Soti Khola is the only entry point to Manaslu. It is 126 km/ 80 mi from Kathmandu, the capital, and a 6-hour drive. From Kathmandu to Dhading, the road is pretty good. From there, the road starts getting bumpier as you travel towards Soti Khola. You may even have to walk from Arughat to Soti Khola in the rainy season, which requires an entire day.
Unlike other trails, you cannot start the Manaslu Circuit trek from its ending point, Besisahar. This is due to the difference in elevation between Bimthang (3,890 m/ 12,762 ft) and Larkya La pass (5,106 m/ 16,752 ft). As this part of the trek must be completed in a single day, ascending from Bimthang means you will have to acclimatize for longer. So, the trail must descend from Larkya La pass.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit
You need three different permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, which are the Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit), and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit). ACAP is needed because the circuit also covers some parts of the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Why is a Restricted Area Permit required for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
There are two important reasons for requiring a Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu Circuit Trek:
Manaslu Circuit region features an open border with Tibet. Hence, because of border security concerns, the area is restricted.
Control of tourism in the region is deemed important for the region's conservation.
How do you get a Manaslu Circuit Trek to permit?
Manaslu RAP must be issued through a registered agency. The same agency can issue MCAP and ACAP permits. You can also get them from NTB (Nepal Tourism Board) offices and TAAN (Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal) Secretariat located in Kathmandu and Pokhara and their respective entrances.
How much does the permit for Manaslu cost?
Manaslu RAP costs from September to November are USD 100 per person per week and USD 15 per day per person in case of more than seven days. The cost is USD 75 per person per week and USD 10 per day per person in more than seven days from December to August. The ACAP and MCAP permit cost USD 27 each.