The Department of Immigration (DoI) has reiterated the government policy requiring trekkers to hire licensed guides when traveling to restricted areas across 13 districts in Nepal.
According to the DoI, prior approval from the department remains mandatory for trekking in these controlled regions. The process of issuing permits has been streamlined through an online system, making it faster, more efficient, and user-friendly—especially for foreign groups traveling through registered agencies.
DoI spokesperson and director Tikaram Dhakal stated that support mechanisms, including contact numbers, have been put in place to assist applicants facing technical difficulties while applying for permits.
The department has also allowed individual trekkers to obtain permits for restricted areas. However, applications must still be submitted through a registered agency, and assigning a trekking guide is compulsory. The agency is also responsible for handling emergency rescue operations if needed.
Under the current rules, one trekking guide can lead a group of up to seven trekkers, and approvals are granted accordingly.
Additionally, foreign nationals can now apply for trekking permits from their home countries using their visa application number, further simplifying the process.
The DoI believes that these measures will help boost tourism, generate employment, ensure the safety and security of trekkers, and improve overall trekking management in Nepal.
