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Planning a trek in Nepal in 2025? Whether you’re aiming for Everest Base Camp, circling the Annapurna Circuit or venturing through the Manaslu region, securing the right permits is your first essential step. This guide explains what permits you need, how much they cost, where to apply, and everything in between—so you can focus on the mountains, not the paperwork.
Why Permits Matter
Permits are much more than bureaucratic hurdles. The fees you pay fund conservation efforts, trail maintenance and local community projects, ensuring that Nepal’s fragile ecosystems remain protected. When you obtain official permits, you also gain access to up-to-date safety information and maps, and you travel legally—avoiding fines or having to turn back at checkpoints. By purchasing the correct permits, you directly support village economies and fair porter wages, too.
Types of Trekking Permits in Nepal
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
Every independent trekker in Nepal must carry a TIMS card. In 2025, an individual (green card) costs USD 20, while groups of two or more travel on the blue group card at USD 10 per person. This permit allows unlimited entry and exit across all trekking regions. You can obtain your TIMS online through the Nepal Tourism Board’s e-permit portal or in person at their Thamel office in Kathmandu. Most cards are issued within 24 hours.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
If your itinerary includes Annapurna Base Camp, the full circuit or any trails inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, you must have an ACAP. The National Trust for Nature Conservation issues this permit for NPR 3,000 (about USD 25), valid for up to one month. Should your trek extend beyond that, you can renew the permit at an ACAP office along the trail.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
For Manaslu Circuit, the Tsum Valley or any routes within the Manaslu Conservation Area, a separate MCAP is mandatory. Standard fees are USD 70 per person for stays up to 15 days, but from December through February rates drop to USD 50. If you need extra days, local offices can extend the permit on request.
Restricted Area Permits (RAP)
Certain regions—such as the inner Manaslu region, Upper Mustang, Dolpo and Kanchenjunga—require additional Restricted Area Permits. These fees are strictly non-refundable:
- In the Manaslu Restricted Zone, permits cost USD 70 for the first eight days, plus USD 10 for each additional day, with a 50 percent discount in the winter months (December–February).
- Upper Mustang permits run USD 500 for up to ten days, then USD 50 per extra day; between December and March the fee is reduced to USD 250.
- The Dolpo region permit is USD 150 for the first fifteen days and USD 10 per extra day, with no seasonal variation.
- Kanchenjunga requires a minimum five-week permit at USD 20 per day (minimum USD 500), with no option for single-day extensions.
How to Apply for Your Permits
First, gather a copy of your passport’s bio page, a valid Nepal visa and two passport-size photographs (or digital uploads if you apply online). You may then choose between two methods:
- Online Application
Visit the Nepal Tourism Board’s e-permit portal, upload your documents, pay by credit card or bank transfer, and download the approved permits—usually within 24 hours. - In-Person Application
Go to the NTNC (for ACAP/MCAP/RAP) or NTB (for TIMS) office in Thamel, Kathmandu. You can pay by cash (NPR or USD) or card. Express processing is available at most offices for an extra NPR 1,000.
Always print a hard copy of each permit; digital versions alone are rarely accepted on the trail.
Best Time to Secure Permits
During peak trekking seasons (March–May and September–November), it’s wise to apply 4–6 weeks in advance. In the off-season (December–February, June–August), one to two weeks’ notice is usually sufficient. If you’re traveling with a group of six or more, allow at least two months to process all applications.
Extensions & Refunds
Should you overstay your permit, visit the nearest Conservation Area office at least 48 hours before expiry to extend on a pro-rata fee basis. Note that no permit fees are refundable, regardless of cancellations or abbreviated treks. If paperwork isn’t your priority, your trekking operator can handle all applications and extensions on your behalf.
Environmental & Safety Guidelines
Above 4,000 meters, refuse bins are rare—carry out any non-biodegradable waste to leave no trace. Porter rates and insurance standards have been set by the NTNC; always respect these guidelines and insure yourself separately for high-altitude helicopter evacuation, as permits do not cover rescue costs.
Download Your Free Permit Checklist
For a printable overview of document templates, fee tables and office addresses, download our free PDF permit checklist here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do solo trekkers pay more for a TIMS card?
Yes. Independent trekkers pay USD 20 for a green TIMS card, whereas group cards are USD 10 per person.
Can I switch my Conservation Area permit mid-trek?
No. Each permit is valid only within its designated region, so plan your itinerary and permits accordingly.
What if I lose my permit copy on the trail?
You must obtain a replacement at the next checkpoint or Conservation Area office, so always carry backup copies.
Are there discounts for students or seniors?
Permit fees are standardized for all trekkers; no demographic discounts apply.
Prepared by Manaslu Circuit Treks—your trusted Nepal trekking partner since 2010.
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