides from registered agencies can lead restricted area treks. Freelancers are not accepted for permit approval.
How early should I apply for the Tsum Valley permits?
It’s best to apply 1 to 2 days before your trek begins to allow enough time for processing.
What happens if I trek without a permit?
Trekking without proper permits can lead to fines, expulsion from the trail, and legal consequences for both you and your guide.
