Trekking Permit in Nepal – Renowned as a world-class trekking destination, Nepal attracts hundreds of thousands of global travellers annually with its dramatic Himalayan landscapes and rich cultural tapestry.
The region features more than 200 trekking trails among them 15-20 are popular routes across major areas such as Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, Kanchenjunga, and Dolpo. Nepal offers options tailored to all preferences and budgets, ranging from accessible day walks to demanding expeditions, and from teahouse stays to camping.
Predominantly situated within protected national parks and conservation areas, the trails showcase breathtaking mountain vistas, alpine lakes, and dramatic waterfalls. Trekkers can also spot rare wildlife, including red pandas, musk deer, and Himalayan Thar, amid diverse flora and birdlife. It remains one of the world’s finest escapes from the fast pace of urban life.
Essential Trekking Permits in Nepal: A Complete Guide
Before embarking on a trek in Nepal, it is essential to secure the appropriate mandatory permits. The exact permits you require will depend on your chosen route and region. Below is an overview of the four primary permit types.
Most trekking trails pass through protected environmental zones. You will need either a National Park Permit or a Conservation Area Permit, depending on the status of the land you are traversing.
• National Park Permits: Required for routes located within national parks, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek (Sagarmatha National Park), the Langtang Valley Trek (Langtang National Park), and the Makalu Base Camp Trek (Makalu Barun National Park).
• Conservation Area Permits: Required for regions managed by conservation projects. Key examples include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for the Annapurna Base Camp and Circuit routes, and the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) for the Manaslu Circuit.
• Cost: Approximately NPR 3,000 (approx. USD $23) for both National Park and Conservation Area permits.
• How to Obtain: Permits can be applied for online via registered trekking agencies in Kathmandu, at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office in Kathmandu, or directly at official entry checkpoints along the trail.
• Requirements: Two passport-sized photographs and a scanned copy of your passport.
• Checkpoints: Permits are verified at multiple checkpoints along the trails. To prevent loss or damage, it is recommended to keep physical copies safe and store digital photos on your phone. Failing to present a permit can result in hefty fines.
Certain local municipalities collect independent entry revenues directly from visiting tourists.
• Everest Region: The Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality issues a local permit costing NPR 2,000 (approx. USD $12–$14), payable upon arrival at Lukla or Monjo.
• Manaslu Region: The Chumnubri Rural Municipality collects a local entry fee at the region’s entry point.
The TIMS card is a safety standard designed to track trekkers in the event of an emergency or natural disaster.
• Applicability: Mandatory for most major trekking areas, including the Annapurna, Langtang, and Manaslu regions. Note: The TIMS card is currently not required if you are trekking solely in the Everest (Khumbu) region.
• Cost: NPR 2,000 (approx. USD $12–$14).
• How to Obtain: Available in Kathmandu through the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) or authorized agencies.
To protect fragile ecosystems, preserve local ethnic culture, and maintain border security, the Nepalese government designates certain sensitive regions as Restricted Areas.
• Mandatory Agency Booking: Trekkers cannot apply for an RAP independently; applications must be submitted by a licensed Nepalese trekking agency.
• Requirements: You must present your original physical passport, travel with a licensed local guide, and secure comprehensive insurance for your guide.
• Key Regions: Upper Mustang, Upper/Lower Dolpo, Manaslu, Tsum Valley, Nar Phu Valley, Kanchenjunga, and Humla.
Fees set by the Nepal Department of Immigration vary significantly by region and season:
| Region | Rates / Conditions |
| Upper Mustang | USD $50 per person / day |
| Upper Dolpo | USD $500 per person (first 10 days), then USD $50 / day thereafter |
| Manaslu & Nar Phu Valley | Autumn (Sept–Nov): USD $100 for week 1, then USD $15 / day Off-Peak (Dec–Aug): USD $75 for week 1, then USD $10 / day |
| Tsum Valley | Autumn (Sept–Nov): USD $40 for week 1, then USD $7 / day Off-Peak (Dec–Aug): USD $30 for week 1, then USD $7 / day |
| Kanchenjunga | USD $20 per person / week |
| Lower Dolpo | USD $20 for week 1, then USD $5 / day thereafter |
| Humla | USD $50 for week 1, then USD $10 / day thereafter |
| Mugu, Bajhang, Darchula | USD $90–$100 for week 1, then USD $15 / day thereafter |
| Dolakha, Rasuwa, Sankhuwasabha | USD $20 per person / week |
Summary Advice for Trekkers: While the permit landscape might seem complex at first, securing your documentation is straightforward when arranged in advance or handled through a certified trekking agency. Ensure all permits are arranged prior to setting out so you can enjoy a safe and seamless journey through the Himalayas.