Trekking Nepal's Digital Frontier: A Shift to Online Permits

More than seventy years have elapsed since Nepal began to allow foreigners to trek its rugged landscapes via permits. Now, the nation has shifted from the old paper-based system to a digital frontier. This digital leap, which took place shortly after the online overhaul of Nepal's visa application process, was set into motion by the Department of Immigration on February 23.

Gone are the days when international explorers had to visit immigration in person for permission to journey through Nepal's restricted regions. According to Prem Prasad Dhakal, the Department's spokesperson, this change signifies a new chapter in convenience and efficiency for trekkers who can now sidestep the long-standing bank queues for fee payments.

Yet, this ease comes with a catch; payments can only be made using Nepali financial services such as mobile banking apps and payment gateways like Connect IPS, E-sewa, and Khalti as the Nepal Government does not have a dollar account. Without access to a dollar account, Nepal’s government requires fees in local currency only. Amendments to the Financial Act would be necessary to address this payment challenge.

Despite these initial hiccups involving payment options, the online permit system is a giant leap toward making trekking administration more fluid. Immigration authorities are ready to fully embrace the payment through foreign currency accounts, once the government allows for that. 

The changes place a new mandate on tour operators—since the trekkers are not allowed to trek without a guide except in the Everest region, they are now exclusively responsible for obtaining permits for restricted regions which are often sought for their pristine beauty and cultural richness. It’s a move designed not only to enhance oversight over trekking but also to thrust tour businesses into the thick of digital procedures. This is all part of Nepal’s grand plan to digitize and streamline entry protocol for its international guests, including an electronic travel authorization system.

Just on February 9th, Nepal ushered in the electronic travel authorization (ETA) system. With this, travel agencies can handle visa fees on behalf of international clients and secure visas with just their passport copies. Once they obtain visa numbers from immigration officials, they’re able to secure trekking permits too—making both restricted and unrestricted trails accessible.

Imagine sorting all this without leaving your house or office—a stark contrast to earlier practices that saw foreigners queueing up for visas at airports while acquiring trekking permits was an equally slow affair.

For now, e-visa payments remain confined to Nepali pathways including their homegrown payment channels. Nevertheless, if proposals for accommodating dollar transactions gain traction, the entire process promises even greater simplicity for globe-trotters keen on experiencing Nepal's majestic offerings.