Annapurna Region Trekking Permits: Complete Guide to Cost, Process & Rules (2026)

The Annapurna region isn't just Nepal's most popular trekking destination; it's one of the most regulated. Every trekker entering the Annapurna Conservation Area must obtain valid Annapurna Region Trekking Permits, and checkpoints strictly enforce compliance.

Many travelers underestimate the importance of permits until they face penalties or are stopped mid-journey. With varying rules for ACAP, TIMS, and Restricted Area Permits, understanding what applies to your specific trek is essential.

In this detailed guide, we explain the complete permit process, updated 2026 fees, required documents, and key regulations, so you can focus on the mountains, not paperwork.

History & Overview of ACAP

The Annapurna Conservation Area spans an extraordinary elevation range from 790 meters to 8,091 meters at Annapurna I, creating remarkable ecological diversity. Within this vast landscape, trekkers experience everything from subtropical forests and terraced hills to alpine meadows, high Himalayan glaciers, and the arid trans-Himalayan deserts of Manang and Mustang.
ACAP is home to over 1,200 plant species and rare wildlife such as the Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Himalayan Tahr, and more than 500 bird species. The region is generally inhabited by Gurung, Magar, Thakali, Manangi, and Tibetan people. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) was established in 1986 and is managed by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC). It is Nepal's first and largest conservation area, covering approx 7,629 square kilometers across the districts of Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, and Myagdi.
The region is also culturally rich, inhabited by Gurung, Magar, Thakali, Manangi, and Tibetan-influenced communities. Through conservation fees and sustainable tourism practices, ACAP plays a vital role in protecting biodiversity while supporting local livelihoods and community development.

Facts Regarding Annapurna Region Trekking Permits

• Over 190,000 ACAP permits were issued in 2024.
• In 2025, the number crossed 220,000 visitors, showing rising popularity.
• Restricted Area Permits (Nar Phu) average around 2,000 - 3,000 annually.
• Permit revenue supports conservation, trail maintenance, and local schools.
• Check- post registration improves rescue response during emergencies.

Popular Treks in the Annapurna Region

• Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek
• Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
• Mardi Himal Trek
• Tilicho Lake Trek
• Nar Phu Valley Trek
• Upper Mustang (border region, semi- autonomous administrative zone)

Permits Required to Trek in the Annapurna Region

1. ACAP Permit

Established: 1986 by NTNC

Purpose: Conservation funding and regulated trekking inside the ACA

Documents Required:

• Passport copy
• Visa copy
• Passport-sized photos
• Cost (2026):
  1. - Nepalese: NPR 100
  2. - SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000
  3. - Foreigners: NPR 3,000
• Important Info:
  1. - Mandatory for all Annapurna treks
  2. - Double fee if issued at a check-post
  3. - Children below 10 are exempt from the ACAP permit fee.

The ACAP permit grants entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area. The fee contributes to conservation, waste management, trail building, and community projects.

2. TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)

• Established: 2008 by Nepal Tourism Board & TAAN
• Purpose: Maintain the trekker database for safety and rescue tracking
• Documents Required:
  1. - Passport copy
  2. - passport photos
  3. - Travel insurance
• Cost (2026 – through agency package):
  1. - Nepalese: NPR 1,000
  2. - SAARC: NPR 1,000
  3. - Foreigners: NPR 2,000
• Important Info:
  1. - Required for most Annapurna treks
  2. - Not required for restricted areas with RAP
  3. - Helps in emergency rescue coordination

TIMS differs from ACAP because it is primarily a safety-tracking system, not an area entry permit. It ensures trekker data is recorded for monitoring and rescue operations.

3. Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – Nar Phu Valley

• Issued by: Department of Immigration
• Purpose: Regulate entry in culturally sensitive restricted zones
• Documents Required:
  1. - Passport copy
  2. - Visa
  3. - Travel Agency application
  4. - Minimum 2 trekkers
• Cost (2026):
  1. - USD 100 per person (first 7 days)
  2. - USD 15 per day thereafter'
• Important Info:
  1. - Mandatory guide
  2. - Minimum 2 trekkers
  3. - Only via a registered agency

The RAP applies to restricted areas like Nar Phu Valley and Tsum Valley in Manaslu Circuit . Solo trekking is strictly prohibited.

Special Drone Permit in Annapurna Region

The Annapurna Region is renowned not only for trekking but also as a premier destination for photography and cinematography. Numerous international filmmakers and photographers visit the area to shoot movies, documentaries, and capture its breathtaking landscapes, which involves drone shots. Drone usage for filming or photography is strictly prohibited without prior authorization from the relevant authorities, ensuring compliance with local regulations while maintaining safety and environmental protection.

To fly drones:

• Permission from Ministry of Information & Communication
• Approval from NTNC
• Clearance from Civil Aviation Authority
• Local administration approval
• Filming permits are mandatory for documentaries and commercial shoots. Unauthorized drones can be confiscated, fined, or legally prosecuted.

Other Important Permit Infos from Nepal Government

• Children below 10 years do not require a permit.
• Drones are strictly prohibited unless the concerned authorities have granted prior approval.
• The Entry fee is NRs. 3,000 for foreigners, NRs. 1,000 for SAARC nationals (including tax), and an online Payment Gateway Charge (2.9%) extra. Double fees are levied for permits issued at Check-Posts.
• Special permits are required for some designated areas, and Manaslu Conservation Area (MCA), which are regulated as restricted in the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) and Manaslu Conservation Area (MCA). Permits are available at the Department of Immigration. Mountaineering permits are available at the Nepal Mountaineering Association.
• Special permits for documentary filming to be obtained from the Ministry of Information Communication and approvals from NTNC.
• Please register at your check-posts along the route. Your cooperation allows us to monitor the flow of tourists and increase your chances of rescue in case of an emergency.
• Hunting is prohibited.
• Fishing permits are issued by the local Conservation Area Management Committees (Ask at your lodge).
• An approval from NTNC is required before collecting scientific specimens.
• Please follow the Minimum Impact Code. If you come with an agency, make sure they make the right preparations for safety, legality, and environmental friendliness.

Annapurna Trek Permit Comparison Table (Package Basis – 2026)

How to Obtain Annapurna Region Trekking Permit

• Choose your trekking route
• Prepare passport & visa copies
• Decide on solo or agency trekking
• Visit the Kathmandu or Pokhara permit office
• Pay the required permit fee
• Register at your stop along the route. Your cooperation allows us to monitor the flow of tourists and increase your chances of rescue in case of an emergency.

Note: ACAP online payment is available, but physical verification is required.
RAP must be processed through an agency physically.

Documents Required

• Valid Passport
• Nepal Visa
• Passport-size photos
• Travel Insurance
• Agency application (if restricted area)

Where to Obtain Permits

• Kathmandu Office: Tourist Service Center, Bhrikutimandap – Central permit office.
• Pokhara Office: NTNC Office, Lakeside – Popular for Annapurna trekkers.
• Popular Entry Points: Besisahar, Nayapul, Jomsom – On-route verification counters

Tips for Obtaining Permits

• Apply one day before the trek departure
• Carry printed and digital copies
• Use a registered trekking agency
• Verify the latest permit prices
• Register at every check-post

Important Rules & Regulations

• Solo Trekking: Allowed except in restricted areas.
• Permit Inspection: Mandatory at all checkpoints.
• Validity: Valid for a single entry duration.
• Refund: Non-refundable and non-transferable.
• Children: Under 10 exempted.

What Happens If You Trek Without a Permit?

Trekking inside the Annapurna Conservation Area without valid permits is considered a legal violation under Nepal's tourism and conservation regulations. Authorities regularly inspect permits at multiple checkpoints along the trail, and failure to present valid documentation can result in serious consequences that may disrupt your entire journey.

• Immediate fine at the checkpoint
• Double permit charges applied
• Possible trek termination
• Legal action for restricted areas
• No rescue coordination support

Why Use a Registered Travel Agency?

Obtaining Annapurna Region Trekking Permits may seem straightforward, but mistakes in documentation, restricted area regulations, or recent rule updates can cause delays or penalties. A registered trekking agency ensures your permits are processed legally, efficiently, and in compliance with Nepal Government regulations.

• Ensures legal permit processing
• Handles restricted area applications properly
• Provides guide and safety support
• Prevents documentation errors

Heaven Himalaya, with over 5 years of experience, has been providing exceptional trekking services throughout Nepal. We offer seamless support for obtaining permits and ensuring a smooth trekking experience

• We are a registered company under the laws of the Nepal government, licensed by the ministries, and a member of trekking associations such as TAAN.
• We are trusted by the largest travel bands and organizations like Trip Advisor, Trip, Viator, LonelyPlanet, TourHub etc
• We have extensive business networks all over Nepal to provide you with a smooth and cost-effective journey.
• We are here to provide 24-hour service help for any emergency incidents.
• We set a high benchmark for ourselves and are 100% committed to making our customers happy and satisfied.

FAQs – Annapurna Region Trekking Permits

1. Is ACAP mandatory for ABC Trek?
Yes, ACAP is compulsory for ABC.

2. Do I need TIMS for Nar Phu?
No, RAP replaces TIMS.

3. Can I get permits in Pokhara?
Yes, the NTNC Pokhara office issues ACAP.

4. Are permits refundable?
No, non-refundable once issued.

5. Is solo trekking allowed?
Yes, except restricted areas.

6. How long does processing take?
Usually same day for ACAP & TIMS.

7. Are drones allowed?
Only with special government approval.

8. Do children need permits?
Below 10 years exempted.

9. Can the agency arrange everything?
Yes, including restricted permits.

10. What if I lose my permit?
Report immediately to the nearest check-post.