Nepal boasts an array of stunning and unique trekking adventures. However, some of these treks take place within areas deemed restricted due to cultural preservation, environmental protection, or security reasons. To explore these regions, you must adhere to special rules and regulations.
Firstly, a trekking permit from Kathmandu's Department of Immigration is required before embarking on your journey. This permit serves as a lawful document authorizing access and exit to specific restricted zones within a designated time frame. It also stores your personal information, emergency contacts, and insurance details. Keep the permit with you at all times during the journey and be prepared to present it to immigration or police officials upon request.
Specifically in these restricted areas, hiring a registered trekking agency and a licensed guide is crucial for arranging your journey and accompanying you on the trek. Independent trekking and using unregistered agencies or guides are prohibited in these zones. The agency and guide will assist you in managing logistics, permits, accommodations, transportation, and overall safety. Furthermore, they will ensure that you respect local customs, environments, and regulations.
Trekking permit fees vary depending on the area and season of your expedition. Payments must be made in US dollars or equivalent Nepalese rupees, and should be noted that the fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Some popular restricted territories and their respective permit fees include:
- Upper Mustang: A remote ancient kingdom in Nepal's Trans-Himalayan region known for its distinctive culture, landscape, and history. The permit fee is $500 per person for the first 10 days and $50 per person per day thereafter with no seasonal variations. The restricted area encompasses Lomanthang Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 1 to 5), Lo-Ghekar Damodarkunda Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 1 to 5), and Baragung Muktichetra Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 3 and Satang Village of ward no.5).
- Upper Dolpa: A western Himalayan region famous for its pristine nature, ancient culture, and hidden valleys. The permit fee is identical to Upper Mustang. The restricted territory includes Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 4 to 6), Shey Phoksundo Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 1 to 7), and Charka Tangsong Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 1 to 6).
- Gorkha Manaslu Area: A diverse central Himalayan region known for its breathtaking views of Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest mountain, as well as its rich culture and biodiversity. The trekking permit fees for the September-November season are $100 per person per week and $15 per person per day beyond one week. For the December-August season, it's $75 per person per week and $10 per person per day beyond one week. The restricted zone covers Chumnubri Rural Municipality (All areas of ward nos. 1,2,3 and 4).
- Humla: A rugged far-western region in the Himalayas recognized for its untouched nature, ancient culture, and access to Tibet via border crossing. The permit fee is $50 per person per week and $10 per person per day beyond one week across all seasons. The restricted area spans Simikot Rural Municipality (All areas of ward nos. 1,6 and 7), Namkha Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 1 to 6), and Changkheli Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 3 to 5).
Please visit the link below for more information and updates on trekking in restricted areas of Nepal.
http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/post/notice-regarding-visa-fee-updates