Trekking Permit in Nepal | The Complete Guide For Travelers

​Why Trekking Permits Are Mandatory in Nepal

Trekking permits are your ticket to wild trails, keeping nature safe, and epic adventures.

Here in Nepal, trekking permits are not just formalities- they play an important role in ensuring the stability of security, organizational, and draft activities in remote and protected areas of the country.

Why Does It Matter

A trekking permit serves many purposes:

• Security: Authorities can monitor trekkers when it comes to emergencies.

• Environmental Protection: Permit fees contribute to conservation, maintenance of trails, and waste management in national parks and protected areas.

• Cultural Sensitivity: They help to manage the foot traffic in culturally sensitive and limited areas like Upper Mustang and Dolpo.

• Regulation: Permits help the government regulate tourism and limit access to high-risk or remote areas.

Consequences Of Trekking Without Permits

Before you embark on any journey, understand that trekking without a permit is strictly prohibited by Nepal’s trekking authority.

It may lead to:

• A fine and penalties are issued by the Department of Immigration or Local Outposts in Nepal.

• Immediate removal from trails.

• Legal punishments, especially if found trekking in protected or restricted areas.

• Insurance problems.

Hence, trekking permits are mandatory for your own safety and legal compliance. So, never hike out without these.

Types Of Trekking Permits In Nepal

Trekking permits are of various types and can be multiple according to the particular route you’ve selected.

So, to trek legally and responsibly, you must get the correct permits based on your preferred route.

Just remember, these permits are designed not only to ensure safety and regulation, but also to support conservation efforts and communities.

Below are the main types of the required trekking permits in Nepal:

TIMS Card

The TIMS card is a basic permit for trekking in general areas of Nepal, mainly aimed at maintaining the database of hikers to help in search, rescue, and safety efforts.

Who needs it? All foreign trekkers heading to standard (non-restricted) trails such as the Annapurna trek, EBC trek, Langtang trek, and Helambu trek.

Why is it important? - This helps the authorities trace hikers for safety and aids the evacuation if necessary.

Validity: Assessed for individual use and valid till the duration of the Trek.

Note* Now it is not compulsion for the trekkers.

Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

Some regions of Nepal are designated as restricted areas due to international boundaries, sensitive cultural heritage, or fragile ecosystems. Trekkers must receive a special permit to reach these areas.

• ​Upper Mustang trek​

• Upper Dolpo

• ​Manaslu Circuit (between Jagat and Dharapani)

• Nar Phu Valley

• Tsum Valley

• Humla (Limi Valley and others)

Main Conditions:

• Trekkers should be in a group of at least two.

• Permits can only be obtained through a government-registered trekking agency.

• You should be with a licensed guide.

What Documents are needed?

• Valid passports

• Itinerary

• Passport-sized photos

• Visa details

• Details about the agency.

National Park Permit

There are many national parks in Nepal that require an entry permit if your trip goes through them.

Popular National Park with permit requirements:

• Sagarmatha National Park (Everest area)

• Langtang National Park

• Rara National Park

• Makalu Barun National Park

• Shey Phoksundo National Park (Dolpo Area)

Where to get it? - You can simply get it at the entry point of the National Park.

Why is it necessary? - The permit fees are necessary as they contribute to conservation efforts, preservation of biodiversity, and maintenance of the trail.

Conservation Area Permit (CAP)

Conservation areas in Nepal are preserved for their rich biological diversity, cultural heritage, and gentle environment. A permit (CAP)is required to enter these areas.

Main Conversation Areas:

• Annapurna Conservation Area

• Manaslu Conservation Area

• Gaurishankar Conservation Area

• Kanchenjunga conservation area

• Makalu-Barun Buffer zone

Where to go? - Trekking Agencies, Nepal Tourism Board (Kathmandu or Pokhara), or the entrance point.

Note: The money goes directly to maintain the protected area, promote local employment, and preserve flora, fauna, and local culture.

Rural Municipal Permit

Many rural municipalities in Nepal have introduced their own entry permits to support infrastructure and local services, especially in remote areas with high tourism.

Notable examples- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality (Everest Area)

Why crucial? - Funds are used for local development, maintenance of the trail, waste management, and tourism infrastructure.

Where can you get it from? - Entry checkpoint in respective rural areas

Please note: This is another fee and should be paid in addition to TIMS and national park permits.

How To Apply For Trekking Permits In Nepal

In 2026, obtaining a trekking permit has become much easier and more convenient due to digitalization and the support of trekking agencies.

Here’s detailed information to get your trekking permit, despite your selection being Everest, Manaslu, Mustang, or any other region of Nepal.

Online Application Process (Digital Update in 2025)

By 2025, most trekking permits in Nepal can now be gained online through official portals:

• E-TIMS CARD: Apply through the NTB's E-TIMS portal

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Simply issued through registered trekking agencies

• National Park and Conservation Authority: Often arranged by your trekking agency, or can be collected at the entrance points (Depending on the Area)

Tip: For a smooth experience, apply at least 3-5 days before the trip starts.

Documents Require

To apply for any trekking permit, you need the following:

• A valid passport (with a validity of at least 6 months)

• Passport-sized Photo

• Travel Itinerary

• Details of a licensed guide or trekking agency (compulsory in most areas)

• For restricted permits, a copy of your Visa and group trekking plan.

Pro Tip: Always take some extra passport-sized photos during the trip - you may need them for check-posts or unexpected permit issues.

Note: In restricted areas, permits are issued only through licensed agencies registered with the government of Nepal. Guides are compulsory in all such areas, and now, in accordance with 2023-2025 regulations, they are strongly recommended for all major trekking routes.

Agencies Help

• Correcting the documents to ensure that the trek is smooth and safe.

• Navigating the changed rules

• Applying for more permits at a time

Pro tip: Trekking with a licensed guide not only helps you be protected, but also improves your cultural and environmental understanding of the region.

Where You Can Get a Trekking Permit

You can get your trekking permit at the following authorized locations:

• Nepal Tourism Board (NTB): Kathmandu and Pokhara Office

• Immigration Department: Kathmandu (for restricted permits)

• Checkpoint: Like Monjo (Everest), or on the way to Syabrubesi (Langtang)

Note: When you are travelling with Everest Thrill, everything is usually taken care of, and you are fully allowed to focus on the trip.

Recent Changes In Nepal's Trekking Permit System (2025 Update)

Nepal has updated its trekking policy system to improve safety, stability, and convenience.

• E-TIMS Digitalization: Traditional TIMS cards are now completely digital. Trekkers must register online before they start the trip, which speeds up the process and improves the experience.

• Solo trekking Limitations: Solo trekking is no longer allowed in many popular trekking areas such as Manaslu and Mustang. Trekkers must be in a group or with licensed guides to obtain permits.

• Changed Permit Fee: The fee for restricted areas and protection permits is updated to provide better support for local communities and conservation efforts.

• Stricter law Enforcement: Authorities are responsible for frequent checks of trekking permits at checkpoints. The trek can potentially lead to a penalty or be sent back if found without permits.

• Practice of Sustainable Tourism: Permit fees now contribute directly to environmentally friendly initiatives, including waste management and protection of local culture and wildlife.

Getting updated about these changes ensures secure and more responsible trekking, and benefits Nepal's rural zones and communities.

Trekking Permit Cost Overview (2026)

Understanding the trekking fee helps you to improve your adventure.

Here is a clear estimation of the specific costs you will encounter in 2025:

TIMS / E-TIMS Card Fee

Individual Trekkers: Around $ 20

Group Trekkers: Per person around $ 10

Cost is different for SARRC Nationalities

This permit is important for the most popular trekking destinations, such as Annapurna and Langtang. Now it is not compulsion for the trekkers.

Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

As mentioned before, these permits are used in special areas such as Upper Mustang, Manaslu, and Kanchanjunga.

The cost varies widely from $ 50 to $ 500, depending on the trekking trail and season. If you are planning the Manaslu route, you can see our full guide to all Manaslu permit requirements.

National Park Permit Fee

If your trip goes through national parks (e.g., Sagarmatha National Park in the Everest region), you must pay the entry fee.

Fee: $ 30- $ 50.

Conservation Area Permit Fee

For Trekking in conservation areas such as the Annapurna Conservation Area, fees are usually around $ 20- $ 30.

Other Costs to Consider

Guide and Porter: These are additional costs charged for licensed guides and porters.

Local tax: Some areas take small local taxes or fees at entry points.

Tip: The Permit fee can be changed. Always contact your agency or official sources before you arrive.

Tips For Trekkers Regarding Permits

It can be difficult to navigate the trekking permits, but these practical tips will help you avoid regular problems and ensure a smooth trek:

Search Early and use Licensed Agencies

Start your permits application at least a week before your trip, and always work with licensed trekking agencies - they know the rules and can help avoid delays.

Carry all Necessary Documents

Keep your permit, passport, visa, and passport-sized photos throughout the trip. The authorities can check several times.

Respect Solo Trekking Rules

Solo trekking is prohibited in many regions. Always trip with a licensed guide or in a group to avoid fines or denied access.

Extend Permits if the Trip is Longer

If your walk is delayed, visit the nearest tourism office to renew or expand your permits legally.

Avoid Fake Permits

Only get permits from official government offices or authorized agencies. Using fake ones can be risky.

Keep More copies of Your Permit

Carry both digital and printed copies of the permit, passport, and visa. Sometimes, at the remote check-posts, carrying the printed copies may be helpful when the mobile signals are weak.