Month: May 2025

Nepal’s majestic Himalayas beckon trekkers from around the world, but before you can hit those epic trails, you’ll need to navigate the permit system. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about Nepal trekking permits and fees, region by region, so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

Kathmandu Office	014514568 (LandLine) 9851237317 (WhatsApp) 9801177317 (WhatsApp) 9851237317 (Viber)
Pokhara Office	9801177317 (WhatsApp) 9801177317 (Viber)
Mail us at	hikeontrek@gmail.com
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Why Nepal Requires Trekking Permits

Trekking permits in Nepal serve multiple crucial purposes:

• Fund conservation efforts and environmental protection
• Support local communities and infrastructure
• Maintain trails and safety systems
• Monitor trekker movements for emergency situations
• Preserve Nepal’s natural and cultural heritage

Think of these Nepal trekking fees as your contribution to keeping these magnificent mountains accessible for generations to come.

Essential Permit Types for Nepal Treks

When planning your Nepal trekking adventure, you’ll encounter three main permit categories:

1. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
   Your trekking ID card that helps authorities track your whereabouts for safety reasons.
2. Conservation Area/National Park Entry Permits
   Required for entering protected regions like Annapurna or Sagarmatha National Park.
3. Restricted Area Permits (RAP)
   Special permissions needed for remote, culturally sensitive, or border regions.

Now let’s break down what permits you need for each popular trekking region, along with current costs and requirements.

Related: Different Treks in Nepal

Nepal Trekking Permits by Region

Everest Region (Khumbu, Gokyo, EBC) Permit & Fees

Required Permits:

• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

Current Fees:

• Khumbu Municipality Permit: $20
• Sagarmatha National Park: $30 + 13% VAT = $34

Where to Obtain:

• Khumbu Permit: Lukla or Monjo
• National Park Permit: Monjo checkpoint or Nepal Tourism Board (Kathmandu)

Key Point: Unlike most regions, no TIMS card is required for Everest treks. The remote location and flight requirement to Lukla provides sufficient visitor tracking.

Annapurna Region (ABC, Circuit, Mardi Himal, Poon Hill) Permit & Fees

We need different type of Permits while trekking in Annapurna Region of Nepal. ACAP and TIMS are compulsory permits.

Required Permits:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
• TIMS Card

Current Fees:

• ACAP: $30 + 13% VAT = $34
• TIMS (Independent trekker): $20
• TIMS (With trekking agency): $10

Where to Obtain:

• Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara
• ACAP counters at major trailheads

Insider Tip: Even shorter treks like Poon Hill require both permits. Carry them accessibly as you’ll encounter multiple checkpoints.

Langtang Region (Langtang Valley, Gosainkunda, Helambu) Permit & Fees

Langtang Region also required Langtang National Party Entry Permit and TIMS Card. Both are compulsory permits for trekking in Nepal.

Required Permits:

• Langtang National Park Entry Permit
• TIMS Card

Current Fees:

• Langtang National Park: $30 + 13% VAT = $34
• TIMS: $20 (individual), $10 (with agency)

Where to Obtain:

• Nepal Tourism Board (Kathmandu)
• Park entrance at Dhunche

Regional Highlight: Langtang offers remarkable cultural and natural diversity with fewer crowds than Everest or Annapurna, making your permit fees well worth the investment.

Manaslu Circuit

Required Permits:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Current Fees:

• RAP (Sept–Nov): $100 per person for first 7 days + $15/day after
• RAP (Dec–Aug): $75 for first 7 days + $10/day after
• MCAP: $34
• ACAP: $34

Special Requirements:

• Must trek with a registered trekking agency
• Minimum 2 trekkers required
• Licensed guide mandatory

Important Note: Manaslu permits have stricter requirements due to its remote nature and proximity to the Tibetan border.

Tsum Valley (Manaslu Extension) Trekking Permit & Fees Nepal

Required Permits:

• Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
• ACAP + MCAP permits

Current Fees:

• Tsum Valley RAP (Sept–Nov): $40 per person per week
• Tsum Valley RAP (Dec–Aug): $30 per person per week
• ACAP + MCAP: $34 each

Cultural Significance: Tsum Valley’s additional permit protects its unique Buddhist culture and pristine environmental status.

Upper Mustang Trekking Nepal Permit & Fees

Required Permits:

• Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit
• ACAP

Current Fees:

• RAP: $50 for per day
• Additional days: $50 per day
• ACAP: $34

Requirements:

• Must trek through a registered agency
• Licensed guide required

Worth Noting: The substantial permit cost helps preserve the ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture of this formerly restricted kingdom.

Upper Dolpo Trek Nepal Permit & Fees

Required Permits:

• Restricted Area Permit
• Shey-Phoksundo National Park Permit

Current Fees:

• RAP: $500 for 10 days + $50 per extra day
• National Park Permit: $34

Essential Requirements:

• Trekking agency and guide mandatory
• No independent trekking allowed

Key Highlight: Upper Dolpo’s remoteness and pristine nature justify the higher permit costs, offering a true wilderness experience.

Lower Dolpo Nepal Permit & Fees

Required Permits:

• Restricted Area Permit
• Shey-Phoksundo National Park Permit

Current Fees:

• RAP: $20 per week
• National Park Permit: $34

Access Information: Lower Dolpo offers a more affordable alternative to Upper Dolpo while still requiring guide accompaniment.

Kanchenjunga Region Permit Nepal & Fees

Kanchenjunga Region also need Trekking Permits in Nepal.

Required Permits:

• Restricted Area Permit
• Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)

Current Fees:

• RAP: $20 per week
• KCAP: $34

Trekking Requirements:

• Minimum 2 trekkers
• Licensed guide mandatory

Regional Appeal: Experience the base of the world’s third-highest mountain with fewer trekkers than more popular regions.

Nar Phu Valley Permit in Nepal & Fees

Required Permits:

• Restricted Area Permit
• ACAP

Current Fees:

• RAP (Sept–Nov): $100 per week
• RAP (Dec–Aug): $75 per week
• ACAP: $34

Special Requirements:

• Licensed trekking agency required
• Guide mandatory

Cultural Experience: This recently opened area offers pristine landscapes and medieval Tibetan culture.

Nepal Trekking Fees: Complete Cost Summary (USD)

Region	Required Permits	Total Cost
Everest	Khumbu + Sagarmatha NP	$54
Annapurna	ACAP + TIMS	$54
Langtang	Langtang NP + TIMS	$54
Manaslu	RAP + ACAP + MCAP	$168–$193+
Tsum Valley	RAP + ACAP + MCAP	$98–$108+
Upper Mustang	RAP + ACAP	$534+
Upper Dolpo	RAP + National Park Permit	$534+
Lower Dolpo	RAP + National Park Permit	$54
Kanchenjunga	RAP + KCAP	$54
Nar Phu	RAP + ACAP	$109–$134

Where to Get Nepal Trekking Permits

For Independent Trekkers (Non-Restricted Areas)

Kathmandu:

• Nepal Tourism Board Office
• Location: Pradarshani Marg, near Thamel
• Hours: Sunday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Pokhara:

• Nepal Tourism Board Office
• Location: Damside, Pardi
• Hours: Sunday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

For Restricted Areas

All restricted area permits must be arranged through a registered Nepalese trekking agency authorized by the Department of Immigration. Independent trekking is not permitted in these regions.

Essential Documents for Obtaining Nepal Trekking Permits

• Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your trip
• Passport Photos: At least 4 passport-sized photos
• Visa: Valid Nepal visa
• Permit Fees: Preferably in cash (USD or Nepali Rupees)
• Itinerary: Clear trekking plan with dates

Practical Trekking Permit Tips

1. Plan ahead: Obtain permits at least 2-3 days before your trek begins
2. Keep permits accessible: You’ll need to show them at multiple checkpoints
3. Make copies: Store digital and physical backups separately
4. Non-transferable: Permits cannot be shared or resold
5. Weather considerations: High season permits (especially for restricted areas) may sell out
6. Agency selection: For restricted areas, choose reputable agencies with good reviews

Nepal Trekking Permits FAQ

Can I trek in Nepal without permits?

No. Trekking without proper permits is illegal and carries substantial fines. Checkpoints are common on all major trails.

Do Nepal trekking fees change seasonally?

Restricted area permit fees often have lower rates during off-season (winter and monsoon) months.

Can I get refunds if I cancel my trek?

Unfortunately, most Nepal trekking permits are non-refundable once issued.

How long do permits remain valid?

Validity varies by permit type, from specific entry dates to weekly increments. Confirm details when purchasing.

Can I extend my permits during a trek?

Some permits can be extended at field offices, but it’s safer to secure adequate duration upfront.

Do children need trekking permits?

Yes, though rates may be discounted for children under 12 (verify current policies when purchasing).