Nepal Trekking Permits 2026: Costs, Rules and What’s Changed
Every trek in Nepal requires at least one permit. Standard routes like EBC and Annapurna cost USD 22 to 44 in permits. Restricted area treks like Manaslu and Upper Mustang cost USD 152 to 522 or more. A licensed guide is mandatory on all major routes since 2023.
All permits are included in MountainKick packages. This guide is for reference when comparing total costs across operators.
- TIMS card: No longer enforced in Everest and Annapurna regions. Still required in Langtang, Manaslu, and far western Nepal.
- Licensed guide: Mandatory on all major trekking routes since April 2023. Enforced at permit checkpoints.
- ACAP permit (Annapurna): NPR 3,000, approximately USD 22. Only permit actively checked on Annapurna trails.
- Sagarmatha NP permit (EBC): NPR 3,000, approximately USD 22. Plus Khumbu municipality fee USD 15 to 22.
- Restricted area permits: Must be obtained through a registered agency. Cannot be self-applied.
- Digital checkpoints: Annapurna and Manaslu now use QR-code verified e-permits. Permits are tied to your passport.
- Children under 10: Exempt from national park and conservation area permit fees.
Most treks require one or two permits. Restricted areas involve higher costs and additional requirements. Here’s everything you need to know by route, in USD, updated for 2026.
Permit requirements for Nepal trekking changed more in 2024 to 2026 than in the previous decade. TIMS cards are being phased out in some regions, the mandatory licensed guide rule introduced in 2023 is now actively enforced, and digital checkpoint tracking has replaced paper logs in Annapurna and Manaslu.
If your permit information comes from a blog written before 2024, there’s a fair chance it’s wrong — especially on TIMS and guide requirements. This guide covers what every trekker heading to Nepal in 2026 actually needs.
Nepal Trekking Permits Overview 2026 (All Major Routes)
Here’s a quick overview of permit requirements and costs by trek for 2026.
| Trek | Permits Required | Approx. Total Cost (Foreign) |
|---|---|---|
| Everest Base Camp | Sagarmatha NP Permit + Khumbu Local Fee | USD 37 to 44 |
| Annapurna Base Camp / Circuit | ACAP only | USD 22 |
| Langtang Valley | Langtang NP Permit + TIMS | USD 29 to 37 |
| Manaslu Circuit | RAP + MCAP + ACAP + Chumnubri Local Fee | USD 174 to 196 (peak, full circuit) |
| Tsum Valley | RAP + MCAP | USD 62 to 70 (peak) |
| Kanchenjunga Circuit | KCAP + RAP | USD 55 to 65 |
| Upper Mustang | RAP + ACAP | USD 522 and above (first 10 days) |
| Rara Lake | Rara NP Permit + TIMS | USD 29 to 37 |
All permits for MountainKick treks are arranged and included in our package costs. You don’t organise these separately. The table above is for reference when comparing total trip costs across operators.
What Changed in Nepal Trekking Permits: 2026 Update
1. Licensed Guide Rule Is Now Enforced
A licensed guide is mandatory for trekking in Nepal in 2026 — and trekkers are being turned back without one.
Nepal introduced this rule in 2023, partly in response to solo trekker deaths on remote routes. In 2026, permit checkpoints on Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, and Manaslu routes actively verify guide credentials. For restricted area treks (Manaslu, Tsum Valley, Kanchenjunga, Upper Mustang, Dolpo), a licensed guide was already legally required and enforcement remains strict.
2. TIMS Cards Are Being Phased Out
TIMS is no longer enforced in the Everest or Annapurna regions. Checkpoints in Khumbu and Annapurna now verify conservation area permits only.
TIMS remains required in Langtang, Manaslu, far-western Nepal (including Rara Lake), and some other regions. Many websites still list TIMS as mandatory for EBC and Annapurna — that information is outdated as of 2026.
3. Digital Checkpoint Tracking for ACAP and MCAP
Annapurna and Manaslu permits are now QR-code verified — you can no longer share or transfer a permit between trekkers.
Since October 2024, the NTNC e-permit system ties permits to your passport. Checkpoints scan QR codes rather than stamping paper. Practical note: bring 2 physical passport photos as the digital system doesn’t always function at remote checkpoints.
Cheapest vs Most Expensive Nepal Trekking Permits in 2026
Permit costs in Nepal range from USD 22 to over USD 522 per person — depending entirely on which region you trek in. Here’s how the major routes compare:
| Category | Trek | Permit Cost (Foreign) | Guide Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Cheapest | Annapurna Base Camp / Circuit | USD 22 | Yes (by law) |
| ✅ Budget | Langtang Valley | USD 29 to 37 | Yes (by law) |
| ⚠️ Mid-range | Everest Base Camp | USD 37 to 44 | Yes (by law) |
| 🔴 High | Manaslu Circuit | USD 152 to 196 | Yes (restricted) |
| 🔴 Most Expensive | Upper Mustang | USD 522+ | Yes (restricted) |
How Much Do Trekking Permits Cost in Nepal in 2026?
Most standard trekking permits cost between USD 22 and USD 44 per person. Restricted area treks are significantly more expensive.
- Standard treks (Annapurna, EBC, Langtang): USD 22–44 in permits
- Restricted area treks (Manaslu, Kanchenjunga, Tsum Valley): USD 55–196
- Premium restricted areas (Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo): USD 522+
These are permit costs only. A licensed guide costs USD 30–40 per day and is a legal requirement on all major routes — this is separate from permits unless you book through a package operator like MountainKick.
Permit Types Explained
National Park and Conservation Area Permits
These are entry fees for protected areas. Every trekker entering a national park or conservation area pays one regardless of whether they are on a guided trip or independent trek.
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit (Everest region): NPR 3,000 (~USD 22). Plus a separate Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality local fee of NPR 2,000 to 3,000.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (~USD 22). Covers Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Ghorepani Poon Hill, and all other Annapurna region routes.
- Langtang National Park Permit: NPR 3,000 (~USD 22).
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): NPR 3,000 peak / NPR 2,000 off-season. Required for the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley.
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP): NPR 3,000 (~USD 22).
- Rara National Park Permit: NPR 3,000 (~USD 22).
- Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit (Dolpo region): NPR 3,000 (~USD 22).
ACAP and MCAP permits can now be applied for online via the NTNC e-permit portal at epermit.ntnc.org.np. Bring physical passport photos (2 per person) as the digital system may not always function at remote checkpoints.
Restricted Area Permits (RAP)
Restricted Area Permits are issued by the Department of Immigration and can only be obtained through a registered Nepalese trekking agency. They cannot be self-applied.
Requirements for all restricted area permits:
- Must book through a registered Nepalese trekking agency
- Minimum group of 2 foreign trekkers
- Licensed guide mandatory
- Valid Nepal tourist visa
- Passport details and 2 passport-sized photos
Restricted Area Permit costs by region in 2026:
| Region | RAP Cost (Foreign) | Season Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Manaslu Circuit | USD 100/person (first 7 days peak) / USD 75 off-season | Peak = Sep–Nov and Mar–May |
| Tsum Valley | USD 40/person per week (peak) / USD 30 off-season | Added to Manaslu RAP if combined |
| Kanchenjunga | USD 20/person per week (peak) / USD 10 off-season | Plus KCAP |
| Upper Mustang | USD 500/person first 10 days + USD 50/day after | Most expensive permit in Nepal |
| Upper Dolpo | USD 500/person first 10 days + USD 50/day after | Same structure as Mustang |
| Lower Dolpo | USD 25/person per week | Plus Shey Phoksundo NP permit |
| Nar Phu Valley | USD 90/person per week (peak) / USD 75 off-season | Plus ACAP |
Local Municipality Permits
Some regions charge additional local fees on top of national park and restricted area permits. These go directly to local municipalities rather than central government:
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality (Everest region): NPR 2,000 to 3,000. This replaced the TIMS card in the Khumbu and is collected at the entry point.
- Chumnubri Rural Municipality (Manaslu Circuit): NPR 2,000 (~USD 15). Covers trail maintenance in the lower Manaslu corridor.
Permit Requirements by Trek: Full Breakdown
Everest Base Camp Trek
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit: NPR 3,000 (USD 22)
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality local fee: NPR 2,000 to 3,000 (USD 15 to 22)
- TIMS card: not required in the Khumbu region in 2026
- Licensed guide: required since 2023
Total permit cost: approximately USD 37 to 44 per person. See our full EBC trek cost breakdown for how permits fit into the total budget.
Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (USD 22)
- TIMS card: not enforced on Annapurna trails in 2026
- Licensed guide: required since 2023
Total permit cost: approximately USD 22 per person. See the full cost breakdowns for Annapurna Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit.
Langtang Valley Trek
- Langtang National Park Permit: NPR 3,000 (USD 22)
- TIMS card: still applicable — NPR 1,000 for group trekkers / NPR 2,000 independent (USD 7 to 15)
- Licensed guide: required since 2023
Total permit cost: approximately USD 29 to 37 per person.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit requires four separate permits and is one of the most permit-heavy treks in Nepal.
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP): USD 100/person peak (first 7 days), then USD 15/day / USD 75 off-season
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): USD 15 to 22 (peak/off-season)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): USD 22 — required if completing the full circuit into Dharapani
- Chumnubri Rural Municipality local fee: USD 15
- Licensed guide: mandatory (restricted area requirement)
- Minimum 2 foreign trekkers: mandatory
Total permit cost: approximately USD 152 to 196 per person peak season (depending on full or partial circuit). Read our Manaslu Circuit vs Annapurna Circuit comparison to see how this affects the overall cost difference.
Tsum Valley Monastery Trek
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP): USD 40/person per week peak / USD 30 off-season
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): USD 15 to 22
- TIMS card: applicable in this region
- Licensed guide: mandatory (restricted area requirement)
- Minimum 2 foreign trekkers: mandatory
Total permit cost: approximately USD 62 to 70 per person peak season for a standard 15-day standalone trek. If combining with the Manaslu Circuit, the RAP covers both under a combined permit. The MountainKick Tsum Valley Trek includes all permits in the package price.
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP): NPR 3,000 (USD 22)
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP): USD 20/person per week peak / USD 10 off-season
- TIMS card: applicable in this region
- Licensed guide: mandatory (restricted area requirement)
- Minimum 2 foreign trekkers: mandatory
Total permit cost: approximately USD 55 to 65 per person for a standard 21-day circuit. The MountainKick Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek includes both the KCAP and RAP in the package price.
Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang has the most expensive trekking permit in Nepal at USD 500 per person for the first 10 days. Budget for this before comparing to other restricted area treks of similar duration.
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP): USD 500/person for the first 10 days, then USD 50/day after
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (USD 22)
- Licensed guide: mandatory (restricted area requirement)
- Minimum 2 foreign trekkers: mandatory
Total permit cost: USD 522 and above per person. This is the primary reason the Upper Mustang Trek costs significantly more than other restricted area routes of similar duration.
Rara Lake Trek
Rara Lake is one of Nepal’s most remote treks but one of the lowest permit-cost routes — no restricted area permit required.
- Rara National Park Permit: NPR 3,000 (USD 22)
- TIMS card: applicable in far western Nepal
- Licensed guide: strongly recommended and effectively required for safe navigation
Total permit cost: approximately USD 29 to 37 per person. See the MountainKick Rara Lake Trek page for full package details.
How to Get Your Nepal Trekking Permits
Through Your Trekking Agency (Recommended)
If you trek with a registered agency like MountainKick, permit processing is handled before your trek starts. You provide a passport copy, Nepal visa, and two passport-sized photos. We process everything — national park, conservation area, restricted area, and local municipality fees — and include it all in your package. You arrive in Kathmandu with nothing to organise at permit offices.
For restricted area permits, this is the only legal option. They cannot be self-applied and must go through a registered agency via the Department of Immigration.
Trekking with MountainKick? You don’t need to visit any permit office — we handle everything for you.
Self-Application (Non-Restricted Areas Only)
If trekking independently on a non-restricted route (Everest, Annapurna, Langtang), you can obtain permits at:
- Nepal Tourism Board office, Pradarshani Marg, Kathmandu — Sunday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
- TAAN office, Maligaon, Kathmandu — for TIMS where still applicable
- NTB Pokhara office, Lakeside Road — for Annapurna region permits
- NTNC e-permit portal at epermit.ntnc.org.np — ACAP and MCAP online
- At park entrance gates — Sagarmatha NP permit available at Monjo; some other permits available at entry points
Documents required: valid passport, Nepal tourist visa, 2 passport-sized photos, completed application form, and cash payment in NPR.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a TIMS card for trekking in Nepal in 2026?
No — not for Everest or Annapurna. TIMS is no longer enforced in the Khumbu or Annapurna regions. It is still required in Langtang, Manaslu, Rara Lake, and far-western routes. If you trek with a registered agency, they’ll include TIMS wherever it’s still applicable.
Is a licensed guide mandatory for trekking in Nepal in 2026?
Yes — on all major trekking routes, with no exceptions. The rule has been in place since 2023 and is actively enforced at permit checkpoints. Trekkers without a licensed guide are being turned back at entry points. For restricted area treks, a licensed guide is also a legal condition of the permit itself. See our guide to choosing a Nepal trekking company for what to look for in a licensed operator.
Can I get permits on arrival in Nepal or do I need to arrange them in advance?
Standard permits can be obtained on arrival — at offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or at some park gates. Restricted area permits must be arranged through a registered agency before your trek starts and take 1–2 working days to process. In peak season (October–November and March–May), arrange restricted area permits at least one week before your start date.
Are permits included in MountainKick trek packages?
Yes — all required permits are included, with nothing to arrange separately. This covers national park permits, conservation area permits, restricted area permits, TIMS where applicable, and local municipality fees. The cost breakdowns in this guide are for reference when comparing operators.
What happens if I trek without the correct permits?
You will be stopped — and potentially fined or turned back entirely. Permit checkpoints are actively monitored on all major routes, with digital tracking in place for Annapurna and Manaslu. Fines at checkpoints can be double the permit cost. In restricted areas, penalties can include being barred from future trekking in Nepal.
What is the most expensive trekking permit in Nepal?
Upper Mustang — at USD 500 per person for the first 10 days, plus USD 50 per day after that. Upper Dolpo has the same fee structure. By comparison, standard conservation area permits like ACAP cost approximately USD 22 per person.
What is the difference between a restricted area permit and a national park permit?
A national park permit is a standard entry fee anyone can buy at a permit office. A Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is issued only by the Department of Immigration, requires booking through a registered agency, mandates a licensed guide and a minimum group of 2 foreign trekkers, and covers sensitive border regions. Most restricted area treks require both a RAP and the relevant national park or conservation area permit.
Do children need trekking permits in Nepal?
Children under 10 are exempt from national park and conservation area permits — including ACAP, MCAP, and Sagarmatha NP. Restricted area permits are required for all ages, including children. Always verify with your trekking agency before departure.
What is the best time to get trekking permits in Nepal?
Permits are available year-round with no seasonal restrictions. Standard permits have no processing delay and can be collected same-day. Restricted area permits take 1–2 working days — in peak season, arrange these at least one week before your trek start date to avoid delays at the Department of Immigration.
A Note on Accuracy
Permit rules in Nepal change more frequently than most trekking websites update their content. The information in this post reflects requirements as of March 2026. Before you trek, verify current requirements with your trekking agency or the Nepal Tourism Board directly.
All permits handled. Nothing to organise on your end.
Every MountainKick package includes national park permits, conservation area permits, restricted area permits, TIMS where applicable, and local municipality fees. You show up — we’ve sorted the paperwork.
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