Nepal Visa and Trekking Permits: Complete Guide (2026)

Getting into Nepal and onto the trails requires two things: a visa and trekking permits. This guide covers both in full — the on-arrival visa process, every trekking permit you might need, costs, where to obtain them, and recent rule changes.

1. Nepal Visa on Arrival

Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) or at land borders. Read the full process in the Nepal Visa on Arrival 2026 guide. Key points:

• 15-day visa: USD 30 | 30-day visa: USD 50 | 90-day visa: USD 125
• Bring 2 passport photos and exact USD cash.
• Fill out the online application form in advance (immigration.gov.np) to save time.

For a broader overview including tourist visa extensions, see Nepal Tourist Visa Guide 2026.

2. TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System)

Every trekker in Nepal must carry a TIMS Card. Full details in the Nepal Trekking Permits Guide:

• Individual TIMS: NPR 2,000 | Group TIMS (through agency): NPR 1,000
• Available at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
• Requires passport copy, 2 photos, and your trekking route.

3. National Park and Conservation Area Permits

In addition to TIMS, each region has its own entry permit:

• Sagarmatha National Park (Everest): NPR 3,000
• Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP): NPR 3,000 — see Annapurna Circuit
• Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP): NPR 3,000 — see Manaslu Trek Permits
• Langtang National Park: NPR 3,000 — see Langtang Trek
• Chitwan National Park: NPR 1,500 — see Chitwan Guide

4. Restricted Area Permits

Some areas require special permits that are more expensive and must be arranged through a registered trekking agency:

• Upper Mustang: USD 500 per person for 10 days, USD 50/day thereafter
• Manaslu: USD 50/week (September-November), USD 30/week (other months) — see Manaslu Circuit Guide
• Dolpo: USD 500 per person for 10 days
• Nar-Phu: USD 90 per week

5. Recent changes (2025-2026)

Nepal now requires all trekkers to have a licensed guide — solo trekking without a guide is no longer permitted in national parks. Digital visitor tracking has also been introduced. Read more in Digital Visitor Tracking and Restricted Area Trek Rule Changes.

6. How to get to Nepal

For flight routes, airports, and overland border crossings, see How to Get to Nepal 2026.

Quick FAQ

Can I get a visa on arrival?

Yes, for most nationalities. Bring USD cash and 2 passport photos. Fill out the online form at immigration.gov.np before arrival to save 30 minutes.

Do I need a permit before I arrive?

No. TIMS and national park permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting your trek. Restricted-area permits require 2-3 days to process through an agency.

Can I extend my visa?

Yes, at the Department of Immigration in Kalikasthan, Kathmandu. USD 30 for 15 days, USD 2/day thereafter. Bring your passport and one photo.