Nepal Trekking Permits Explained: TIMS, National Parks & Restricted Areas

Nepal trekking permits are the most confusing part of planning a Himalayan trek. There is no single “trekking permit”; instead, you need a TIMS card plus one or more National Park / Conservation Area permits, and an additional Restricted Area permit for Manaslu, Mustang, Dolpo, Nar-Phu, Kanchenjunga, and Tsum Valley. This guide explains every permit, the 2026 fees, where to get them, and how to avoid the most expensive mistakes.

TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

The TIMS card is the universal trekking permit required for every trekker in Nepal except those entering restricted areas with an organized group. It is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board and TAAN (Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal). There are two types: the Individual TIMS (USD 20) for solo or independent trekkers, and the Group TIMS (USD 10 per person) for trekkers booked through a registered agency.

Since April 2023, the Nepal government requires every trekker to be accompanied by a licensed guide, which effectively makes the Group TIMS the standard. If you book through Trek Pathways, your TIMS card is included in the package. If you trek independently (still possible in some regions), you must show your TIMS card at every checkpoint along the trail.

National Park and Conservation Area Permits

On top of TIMS, you need an entry permit for the national park or conservation area your trek passes through. These fees go directly to park management and conservation. The most common permits are Sagarmatha National Park (USD 30) for Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Conservation Area (USD 30) for Annapurna Circuit and ABC, Langtang National Park (USD 30) for Langtang Valley, and Manaslu Conservation Area (USD 30) on top of the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit.

Restricted Area Permits (RAP) Explained

Restricted Area Permits are required for areas close to Tibet or sensitive border zones. They are expensive, must be arranged through a registered trekking agency, and require a minimum group size of two trekkers. You cannot trek a restricted area independently. The most popular restricted-area treks and their 2026 permit fees are:

For Manaslu, the total permit cost for a 14-day trek in October is USD 100 (first week) + USD 105 (7 extra days at USD 15) = USD 205 per person. Add USD 30 for Manaslu Conservation Area = USD 235 in permits alone. For our complete Manaslu breakdown, see the Manaslu Circuit Trek package.

Where and How to Get Nepal Trekking Permits

• TIMS card: Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or through your trekking agency.
• Sagarmatha National Park: At the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu, or at the park entrance in Monjo (on the trail).
• Annapurna Conservation Area: ACAP office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or at the trail entrance in Besisahar.
• Restricted Area Permits: Only through a registered trekking agency. You cannot buy these independently.
• Bring: Passport + visa stamp, 4 passport photos, USD cash or NPR equivalent.

Most agencies include all permits in their package price. If you trek independently (only possible in non-restricted areas with a licensed guide), expect to spend half a day in Kathmandu collecting permits. Plan to start the permit process at least 1 day before your flight to Lukla or bus to Besisahar. See our trek planning timeline for the full schedule.

Common Permit Mistakes to Avoid

The biggest mistake trekkers make is assuming their visa covers permits. It does not. The visa lets you enter Nepal; permits let you trek. The second mistake is trying to enter Manaslu, Mustang, or Tsum Valley without a Restricted Area Permit, which results in being turned back at the checkpoint and forfeiting your entire trek. The third is paying inflated permit prices to scammers in Thamel; only buy permits from the Nepal Tourism Board or a registered agency. Read our trekking scams guide for the full list.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I trek in Nepal without a permit?

No. Every trek in Nepal requires at least a TIMS card and a National Park or Conservation Area permit. Restricted areas like Manaslu, Mustang, and Dolpo require an additional Restricted Area Permit. Trekking without permits can result in fines of USD 200-500 and being sent back from the trail.

Are permits included in trekking packages?

Yes, most packages from registered agencies like Trek Pathways include all required permits in the quoted price. Always confirm with your agency what is included. TIMS, national park fees, and restricted-area permits should be listed as line items in your contract.

Can I get my permit fees refunded if I cancel?

Generally no. TIMS cards and national park permits are non-refundable once issued. Restricted Area Permits may be partially refundable if cancelled before submission to immigration, but once approved, the fee is gone. Travel insurance with trek cancellation coverage is your best protection.

Do I need different permits for different regions of Nepal?

Yes. Each region has its own national park or conservation area permit. If you trek Manaslu then cross into Annapurna via the Larke Pass, you need a Manaslu RAP, a Manaslu Conservation Area permit, and an Annapurna Conservation Area permit. Our Manaslu-Annapurna combined trek handles all of this for you.

Skip the permit-office queues and let Trek Pathways arrange every permit for your trek. Browse our Manaslu Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, or Upper Dolpo Trek packages for a fully-permitted, hassle-free Himalayan adventure.