The cost for a trekking permit in Nepal varies, but a common permit for a national park is 3,000 NPR for foreigners and 1,000 NPR for SAARC nationals. Additionally, a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card is required, costing 1,000 NPR for groups and 2,000 NPR for individual trekkers. Restricted area permits, such as for Upper Mustang, have a higher cost and different structures, like a flat fee for the first 10 days followed by a daily charge. Nepal is home to the world’s most iconic trekking destinations — from Everest Base Camp to Annapurna, Manaslu, and Langtang. Before embarking on these incredible trails, every trekker must obtain the necessary trekking permits. These permits help regulate tourism, preserve the environment, and support local communities.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about trekking permits in Nepal, including types, costs, where to obtain them, and region-wise requirements for 2025.
Table of contents Show
Why Do You Need a Trekking Permit in Nepal?
- Environmental Protection: Funds help maintain conservation areas and national parks.
- Safety Tracking: Permits record your trek for emergencies.
- Local Revenue: Supports local communities and infrastructure development.
- Legal Compliance: Ensures your trek is registered and authorized.
Types of Trekking Permits in Nepal
Depending on the trekking region, there are three main types of trekking permits:
| Permit Type | Issued By | Required For |
|---|---|---|
| TIMS Card (Trekking Information Management System) | Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) & TAAN | Most popular trekking routes |
| National Park or Conservation Area Entry Permit | NTB or relevant park offices | Areas under national parks or conservation areas |
| Restricted Area Permit (RAP) | Department of Immigration | Controlled or border-sensitive regions (e.g., Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Dolpo) |
1.TIMS Card (Trekking Information Management System)
The TIMS Card is mandatory for trekkers in general trekking areas. It ensures your trek is recorded and provides security and rescue support.
| Trekkers Type | Cost (NPR) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Trekkers (FIT) | 2,000 | Independent trekkers |
| Group Trekkers (Through Agency) | 1,000 | Must be organized via agency |
| SAARC Nationals | 300 – 600 | Depends on trekking mode |
Where to get TIMS Card: NTB offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara, TAAN office, or through an authorized trekking company.
2️⃣ National Park & Conservation Area Entry Permits
Most trekking routes lie inside National Parks or Conservation Areas, requiring a separate entry permit.
| Protected Area | Permit Fee (Foreigners) | SAARC Nationals |
|---|---|---|
| Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park | 3,000 NPR | 1,500 NPR |
| Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) | 3,000 NPR | 1,000 NPR |
| Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP) | 3,000 NPR | 1,000 NPR |
| Langtang National Park | 3,000 NPR | 1,500 NPR |
| Gaurishankar Conservation Area | 3,000 NPR | 1,000 NPR |
| Makalu-Barun National Park | 3,000 NPR | 1,500 NPR |
| Shey-Phoksundo National Park (Dolpo) | 3,000 NPR | 1,500 NPR |
| Kanchenjunga Conservation Area | 3,000 NPR | 1,000 NPR |
3️⃣ Restricted Area Permits (RAP)
Some regions are restricted due to border sensitivity. Trekking here requires a licensed guide and registered agency.
| Region | Permit Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Mustang | USD 500 for 10 days + USD 50/day extra | Must trek with agency |
| Upper Dolpo | USD 500 for 10 days + USD 50/day extra | Must trek with agency |
| Lower Dolpo | USD 20 per week | - |
| Manaslu (Jagat – Samagaun) | USD 100 for 7 days + USD 15/day extra | Trek only with guide |
| Tsum Valley | USD 30–40/week | Varies by season |
| Nar Phu Valley | USD 75–100/week | Varies by season |
| Humla (Simikot – Hilsa) | USD 50/week | - |
| Kanchenjunga North/South | USD 20/week | - |
Region-wise Permit Requirements
| Trekking Route | Required Permits |
|---|---|
| Everest Base Camp Trek | Sagarmatha National Park Permit + Khumbu Rural Municipality Fee + TIMS |
| Annapurna Base Camp Trek | ACAP Permit + TIMS Card |
| Manaslu Circuit Trek | RAP + MCAP + TIMS |
| Langtang Valley Trek | Langtang National Park Permit + TIMS |
| Upper Mustang Trek | RAP + ACAP + TIMS |
| Tsum Valley Trek | RAP + MCAP + TIMS |
| Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek | RAP + KCAP + TIMS |
Where to Obtain Trekking Permits in Nepal
- Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) – Kathmandu or Pokhara
- TAAN Office – Kathmandu
- Department of Immigration – Kathmandu (for Restricted Permits)
- Park entry checkpoints along trekking routes
- Through licensed trekking agencies (permits fully arranged)
Tips Before Getting Trekking Permits
- Carry your original passport and passport-sized photos.
- Keep digital and paper copies of all permits.
- Trekking in restricted areas without a guide or permit is illegal.
- Permit fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
- Extra entry fees may apply for helicopter trips or side excursions.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining the right trekking permits is the first step to a successful Himalayan adventure. Nepal welcomes every trekker — as long as you follow regulations and travel responsibly. Whether hiking Everest Base Camp, exploring Upper Mustang, or trekking the Manaslu Circuit, your permits ensure a safe and legal journey.
Need Help Getting Trekking Permits?
Actual Adventure Pvt. Ltd. – Registered Trekking Company in Nepal
📍 Thamel, Kathmandu | ✉️ info@actual-adventure.com | ☎️ +977-9851012358
We handle all trekking permits, guides, and logistics. Share your passport copy and travel dates, and we take care of the rest.
