Nepal’s trekking permit system protects national parks, restricted-area cultures and trekkers themselves. The system is layered — one permit for the national park or conservation area, another for restricted regions, and a trekkers’ information system card — and the rules and fees are updated periodically by the Nepal government.
This article is a practical overview from a Kathmandu-based team. It is for travellers planning a Nepal trek and trying to understand what permits cost and what they cover. Always confirm current rates at the time of booking; Eco Holiday Asia checks the latest requirements before each departure.
The Three Main Permit Categories
Most Nepal treks need one or two of the following:
- National park or conservation area entry permit — Sagarmatha (Everest), Annapurna (ACAP), Langtang, Manaslu (MCAP), Shey Phoksundo (Dolpo), Makalu-Barun, Khaptad and others.
- Restricted area permit (RAP) — for Upper Mustang, Manaslu, Tsum Valley, Upper Dolpo, Kanchenjunga, Humla, Nar Phu Valley and some far-west regions.
- TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) — required on most teahouse treks. Issued by Nepal Tourism Board / TAAN.
How Fees Are Set
National park and conservation area fees are typically the same for all foreign trekkers. Restricted area fees are usually higher and are charged per person per day or per week, with separate higher rates for the most sensitive regions (Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpo). Permit fees are revised from time to time by the Department of Immigration, the Nepal Tourism Board and relevant authorities.
Important. Permit rules and fees may change. We do not publish a fixed price table on this page because rates and conditions are revised periodically. Eco Holiday Asia verifies the latest requirements with the Department of Immigration and relevant authorities before confirming each trip.
How Eco Holiday Asia Handles Permits
For every trek we operate, our Kathmandu team applies for the permits on your behalf and includes the cost in the trip quote. You provide passport copies, a clear arrival plan and any additional documents the route needs. We share an exact paperwork timeline at the time of booking.
Restricted Areas: A Closer Look
Restricted regions need a special permit and a licensed Nepali guide through a registered agency. They also typically need a minimum of two trekkers in the group. The current restricted regions include:
- Upper Mustang (Lo Manthang)
- Manaslu and Tsum Valley
- Upper Dolpo
- Kanchenjunga north and south
- Humla and Limi Valley
- Nar Phu Valley
- Some far-west areas including parts of Saipal and Api
If you are planning a trip to any of these, please plan ahead. Permit issuance, document checks and small-group requirements all benefit from time.
What to Bring for Permit Paperwork
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
- Several passport-size photos (we will tell you exactly how many).
- Travel insurance details covering trekking up to the maximum altitude on your route.
- Confirmed travel dates and a clear arrival plan in Kathmandu.
Further Reading
- Trekking in Nepal — an overview of regions and styles.
- Restricted Area Trekking in Nepal — permit-dependent journeys explained.
- Community-Based Tourism in Nepal — community-led trekking.
Plan Your Nepal Trek
Tell us where you want to walk and when. We confirm the current permit setup and design a private trek with licensed local guides.
