A press release on March 9, 2023, announced several changes in trekking rules in Nepal. The new rules aim to ensure trekkers’ safety and security while protecting the environment.
It was a joint announcement by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), the Trekking Guides Union, the Nepal Association of Travel and Tour Agents (NATTA), and the Trekking Porter’s Union. The latest rule came into effect on April 1st, 2023.
Thus, if you are planning to trek in Nepal soon, you need to know and follow these latest rules. So, what are the latest trekking rules in Nepal? Let’s discuss them in detail.
Update On The New Trekking Rules In Nepal
Nepal is world-renowned for being home to Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. It is a paradise for trekkers worldwide and the ultimate trek destination. In recent years, its popularity has further widened, and more travelers have been coming to Nepal for the unique trek experience.
Some remote and lesser-known trekking destinations, such as the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, Makalu Base Camp, Upper Mustang, Tsum Valley, etc., have also garnered many attractions in recent years. However, the Nepal Tourism Board and unions have been concerned about their security as more trekkers seek adventure and explore these remote locations.
Similarly, more travelers mean an increased carbon footprint, which may negatively impact Nepal’s raw nature and cultural and historical heritage. Thus, the changes in the new rules will significantly protect the country’s diverse flora and fauna.
Nepal Tourism Board issued a new provision that has made mandatory guide rules for foreign trekkers in Nepal. Likewise, a TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) card is also mandatory, and trekkers must obtain this through registered trekking agencies. Let’s dive deeper into these two topics!
A licensed Guide is mandatory
All non-Nepali trekkers visiting Nepal must hire a government-registered guide while trekking. Foreigners can only trek in Nepal with a guide, whether solo or in a group. In other words, the government of Nepal has put a ban on solo trekking. Trekkers without a guide will be fined a hefty amount.
While this rule change has raised many eyebrows, it aims to protect travelers from potential risks and promote sustainable trekking in Nepal. Licensed guides are trained professionals who help to navigate remote trails and avoid crucial support. They are trained in wilderness programs and provide first aid.
Most trek destinations are in remote areas of Nepal with little infrastructure and amenities. Guides are the first people to respond to emergencies. So, a guide must have proper training and a license. This plays a crucial role in making trekking in Nepal safe and secure.
In addition to providing crucial support, guides are usually locals of the regions. Therefore, they have local expertise and provide deeper insights into the region’s culture, traditions, and customs. This helps present authentic Nepal to foreign travelers and promote and preserve age-old heritage.
Another reason for making guides mandatory is to promote eco-tourism. Nepal has seen recent boom on trekking and tourism industry. While this has positively impacted the local economy, it has harmed the natural environment. Thus, guides will be crucial in educating trekkers about the ecosystem, reducing their carbon footprint, and preserving cultural heritage.
TIMS Card for all trekkers
Since solo trekking is banned, NTB has stopped providing a TIMS card for solo trekkers. All foreign trekkers have to mandatorily obtain a card for all trekking destinations in Nepal. The card registers the trekker’s details, trek destination, itinerary, and emergency contact.
As per the rule change 2023, the card is crucial in enhancing travelers’ safety, facilitating proper documentation, and conserving the country’s nature and heritage. The details of the travelers are crucial during safety and emergency rescues. Foreigners must have a TIMS card to trek in 44 trekking routes in Nepal, including all regions, protected areas, conservation areas, and national parks.
One can obtain a TIMS card from Kathmandu or Pokhara through a registered trekking agency or Nepal Tourism Board offices. Also, the cost of the card can vary depending on the nationality. The peak season or off-season does not influence the cost of the card. The cost of a TIMS card has increased since the new rule change. It is as follows:
- SAARC Nationals: NPR 1000
- Non-SAARC Nationals: NPR 2000
The revenue generated through the TIMS card fees will be reinvested in maintaining the trekking trails, developing infrastructure, conserving the ecosystem, managing waste, preserving heritage, and supporting the local communities.
Things To Remember While Trekking In Nepal
The two rules in the above section are the mandatory trekking rules in Nepal. Some other rules trekkers must remember while trekking in Nepal include the following:
Trek only on designated trails
Nepal’s remote and mountain trekking destinations have attracted many adventurous and thrill-seeking travelers. While it is good that these regions are gaining popularity, the off-beat trails require proper navigation. Trekkers can easily go off-trail, which is both dangerous and illegal.
Popular trekking routes, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek, are well-conditioned and well-designated. Remote trekking destinations lack well-conditioned trails, and hikers have to trek on off-beat trails.
Trekkers are advised to stay on the designated trails and take a guide to help them navigate them. This ensures they are on the right path and minimizes loss risk. Likewise, it helps travelers avoid possible danger and accidents. The designated trails also help preserve the ecosystem with minimum disturbance. While on the trek, the trekkers must clean their garbage and be respectful of the local communities and their customs.
Thus, trekkers in Nepal must only trek on the designated trails and avoid going off-trail for a responsible and safe trekking experience.
Proper Acclimatization during the high-altitude trek
Altitude sickness is a prevalent risk while trekking in Nepal’s high-altitude regions. After crossing the 3000-meter elevation, the oxygen level and air pressure in the atmosphere begin to reduce, causing trekkers to experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
Most of the trekking destinations in Nepal lie above the 3000-meter elevation. Hence, there is a risk of contracting altitude-related sickness. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and can be fatal if not treated properly.
Acclimatization plays a crucial role in minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. Thus, trekkers must acclimatize properly to let their body adapt to the growing elevation. Their itinerary must include a proper acclimatization day or rest day while trekking higher elevations. Despite the precautions, if trekkers continue to experience the symptoms, they must descend to lower regions immediately for safety.
Be prepared for all weather conditions
Temperatures in Nepal can vary significantly from lower altitude regions to higher altitudes. Likewise, the weather at higher altitudes is unpredictable. Thus, trekkers must be well-prepared for all weather conditions. Despite the season, the temperature can drop to sub-zero in lower regions.
Occasional rain showers and high winds can also create problems during trekking at higher altitudes. Therefore, trekkers must prepare proper clothing, equipment, rain gear, and supplies to protect themselves from changing weather. Proper preparation not only aids in trekkers’ safety but also enhances your trekking experience. Trekkers are also advised to check the weather forecast before they embark on their journey.
FAQs
Is solo trekking banned in Nepal?
Yes, there is ban on solo and independent trekking in Nepal since April 1, 2023. All trekkers must hire a government-registered guide. Foreigner trekkers can only get a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) through a government-registered trekking agency. Trekking without a guide can lead to hefty penalties. Nepal Tourism Board and Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal have jointly announced the decision to ban solo trekking in Nepal.
Can experienced trekkers associated with the trekking/mountaineering association trek solo?
No, the new mandatory trekking rule applies to all foreign trekkers, including the experienced trekkers associated with the trekking/mountaineering association. The rules also apply to diplomats and expatriates. The objective behind the rule is to ensure the safety and security of the trekkers during the trek.
Do I need a TIMS card for all trekking destinations in Nepal?
Until now, all trekking destinations except the Solukhumbu region require a TIMS card. However, the Solukhumbu region still allows trekkers without a guide or TIMS card to trek to Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Ri, and Three Passes. Trekkers are advised to consult with a registered trekking agency before embarking on their journey. Nepal government is yet to make any announcement regarding this.
Has the new rule change in Nepal increased guides’ and porters’ fees?
Following the new rule update, guide and porter fees have increased. Many trekking companies have increased the costs for their guides and porters, especially during the peak trekking season (spring and autumn). Similarly, permits have also increased, stating the new tax as the reason behind the price increase. Trekkers should be aware of this scam. So, check the trekking agency, its registrations, and reviews before booking trek packages.
Do I have to hire a guide via a trekking agency, or can I hire one personally?
As per NTB’s announcement, you must hire a licensed local guide through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. This has become mandatory for all trekking destinations except the Solukhumbu region. Trekking agencies can help trekkers to hire a guide. So, check whether the trekking agency of your choice and the guide they have are both government-registered. You can verify the legitimacy of the trekking agency from the Department of Tourism and Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal.
