Trekking Permits Guide

The TIMS card is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal. It's a safety system that tracks trekkers and provides emergency assistance when needed.

TIMS Card Types:

TIMS Card Costs (2024):

• SAARC Countries: NPR 600 (Free for group trekkers)
• Other Foreigners: NPR 1,200 (Individual), NPR 600 (Group)
• Free TIMS: For SAARC nationals trekking in groups

Where to Get TIMS:

• Nepal Tourism Board: Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu
• Trekking Agencies: Most agencies arrange TIMS
TAAN Office: Maligaon, Kathmandu Regional Offices: Pokhara, Pokhara Tourism Office

Required Documents:

• Passport copy and original
• Passport photos (2 copies)
• Completed application form
• Trekking itinerary

Most popular trekking regions require additional area permits. These fees support conservation and local development.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):

Makalu-Barun National Park Permit:

• Foreigners: NPR 1,500 per person
• SAARC Nationals: NPR 100 per person
• Required for: Makalu Base Camp, Barun Valley

Langtang National Park Permit:

• Foreigners: NPR 3,000 per person
• SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000 per person
• Required for: Langtang Valley, Gosainkunda, Helambu

Sagarmatha National Park Permit:

• Foreigners: NPR 3,460 per person
• SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,150 per person
• Required for: Everest Base Camp, Gokyo, Island Peak

Shivapuri National Park Permit:

• Foreigners: NPR 500 per person
• Nepalese: NPR 50 per person
• Required for: Shivapuri trek, Kathmandu valley rim

Restricted areas require special permits, licensed guides, and sometimes minimum group sizes. These areas are culturally sensitive or border regions.

Upper Mustang Permit:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit:

• September-November: USD 70 per person per week
• December-August: USD 50 per person per week
• Requirements: Minimum 2 trekkers, licensed guide
• Additional: Manaslu Conservation Permit (NPR 2,000)

Dolpo Region Permits:

• Upper Dolpo: USD 500 for 10 days, USD 50 per extra day
• Lower Dolpo: USD 20 per person per week
• Requirements: Licensed guide, minimum group size

Kanchenjunga Restricted Area:

• Cost: USD 20 per person per week
• Requirements: Minimum 2 trekkers, licensed guide
• Additional: Kanchenjunga Conservation Permit (NPR 2,000)

Other Restricted Areas:

• Tsum Valley: USD 40 per person per week
• Nar Phu: USD 90 per person per week
• Humla (Lim Valley): USD 50 per person per week
• Olanchung Gola: USD 20 per person per week

Step-by-Step Process:

Required Documents (All Permits):

• Passport: Original + photocopy
• Photos: 2-4 passport-sized photos
• Application Form: Completed and signed
Itinerary: Detailed trekking plan Visa: Valid Nepal visa

Permit Offices:

• Nepal Tourism Board: Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu
• TAAN Office: Maligaon, Kathmandu
Immigration Office: Kalikasthan, Kathmandu (for restricted areas) Regional Offices: Pokhara, Jiri, Lukla

Permit checkpoints are located at trail entrances and key points. Always carry your permits and show them when requested.

Major Checkpoint Locations:

Checkpoint Procedures:

• Registration: Your details are recorded
• Permit Check: Officials verify permits
Entry Fee: Some locations charge additional fees Exit Record: Register when leaving

Important Notes:

• Always carry original permits (photocopies not accepted)
• Some checkpoints may charge small fees (NPR 100-500)
• Checkpoints may be closed during bad weather
• Keep permits in waterproof bags