Frequently Asked Questions

Nepal requires different types of trekking permits based on the trekking region. The primary permits include:

A. TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card

• Required for general trekking routes in Nepal, except restricted areas.
• Helps track trekkers for safety purposes.

B. Restricted Area Trekking Permits

• Mandatory for trekking in restricted areas such as Upper Mustang, Manaslu, Tsum Valley, Dolpo, Kanchenjunga, etc.
• Requires a special permit issued by the Department of Immigration.

C. National Park/Conservation Area Entry Permits

• Required to enter national parks or conservation areas such as Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP), Sagarmatha National Park, Langtang National Park, etc.

A. TIMS Card Fees

SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000 (~$7.50) per person

Foreign Nationals: NPR 2,000 (~$15) per person

TIMS cards are not required for restricted areas.

B. Restricted Area Trekking Permit Fees (Per Person)

C. National Park/Conservation Area Fees

Trekking permits can be obtained from:

Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Offices – Kathmandu & Pokhara (for TIMS and conservation area permits).

Department of Immigration, Kathmandu – For restricted area permits.

Entry Checkpoints – Some permits can be obtained at park entrances, but it is advisable to get them beforehand.

Authorized Trekking Agencies – If you book through an agency, they handle the permits.

To obtain a trekking permit, you need:

A valid passport copy (with at least six months of validity).

Passport-size photographs (usually two).

Trekking itinerary (especially for restricted areas).

A licensed trekking guide and agency (mandatory for restricted areas).

Permit fees in cash (NPR or USD).

For general trekking regions (e.g., Annapurna, Langtang, Everest), you can trek independently.

For restricted areas (Upper Mustang, Manaslu, etc.), hiring a government-licensed guide and trekking through a registered agency is mandatory.

No, trekking permits must be obtained before starting the trek.

However, some permits (such as national park/conservation area entry permits) can be obtained at entry points.

Restricted area permits must be arranged in Kathmandu through a trekking agency.

TIMS and conservation area permits can be issued on the same day from NTB offices.

Restricted area permits may take one to two business days to process.

No, trekking permits are non-refundable and non-transferable.

If you cancel your trek, you cannot reuse the permit for another person or request a refund.

For restricted areas: You must apply for an extension through the Department of Immigration. Additional fees apply.

For national parks/conservation areas: If your original permit is insufficient, you may need to obtain a new permit.

Yes, trekkers must follow certain rules:

Solo trekking is prohibited in restricted areas.

Trekkers must carry their permits at all times and show them at checkpoints.

Unauthorized entry into restricted areas is strictly forbidden.

Littering and harming wildlife are strictly prohibited.

Trekking without a valid permit can result in heavy fines, deportation, or legal consequences.

You may be stopped at checkpoints and forced to return.

Always ensure you have the necessary permits before starting your trek.

Some permits, like ACAP and TIMS, can be processed online through trekking agencies.

Restricted area permits must be obtained in person via an authorized trekking agency.

Yes, permits are required for all trekkers, including children.

In some cases, children under 10 years old may get free or discounted permits (varies by park).