The tourist checkpost at Jagat in Chumanubri-3, a key entry point into Manaslu Conservation Area, has reopened after being closed during the Covid-19 pandemic, according to officials.

The checkpoint, operated by the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP), resumed service from April 18.

“We had been operating the checkpoint from our main office in Philim after the pandemic,” said MCAP chief Santosh Sherchan. “But now we’ve added some staff and restarted full services from Jagat itself.”

The reopening is expected to ease access for trekkers entering the Manaslu region, particularly with road access now extended up to Pangsang. Many tourists are using this route to reach the remote Tsum and Nubri valleys.

The Jagat checkpoint will verify tourist entry permits, forest product passes, and authorisation for drones and cameras.

“We also monitor herb collection to ensure proper permits are in place,” Sherchan added.

MCAP is also preparing to open a second checkpoint in Samagaun, Chumanubri-1, by mid-May.

Tourist numbers to the region have continued to rise year-on-year. In the first nine months of the current fiscal year, 10,273 foreign tourists visited the Manaslu region—an increase from 9,783 during the same period last year.

“Tourist traffic is still expected to increase through June, which marks the end of the trekking season,” said Sherchan. “Despite limited road networks, Manaslu remains a favourite among adventure trekkers and nature lovers.”

The period from March to May and October to November is often regarded as the best time to visit the area.

Known for its stunning biodiversity and dramatic terrain, the region also attracts domestic tourists and offers views of high Himalayan peaks, Buddhist monasteries, and remote cultural heritage sites.