Nepal Trekking Permits & Costs: What You Need to Know

Written by: Resh Gurung Published On Feb 16, 2025

{"time":1739715909865,"blocks":[{"id":"hablYwUH7l","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Nepal\noffers some of the most breathtaking trekking routes in the world, from the\nfamous <a href=\"https:\/\/contourexpeditions.com\/tours\/everest-base-camp-trek-14-days\/\">Everest Base Camp<\/a> to the remote trails of <a href=\"https:\/\/contourexpeditions.com\/tours\/upper-mustang-trek-16-day\/\">Upper Mustang<\/a>. Every year thousands of trekkers travel to Nepal to witness and experience\nits diverse\nlandscapes, towering mountains, and rich culture.&nbsp;However, to trek in Nepal, you\nneed to obtain the necessary&nbsp;trekking\npermits, which vary depending on the region. These permits help\nregulate tourism, ensure safety, and contribute to conservation efforts."}},{"id":"MvcUagqRl6","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Below\nis everything you need to know about&nbsp;trekking\npermits in Nepal, their costs, and how to obtain them."}},{"id":"K6B9FLsaUe","type":"header","data":{"text":"Are Trekking Permits\nMandatory?","level":3}},{"id":"aLrB9V0sQt","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Yes,\na trekking permit is required for most trekking regions in Nepal, whether\nyou're traveling solo or in a group. If you're found at a checkpoint without\none, you may face penalties for violating tourism regulations. To avoid any\nissues, make sure to get the necessary permits before starting your trek."}},{"id":"uHRIBO7xYx","type":"header","data":{"text":"What are the risks and consequences of trekking without a permit\nor a guide in Nepal?","level":3}},{"id":"7_tnDH0hGS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Trekking\nin Nepal without a permit or a guide can lead to fines, legal action, or even\ndeportation. Checkpoints along popular routes will deny entry to those without\nproper permits, forcing them to turn back or pay heavy penalties. Since April\n1, 2023, foreign trekkers are required to hire a guide in most regions for\nsafety reasons. Without a guide, the risk of getting lost, facing altitude\nsickness, or struggling in an emergency increases. Trekking without a permit\nalso means authorities have no record of your location, making rescue efforts\ndifficult if needed. To avoid disruptions, penalties, and safety risks, always\nget the required permits and follow regulations."}},{"id":"sX4U9huTqJ","type":"header","data":{"text":"Types of Trekking Permits\nin Nepal","level":3}},{"id":"hLi1NeT1Vl","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Nepal\nhas different trekking permits based on the region you plan to visit. Here\u2019s a\nbreakdown of the main types:"}},{"id":"X2qXOXWE2z","type":"header","data":{"text":"1. TIMS\nCard (Trekkers\u2019 Information Management System):","level":4}},{"id":"gmQoHL13hk","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The\nTIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card is a mandatory permit for\nmost trekking routes in Nepal. It helps authorities manage and track trekkers\nfor safety and regulatory purposes. Issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) or\nregistered trekking agencies, the TIMS Card is required for popular regions\nlike Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang."}},{"id":"c320ATssNp","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"There\nare two types of TIMS Cards: the Green Card for independent trekkers and the\nBlue Card for trekkers with a registered agency. The Green Card is for Free\nIndependent Trekkers (FITs), while the Blue Card is for those trekking in\ngroups with a guide or porter."}},{"id":"QYFBGUTJR9","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The\nTIMS Card helps authorities keep track of trekkers\u2019 locations, ensuring quick\nassistance in emergencies. It\u2019s a key safety measure for remote trekking areas."}},{"id":"NCBFyciNQ2","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"TIMS\nPermit Fees:<\/b>"}},{"id":"neFV7cLJ_1","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Foreigners:\nNRs. 2,000 per person<\/b>"}},{"id":"KTxNY4WXcb","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"SAARC\ncountries: NRs. 1,000 per person<\/b>"}},{"id":"XmGivRyae4","type":"header","data":{"text":"2. Restricted Area Permits\n(RAP)","level":4}},{"id":"koBJAnkLTD","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"In\nNepal, Restricted Area Permits (RAP) are required for trekking in certain\nremote and protected areas. These areas are often secluded, culturally\nsignificant, or ecologically sensitive, which is why the government enforces\nstrict regulations to limit access. Some well-known trekking regions requiring\nRAP include Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpa, Manaslu, and Tsum Valley."}},{"id":"zj6_0qQ9Dy","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"RAPs\nare designed to control tourism, preserve local traditions, and protect the\nenvironment from over-exploitation. They are only issued through authorized\ntrekking agencies, and in most cases, a minimum of two trekkers is required.\nThe cost of the RAP varies depending on the region and duration of the trek."}},{"id":"mwvpeYaUzS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To\napply for a RAP, trekkers need to submit a request through a registered agency,\nwhich handles the paperwork and coordinates with the Department of Immigration.\nIt's important to note that RAPs are typically valid for specific periods and\nmay incur additional daily fees for extended stays. Without the appropriate\nRAP, trekkers will not be allowed to access these restricted areas. Therefore,\nit's essential to secure the necessary permit well in advance to avoid legal\nissues or penalties."}},{"id":"Hf-DeF9V5b","type":"table","data":{"withHeadings":false,"content":[["S.No.<\/b>\n ","Region\/VDCs<\/b>\n ","Permit Fee<\/b>\n "],["1\n ","Upper Mustang<\/b>\n - Lomanthang Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 5)&nbsp;\n - Lo-Ghekar Damodarkunda Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 5)&nbsp;\n - Baragung Muktichetra Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward No. 3 and Satang\n Village of Ward No. 5)\n ","USD 500 per person<\/b>&nbsp;(First 10 days)&nbsp;\n USD 50 per person\/day<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 10 days)\n "],["2\n ","Upper Dolpa<\/b>\n - Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 4 to 6)&nbsp;\n - Shey Phoksundo Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 7)&nbsp;\n - Charka Tangsong Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 6)\n ","USD 500 per person<\/b>&nbsp;(First 10 days)&nbsp;\n USD 50 per person\/day<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 10 days)\n "],["3\n ","Gorkha - Manaslu Area<\/b>\n - Chumnubri Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4)&nbsp;\n \n \n ","September \u2013 November:<\/b>\n USD 100 per person\/week<\/b>\n USD 15 per person\/day<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 1 week)&nbsp;\n December \u2013 August:<\/b>\n USD 75 per person\/week<\/b>\n USD 10 per person\/day<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 1 week)\n "],["4\n ","Humla<\/b>\n - Simikot Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1, 6, and 7)&nbsp;\n - Namkha Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 6)&nbsp;\n - Changkheli Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 3 to 5)\n ","USD 50 per person\/week<\/b>\n USD 10 per person\/day<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 1 week)\n "],["5\n ","Taplejung<\/b>\n - Phantanglung Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 6 and 7)&nbsp;\n - Mikwakhola Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward No. 5)&nbsp;\n - Sirijunga Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward No. 8)\n ","USD 20 per person\/week<\/b>&nbsp;(First 4 weeks)&nbsp;\n USD 25 per person\/week<\/b>(Beyond 4 weeks)\n "],["6\n ","Lower Dolpa<\/b>\n - Thulibheri Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 11)&nbsp;\n - Tripurasundari Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 11)&nbsp;\n - Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 3)&nbsp;\n - Shey Phoksundo Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 8 and 9)&nbsp;\n - Jagdulla Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 6)&nbsp;\n - Mudkechula Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 9)&nbsp;\n - Kaike Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 7)\n ","USD 20 per person\/week<\/b>\n USD 5 per person\/week<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 1 week)\n "],["7\n ","Dolakha<\/b>\n - Gaurishankhar Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward No. 9)&nbsp;\n - Bighu Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward No. 1)\n ","USD 20 per person\/week<\/b>\n "],["8\n ","Gorkha - Tsum Valley Area<\/b>\n - Sirdibas-Lokpa-Chumling-Chekampar-Nile-Chule&nbsp;\n - Chumnubri Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 3, 6, and 7)&nbsp;\n \n \n ","September \u2013 November:<\/b>\n USD 40 per person\/week<\/b>\n USD 7 per person\/day<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 1 week)&nbsp;\n December \u2013 August:<\/b>\n USD 30 per person\/week<\/b>\n USD 7 per person\/day<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 1 week)\n "],["9\n ","Sankhuwasabha<\/b>\n - Bhotkhola Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 5)&nbsp;\n - Makalu Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward No. 4)\n ","USD 20 per person\/week<\/b>&nbsp;(First 4 weeks)&nbsp;\n USD 25 per person\/week<\/b>(Beyond 4 weeks)\n "],["10\n ","Solukhumbu<\/b>\n - Khumbu Pasang Lahmu Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward No. 5)\n ","USD 20 per person\/week<\/b>&nbsp;(First 4 weeks)&nbsp;\n USD 25 per person\/week<\/b>(Beyond 4 weeks)\n "],["11\n ","Rasuwa<\/b>\n - Gosaikunda Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward No. 1 and parts of Ward\n No. 2)\n ","USD 20 per person\/week<\/b>\n "],["12\n ","Manang<\/b>\n - Narpa Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 5)&nbsp;\n - Nasho Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 6 and 7)&nbsp;&nbsp;","September \u2013 November:<\/b>USD 100 per person\/week<\/b>USD 15 per person\/day<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 1 week)&nbsp;&nbsp;December \u2013 August:<\/b>USD 75 per person\/week<\/b>USD 15 per person\/day<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 1 week)"],["13\n ","Bajhang<\/b>\n - Saipal Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 5)\n ","USD 90 per person\/week<\/b>&nbsp;(First week)&nbsp;\n USD 15 per person\/day<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 1 week)\n "],["14\n ","Mugu<\/b>\n - Mugumakarmarong Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward Nos. 1 to 9)\n ","USD 100 per person\/week<\/b>\n USD 15 per person\/day<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 1 week)\n "],["15\n ","Darchula<\/b>\n - Vyas Rural Municipality (All areas of Ward No. 1)\n ","USD 90 per person\/week<\/b>\n USD 15 per person\/day<\/b>&nbsp;(Beyond 1 week)\n "]]}},{"id":"q7ZXmSxn6O","type":"header","data":{"text":"3. National Park &amp;\nConservation Area Permits","level":4}},{"id":"iq9tadudwe","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"In\nNepal, many trekking routes pass through national parks and conservation areas,\nrequiring trekkers to obtain a National Park &amp; Conservation Area Permit.\nThese permits help protect the environment and wildlife while regulating\ntourism in these protected areas. Some of the most popular trekking\ndestinations, such as the Annapurna Conservation Area and Sagarmatha National\nPark (home to Everest), fall under this category."}},{"id":"7rz5wRfG3i","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The\npermit fees for these areas vary depending on the park or conservation area and\nare usually separate from other trekking permits like the TIMS card or\nrestricted area permits. National Park &amp; Conservation Area Permits are\ntypically issued by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation."}},{"id":"5i7bg42BsS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Before\ntrekking in these areas, it\u2019s important to secure the necessary permit to\nensure you\u2019re complying with local regulations. These permits can usually be\nobtained at entry points or through local trekking agencies. Keep in mind that\nthe fees collected go towards the conservation of the region\u2019s natural\nresources, wildlife, and local communities."}},{"id":"TVUnY4XZg-","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"National Parks &amp; Wildlife Reserves<\/b>"}},{"id":"9xGFTtmB5j","type":"table","data":{"withHeadings":false,"content":[["S.N.\n ","National Parks\/ Wildlife Reserves\n ","SAARC (per person\/ per entry)\n ","Foreigners (per person\/ per entry)\n ","Children Discount\n "],["1.\n ","Chitwan National\n Park\n ","NRs.1,000\n ","NRs. 2,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["2.\n ","Sagarmatha National\n Park\n ","NRs. 1,500\n ","NRs. 3,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["3.\n ","Banke National Park\n ","NRs. 750\n ","NRs. 1,500\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["4.\n ","Bardia National\n Park\n ","NRs. 750\n ","NRs. 1,500\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["5.\n ","Khaptad&nbsp;\n National Park\n ","NRs. 500\n ","NRs. 1,500\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["6.\n ","Langtang&nbsp;\n National Park\n ","NRs. 1,500\n ","NRs. 3,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["7.\n ","Makalu-Barun&nbsp;\n National Park\n ","NRs. 1,500\n ","NRs. 3,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["8.\n ","Parsa&nbsp;\n National Park\n ","NRs. 750\n ","NRs. 1,500\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["9.\n ","Rara National Park\n ","NRs. 1,500\n ","NRs. 3,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["10.\n ","Shey-Phoksundo&nbsp;\n National Park\n ","NRs. 1,500\n ","NRs. 3,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["11.\n ","Shivapuri National\n Park\n ","NRs. 600\n ","NRs. 1,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["12.\n ","Shuklaphanta\n National Park\n ","NRs. 750\n ","NRs. 1,500\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["13.\n ","Dhorpatan Hunting\n Reserve\n ","NRs. 1,500\n ","NRs. 3,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["14.\n ","Koshi Tappu\n Wildlife Reserve\n ","Rs. 750\n ","NRs. 1,500\n ","Free Below 10 yrs\n old\n "],["S.N.\n <\/b>","Conservation Area\n <\/b>","SAARC (per person\/ per entry)\n <\/b>","Foreigners (per person\/ per entry)\n <\/b>","Children Discount\n <\/b>"],["1.\n ","Annapurna Conservation Area\n ","NRs.1,000\n ","NRs. 3,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs old\n "],["2.\n ","Api Nampa Conservation Area\n ","NRs. 500\n ","NRs. 2,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs old\n "],["3.\n ","Manaslu Conservation Area\n ","NRs. 1,000\n ","NRs. 3,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs old\n "],["4.\n ","Kanchenjunga Conservation Area\n ","NRs. 500\n ","NRs. 3,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs old\n "],["5.\n ","Black Buck Conservation Area\n ","NRs. 500\n ","NRs. 2,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs old\n "],["6.\n ","Gaurishankar Conservation Area\n ","NRs. 1,000\n ","NRs. 2,000\n ","Free Below 10 yrs old\n "]]}},{"id":"dojknm6SDZ","type":"header","data":{"text":"4. Rural\nMunicipality Trekking Permits","level":4}},{"id":"OrewD5DRrN","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Rural\nMunicipality Trekking Permits are required for trekking in certain rural\nmunicipalities of Nepal, where access to remote areas is strictly regulated to\npreserve local culture and protect natural resources. These permits are\ngenerally needed when trekking in regions that fall under specific rural\nmunicipalities, which may include both popular trekking areas and lesser-known,\noff-the-beaten-path destinations."}},{"id":"gj9J8j0E_2","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The\npermit fees for Rural Municipality Treks vary by region and are typically paid\nin Nepalese Rupees, even though they are often quoted in US Dollars. Fees are\nusually charged on a weekly basis, and additional charges may apply if you trek\nbeyond the allotted time frame. These permits are issued by local government\nbodies and authorized trekking agencies."}},{"id":"k7TX0BEg4-","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"It\u2019s\nimportant to obtain the relevant Rural Municipality Trekking Permit before\nstarting your trek, as trekking without the necessary documentation can result\nin fines or even being turned back at checkpoints. Local trekking agencies can\nassist in applying for these permits, ensuring that all paperwork is completed\ncorrectly."}},{"id":"dXW1F8xwGV","type":"header","data":{"text":"Where\nto Get a Permit?","level":3}},{"id":"sxfYHmL0ih","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"There\nare different places where you can easily obtain the trekking permits in Nepal.\nYou can purchase the entry permits at the entrance for any National Parks.\nHowever, Trekking permits in Nepal are issued by various government and\nauthorized organizations, including:"}},{"id":"Gq_vv7xGfy","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)","items":[]}]}},{"id":"dnQWbiVKec","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN)","items":[]}]}},{"id":"5W_katV01u","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Tourist Service Centre","items":[]}]}},{"id":"Wkq7lio1gr","type":"header","data":{"text":"What you need to apply for Permits","level":3}},{"id":"6s6z2_uw2q","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Passport Copy&nbsp;\u2013 A photocopy of your valid passport.","items":[]}]}},{"id":"xxnF8z-ynR","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Passport-Sized Photos&nbsp;\u2013 Usually, two recent photos.","items":[]}]}},{"id":"jPy1yhD34P","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Trek Details&nbsp;\u2013 Itinerary, entry\/exit points, and emergency contact information.","items":[]}]}},{"id":"ChNyP4o6Y0","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Insurance Details (Recommended)&nbsp;\u2013 Some agencies may require travel insurance details.","items":[]}]}},{"id":"GEAH_kWd7d","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"In\nconclusion, trekking in Nepal provides an unmatched opportunity to explore the\ncountry\u2019s diverse and breathtaking landscapes. From towering mountains to rich\ncultural heritage, every trek offers something unique. However, it\u2019s crucial to\ncomply with the necessary permits and regulations to ensure both your safety\nand the preservation of Nepal\u2019s natural beauty. These permits help maintain the\ndelicate balance between tourism and conservation, protecting the environment\nand local communities. By securing the right permits, trekkers can contribute\nto sustainable tourism and minimize their impact on the regions they explore.\nWhether you're trekking in popular routes or remote areas, understanding and\nfollowing these requirements is vital."}}],"version":"2.30.6"}

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