Almost every trekker heading to Manaslu or Tsum Valley starts their trip the same way — landing in Kathmandu and picking up a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. It's a simple, well-organized process, but knowing the fees and paperwork in advance saves you time at the immigration counter.
Who Needs a Visa?
Citizens of most countries can get a Nepal tourist visa on arrival. A short list of nationalities must apply through a Nepali embassy or consulate in advance; check the official Department of Immigration website before you fly if you're unsure.
Nepal Tourist Visa Fees (2026)
Duration | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
15 days | $30 |
30 days | $50 |
90 days | $125 |
Most Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley itineraries run 14–21 days, including Kathmandu buffer days, so the 30-day visa is the practical choice for almost all our clients.
How the On-Arrival Process Works
- Fill out the arrival form either online in advance via the Nepal Immigration e-visa portal or on paper at the airport.
- Pay in cash (USD preferred) at the payment counter, or use the card/cash kiosks now available at Tribhuvan International Airport.
- Submit your form and passport photo at the visa counter. Bring 1 passport-sized photo as a backup; the airport photo booth can be slow during peak season (October–November, March–April).
- Get your passport stamped and proceed to immigration.
Budget 30–60 minutes during high season. Pre-filling the online arrival form cuts this significantly.
Documents to Carry
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from your entry date
- One passport-sized photo
- Visa fee in cash (USD, EUR, or GBP are widely accepted; carry small denominations)
- Return or onward flight ticket (occasionally requested)
Visa Extensions
If your trek runs longer than planned, visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration office in Kathmandu (Kalikasthan) for $3/day plus a $25 processing fee for stays up to 150 days total per calendar year.
A Note for Restricted-Area Treks
Your tourist visa is separate from your Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and Tsum Valley permit — see our Trekking Permits guide for those requirements, which are arranged through a licensed agency like ours.
FAQ
Can I get a Nepal visa on arrival for a Manaslu trek?
Yes. The tourist visa on arrival covers travel throughout Nepal, including restricted areas like Manaslu and Tsum Valley, provided you also hold the required special trekking permits, which we arrange separately.
How many days visa do I need for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Most Manaslu Circuit itineraries take 13–18 days, including acclimatization and Kathmandu days. A 30-day visa gives comfortable buffer room for flight delays or itinerary changes.
Do children need a visa for Nepal?
Children under 10 are exempt from the visa fee but still need the arrival paperwork and a valid passport.