New Trekking Rules in Nepal 2024

Want to know about the new trekking rules in Nepal 2024? You have come to the right place. The Nepal Tourism Board issued new trekking rules in Nepal as of April 1, 2023. The new rules have resulted in many changes for foreigners who trek in the country.  

The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), the Nepal Association of Travel and Tour Agents (NATTA), the Trekking Guides Union, and the Trekking Porter’s Union are the governing bodies of tourism and Trekking in Nepal. If you are considering trekking in Nepal, you must be updated with the latest rules and regulations. So what are these changes exactly?

What are the New Trekking Rules in Nepal?

Nepal has been a popular country for trek enthusiasts worldwide. The country is famous for the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest, and seven other highest mountains in the world. Thus, thousands of trekkers, travelers, and mountaineers visit Nepal for various activities. Although the COVID-19 pandemic hugely affected the country’s tourism, it has slowly begun to recover. 

The new rules focus on two main factors. The NTB and Nepal governments have made hiring a licensed guide and getting a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card mandatory. 

Compulsory TIMS Card rule

The TIMS card, or the Trekkers Information Management System card, is a vital permit that has become compulsory for trekking in Nepal. All trekkers must provide their personal information, trek details, and emergency contacts while applying for the card. The card records the information, which is crucial during disasters, trekkers’ getting lost, and other emergencies. The local authorities will use the records to track the trekkers and bring them to safety. 

The NTB no longer provides a TIMS card for solo foreign trekkers. They must obtain it through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Until now, the government has made the card mandatory for 44 trekking routes in Nepal. It includes all the regions except the Everest region, conservation areas, restricted areas, and national parks. 

Trekkers have to pay a certain fee for the card. The amount collected through the fees will be invested in the maintenance and development of the trekking trails, managing waste, preserving heritage and environment, and conserving biodiversity. 

The cost of the TIMS card is the same for peak and off-season, which are as follows: 

• SAARC nationals: NPR 1000
• Non-SAARC nationals: NPR 2000

Mandatory Licensed Guide rule

As of April 1, 2023, it has become mandatory for foreign trekkers to hire a licensed or government-registered guide. So, solo trekking is no longer possible in Nepal. All foreign trekkers must hire a licensed guide to trek individually or in a group. 

To date, only the Everest region is exempt from the rule, and the local authorities have not announced any news on this matter. This new rule of mandatory hiring a registered guide has faced criticism from many. It has upset many solo trekkers who want to explore the beauty of Nepal in solitude. However, there has also been positive support from trekkers worldwide, who welcome the steps of the local government to make the trekking trails safer for trekkers and preserve the pristine environment for future generations. 

The guides are trained professionals with the skills to handle trekking challenges on remote routes. They are skilled at navigating the terrain and weather and guide trekkers safely on designated routes. Guides also have a deeper knowledge of the region’s culture and traditions, which helps promote and preserve the local culture. Additionally, they provide vital support during emergencies like illness and injuries. 

Another reason for making the mandatory guide rule is that it helps to promote sustainable tourism in the country. It contributes to the local economy, which helps to uplift the livelihood of the locals in the trekking region. The new rules will be a crucial backbone for trekking and tourism in Nepal. There will be a hefty penalty for those found breaking the rule. 

Why the New Trekking Rules?

Most trekking routes in Nepal lie in remote areas through forest trails and highland pastures. Similarly, many popular trekking destinations, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Everest Three Passes Trek, Annapurna Circuit, etc., are high-altitude treks. Therefore, trekkers can encounter various risks despite the safety precautions and guidelines. 

There are around 10 to 15 trekking fatalities and 40 to 50 missing reports annually, according to the NTB’s estimates. High-altitude areas have a high risk of altitude sickness and unpredictable weather. Similarly, there is a lack of infrastructure, and the connectivity (phone signals and internet) is usually poor. Sometimes, the snow, fog, and rain can obscure the visibility and make navigation of the trails. Likewise, the high influx of trekkers is great for the local economy but harms the country’s serene environment and vulnerable biodiversity.

The government of Nepal and the tourism boards have been working to enhance trekkers’ safety, and the latest rule change is one of those attempts. They are also looking to regulate the number of tourism so that it does not impact the region’s nature, biodiversity, and heritage. Therefore, the new rules are also vital for promoting sustainable tourism.  

Things to remember while trekking in Nepal

You need to remember a few more things besides the latest trekking rules while trekking in Nepal. Take a look at these vital points trekkers must remember during their trek in Nepal: 

Stay on the designated path

Most trekking routes in Nepal lie in remote areas that lack proper infrastructure. Despite the remoteness, the trails are well-designated and marked. This makes it easier for trekkers to stay on the designated path and minimizes the risk of getting lost. However, there have been cases of trekkers going off the marked trails and encountering dangerous situations. In some areas, it is illegal to go off the designated trails. Trekkers are responsible for their own safety, so they must stay on the paths. It is also vital for conserving the environment as it protects any negative impact of trekking on the region’s nature. 

Prepare for all weather conditions

The weather in Nepal is unpredictable due to the varying altitudes and topography. The weather from the lower plains is usually warm and stable. However, the weather at higher altitude areas is unpredictable and changes rapidly. Hence, trekkers must prepare for all weather conditions, from hot to sub-zero temperatures. Proper preparation is crucial for a safer and more comfortable trekking experience in Nepal. It is always best for trekkers to check the forecast before their journey. It helps them to be aware of the upcoming weather changes and prepare accordingly. 

Acclimatization for high-altitude treks

Acclimatization is a vital rule during high-altitude trekking to prevent or minimize the cost of altitude sickness. Acclimatization refers to taking a rest day before ascending to a higher elevation. It helps your body get used to the changing elevations of surroundings and lower oxygen levels in the atmosphere. There are no official rules that state acclimatization is mandatory, but not taking one can risk your life. Altitude sickness symptoms range from mild to severe and can be fatal if not treated promptly.  

Pack light but smart

One of the unspoken rules of trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal is to pack light but smart. You do not want your luggage to weigh you down while hiking uphill and downhill paths on rough and rocky terrains. It puts additional physical strain on the trekkers, increasing the risk of slipping and injury. Although many trekkers might feel the urge to pack everything, carry only what is necessary for the journey. Use a backpack with a capacity of 35 to 40 liters. Also, choose a lightweight luggage that you will feel comfortable carrying. 

Conclusion

So these were the latest and new trekking rules in Nepal 2024. As a traveler, you must know about the latest changes in the policy of the country that you are traveling to. It saves you a lot of hassle and the chances of breaching the rules and receiving a penalty. Although the new rule changes have received dissatisfaction from solo trekkers, it is a crucial step by the Neapl government and tourism governing bodies to promote safe trekking and eco-tourism. 

We hope you will find our guide on the latest trekking rules in Nepal useful. For more information related to trekking and traveling in Nepal, visit our website, Vacation Trekking. Thank you for your time!

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