How to Get Your Trekking Permits for Nepal

Nepal, known for the Himalayas, stands out as a top trekking destination for adventurers and trekkers all around the world. The iconic regions, such as Annapurna and Everest Base Camp, offer an unforgettable trekking experience, as well as the restricted areas like Upper Mustang.

But before they can walk on those thrilling trails, they must secure  a valid trekking permit. Safety and security of the permit holders are ensured through the permits in addition to promoting legal trekking. These permits also support environmental conservation and local communities.

Understanding the trekking permit systems and the application process is essential to avoid unnecessary complications, whether the trekker is  trekking solo or with a licensed agency.

The trekking permits can be acquired directly from affiliated government offices or arranged with the help of trusted trekking companies like Outward Adventure Treks. This guide provides all the required information to successfully secure trekking permits, ensuring a smooth and memorable adventure.

Why Trekking Permits Are Essential in Nepal

A standard tourist visa only permits entry and travel within urban areas. To travel outside Nepal's major cities and areas accessible by road, one must have a trekking permit.

So, trekkers must obtain the necessary Nepal trekking permits in advance in order to access the popular trekking destinations like the Annapurna region, Everest Base Camp, Langtang Valley, or other restricted areas like Upper Mustang.

Nearly a million foreign visitors come to Nepal each year, with hundreds of thousands coming just for trekking. With such a huge number of trekkers arriving, it is necessary to ensure their safety. These trekking permits allow government authorities to track their movements, manage trail traffic, and respond efficiently in case of emergencies.

Systems such as the TIMS card Nepal allow authorities to track trekking routes, manage trail use, and coordinate emergency rescue operations when needed.

Along with providing safety for the trekkers, trekking permits also directly contribute to the maintenance of trekking routes, conservation of national parks, and preservation of restricted areas.

They also act as a source of income for local communities by opening employment opportunities through tourist related activities. By following trekking permit requirements, trekkers actively support conservation efforts and local communities, also allowing for a responsible trekking experience in Nepal.

Types of Trekking Permits in Nepal

Nepal has various permit systems to oversee the trekking activities and to make sure that the safety of trekkers is not compromised. Depending on the trekking region, one or more permits may be required.

Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card

The TIMS card Nepal, administered by the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) records necessary trekkers information such as trekker details and planned itineraries, allowing authorities to monitor their movements and respond efficiently in case of emergencies.

When applying for a TIMS card, a fixed fee must be paid based on nationality:

• SAARC Nationals: NRs 1,000/ USD 7
• Other Foreign Nationals: NRs 2,000/ USD 14

TIMS cards can be obtained online through the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) E-TIMS portal or by visiting Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara in person. The entire process can also be carried out through registered trekking agencies such as Outward Adventure Treks who arrange the card on behalf of trekkers.

Most trekkers traveling in non-restricted regions require a TIMS card. It is compulsory for popular routes such as Annapurna and Langtang. However, in certain areas, including parts of the Everest region, alternative local permit systems apply, and a TIMS card may not be required.

National Park & Conservation Area Permits

To access Nepal’s protected regions, trekkers must obtain permits issued by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation or the relevant conservation authorities. These permits are mandatory under Nepal trekking regulations.

The following table shows the type of permit one requires and the region the permit covers, with foreigners paying NRs. 3,000 and SAARC nationals paying NRs. 1,000 (including tax). In addition to that, if the permit is taken online, an extra 2.9% is charged as a Payment Gateway Charge. Double fees are also levied for permits issued at Check-Posts.

Permit Type	Region
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)	Annapurna region
Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park Permit	Everest Base Camp & surrounding areas
Langtang National Park Permit	Langtang Valley
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)	Manaslu region
Kanchanjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)	Kanchanjunga region

Source: Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)

Each conservation area has its own permit fee and designated entry point. All are compulsory for trekkers and form part of the official trekking permit requirement.

Restricted Area Permits (RAP)

Certain trekking regions in Nepal are classified as restricted areas to protect the surrounding ecosystems and preserve the unique cultural heritage of that area. Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is essential in order to trek through these regions.

Upper Mustang, Manaslu, and Dolpo along with other regions fall under the popular restricted trekking destinations choices of the trekkers. For further details on these regions and their permit fees, one can visit the Nepal Tourism Board’s Website.

These permits come with strict regulations:

• The RAP should be obtained from a registered trekking agency.
• It is obligatory that the minimum number of trekkers be two and have a licensed guide.
• The permit fees increase depending on the region and duration of the trekking.
• In RAP regions solo trekking is strictly prohibited.

Where to Get Trekking Permits in Nepal

The trekking permits  can be obtained through several official channels:

• Nepal Tourism Board Offices (Kathmandu, Pokhara):  The NTB offices located in Kathmandu and Pokhara are mainly responsible for providing trekkers with TIMS cards and conservation area permits.
• Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN): The TAAN is responsible for providing guidance and support for independent  and  solo trekkers.
• Department of Immigration: The restricted area permits, including Upper Mustang, Manaslu, and Dolpo are issued by the Department of Immigration through trekking agencies.

Benefits of Applying Through Trekking Agencies

Working with a licensed agency such as Outward Adventure Treks simplifies the process and ensures compliance with all regulations. Agencies handle paperwork, arrange guides, coordinate groups, and manage renewals, making trekking in Nepal hassle-free and legally valid.

Documents Required for Trekking Permits

To apply for Nepal trekking permits, the following documents are generally required:

• Valid passport and visa for identity verification and to issue a permit.
• 2-4 passport-sized photos per permit.
• Completed application forms, which are available at permit offices or provided by trekking agencies.

While not always mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended for the safety of the trekkers. Also, keeping extra copies of these documents is recommended, as it can prevent delays during the permit process or checkpoints on the trail.

Tips for a Smooth Trekking Permit Process

Below are a few tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free trekking experience:

• Always apply for the permits in advance, especially for restricted areas.
• It is highly recommended to carry extra passport-size photographs.
• Keeping copies of all permits during the trek is suggested.
• Work with registered trekking agencies for accuracy and compliance.

Conclusion

A safe, legal, and responsible trekking experience can be secured by obtaining the necessary trekking permits for Nepal. From the TIMS card Nepal to conservation and restricted area permits, each permit plays its part in protecting trekkers, communities, and the environment.

Unnecessary complications can be avoided by being aware of the permit requirements and collaborating with trusted trekking agencies like Outward Adventure Treks. Whether trekking to Everest Base Camp, exploring the Annapurna region, or venturing into restricted areas like Upper Mustang or Dolpo, proper planning ensures peace of mind and a truly unforgettable trekking experience in Nepal.

FAQs on Trekking Permits for Nepal

1. Do short treks near Kathmandu require permits?

No, most short day hikes near Kathmandu, such as Nagarkot, do not require trekking permits. However, protected areas like Shivapuri National Park may charge local entry fees.

2. Can permits be obtained on arrival?

Yes, TIMS cards and some conservation permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara after arrival, but restricted area permits must be arranged in advance through a registered agency.

3. Are trekking permits available at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) or other airports in Nepal?

No, trekking permits are not issued at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) or at other airports in Nepal. Only tourist visas are available on arrival at TIA. Trekking permits such as TIMS cards, conservation area permits, and restricted area permits must be obtained separately from authorized offices.

4. Where can trekking permits be obtained in Kathmandu?

Trekking permits can be obtained from:

• Nepal Tourism Board Office, Kathmandu
• Registered trekking agencies
• Department of Immigration (for restricted areas)

5. Can trekking permits be applied for online in Nepal?

Yes, TIMS cards can be applied for online via the NTB E-TIMS system. However, ACAP permits, restricted area permits, and local permits usually require in-person processing or agency assistance.

6. How to get a TIMS card in Nepal?

A TIMS card can be obtained:

• Online through the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) E-TIMS portal
• In person at Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara
• Through a registered trekking agency such as Outward Adventure Treks.

7. How much is the TIMS permit in Nepal?

The TIMS card fee is NRs 1,000/ USD 7 for SAARC nationals and NRs 2,000/USD 14 for other foreign nationals.

8. Which trekking regions require National Park or Conservation Area permits?

Popular trekking regions such as Annapurna, Langtang, Everest (Sagarmatha National Park), Manaslu Conservation Area, and Shivapuri National Park require National Park or Conservation Area permits.

9. How much does a National Park or Conservation Area permit cost?

• Foreign nationals: NRs 3,000 per person
• SAARC nationals: NRs 1,000 per person (All fees include applicable taxes.)

10. Are there additional charges for online permit applications for National Park or Conservation Area?

Yes. When permits are obtained online, an additional 2.9% payment gateway charge is applied to the total permit fee.

11. Is there a penalty for obtaining National Park or Conservation Area permits at checkpoints?

Yes. Double fees are levied if permits are issued at checkpoints instead of authorized offices, in accordance with Nepal trekking regulations.

12. What is a Restricted Area Permit in Nepal?

A Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required to trek in controlled regions such as Upper Mustang, Manaslu, and Dolpo. RAPs are designed to protect fragile ecosystems, preserve local culture, and maintain security in sensitive areas.

13. How much does a Restricted Area Permit cost?

RAP fees vary by region and duration of stay. Charges are per person and typically calculated on a weekly basis. Fees are higher than standard conservation permits, reflecting the restricted nature of these areas.

14. Are RAP fees refundable?

No. RAP fees are non-refundable, even if the trek is canceled, shortened, or delayed.

15. Can Restricted Area Permits be obtained independently or online?

No. RAPs cannot be applied online or for a solo trekker. They must be arranged through registered trekking agencies. Solo trekking in restricted areas is not permitted, and a licensed guide along with a minimum group size is mandatory.

16. Where can Restricted Area Permits be obtained?

RAPs are issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and must be processed only through registered trekking agencies. Agencies handle paperwork, guide arrangements, and coordinate with authorities.

17. Are permits checked during treks?

Yes, permits are commonly checked at checkpoints and trail entry points, conservation checkpoints, and along popular trekking routes.

18. What happens if trekking is done without a permit?

Trekking without a permit is illegal and may result in fines or being denied access to trekking routes.