Trekking in Nepal Now Digital and Hassle Free

After decades of paper-based applications, Nepal has finally transitioned to an online system for issuing trekking permits to foreign visitors.

This move, implemented on February 23rd, 2024, aims to streamline the process and save time for both trekkers and government officials.

Previously, obtaining permits involved visiting immigration offices and navigating queues.

Now, trekkers can apply from the comfort of their homes through a dedicated online platform.

However, a current limitation exists as payments can only be made using Nepali payment channels like mobile banking apps or local platforms like Connect IPS, E-sewa, and Khalti.

The government acknowledges this limitation and plans to address it through legislative changes, potentially enabling payments in foreign currencies.

Additionally, as solo trekking is prohibited in restricted areas, permits will continue to be issued solely through authorized tour operators.

This transition has been welcomed by the tourism industry.

Nilhari Bastola, president of the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal, highlights the convenience and efficiency gained through the online system, despite the initial learning curve. He further emphasizes the positive impact on reducing bureaucracy.

This online platform is the latest initiative to facilitate visitor entry into Nepal, following the recent implementation of an electronic travel authorization (ETA) system.

Tour operators can now obtain visas for their clients electronically, eliminating the need for physical visits to immigration offices.

Previously, both visa and permit applications were time-consuming processes. The online systems aim to expedite the process and improve the overall experience for foreign visitors seeking to explore Nepal’s breathtaking landscapes.

While some limitations remain, the transition to online systems represents a significant step forward for Nepal’s tourism industry, fostering efficiency and convenience for both trekkers and tour operators.

History of Trekking in Nepal

Trekking in Nepal began in 1949 when the country opened its borders, with the first commercial trek organized by a British diplomat and mountaineer Lieutenant Colonel James Owen Merion Roberts in 1950.

Trekking agencies and tour operators have intensified their efforts in lobbying the government to unlock restricted areas in Nepal, citing their immense potential to bolster the country’s tourism sector and local economies.

The cost of trekking in certain restricted regions has emerged as a significant concern.

The immigration department reports that exploring Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpa entails a hefty fee of $500 per person for the initial 10 days, with an additional $50 per person per day thereafter.

In the restricted zones of Gorkha-Manaslu, Manang, and Mugu, foreign trekkers face variable fees depending on the season.

During the peak autumn months of September to November, the charge is set at $100 per person per week, with an extra $15 per person per day beyond the initial week.

Conversely, in the off-peak period spanning December to August, trekkers are levied $75 per person per week, with a daily fee of $10 beyond the initial week.

Bajhang and Darchula impose a fee structure of $90 per person per week for the first week, followed by a daily rate of $15 thereafter.

Meanwhile, in Humla, the charges stand at $50 per person per week, with an additional $10 per person per day beyond the initial week.

For trekkers venturing into the restricted areas of Gorkha’s Tsum Valley, fees amount to $40 per person per week during autumn, with a daily rate of $7 beyond the first week.

In the December to August period, these charges decrease to $30 per person per week, with the same daily rate applicable.

Similarly, restricted regions in Taplejung, lower Dolpa, Dolakha, Sankhuwasabha, Solukhumbu, and Rasuwa command a fee of $20 per person per week.

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