Understanding Nepal's Trekking Permit System in 2026

Nepal's trekking permit system can seem like a bureaucratic maze, but it's actually straightforward once you understand the layers.

TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)

**Required for**: Almost all treks in Nepal **Cost**: NPR 2,000 (independent) / NPR 1,000 (through agency) **Where to get it**: Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara

The TIMS card is a tracking system that records your entry and exit from trail checkpoints. It's designed to help locate trekkers in emergencies.

National Park / Conservation Area Permits

Each region has its own permit:

| Region | Permit | Cost (Foreign) | |--------|--------|----------------| | Everest | Sagarmatha National Park | NPR 3,000 | | Annapurna | ACAP | NPR 3,000 | | Langtang | Langtang National Park | NPR 3,000 | | Manaslu | MCAP + Restricted Area | NPR 3,000 + $100/week | | Upper Mustang | Restricted Area | $500/10 days | | Dolpo | Restricted Area | $500/10 days |

Restricted Area Permits

Upper Mustang, Dolpo, Manaslu, Kanchenjunga, and some other areas require special restricted area permits. These are more expensive and require: - Minimum 2 trekkers - A licensed guide - Pre-arranged through a registered agency

The 2023 Guide Requirement

As of April 2023, all trekkers must be accompanied by a licensed guide on most major trails. This applies to both individual and group trekkers.

Pro Tips

1. Get all permits before you leave Kathmandu — trail checkpoints WILL ask for them 2. Carry photocopies in case originals get wet 3. Your trekking agency handles everything if you book through one 4. Budget an extra day in Kathmandu for permit processing