A Complete Guide to Trekking Permits in Nepal (TIMS, ACAP, MCAP Explained)
Nepal is one of the world’s most popular destinations for trekking, offering everything from gentle hill walks to high-altitude expeditions. To maintain safety, preserve natural resources, and support local communities, trekkers are required to obtain specific permits before entering major trekking regions. The most common permits include the TIMS Card, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). In addition, restricted regions such as Upper Mustang, Manaslu, and Dolpo require special permits issued by the Department of Immigration. Understanding which permits you need can feel confusing, especially if it’s your first time trekking in Nepal. This guide explains each permit clearly—what it is, why it’s required, where to get it, and how much it costs—so you can plan your trek confidently.
What is the TIMS Card? (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
The TIMS Card is a trekking registration system designed to ensure the safety of trekkers and support search-and-rescue operations if needed. It records your trekking route, contact details, insurance information, and emergency contacts. TIMS helps authorities track trekkers in case of accidents, bad weather, or emergencies.
TIMS cards are required for most popular trekking regions unless they fall under a restricted area. There are different types of TIMS cards depending on whether you trek independently or with a guide. Although rules sometimes change, TIMS generally applies to regions like Langtang, Helambu, and certain parts of the Annapurna region.
ACAP – Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is mandatory for anyone trekking inside the Annapurna region, which includes world-famous routes like Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Poon Hill, and Mardi Himal. Managed by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), this permit helps fund conservation projects, trail improvements, local development initiatives, and wildlife protection.
ACAP is one of the most commonly issued trekking permits in Nepal because the Annapurna region attracts hundreds of thousands of trekkers each year. Once purchased, ACAP is valid for your entire trek and does not require renewal as long as you stay within the Annapurna region. You can easily obtain it in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
MCAP – Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) is required to trek in the Manaslu region, which includes trails like Manaslu Circuit, Tsum Valley, and surrounding areas. Like ACAP, MCAP contributes to conservation efforts, local community projects, and trail maintenance. However, unlike Annapurna, the Manaslu region also falls under a government-restricted zone, which means trekkers must obtain both MCAP and a special restricted-area permit and trek with a licensed guide.
MCAP alone is not enough—you will always need it alongside the restricted-area permit when trekking in Manaslu or Tsum Valley. This ensures environmental protection and controlled access to sensitive border areas.
Restricted Area Permits (RAPs)
Nepal designates several trekking regions as restricted areas due to their proximity to international borders, unique culture, or environmental sensitivity. Examples include Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, Manaslu, Tsum Valley, and parts of Humla. Trekking here requires a special permit issued by the Department of Immigration, and trekkers must be accompanied by a registered guide through a reputable trekking agency.
Restricted Area Permits are more expensive than TIMS or conservation permits because they regulate visitor flow and protect fragile communities. Costs vary based on route and season, and trekkers are typically required to travel in groups of at least two (though some agencies can arrange a “ghost permit” to meet the requirement).
