Trekking Rules in Nepal (Updated): Complete Guide for 2023 Onwards
- Fewa Med
- Nov 19, 2025
- 3 min read
New Mandatory Guide & TIMS Rules Explained Clearly
From April 1, 2023, Nepal has introduced new trekking regulations to improve safety, rescue efficiency, and environmental conservation. This guide explains exactly where the rules apply, who needs a guide, what permits are required, and answers the most common questions from trekkers.
1. Trekking or Mountain Biking (Including ACT)
Whether you are trekking or mountain biking, the rule is the same:All foreign trekkers must hire a licensed guide through a government-registered trekking agency.
2. Experienced Trekkers & International Club Members
Being highly experienced or a member of a trekking/mountaineering association in your home country does not exempt you.The law applies to all foreign nationals.
3. Treks inside National Parks & Conservation Areas
Areas that fall inside National Parks or Conservation Areas—such as Chame, Muktinath, and others—also require:
A licensed guide
TIMS card
Appropriate area permits
4. Hikes Around Kathmandu & Pokhara
The rule applies only to areas where TIMS is required.It does not apply to:
Kathmandu Valley outskirts
Pokhara outskirts
Sarangkot
Other short hikes around major cities
These hikes can be done without a guide.
5. Do You Need a Trekking Agency?
Yes. Hiring a licensed guide through a registered trekking agency is compulsory.Independent or freelance guides are not permitted under the new rule.
6. How to Verify a Legitimate Trekking Agency
You can confirm a trekking agency’s authenticity via:
Department of Tourism (Nepal)
Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN)
Always check registration before booking.
7. Consequences for Not Following the Rule
Not complying with this rule is a punishable offense under Nepal's tourism laws.Authorities may impose penalties, fines, or deny trekking access.
8. Trail Runners & Fast Packers
Even if you are a fast mover, you must trek with a licensed guide.Agencies can arrange guides who match your pace and technical needs.
9. Rules for Expats Living in Nepal
Yes, the rule also applies to:
Foreign residents
Diplomats
Long-term visa holders
Only Nepali citizens are exempt.
10. Nepali Citizens
The rule does not apply to Nepali nationals.Nepalis do not need a guide or TIMS for these trekking areas.
11. Motorcycling to Muktinath
Motorcycle and bus travel to Muktinath does not require a guide.However, you still need:
TIMS card
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Trekking Regions Requiring TIMS & Permits
Below is the complete list of trekking areas where the mandatory guide rule applies:
Kanchenjunga Region
Kanchenjunga Base Camp via Sele La Pass
Kanchenjunga Base Camp
Kanchenjunga Base Camp via Nango Pass
Lumba Sumba Pass
Makalu–Barun Region
Makalu Base Camp
Sherpani Col Pass
Everest Region
Everest Base Camp
Gokyo Valley
Cho La Pass
Gokyo Renjo La Pass
Three Passes Trek
Everest View Trek
Mera Peak
Amphu Labtsa Pass
Rolwaling Region
Rolwaling Trek
Tashi Labtsa Pass
Panchpokhari–Bhairabkunda
Panchpokhari Trek
Helambu Region
Helambu Trek
Gosaikunda Trek
Langtang Region
Langtang Valley
Langtang–Gosaikunda
Tamang Heritage
Tamang Heritage + Langtang
Ganja La Pass
Tilman Pass
Ganesh Himal & Ruby Valley
Ruby Valley Trek
Manaslu Region
Manaslu Circuit
Manaslu–Tsum Valley
Tsum Valley
Annapurna Region
Annapurna Circuit
Nar Phu – Annapurna Circuit
Mesokanto / Tilicho Pass
Poon Hill – Annapurna Base Camp
Khopra Ridge
Mardi Himal
Sikles – Tara Hill
Mustang Region
Upper Mustang
Sarebung Pass
Dhaulagiri Region
Dhaulagiri Circuit
Dolpo Region
Upper Dolpo – Jomsom
Upper Dolpo
Lower Dolpo
Kagmara Pass
Humla Region
Humla Limi Valley
Need Help with Permits, Guides, or Trekking Packages?
We can help you arrange:
TIMS & permits
Licensed guides
Reliable local trekking agencies
Custom itineraries
Just tell US your trek, dates, and group size!
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