Trekking Permits in Nepal Now Fully Online

The Department of Immigration has announced that trekking permits in Nepal will now be available exclusively through an online system.

In a notice released on Friday. The Department explained that when representatives of trekking agencies used to visit the office in person. It created challenges to good governance. Investigations also revealed that some agency staff were acting as middlemen and engaging in illegal activities.

The Department has strictly prohibited such practices and reaffirmed its commitment to provide transparent, accountable, and fair services.

From now on, all trekking agencies must obtain trekking permits only through their agency portal.

According to the Department, officials will process online applications within one working day. Agencies will receive applications submitted after 3 p.m. on the next working day, and the online portal will make the permit available as soon as they complete the payment.

If any technical issues occur while using the online system, agencies can contact the Department through the mobile number or WhatsApp listed on the portal. The Department also asks applicants to send a message when high call volume prevents staff from answering their phone calls immediately.

It clarified that only rescue-related services will be available during public holidays or after office hours, while other regular services will remain closed.

The Department also explained the reasons for rejecting applications. If documents are incomplete or contain errors, the system will reject the permit request online. Therefore, agencies must carefully review all required documents, processes, and fees before submitting their applications.

Emphasizing good governance, transparency, and service efficiency, the Department urged all trekking agencies to fully adopt and utilize the online system for obtaining trekking permits.

What services are now online?

1. RRestricted Area Permits (RAP) The Department of Immigration. Now issues permits for restricted areas like Upper Mustang, Manaslu, Dolpa, and Kanchenjunga through its online portal. This system eliminates the previous requirement for travelers to be physically present.
2. TIMS Permit (Trekkers’ Information Management System). The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) have moved the mandatory TIMS card fully online through their collaborative system.
3. Conservation Area and National Park Permits. The National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) portal now allows trekkers to apply & pay for permits online for various conservation areas, including Annapurna, Manaslu. And Gaurishankar, via its e-permit system.

Where to Apply?

• Immigration Permits: Department of Immigration (DoI) online portal.
• TIMS / E-TIMS: Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) / TAAN system.
• Conservation Area Permits: NTNC’s e-permit portal.

Payment System: Some portals now accept QR codes or mobile payments. For Immigration permits, Nepali payment methods. Like Connect IPS or mobile banking are commonly used (the system is being progressively improved).

Processing Time:- Digital applications are generally processed within 1–2 working days .(though this may vary depending on the specific region and the trekking season).

How does this benefit you?

End of long queues and paperwork hassle: No more waiting in lines or dealing with tedious manual documentation.

Online application and management from home: You can apply for and manage your permits conveniently from your own location.

✔ Agency assistance: Trek organizers or agencies can process the entire application on your behalf.

✔ Digital or printed convenience: You must carry the permit .(either in digital or printed format) with you during the trek for verification.

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