Trekking and Climbing Permits in Nepal
Nepal is a premier destination for trekkers and climbers, offering some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and high-altitude adventures. However, navigating the permit system is crucial to ensure a smooth journey while adhering to local regulations. This guide provides the latest permit fees, requirements, and official sources for trekking and climbing across Nepal.
1. Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
The TIMS card is mandatory for trekkers to ensure their safety, security, and proper tracking by authorities.
Types and Costs (as of 2025):
Organized Trekkers (through a registered agency): NPR 2,000 per person.
Free Individual Trekkers (FITs): NPR 4,000 per person.
SAARC Nationals:
Group Trekkers: NPR 1,000 per person.
FITs: NPR 2,000 per person.
Where to Obtain:
Kathmandu: Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Office, Bhrikutimandap; Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) Office, Maligaon.
Pokhara: NTB Regional Office.
Requirements: A copy of your passport and two passport-sized photographs.
2. National Park and Conservation Area Permits
Several trekking routes require conservation area or national park permits. The revenue from these permits supports conservation efforts and local communities.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
Foreign Nationals: NPR 5,000 per person.
SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000 per person.
Applicable Treks: Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, Poon Hill, Mardi Himal.
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit:
Foreign Nationals: NPR 5,000 per person.
Applicable Treks: Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes.
Langtang National Park Entry Permit:
Foreign Nationals: NPR 5,000 per person.
Applicable Treks: Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, Helambu.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP):
Foreign Nationals: NPR 5,000 per person.
Applicable Treks: Manaslu Circuit, Tsum Valley.
Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit:
Foreign Nationals: NPR 5,000 per person.
Applicable Treks: Makalu Base Camp.
Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit:
Foreign Nationals: NPR 5,000 per person.
Applicable Treks: Upper & Lower Dolpo.
Permits can be obtained at Nepal Tourism Board offices or respective park entry points.
3. Restricted Area Permits (RAPs)
Certain regions require Restricted Area Permits due to cultural and environmental significance. These permits are issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.
Updated Costs (2025):
Upper Mustang: USD 500 per person for the first 10 days; USD 50 per additional day.
Manaslu Region:
September to November: USD 100 per person per week.
December to August: USD 75 per person per week.
Tsum Valley:
September to November: USD 50 per person per week.
December to August: USD 40 per person per week.
Upper Dolpo: USD 500 per person for the first 10 days; USD 50 per additional day.
Nar Phu Valley:
September to November: USD 100 per person per week.
December to August: USD 75 per person per week.
Trekking in these areas requires a licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers.
4. Rural Municipality Fees
Some local municipalities impose additional entry fees to support infrastructure development.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu (Everest Region): NPR 3,000 per person.
Annapurna Rural Municipality: NPR 1,500 per person.
Fees are collected at entry checkpoints.
5. Peak Climbing Permits
For trekking peaks below 7,000 meters, climbers require a permit from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA).
Group A Peaks:
Examples: Island Peak (6,189m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Kusum Kanguru (6,367m).
Permit Fees:
Spring: USD 400 per person.
Autumn: USD 200 per person.
Winter/Summer: USD 100 per person.
Group B Peaks:
Examples: Lobuche East (6,119m), Mardi Himal (5,587m), Yala Peak (5,732m).
Permit Fees:
Spring: USD 250 per person.
Autumn: USD 125 per person.
Winter/Summer: USD 75 per person.
A refundable garbage deposit of USD 500 is required for all peaks.
6. Climbing Permits for Peaks Above 7,000 Meters
For expeditions targeting peaks above 7,000 meters, permits must be obtained from the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA).
Updated Everest Permit Fees (2025):
Spring: USD 15,000 per person.
Autumn: USD 7,500 per person.
Winter/Summer: USD 3,750 per person.
Other 8,000m+ Peaks:
Spring: USD 2,000 per person.
Autumn: USD 1,000 per person.
Winter/Summer: USD 500 per person.
7. Important Considerations
Guide Requirement: Restricted areas and climbing peaks mandate a licensed guide.
Insurance: Ensure you and your support team (guides, porters) have adequate insurance for high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
Environmental Responsibility: Follow Leave No Trace principles. Failing to adhere can result in fines and loss of garbage deposits.
Official Sources:
Nepal Tourism Board: www.welcomenepal.com
Nepal Mountaineering Association: www.nepalmountaineering.org
Department of Immigration: www.nepalimmigration.gov.np
Ministry of Tourism: www.tourism.gov.np
By securing the necessary permits and adhering to regulations, trekkers and climbers can embark on a safe and unforgettable journey while contributing to Nepal’s conservation efforts.
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Categories: Nepal Trekking, Climbing in Nepal, Travel Permits
Tags: Nepal trekking permits, climbing permits Nepal, TIMS card, Annapurna permit, Everest permit, Manaslu permit, restricted area permit Nepal
