Nepal Trekking Permits Explained: TIMS, ACAP, National Park and Restricted Areas
Every trekker in Nepal needs one or more permits, but the rules change from region to region, and they have been updated several times in recent years. This guide explains the main permits in plain language so you know what to expect before you book. As a Kathmandu-based company, we arrange all of them for our guests.
Important: fees and rules are set by the Nepali authorities and can change without notice. The amounts below are typical figures, so always confirm the current price with us or with the Nepal Tourism Board before you travel.
The three kinds of permit
| Permit | What it is for | Typical fee |
|---|---|---|
| TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) | Registers you with the tourism authorities so you can be found in an emergency | About NPR 1,000 through an agency, NPR 2,000 independently (where it is issued) |
| National park or conservation area permit | Pays for the protected area you walk in, such as Sagarmatha, Langtang or Annapurna | Usually about NPR 3,000 per person, and higher at a check post |
| Restricted area permit | Needed for sensitive border regions such as Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Tsum Valley, Upper Dolpo and Kanchenjunga | Priced per week or per days, and much higher than a standard permit |
Permits for popular treks
Everest region
For the Everest Base Camp trek you need a Sagarmatha National Park permit and a local municipality permit (Khumbu Pasang Lhamu). Both are bought in Kathmandu or at the entrance in Monjo. We arrange them before you start.
Annapurna region
Treks like the Annapurna Base Camp trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Buy it in advance in Kathmandu or Pokhara, because it costs more at a check post.
Langtang region
The Langtang Valley trek needs a Langtang National Park permit and a TIMS card.
Restricted areas: Manaslu and Upper Mustang
The Manaslu Circuit, Tsum Valley and Upper Mustang are restricted areas. In general you must trek with a licensed guide through a registered agency, in a group of at least two, and you cannot buy the permit yourself at the trailhead. These permits are issued in Kathmandu only, so plan a day or two for paperwork. Fees depend on the season and the number of days, so ask us for the current price.
What you need to bring
- Your passport, with at least six months of validity.
- Two or more passport-size photos.
- A copy of your Nepal visa.
- Your travel insurance details, including emergency contact numbers.
Do I need to arrange permits myself?
No. If you book with a local trekking company, we handle permits, TIMS and restricted area applications for you. You only need to send us your passport copy and dates in advance. Permit fees are either included in the package price or confirmed to you in writing, so you never pay a surprise at a check post.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Buying an ACAP at the check post. It costs more than buying it in advance.
- Trekking a restricted area without a registered guide. This is not allowed, and trekkers can be turned back.
- Arriving without insurance. It is not a permit, but good agencies and lodges will ask for it.
- Losing the permit slips. Check posts ask for them several times, so keep them dry and handy.
Frequently asked questions
Can I trek in Nepal without a permit?
No. Walking in a national park, conservation area or restricted area without the right permit can lead to fines.
How early should I apply for permits?
For standard treks, one or two days before the start is enough. For restricted areas, send your documents at least a week ahead.
Are permit fees included in your trek price?
The package page of each trek tells you what is arranged for you, and we confirm any remaining fees in writing before you pay.
Not sure which permits your trek needs? See all our treks or message us on WhatsApp, and we will check for you.
Related guides
- Annapurna Circuit trek guide 2027
- Manaslu Circuit trek guide
- Everest Base Camp trek guide 2027
- Langtang Valley trek guide 2027
- Upper Mustang trek guide 2027
- Gokyo Lakes trek guide 2027
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