The Annapurna base camp permit costs a total $50 USD. Trekkers need two mandatory documents to enter the conservation area. These permits include the TIMS card at $20 and the ACAP permit at $30.
They are both available in Kathmandu and Pokhara. You need to know the exact fees and the application process. It helps you to plan your budget correctly. This makes your trek comfortable and fun.
You will know about the required permit with updated 2026 fees, processing locations, and the application process. You will also learn where to apply in both cities, what documents to bring, and how long the processing takes.
Likewise, your insurance will help you cover evacuation costs. It is for emergency cases.
Nepal implemented new trekking regulations in 2023 that require all foreign hikers to trek with registered guides in major mountain regions. It includes Annapurna too. The permit system now helps to track trekkers for emergency response.
As Annapurna is a commercialized region, the money goes on bridge repairs and conservation programs. It protects the mountains for future generations.
Why You Need Permits for Annapurna Trekking
The Annapurna region is one of Nepal's largest conservation areas. This zone covers 7,629 sq km of protected land. Your permit fees are directly used in fund trail maintenance. But there are other points that you need to know:
Environmental Conservation:
Permits help to protect the Himalayan ecosystem. It minimizes deforestation, wildlife disturbance, and trail erosion.
Trekker Safety:
It helps to know where the trekkers are. This helps in emergencies like altitude sickness, avalanches, or getting lost in remote areas.
Funding Conservation and Communities:
Permit fees support trail maintenance, conservation projects, and local community development. Hence, it promotes sustainable tourism.
Tourism Regulation:
Your Permits also control the number of trekkers. This prevents crowds. This helps the trekkers to get a better experience for the Annapurna trek.
Government Compliance:
Permits help the trekkers to get attached to Nepal’s regulations for protected areas, respecting local customs. This helps to maintain order in the region.
Overview of Required Permits for 2026
Trekkers need two main permits for the Annapurna trek:
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
Cost: $20 USD
Issued by: Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) or TAAN
Valid for: One trek
Purpose: Tracks hikers for safety and emergency response
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
Cost: $30 USD
Issued by: National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC)
Valid for: Unlimited days in the conservation area
Purpose: Funds local conservation and eco-projects
If you want to join some side routes, you need extra permits.
Nar-Phu Valley and Upper Mustang are restricted areas. These permits cost $70 per week during peak season like autumn and spring. It is best to trek with least two trekkers, and a well-tour is mandatory for these zones.
TIMS Card 2026 — The Trekker's Database Tag
Purpose and Regulation
The government started TIMS for trekker safety. This card works like a tracking system. You have to register at checkpoints along your route. Rangers know your location if something goes wrong. Rangers are the people who are responsible for that specific area's protection. Search teams can find you quickly during medical emergencies if you are lost in this region.
All guided treks require this card. Group treks also need it. Well, for tourists it is mandatory.
Where to Get Your TIMS Card?
You can get your TIMS card in two cities:
Kathmandu Option:
Visit the TAAN office on Saat Ghumti Road in Thamel
Office hours: 10 AM to 5 PM (Sunday to Friday)
Processing time: Same day
Pokhara Option:
Go to the Nepal Tourism Board office at Damside
Office hours: 10 AM to 4 PM (Sunday to Friday)
Processing time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Pro tip: It’s better if you arrive before 3 PM at the Pokhara office. The permit desk closes early on some days.
Documents Required
You have to submit these documents to get your TIMS card:
Valid passport (original and one photocopy)
Two passport-size photos
Proof of travel insurance
Trek itinerary (dates and route)
Fee Structure for 2026
Foreign trekkers pay $20 USD. You can pay in US dollars or Nepali rupees. Some offices now accept card payments too. But it is always best to carry cash as backup.
SAARC country citizens pay 2,000 Nepali rupees. The fee is the same for all trek lengths.
ACAP — Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
Purpose of ACAP
Your ACAP fee supports real conservation work. The National Trust for Nature Conservation manages these funds. They run waste management programs in villages. They plant trees, which helps to prevent landslides. They also train locals to develop tourism for the future.
The permit covers the entire Annapurna Conservation Area. You can stay as many days as you want. It is totally based on your time. There is no time limit on this permit.
Where to Obtain ACAP?
You can get the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit from:
Kathmandu:
NTNC Head Office in Khumaltar
Opens at 10 AM daily
Closed on Saturdays
Pokhara:
The National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) Counter near Damside
Easier for trekkers starting from Pokhara
Processing takes about 20 minutes
Cost for 2026
Foreign citizens pay $30 USD. Similarly, SAARC citizens pay 1,000 Nepali rupees. Children under 10 years trek for free. However, they still need the permit card but pay nothing.
What to Bring?
If you want your ACAP permit, you need to submit these documents:
Passport photocopy
Two recent passport photos
Completed application form (available at the office)
TIMS card copy (recommended but not required)
Permit Checkpoints on the Trail
Rangers check your ACAP at several locations:
Birethanti (main entry point from Nayapul)
Chhomrong (on the way to Annapurna Base Camp)
Jomsom (Annapurna Circuit route)
Manang (Circuit eastern side)
You always have to carry your permits. You might need to be urgently in several places. Rangers will stamp it at each checkpoint. You must show the original paper copy.
Restricted Area Permits for Side Routes
Nar-Phu Valley and Upper Mustang need special permits. The government considers these as restricted areas. This is why these two zones have extra rules. Let’s see them below:
Restricted Area Requirements:
You must hire a government-registered guide
You need at least two foreign trekkers (no solo travel)
You must book through a registered trekking agency like Himalayan Odyssey
Permit Costs:
September to November: $70 USD per person per week
December to August: $50 USD per person per week
The Department of Immigration issues these permits. It normally takes 2-3 business days. Himalayan Odyssey is happy to handle all the paperwork for you.
Step-by-Step Application Process for 2026
Follow these steps to get your permits:
Step 1: Contact Himalayan Odyssey or another authorized trekking agency
Step 2:Give us the dates you want to trek. Make sure you always use the original name that is on your passport.
Step 3: Submit your passport copy, photos, and insurance details to us. Do not forget to double-check all documents before giving us.
Step 4: Pay the permit fees. Ask for an official receipt. Keep the receipt safe with you.
Step 5: Collect your stamped permits. Check that all information is correct.
Note: Always carry the original permits during your entire trek.
Permit Rules Trekkers Often Miss
Many trekkers make small mistakes with permits. Here are the common ones:
No Solo Permits:
You cannot get permits without a registered guide anymore. This rule started in 2023. It applies to all Annapurna routes. So, always choose a registered agency like Himalayan Odyssey to get your permits.
Physical Copies Only:
You always have to carry your original printed permit. Checkpoints do not accept digital permits. But you can take a photo backup.It is always best to show the paper version.
Lost Permit Problems:
Losing your permit causes big headaches. You may have to pay a fine if you lose your permit. You might need to return to Kathmandu or Pokhara. Always keep your permits in a waterproof pouch inside your backpack. It is for your own safety.
Passport Matching:
Use the same passport for permits, visa, and hotel check-ins. Mismatched documents can delay your trek start.
Permit Validity:
TIMS cards expire after your trek ends. ACAP permits last longer. You can use ACAP for multiple trips if it's still within the validity period.
Trekking Insurance — Your Mandatory Backup
Why Insurance Is Essential?
Himalayan Odyssey requires proof of insurance before processing permits. This protects both you and us. Mountain accidents happen even to experienced trekkers. These are for emergency cases.
Your Insurance covers helicopter rescue costs. A helicopter evacuation from high altitude costs $3,000 to $7,000. Insurance also pays for hospital treatment in Pokhara or Kathmandu. Medical care for altitude sickness can cost thousands of dollars. This is why insurance is always essential. Get your insurance from your nsurance provider before your trek.
Coverage Recommendations
Your insurance policy should include these minimum amounts:
Emergency Evacuation:
Minimum coverage: $10,000 USD
Covers helicopter rescue from any altitude
Must specifically cover Nepal trekking
Medical Treatment:
Minimum coverage: $20,000 USD
Covers hospital care and doctor visits
Should include altitude-related illness
Trip Cancellation (Optional):
Useful during monsoon season
Covers flight changes and trek postponements
Baggage and Delay (Optional):
Helps you if airlines lose your gear
Not essential but helpful
Accepted Insurance Companies
These insurers offer good Nepal trekking coverage:
World Nomads (covers up to 6,000 meters)
Allianz Travel Insurance
True Traveller
IMG Global
Make sure that your policy covers altitudes above 5,000 m. Read the fine print about helicopter evacuation. Some policies exclude certain mountain activities. Check properly before you go on a trek.
Nepal Local Insurance vs International Policies
Nepal has local insurance companies. They are very good for Nepali citizens. But foreign citizens should use international insurance. International policies have better coverage limits than Nepal Local Insurance.
Sample Permit Cost Summary for 2026
You can see a short summary below. Here is what you will spend on permits and insurance:
Foreign Trekkers:
TIMS Card: $20 USD
ACAP Permit: $30 USD
Travel Insurance: $100-$150 USD (for 2 weeks)
Total: Approximately $150-$200 USD
SAARC Citizens:
TIMS Card: 2,000 NPR
ACAP Permit: 1,000 NPR
Travel Insurance: Varies by provider
Total: Approximately 3,000-5,000 NPR plus insurance
These costs do not include visa fees or guide charges.
Where to Get Help or Verify Information?
You can contact these official sources for permit questions:
Nepal Tourism Board:
Website: ntb.gov.np
Kathmandu office: Tourist Service Center, Bhrikutimandap
Pokhara office: Damside location
TAAN (Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal):
Main office in Kathmandu (Maligaon)
Branch office in Pokhara
Email support available
Contact Himalayan Odyssey:
Mobile no:9842746298
Email: www.thehimalayamodyssey.com
We are a trusted trekking agency. We are happy to help you with your paperwork and provide proper insurance direction.
Note: Permit rules can change. Make sure you check the current requirements a few weeks before your trek or contact us.
Combining Permits with Other Regions
Some trekkers also combine multiple regions in one trip. They want more adventures. The Manaslu to Annapurna crossing is very famous. You enter Dharapani on the Annapurna Circuit.
For this route, you need:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
TIMS Card
Himalayan Odyssey handles all permits together. This will help you at checkpoints. Rangers check permits carefully where regions meet.
Common Permit Questions
Can I get permits on arrival in Nepal?
Yes. You can get both TIMS and ACAP on the same day in Kathmandu or Pokhara. For that, you have to arrive at the office in the morning for faster processing.
Do I need permits for Poon Hill or Mardi Himal?
Yes. Both routes require ACAP and TIMS cards. These areas are inside the conservation zone. All the same rules apply.
Can Nepali citizens trek without permits?
Nepali citizens do not need TIMS or ACAP. They must carry government ID. Some checkpoints still register local trekkers for safety tracking.
Are digital copies accepted at checkpoints?
No. Rangers (who protect the environment) only accept printed original permits. But still keep digital backups on your phone. However, it is always best to show the paper version.
What happens if I trek without permits?
Trekkers without a permit face heavy fines. Rangers who protect the environment can stop your trek immediately. You might need to return to get proper permits.
Do children need separate permits?
Children under 10 need permits but pay no fees. They must have their own TIMS card with their photo. ACAP for children is free.
Permits Protect You and the Mountains
The above permits are not just paperwork. They help you build the area in the development of the region. This is for crossing rivers safely. The remote villages can get a good facility with the permit money. The schools and colleges can be built properly. It encourages everyone to conserve the environment.
The Annapurna region welcomes over 150,000 trekkers each year. Imagine the mountains without protection, who would visit? Would anyone? So, the permit gives a motive to manage the tourism and mountains in a good way.
Ready to Start Your Annapurna Adventure?
The Himalayan Odyssey handles all your permits and insurance. We process everything before you arrive in Nepal. You can focus on training for your trek. We take care of everything for you.
Contact us today to book your permit-inclusive Annapurna package. Our team answers all your questions. We make sure you have everything you need for a safe and legal trek.
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