TREK PERMIT VS RESTRICARED AREA

A trekking permit is a document issued by the relevant authorities in Nepal that allows trekkers to explore specific regions of the country. It ensures that trekkers are aware of and comply with the local regulations and helps manage the environmental impact of trekking activities.

Restricted Area Permits (RAPs) are required for certain regions of Nepal that are deemed sensitive due to cultural, environmental, or security reasons. These permits are typically more expensive and involve stricter regulations compared to standard trekking permits. Restricted areas often require trekkers to travel with a licensed guide and sometimes in groups of at least two trekkers.

TYPE OF TREKKING PERMIT:

TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card:

1. Required for all trekkers in Nepal.

2. Available in two types:

3. Individual TIMS (for independent trekkers).

4. Group TIMS (for trekkers with an organized group).

NATIONAL PARK ENTRY PERMITS:

1. Required for treks that pass through national parks.

2. Examples: Sagarmatha National Park Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

 RESTRICTED AREA PERMITS:

Required for trekking in restricted areas.

1. Upper Mustang

2. Manaslu Region

3. Upper Dolpo

4. Tsum Valley

5. Issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

6. Usually require trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed guide and sometimes to be in a group.

How to Obtain Permits:

1. TIMS Card:

• Available from the offices of the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu and Pokhara or from authorized trekking agencies.

National Park Entry Permits:

• Available at the entry points of the respective parks or from the Nepal Tourism Board.

Restricted Area Permits:

1. Can be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.

2. Requires additional documentation such as a valid visa, passport-sized photos, and a detailed itinerary.

Costs:

TIMS Card:

1. Individual TIMS: Approximately USD 20.

2. Group TIMS: Approximately USD 10.

National Park Entry Permits:

1. Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Approximately USD 30.

2. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit: Approximately USD 20.

Restricted Area Permits:

1. Upper Mustang: Approximately USD 500 for 10 days, and USD 50 for each additional day.

2. Manaslu: Approximately USD 100 for the first week, USD 15 for each additional day in September to November; USD 75 for the first week, and USD 10 for each additional day in December to August.

Important Notes

1. Permit fees and regulations can change, so it’s important to check the latest information before planning your trek.

2. Restricted Area Permits require you to trek with a registered guide and sometimes in a group of at least two trekkers.

3. Always carry your permits with you while trekking, as there are frequent permit checks along the trails.