Nepal Trekking Permit

Nepal is an ideal choice for trekking enthusiasts, offering an array of eye-catching trails that traverse through breathtaking landscapes. Most of the trending trekking trails Everest Base Camp, Langtang are nestled inside the country’s precious National Parks and Conservation areas, making trekking permits an essential requirement. Before heading out on a trekking adventure, you must be familiar with the necessary trekking permits and fees. So, this post is prepared to focus on trekking permits and fees in Nepal, providing vital information to understand these requirements easily.

Trekking Permits include more than just granting entry into the national park and conservation area. More likely, the permits serve as crucial elements for your safety during treks. So, there are other trekking permits for specific reasons and regions. These permits are issued for various reasons, such as promoting responsible tourism and supporting local communities, along with trekking routes.
Other permits include TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) permits, tracking trekkers, and assisting on the route. Moreover, some areas are classified as restricted areas, demanding specialized permits to protect unique cultures and environmental heritage. Additionally, there are permits issued by rural municipalities to support sustainable development.

Every permit plays a vital role in safeguarding trekkers, preserving the pristine culture and beauty of Nepal’s landscape, and ensuring responsible tourism practices. Now, let's talk in-depth about the required trekking permits and fees, along with the documents required and why they are important.

Why Trekking Permits Are Important in Nepal

Trekking permits serve a key role in ensuring a safe and sustainable trekking experience. Here are some reasons why trekking permits are important in Nepal. Trekkers need to follow the following conditions:

• Environmental Conservation and Protection: Trekking permits help fund environmental efforts and conservation plans for national parks and protected areas.
• Cultural Preservation: Special permits in restricted areas help preserve the distinct culture and heritage of indigenous communities.
• Safety and emergency support: In case of an emergency, the authorities can track trekkers and assist, ensuring safety throughout the journey. 
• Responsible Tourism: Trekking permits help regulate the number of trekkers in specific regions, avoiding overcrowding and minimizing the impact on ecosystems.
• Supporting Local Communities: Permit fees contribute as charity for the rural and remote areas on health services, education, infrastructure development, livelihood improvement, and so on.
• Route Management and Information: The various permits help in recording trekking activities, which aids in trial management and the overall trekking experience. 
• Compliance with Legal Requirements: Trekking permits are made mandatory by the Nepal Government for the sustainable development of the tourism industry. 

How Long Does It Take to Get a Trekking Permit?

Well, you can get all trekking permits within one day, along with requiring documents. Some trekking permits can get an instance of application and others need at least a day. Suppose a TIMS Card (compulsory for all trekking routes but regulated at Langtang Region only) can be within a few minutes after being online submitted from the authorized trekking agency. Likewise, conservation area permits also will be ready within a few hours after applying online submitted gist, at the counter trekking permits at Nepal Tourism Board. Other permits, like local government permits, can be bought on the way to the trip with your passport details and passport photograph. National park permits for Everest Base Camp Trek, and Langtang Valley Trek also can be on the trail Check post, if you are not buying at Kathmandu. 

The Restricted area trekking permits for the Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Simikot, Tsum Valley Trek, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, etc. will be ready within a business day; hence Saturday is a public holiday in a week and they will be some festival celebration as holiday also. To make sure, take a look Nepalese calendar.

Do We Need to Present While Obtaining Trekking Permits? 

No! You do not need to go for the permits, you will be free on your own; just provide the required documents rest of the processing is handled by the trekking agency. But if you would like to know more information about it then you can attend also.

Types of Trekking Permits and Fees in Nepal

We've already talked about permits and how important they are. Here, we are going to talk in detail about Trekking permits and fees. Also, we will be talking about where you can get it.

1. TIMS Permits

TIMS, known as the Trekkers’ Information Management System, is an important permit for trekking in Nepal. It collects a database of trekkers and their itineraries, which helps in ensuring safety during trekking journeys. It also helps in rescue operations by providing valid information about trekkers during emergencies.

It was first introduced in 2008 by TAAN (Trekking Agencies Association Nepal), in joint partnership with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB). Furthermore, On April 1st, 2023, NTB made the TIMS permit mandatory. For groups of expeditions of mountains and helicopter tours, TIMS is not required. But if the helicopter tour is one-way, then it requires a TIMS permit.

Where can one obtain a TIMS Permit?

A TIMS permit can be obtained from the head office of TAAN in Kathmandu as well as in Pokhara. The documents required for the TIMS are a valid passport, passport-size photographs, and relevant details about the trekking itinerary.

What is the fee for obtaining a TIMS Permit?

The fee for obtaining a TIMS permit varies depending on the country. For the SAARC countries, the permit is charged at Rs 1000, which is around $8 to 10 per person. In third countries, it is generally Rs 2000, which is approximately $16 to 20 per person or according to the following day’s exchange rate.

*Note: The age upto 10 does not require TIMS but the information is collected online.

2. National Park Permits

The National Park Permits are the permits that grant access inside the perimeter of a specific National Park. It is not just essential for trekking activities; if you want to visit the National Park, a permit is necessary. These permits serve as a way to manage and regulate the flow of tourists and maintain the ecological aspects of National Parks.

Furthermore, the fees collected from the permits contribute to the conservation and protection of the respective parks. Also, the fund is utilized for various activities like trail maintenance, wildlife protection, and conservation efforts.

Where can you get National Park Permits?

A national park permit can be obtained from the board office of the Nepal Tourism Board in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. For convenience, you can get a permit from the respective park office or entry point to the park. The documents required for the permit are valid passport details, a passport-size photo, and information about trekking routes and duration. While trekking in the Khumbu area for the Everest Base Camp Trek, Gokyo Lakes Trek, Everest 3 Passes Trek, Chola Pass Trek, etc. can buy Sagarmatha National Park permits at the entrance gate Manjo Village and Langtang National Park at the entrance gate of Dhunche. 

The permits are valid for a specific period or until you get an ‘Exit’ stamp on your permit. And it is for single entries only. The permit is required by the government, and if you fail to present a genuine permit, it can lead to penalties.

National Park Permits Fee

 The table below displays the permit fees of specific National Park in Nepal:

3. Conservation Area Permits

Conservation Areas in Nepal are established under the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act to conserve flora and fauna, the livelihood of indigenous people, and cultural and religious values. There are a total of six conservation areas with distinct geography and biodiversity. Also, a valid permit is required to enter the specific conservation area.

The primary purpose of Conservation Areas in Nepal is to preserve and protect the diverse ecosystem, wildlife, and natural resources within their boundaries. Each Conservation area is known for its unique features and characteristics. For example, Annapurna Conservation Area is famous for its diverse biodiversity with rare flora and fauna, while Manaslu Conservation Area is rich in cultural and religious value, and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area showcases the stunning landscape and remote villages.

Where can you get Conservation Area Permits?

Conservation Area permits can be obtained from the head office of Nepal Tourism Nepal. As usual, the head office is available in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. The documents required to obtain a permit are a valid passport, passport-size photographs, a Guide and Porter name list, and details of the trekking route.

Likewise, permit funds are utilized for maintaining trekking trails, saving culture and tradition, and protecting diverse ecosystems. It is recommended to get a permit from the head office because, at the entry point, the authority charges double the price as penalties if you fail to present a valid permit. The permit is for single entry only.

Conservation Area Permit Fee

The permit fees for the Conservation Area are provided below table:

*Note: Travelers Below 10 Years Does Not Require Permits.

4. Wildlife Reserve And Hunting Reserve Permit

Wildlife reserves and Hunting Reserves are two different reserve areas designated for different reasons in Nepal. There is only one wildlife reserve and one hunting reserve; they are Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve. They both require permits for trekking as well as other activities.

As both have different purposes, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve serves to conserve and protect wildlife species and their natural habitats. Other programs include anti-poaching operations and wildlife monitoring with government agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities. The reserve also offers tourism activities like wildlife safaris, bird watching, and trekking.

Whereas Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is the only hunting reserve in Nepal. The main purpose of this reserve is to manage and regulate controlled hunting activities sustainably. Hunting is permitted only in this area to maintain the balance in the ecosystem by controlling population numbers and collecting revenues.

Where can you get Wildlife Reserve and Hunting Reserve Permits?

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve’s permit is available at the Nepal Tourism Board (Kathmandu and Pokhara) or the entry point of the reserve. Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve’s permit can be obtained from the Department of National Park and Wildlife Conservation in Kathmandu. Also, it is available at the head office of Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, which is located in Baglung.

Wildlife Reserve and Hunting Reserve permit fee.

The permit fees for the wildlife reserve and hunting reserve are below:

*Note: Below 10 years is free.

Hunting permit fee in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve.

Hunting permits are different from regular permits in the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve. Moreover, legal papers and a special permit are required before beginning hunting activities. The permit can be applied for at the Department of National Park and Wildlife Conservation in Kathmandu and the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve Office in Baglung.

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve allows hunters to hunt Blue Sheep and other game animals. It will cost you $2,000, including the license and local permits. But if you want to step up your hunting game, it will cost $8,900 for one Himalayan Tahr.

5. Restricted Area / Special Permit

Nepal has some areas classified as restricted areas, requiring special permits for entry. These restricted areas are often located in remote and sensitive regions with unique cultures, traditional settlements, and geopolitical significance. A special permit helps in monitoring and managing tourism activities to protect the fragile ecosystem and Flora and Fauna.

Restricted Special Permits often have higher fees compared to regular trekking permits. The reason for higher fees is to enhance the traditional settlements by modernizing and developing the infrastructure and lifestyle of the people. Furthermore, special permits ensure responsible tourism practices, respect local customs, and follow conservation guidelines.

Where can you get Restricted Area Special Permits?

A special permit is issued by the Nepal Government for the restricted areas. The permits can be collected from the Department of Immigration after fulfilling specific requirements. The Department of Immigration office in Kathmandu is established in different regions of Nepal; however, it is recommended to prepare a special permit in Kathmandu.

What Documentations are Required to Obtaining Special Permits for Restricted Areas in Nepal?

The requirements for a special trekking permit include traveling with registered trekking agencies and being accompanied by a licensed trekking guide, must be two trekkers. FIT (Free Individual Trekkers) are strictly prohibited, the restricted are regulated by the Government of Nepal. Other documents such as a valid original passport and details regarding trekking routes are required. For restricted trekking, you are not allowed to go as FIT (Free Individual Trekkers), you need to Hire at least a professional trekking Guide from the authorized trekking company. 

Only Authorized Trekking Company can apply for trekking permits along with the following documents:

Submit the Online application form (trekkers Passport number and Nepal Visa Number) accordingly and print out the gist, attached along with these documents below;

• Copy of Passport and Visa, which must be validated for entire trekking days
• Name lists of trekkers
• Trekking Program Schedule with Date
• Guarantee letter of Agency
• Agreement with Agency
• Program schedule of trekking
• Voucher of Bank Payment (fees in USD) for Permits
• Tax clearance Certificate of Trekking Agency's latest fiscal year
• Insurance of the trekkers (foreign nationals) and Nepalese staff name list accompanying the trekkers with specific trekking area valid during the trek
• The license issued by The Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Civil Aviation to operate a trekking business
• License  issued by Nepal Rastra Bank ( Central Bank of Nepal) allowing exchanging of foreign currencies
• Registration Certificate of Permanent Account Number (PAN/VAT)
• Original Passport of every trekker asked by the Immigration officer, although you have submitted your passport details while obtaining a Nepal Visa

Restricted Area’s Special Permits Fees.

As mentioned above, special permit fees are higher than regular permits. The cost of special permits is the breakdown below table: 

*Note: No trekking permit is required below 10 Years Child.
**Note: Trekking fee for every country the special permits are the same including SAARC countries.
***Note: In the case of Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpa Region, if the royalty paid for the mountain expedition is less than the fee for the trekking permit then the difference amount should be paid. 

6. Rural Municipality Area Permit.

A rural municipality area permit is somehow similar to a special permit for a restricted area. The difference is that it grants access to some of the rural parts of Nepal that are still untouched by developments and modernization. This permit introduces the lifestyle, unique settlements, and daily routine of rural people.

The purpose of the Rural Municipality Area Permit is to improve the lifestyle, medical and educational facilities, and environmental conservation of the area. Every rural municipality has its characteristics and features, with distinct ethnic groups. Trekking in this area is a different experience than other popular trekking routes.

Where can you get Rural Municipality Permits?

Rural Municipality permits are distributed by the Department of Immigration, just like restricted area permits. Somehow, some permits can be obtained at the entry point to the area. The local government permits for Everest Trekking known as "TREK CARD", which can be obtained at the Check post of Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality at Lukla/Namche. Likewise, registered travel agencies are recommended to prepare the permit. The essential documents for making permits are a valid passport, passport-size photos, and a relevant trekking itinerary. If these trekking areas are regulated by the Government of Nepal, it is also in the Restricted Area. Those trekking permits also must be obtained according to the rule of the Restricted Area Permits. 

Rural Municipality Area Permits Fee.

The below table shows the region along with the name of the rural municipality and their permit fees respectively:

Conclusion

Nepal offers countless trekking trails across the country with different landscapes and vibrant cultures and traditions. So, before heading towards your memorable journey through the Himalayas, it is crucial to obtain legal papers and specific permits for the area. Therefore, get the required permits for a stress-free journey and be a part of the development of the country. If you are traveling solo or with a group family or couple we at Nepal Mother House are glad to organize trekking permits according to your requirements. Thank you.