Trekking Permits in Nepal: Complete Guide for 2025 & 2026

Kedar Neupane 1st Aug, 2025

Kedar Neupane
I am Kedar Neupane, a passionate traveler, entrepreneur, mentor, and social contributor, born and raised in a village near the Nepal-China border in Sindhupalchok, Nepal. With a Master’s degree in Business from Tribhuvan University and Level 2 proficiency in the German language, I have dedicated my life to tourism, trade, mentorship, and holistic well-being.

🌍 A Global Explorer with a Vision
Having explored 26+ countries, I have gained profound insights into diverse cultures, business landscapes, and global tourism. My travels have taken me to:

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Through my journeys, I have developed a deep appreciation for cultural exchange, adventure tourism, and sustainable business practices.

🏔️ Entrepreneurial & Professional Journey
I am actively involved in tourism, trade, and mentorship, leading multiple ventures that promote sustainable travel, adventure tourism, and business development:
✔ Founder & MD – Actual Adventure Pvt. Ltd. (A leading adventure travel company in Nepal)
✔ CEO – Himalayas Destination Management Company (Creating premium travel experiences)
✔ MD – Nepal Export & Import Pvt. Ltd. (Promoting Nepalese products globally)
✔ MD – Actual Mentor Pvt. Ltd. (Empowering entrepreneurs and professionals)
✔ Chairman – World Expedition Nepal (Focusing on high-altitude expeditions and trekking)

Through my entrepreneurial journey, social contributions, global explorations, and commitment to lifelong learning, I strive to inspire others to pursue their passions while making a meaningful difference. My dream is to build a world where travel, business, and holistic well-being come together, fostering growth, sustainability, and happiness for all.

Nepal is a dream destination for trekkers around the world. From the iconic Everest Base Camp to the remote Upper Mustang, trekking in Nepal offers breathtaking Himalayan views, rich culture, and unmatched adventure. However, every trekker must understand one crucial thing before hitting the trails—Trekking Permits in Nepal.

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Why Do You Need a Trekking Permit in Nepal?

Nepal requires trekking permits for most trekking regions to:

Conserve and protect the natural and cultural heritage
Manage tourism and local infrastructure
Ensure safety and track trekkers in remote areas
Collect revenue for sustainable development in trekking zones

Types of Trekking Permits in Nepal

There are three main categories of trekking permits in Nepal:

1. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

Required for: Most trekking regions
Issued by: Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) / Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN)

TIMS Card Type	Fee (NPR)	Fee (USD approx)
Group Trekkers (via agency)	NPR 1,000	~$8
FITs (Free Individual Trekkers)	NPR 2,000	~$15
SAARC Nationals	NPR 600	~$5

⚠️ As of 2023, solo trekking in certain areas like Annapurna and Langtang requires a guide and TIMS must be processed through a licensed trekking agency.

2. National Park & Conservation Area Permits

Protected Area	Fee for Foreigners	Fee for SAARC Nationals	Children under 10
Sagarmatha National Park (Everest)	NPR 3,000 (~$22)	NPR 1,500 (~$11)	Free
Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)	NPR 3,000 (~$22)	NPR 1,000 (~$8)	Free
Langtang National Park	NPR 3,000 (~$22)	NPR 1,500 (~$11)	Free
Manaslu Conservation Area	NPR 3,000 (~$22)	NPR 1,000 (~$8)	Free
Makalu-Barun National Park	NPR 3,000 (~$22)	NPR 1,500 (~$11)	Free
Rara National Park	NPR 3,000 (~$22)	NPR 1,500 (~$11)	Free
Shey Phoksundo National Park	NPR 3,000 (~$22)	NPR 1,500 (~$11)	Free
Khaptad National Park	NPR 1,500 (~$11)	NPR 1,000 (~$8)	Free

3. Restricted Area Permits (RAP)

Restricted areas are sensitive zones close to border regions or culturally protected areas where a special permit is required. Trekking is only allowed through a registered agency like Actual Adventure.

Major Restricted Trekking Regions and Their Permit Costs:

Region	Permit Cost (Per Person)	Conditions
Upper Mustang	USD 500 for 10 days, then USD 50 per day	Min. 2 trekkers
Manaslu (Jagat – Dharapani)	Sept–Nov: USD 100 for 7 days, USD 15/day after Dec–Aug: USD 75 for 7 days, USD 10/day	Min. 2 trekkers
Tsum Valley	USD 40/week (Sept–Nov), USD 30/week (Dec–Aug)	Min. 2 trekkers
Nar Phu Valley	USD 100/week (Sept–Nov), USD 75/week (Dec–Aug)	Min. 2 trekkers
Upper Dolpo	USD 500 for 10 days, USD 50/day after	Min. 2 trekkers
Lower Dolpo	USD 20/week	-
Humla (Simikot-Yari)	USD 50 for the first 7 days, USD 10/day after	-
Kanchenjunga	USD 20/week for the first 4 weeks	-
Makalu (Kimathanka)	USD 10/week (Makalu-Barun), Restricted Zone extra fee as per route	-

All Restricted Area Permits must be processed through a Nepal Government-authorized trekking company like Actual Adventure Pvt. Ltd.

Entry Points and Permit Offices

Trekkers can obtain their permits from the following official centers or through registered trekking agencies like Actual Adventure for a hassle-free process:

1. Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) – Kathmandu

Address: Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu 44617, Nepal
Phone: +977-1-4256909
Opening Hours: Sunday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

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2. Nepal Tourism Board – Pokhara

Address: Damside Road, Pokhara 33700, Nepal
Phone: +977-61-462742
Opening Hours: Sunday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

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3. Department of Immigration – Kalikasthan, Kathmandu (For Restricted Area Permits)

Address: Kalikasthan, Dillibazar, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Phone: +977-1-4429659 / 4433934
Opening Hours: Sunday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

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4. Trekking Agencies like Actual Adventure Pvt. Ltd.

Address: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Phone: +977-9851012358 (WhatsApp/Viber Available)
Email: actualadventure@gmail.com
Website: www.actual-adventure.com

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5. On-Site Checkpoints (ACAP, Langtang, and Sagarmatha Regions)

ACAP Permit Checkpoint (Besisahar / Nayapul / Ghandruk): Permits can be issued en route in these locations.
Langtang National Park Entry Point (Dhunche / Syabrubesi): Park entry permits available on arrival.
Sagarmatha National Park (Monjo Entry Point): Permits can be purchased at the park entrance gate in Monjo.

It’s still highly recommended to obtain all permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara before heading to remote trailheads to avoid delays.

Required Documents for Trekking Permits

Valid Passport copy
2 Passport-sized photos
Visa copy
Itinerary with route and dates
For Restricted Areas:
- Minimum 2 trekkers
- Licensed guide
- Trekking agency documents (Actual Adventure will handle this)

Essential Information for Trekkers

Always carry original permits during trekking—checkpoints are strict.
No solo trekking allowed in restricted areas and some national parks as of 2023.
Use a licensed guide for restricted areas and suggested for all major treks.
Trekkers must follow local laws and cultural norms.
Drones are banned in most national parks unless pre-approved.
Avoid entering restricted zones without a valid permit—you could be fined or deported.

Why Use a Local Trekking Company Like Actual Adventure?

Whether you're a solo traveler or part of a group, using a local trekking agency ensures:

✅ Fast, legal permit processing
✅ Experienced guides and porters
✅ Route safety and real-time updates
✅ Custom itineraries and local insights
✅ 24/7 support throughout your trek

Actual Adventure Pvt. Ltd. is a trusted, Nepal Government-registered company offering personalized trekking, climbing, and tours in Nepal, especially for FIT trekkers looking for safe and smooth adventures.

Popular Treks Requiring Permits in Nepal

Trekking Route	Required Permits
Everest Base Camp Trek	TIMS Card, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Annapurna Circuit Trek	TIMS Card, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Manaslu Circuit Trek	Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), ACAP
Upper Mustang Trek	Restricted Area Permit (RAP), ACAP
Langtang Valley Trek	TIMS Card, Langtang National Park Entry Permit
Tsum Valley Trek	Restricted Area Permit (RAP), MCAP
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek	Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)
Nar Phu Valley Trek	Restricted Area Permit (RAP), ACAP
Makalu Base Camp Trek	Makalu-Barun National Park Entry Permit, Restricted Area Permit (if entering via Kimathanka)

FAQs – Trekking Permits in Nepal

Q1: Can I get trekking permits on arrival at Kathmandu Airport?

No. Trekking permits in Nepal are not available at Tribhuvan International Airport. You must obtain them from official offices such as the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) in Kathmandu or Pokhara, the Department of Immigration (for restricted areas), or through a registered local trekking agency like Actual Adventure.

Q2: Can I trek without a guide in Nepal?

As of 2024 and continuing into 2025 & 2026, solo trekking is banned in restricted areas such as Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Nar Phu, and Tsum Valley. Solo trekking in national park areas like Annapurna or Everest is also highly discouraged. To comply with the latest Nepal trekking guide regulations, it's best to book through a licensed trekking company like Actual Adventure, which provides registered guides and handles all formalities.

Q3: Are trekking permits refundable?

➡️ No. According to the rules of the Nepal government and the Department of Immigration, all trekking permits are non-refundable and non-transferable once issued, even if your travel plans change or get canceled.

Q4: Can I change my trekking route after getting a permit?

➡️ No. Permits are issued for specific trekking regions. You are allowed to trek only on the route mentioned on your permit. If you wish to change your route (for example, from the Manaslu Circuit to the Annapurna Circuit), you need to apply for a new permit through your trekking agency or the relevant permit authority.

Q5: What permits do I need for the Everest Base Camp trek?

➡️ You need the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and a Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit. A TIMS card is no longer required for EBC. You can obtain these through a licensed trekking agency or at checkpoints in Lukla and Monjo.

Q6: What documents are required for trekking permits?

Generally, you need:
- A valid passport copy
- Passport-size photos (2–4 copies)
- Travel insurance (for some restricted areas)
- Trek itinerary
- Original visa and entry stamp
- Your guide’s details (for restricted areas)
Your trekking agency like Actual Adventure will handle this paperwork for you.

Q7: How long does it take to get a trekking permit?

Most permits are issued within a few hours to one business day if applied through a local trekking agency. For restricted areas, processing may take slightly longer, especially if submitted directly to the Department of Immigration.

Q8: Do I need permits for short treks around Kathmandu or Pokhara?

Yes, even for short treks like Shivapuri, Nagarkot, or Ghorepani-Poon Hill, you need national park or conservation area entry permits such as Shivapuri National Park Permit or ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit). A local agency will advise you on requirements.

Q9: Can foreign citizens apply for a permit directly?

For FITs (Free Individual Trekkers), you can apply for permits directly only for non-restricted areas. However, for restricted trekking regions, you must go through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. It's strongly recommended to use a trusted partner like Actual Adventure to avoid delays or mistakes.

Q10: How much do restricted area permits cost?

Costs vary by region and season. For example:
- Manaslu Permit: USD 100 per person for the first 7 days (Sept–Nov), USD 75 (Dec–Aug)
- Upper Mustang Permit: USD 500 for 10 days
- Kanchenjunga or Nar Phu: USD 90–100 for the first week
These are per person, and overstay fees apply daily.

Plan Your Trek with Confidence

Planning a trek in Nepal? Let Actual Adventure Pvt. Ltd. handle the logistics so you can focus on the mountains. We manage everything from trekking permits to guides, flights, and gear.