Permits for Peak Climbing in Nepal: A Complete Guide

Nepal’s peaks, including trekking and expedition mountains, are tightly regulated. Permits keep climbers safe, protect fragile ecosystems, and funnel income to rural communities surrounding the Himalayas. In recent years, tragic incidents such as overcrowding on Everest’s summit ridge have prompted new laws that link climbing qualifications and experience to permit eligibility.

Obtaining the right permits means you’re entering local communities legally and ethically, with respect for rules designed to preserve the mountains.

Two authorities handle permit issuance depending on mountain height and type:

The Nepal Mountaineering Association is responsible for the 27 “trekking peaks” ranging from about 5,800 m to 6,600 m (19,029 to 21,654 feet), including Island Peak, Mera Peak, Lobuche East, and Singu Chuli. 

Expedition permits for peaks over 7,000 m and the 8,000 m giants (22,966 and 26,247 feet) like Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and the special Annapurna fall under government jurisdiction. 

Climbing in Nepal involves juggling several official permits, each tied to the peak’s height, difficulty, and the entity managing the route. Here’s the lowdown to keep you on the right side of the rules.

Nepal categorises trekking peaks into two main groups, with permit fees reflecting their challenge and popularity:

Permit fees fluctuate with the seasons: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) demand higher fees, reflecting peak climbing windows, while winter and summer months are cheaper due to lower traffic.

Once you cross into the serious high-altitude zone (above 7,000 metres), permits shift from the Nepal Mountaineering Association to the Department of Tourism:

These hikes require more than just a permit. Expect to hire a government liaison officer, organise insurance and rescue plans, and pay environmental bonds, all part of the safety net for these extreme expeditions.

All hikers and climbers need a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. It keeps track of your well-being and helps the police find you and get you to safety if they need to. It costs about $10 to $20 and is usually included in trekking agency packages.

Permits don't include the cost of getting into conservation areas, which protect Nepal's beautiful landscapes and animals. For instance: 

These fees help keep trails in good shape, benefit local communities, and protect the environment.

Permit fees climbed sharply in 2025. Everest’s spring permit jumped by 36% from $11,000 to $15,000, with similar hikes across seasons. Trekking peak permits also rose to better fund vital mountain infrastructure, safety services, and community support.

Nepal’s mountains are under pressure from growing tourism. These changes aim to protect fragile trails, enhance climber safety, and ensure local communities thrive alongside adventure seekers.

Permit fees vary according to season, and the size of your team can affect total cost and paperwork.

The vast majority of climbers apply for permits via a local Kathmandu agency. They’ll handle permit application, TIMS registration, and park entry logistics. Solo permit application for NMA peaks isn’t allowed. 

For expedition peaks (e.g., Everest, Kanchenjunga), permits are issued through the Ministry of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation in Nepal’s capital. Agencies still handle most details. 

Be prepared with these when applying:

Here’s a quick guide to the most popular NMA peaks and what their permits will set you back in 2025:

Remember, these fees cover just the permits. You’ll still need to budget for guides, equipment, agency fees, and all the bits and bobs that make a mountain trip tick. Spring and autumn are the prime seasons, so permits cost more, but the weather is kinder and the views stunning. Winter and summer bring discounts, but expect colder, tougher climbs and far fewer fellow trekkers.

Getting a permit isn't just a formality; it's your way of helping maintain the paths, supporting the local Sherpa communities, and ensuring these amazing mountains stay beautiful for climbers for many years to come.

You can't just get the necessary permits to climb in Nepal and then head off.  Following the standards that govern mountaineering is important for protecting safety, wildlife, and cultural heritage.  These are:

For most peaks, a minimum of two climbers (excluding guide or support staff) is required. Solo permits are not issued for NMA peaks.

Climbers must be accompanied by a government-licensed guide. Independent trekking is allowed in some areas, but peak climbing always requires an agency-registered guide.

Permits are valid for a specific timeframe. Overstaying or climbing outside designated dates can result in fines or bans.

Teams are required to bring back waste from high camps. In some regions, a refundable garbage deposit must be paid.

Climbing in Nepal means dealing with permits,  no way around it. But don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds once you know the ropes.

1. Use a registered trekking agency. This is the smoothest path by far. Agencies in Kathmandu handle all the boring bits: paperwork, payments, TIMS cards, and sorting guides. Plus, they keep up with rule changes, so you don’t get caught off guard.

2. If you’re climbing one of the smaller trekking peaks under about 6,500 metres (21,325 feet), like Island Peak or Mera Peak, permits come from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). You could apply in person in Kathmandu, but honestly, hardly anyone does. Agencies handle it for you, making life way easier.

3. Everest, Kanchenjunga, and the 7,000-plus-metre monsters — permits come from the Department of Tourism. These require a bit more paperwork, like detailed itineraries, insurance, and a government liaison officer. Most climbers still use agencies here because the process can get tricky if you go solo.

4. You’ll need a TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System). It’s a safety tracker so authorities know where you are. Get it through your agency or directly from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu. Some treks require it even if you’re just heading to base camp.

If your paperwork is complete, permits usually come through in one or two working days. But in busy seasons (spring and autumn), it might take three or four days. Avoid last-minute rushes and public holidays when offices are closed.

Tip: Get to Kathmandu a few days early. Use that time to sort permits, pack, and relax before heading out.

Permits might feel like a hassle, but they’re there for good reasons: to keep you safe, support local communities, and protect the mountains. Nail this part, and you’ll have one less thing to worry about on your adventure.

Whether you’re aiming for Island Peak, Mera, or Lobuche East, permits aren’t just bureaucracy; they’re part of climbing responsibly. Get them sorted early, follow the rules, and time your ascent well. You’ll protect yourself, support Nepal’s mountain communities, and earn every step you take.

Climbing in Nepal isn’t just reaching the top; it’s travelling through the Himalayas with respect, learning from their culture, and carrying yourself with purpose.

Follow Alice is committed to following regulations, enriching local communities, and making our adventures as unforgettable as possible.  We’ll handle the admin. You handle the adventure.