TheAnnapurna Circuit Trek encircles the Annapurna Massif, taking trekkers through Thorung La Pass (5,415 m), high-altitude landscapes, and the desert of Mustang via Muktinath. It is one of the iconic trekking destinations in Nepal’s Himalaya that offers scenic views of mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre
But trekking in the Annapurna region of Nepal requires mandatory trekking permits issued by the government of Nepal. These permits ensure the safety and security of trekkers while also supporting the region’s community, biodiversity, and overall development. This blog provides information about the permits that are required for the Annapurna Circuit trek for SAARC and non-SAARC nationals. Also, you get information regarding the location to obtain permits, including information about documents required for legally trekking in the region.
Permits Required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek
Permit
SAARC Nationals
Non-SAARC Nationals
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
NPR 1,000(Free for Children below 10 years)
NPR 3,000(Free for Children below 10 years)
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
NPR 1,000(Free for Children below 10 years)
NPR 2,000(Free for Children below 10 years)
Total Estimated Cost
NPR 2,000
NPR 5,000
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
You require an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to trek in the Annapurna Circuit or enter the Annapurna region legally. The cost of Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is NPR 3,000 for non-SAARC nationals and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals. Meanwhile, the cost of ACAP for Nepalese nationals is NPR 100. For children below 10 years, no cost is required.
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card is also a mandatory requirement to enter any trekking destination in Nepal. TIMS ensures the safety and security of every trekker trekking in Nepal. The cost of a TIMS card for SAARC nationals is NPR 1,000 and non-SAARC nationals, it is NPR 2,000. Children below the age of 10 years are not required to obtain a TIMS card during their entry to the Annapurna region or during the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Where to Obtain the Permits
Permits such as Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card can be obtained from Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office, the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN), and registered trekking agencies in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Nepal Tourism Board
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) cards are obtained from Nepal Tourism Board offices in Damside, Pokhara, and Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu.
TAAN Office and registered trekking agencies
TIMS permits are also issued from the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) and registered trekking agencies in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
National Trust For Nature Conservation
Trekkers can also apply for an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit by visiting the office or website of National Trust For Nature Conservation. Visit the website, enter your details, and submit your application.
Documents Required for the Permits
While applying for trekking permits, it is important to prepare and submit necessary documentation for approval of permits. You are required to submit the following documents:
Valid passport copy
You are required to submit the copy of your passport with a valid Nepal visa covering your entire trekking days. Passports and valid visas are important to legally trek in Nepal for record and security purposes.
Two passport-sized photos
In addition to a valid passport and visa, you also require the latest passport-size photo to use in the permit. Photos are attached to your permits so that the permit inspector identifies you during the inspections.
Other documentation
Other important documentation, such as the permit application form, trekking itineraries, insurance documents, and list of trekkers, is also required. This documentation helps to record your details and helps in your safety during emergency situations.
Why Permits Are Mandatory
Trekking permits are mandatory for most of the trekking destinations in Nepal. They help in promoting responsible tourism, protecting biodiversity and the environment, safeguarding trekkers, and promoting development of the region.
Trekker’s safety: Permits, including the Trekkers Information Management system (TIMS) Card, help in providing safety and security to the trekkers. These permits track trekkers at entry points and checkpoints and help to locate and evacuate them during emergency situations.
Environmental protection: Permits like the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) help in protecting the biodiversity, flora, and fauna of the Annapurna region. These permits help in regulating and controlling numbers of visitors and conserving the fragile ecosystem of the region.
Development: Permits help in collecting funds that are required for sustainable development of trekking trails, bridges, and infrastructure.
Tourism Regulation: Mandatory permits help the government and authorities to control and manage visitors in the trekking region. It helps in promoting safe trekking practice and promoting sustainable tourism practice.
How Permit Fees Support Conservation and Communities
Fees collected via permits help in supporting environment conservation and promoting local communities in the region. The funds help authorities to develop initiatives, projects, and programs to maintain and protect conservation areas. Also, local communities get funds to develop infrastructures such as education, health, waste management, and social sectors. They also help locals by providing employment opportunities and earn income by being involved in hospitality sectors.
Conclusion
Permits like the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card are mandatory for the Annapurna Circuit trek. These permits help to improve infrastructures and communities and conserve the nature and ecosystem of the region. This permit also helps in the development of local communities and the safety of the trekkers. Permits also help to regulate and balance the flow of tourism in the region to avoid overcrowding. If you are also planning for trekking in Nepal’s remote Himalaya, including the Annapurna Circuit trek, visit Himalayan Holidays. Himalayan Holidays ensures management of permits, providing tailored itineraries, expert guides, and support for safe and sustainable treks in Nepal’s Himalaya
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