Nepal Trekking Permits Explained: TIMS, NP Fees & Restricted Areas

A clear breakdown of every trekking permit you need in Nepal — TIMS cards, national park fees, conservation area permits, and restricted area permits with costs and where to get them.

Overview

Nepal's permit system can be confusing. This guide explains every permit type, where to get them, and how much they cost.

TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)

Required for: Almost all treks in Nepal

Cost:

Free for organized groups (through registered agency)
NPR 2,000 (~$15) for FIT (Free Independent Trekkers)

Where to get it: Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara

What you need: Passport, 2 photos, trek itinerary, travel insurance details

National Park & Conservation Area Permits

Area	Fee (foreigners)	Fee (SAARC)
Sagarmatha (Everest) NP	NPR 3,000	NPR 1,500
Annapurna Conservation Area	NPR 3,000	NPR 200
Langtang NP	NPR 3,000	NPR 1,500
Makalu Barun NP	NPR 3,000	NPR 1,500
Manaslu Conservation Area	$100/week (Sep–Nov), $75/week (Dec–Aug)	—

Restricted Area Permits

Some regions require special permits due to their proximity to borders or cultural sensitivity.

Upper Mustang

Cost: $500 for the first 10 days, $50/day after
Minimum group: 2 trekkers with a registered agency
Season: Best in monsoon (rain shadow area)

Dolpo

Upper Dolpo: $500 for 10 days
Lower Dolpo: $20/week
Minimum group: 2 trekkers with a registered agency

How to Get Permits

Through a trekking agency (easiest) — they handle everything
In person in Kathmandu — Nepal Tourism Board, Bhrikutimandap
In person in Pokhara — Nepal Tourism Board, Damside
Online — Some permits available via the NTB website (still being expanded)

Tips

Carry photocopies of all permits — checkpoints may keep a copy
Permits are checked at multiple points along all major treks
Guides and porters need their own credentials but not tourist permits
Budget $30–50 per trek for standard permits, more for restricted areas