Annapurna Trek Permits 2026 | ACAP & TIMS Updates

Introduction: The Importance of Trekking Permits in Nepal (Reality in 2026)

Issuance of trekking permits in Nepal is not a mere formality. It is an official procedure, directly associated with conservation, safety, and community management.

Each season, we meet trekkers in Pokhara and Kathmandu who come with outdated or conflicting information regarding permits. In particular, they might think that the permit will cover all regions. Or that the rules from previous years are still applicable for 2026.

This is not entirely surprising. The rules for trekking in Nepal are not fixed and tend to vary by region.

So, this resource is created to eliminate this kind of confusion – clearly, truthfully, from personal experience.

Why Permit Rules in Nepal Create Confusion?

Nepal has more than one type of trekking permit system, with each popular trekking area having a different system of permit, issuing, and implementation.

In the Annapurna region alone, trekkers are often presented with conflicting information regarding:

• The ACAP permit Nepal 2026 requirements
• Is a TIMS card compulsory for Annapurna?
• If trekking alone is allowed
• Where permits are actually checked on the trail

This is partly due to the fact that a lot of the confusion is caused by material written on the Internet that has no basis in practical experience in Nepal.

Exactly What This 2026 Guide Will Make Clear:

In this article, you can find out:

• What the ACAP permit Nepal 2026 entails and why it is required
• Current Legal Status of the TIMS Card in 2026: TAAN's Stance
• Where and how permits are issued in Kathmandu and Pokhara
• How permits for Annapurna differ from Everest, Langtang, and restricted areas
• What about trekkers who do not possess an ACAP?

Each point is grounded in real-world enforcement, not in assumptions or hearsay.

A Note on TIMS Card Status in 2026 (Important Context)

Currently, the TIMS card is not mandatory in the Annapurna region. Yet, the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal has formally requested the government to make it mandatory, specifically regarding safety rescue tracking.

This guide is based on the current reality, and not on speculations. If enforcement varies by regions or at a checkpoint, this is indicated.

Why You Can Trust This Information

This guide is written from Nepal, not about Nepal.

It portrays the reality that licensed trekking agencies encounter every day that:

• Issue permits each season
• Deal with Checkpoint verification in Annapurna
• Address compliance inquiries from trekkers on the ground

Nothing from here is taken from obsolete policy pages or generic travel sites.

What is ACAP Permit? (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)

Definition and Purpose

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, also referred to as ACAP, is a required entry ticket for trekkers into the Annapurna region. ACAP falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area Project and represents Nepal's first and largest protected area initiative.

As learned from experience, ACAP is not just a structured process. It is the legal form that is closely examined at different places of entry to the trail every season of hiking.

Why ACAP Exists: Conservation and Community Protection

ACAP was established in order to find a balance between trekking tourist growth and the protection of the environment and culture. The fees go directly into supporting the maintenance of the trails and the wildlife, as well as other aspects within the community.

In villages such as Ghandruk, Manang, and Lower Mustang, ACAP finances are used for maintaining educational institutions, water supply facilities, and heritage areas.

Trekking areas covered under ACAP

ACAP Permit: Every trekking trail inside Annapurna Conservation Area requires an ACAP Permit. These include but are not limited to:

• Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek
• Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Ghorepani–Poonhill Trek
• Mardi Himal Trek
• Khopra Ridge Trek
• Tilicho Lake Trek
• Manaslu Circuit Trek (Entered after crossing the Larkya La Pass)
• Upper Pisang and Nar-Phu access routes (require a separate RAP on Nar-Phu)

In cases where the trekking route passes through the Annapurna region, ACAP permit Nepal 2026 applies to everyone without exception.

Who Must Obtain an ACAP Permit

Every trekker moving to the Annapurna region has to hold an ACAP permit, irrespective of experience or trekking type.

The following:

• International trekkers
• SAARC nationals
• Independent trekkers
• People trekking with licensed guides or trekking agencies

Solo trekkers, short treks, and returning visitors do not have any exemptions.

Is ACAP Mandatory in 2026

Yes. The ACAP permit for Nepal in 2026 is completely mandatory and strictly enforced. In contrast to TIMS cards, ACAP permits have national conservation laws to fall behind.

Generally, lack of ACAP permit results in denied entry into the region, fines, or return to countries of origin. Trekkers who lack ACAP permit will be charged twice for the permit and the permit is issued at the checkpoint.

How ACAP Is Checked on the Trail

ACAP permit cards are scanned at designated official checkpoints and in some cases by mobile patrol units.

Common checkpoints are:

• Besisahar and Dharapani (Annapurna Circuit)
• Birethanti and Ghorepani (Poonhill routes)
• Chhomrong (ABC Route)
• Pothana (Mardi Routes)
• Jomsom / Ghasa (Muktinath/Annapurna Circuit)

Based on ground operations, it is learned that those who do not have ACAP do not normally venture past the first checkpoint.

ACAP Permit Fee for 2026

The ACAP permit fee for the year 2026 is the same as determined according to the new operational directives being followed on the ground in Nepal.

As of the current trekking season, there is no official news from the Government of Nepal or the Annapurna Conservation Area Project about any change in the fee for the year 2026. Such stability is not unusual.

Permit fees in Nepal generally remain stable for many years unless there has been an official change in policy.

ACAP Permit Fees (2026 Updated)

Important: Children under the age of 10 years do not need an ACAP permit. This applies regardless of nationality. Exemption applicable: This exemption is official and operates consistently at checkpoints.

Currency and Payment Notes

The fee for all ACAP permits is in Nepalese Rupees only. The payment can be made in cash from the official permit offices or from licensed trekking companies.

Foreign currencies are not accepted at the counters.

We highly recommend exchanging your money before going to the permit office.

What the ACAP fee actually supports

The ACAP permit is not merely an entry ticket.

Your payment goes to:

• Trail maintenance and safety infrastructure
• Conservation of forests and wildlife in the Annapurna region
• Community Schools, Health Posts and Waste Management
• Sustainable tourism in remote mountain villages

Because of this model of conservation, Annapurna is now Nepal's most diverse and best-conserved trekking area.

Is ACAP a One-Time or Multi-Use Permit?

The ACAP permit is a single-entry permit. After leaving the Annapurna Conservation Area, the permit will not be valid anymore.

When your travel schedule re-enters the region after leaving, you will be required to renew your permit at ACAP.

Local Perspective: The Trail Experience

In actual checkpoint enforcement at sites such as Birethanti, Ghorepani, Chhomrong, and Jomsom checks:

• The Name matching passport
• Permit date consistency
• Physical Hard Copy of ACAP

The digital photographs from your phone are not accepted.

Where and How to Get ACAP Permit (Kathmandu, Pokhara & Online)

For the ACAP permit for Nepal in 2026, there are three officially legal choices for trekkers. When traveling, there are already such systems functioning, so being familiar with which one your route meets will help save time and avoid stress.

Option 1: Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Office – Kathmandu

Even now, the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu remains the most popular option for trekkers who begin their journey from there.

Location

Pradarshani Marg, near Bhrikutimandap [Click here for location]

Office Hours(Local Time)

Sunday through Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Saturdays and holidays: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

What You Need

• Original passport
• One passport-sized photo
• Trekking itinerary (only general route is needed)
• Permit fee in NPR

Processing Time

Typically 10-20 minutes if all documents are available.

Local Tip

Go early morning during peak seasons (March–May, October–November). Lines build up fast after 11 AM.

Option 2: Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Office – Pokhara

If you are already at Pokhara, this is often the most convenient point from where you will get the Annapurna trekking permit.

Location

Damside, Pokhara (near Phewa Lake) [Click here for location]

Why Pokhara Is Ideal

• Close to Annapurna Trailheads
• Less crowded than Kathmandu
• Easy for last-minute route changes

Processing Time

Usually 10 minutes or less

On-the-Ground Reality

Many trekkers complete the ACAP permit in Pokhara on the day before they go on the trek.

Option 3: Online Application using NTNC Website

Starting from recent times, trekkers are able to apply for the ACAP permit through the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) online system. [NTNC Nepal's Official Website]

How It Works

1. Complete the online ACAP application form
2. Upload Passport Details and Picture
3. Submit trek information
4. Pay Permit Fee (online payment options exist)
5. Collect or download permit confirmation as directed

Important Notes

• Applying online may not always preclude physical verification
• Certain checkpoints require paper copies of the permit documents
• System availability could differ during peak periods

Expert Advice

Online ACAP can be used ONLY if you feel comfortable navigating Nepali websites

Keep physical copies in your possession, even if they come in digital format

4. Obtaining ACAP Through a Licensed Local Trekking Agency

A trekking agency that is licensed in Nepal can obtain the ACAP permit for you to save time and avoid mistakes in filling out papers.

Since we are a local organization dealing directly with NTB and conservation offices, we can help you obtain an ACAP permit once you send us a copy of your passport, a picture, and trek information. This may come in handy if you arrive in-country close to your trekking date or plan to trek during peak periods.

By using an agency, you will ensure that the details in your permit are the same as the route you will take, thus avoiding problems at check points on Annapurna.

If your desire is for the ACAP permit to be arranged easily prior to your hike, then contact us for proper processing and 2026 compliance.

Documents Summary Requirement

• Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity preferred
• Passport size photo
• Trekking route details
• ACAP Permit fee (NPR)
• Children below 10 years: No ACAP Required

Important Local Reality (From the Trails)

• ACAP-permitted passes get scanned more than once in Annapurna regions
• Digital screenshots may not always be accepted
• Incomplete documentation may mean going back or being penalized on the spot

Based on personal experience, a no-brainer strategy in obtaining the ACAP permit in Nepal in 2026 is to obtain it in advance, bring hard copies along, and cross-check coverage before you trek.

ACAP Validity Criteria, Entry Rules, and Checkpoints

The ACAP is a single-entry permit and will be valid for the entire length of your trek in the Annapurna Conservation Area. It will be required to be carried with you at all times and produced at checkpoints along the way.

Validity: Key Points

• Single-entry: When leaving and then re-entering the protected area, another permit is required.
• Duration: The permit will last as long as the trekking period; an extension, though rare, must be applied for through the offices of ACAP.

Eligibility Criteria

• You must carry your permits along with your passport or a photocopy.
• Authorities at the checkpoint can check your identity and allow access at any time.
• Children under 10 years of age do not need any ACAP permit.

Common Checkpoints in Annapurna Region

• Besisahar (entry from the east)
• Jagat (Manang route)
• Ghorepani (Poon Hill route)
• Muktinath (Upper Mustang connection)
• Other trailheads on the routes of Marpha-Jomsom-Kagbeni

Pro Tip: Always carry a physical copy of your ACAP permit, even if you have a mobile copy, as mobile reception is not available in the mountains.

What is TIMS Card?

TIMS is an abbreviation for Trekkers' Information Management System. This is a registration system that was formed by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and is presently operated in partnership with TAAN (Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal). The main intention of establishing TIMS is to ensure the safety of trekkers in Nepal.

Purpose of TIMS

• Safety and Rescue: Enables authorities to track trekkers in case of emergencies.
• Regulation: It assists in the monitoring of trekking activities and conservation.
• Data Collection: Provides statistics and trends related to trekking for governments and organizations.

Kinds of TIMS Cards

• Individual TIMS: When trekkers go without a registered guide or without groups.
• Group TIMS: For trekkers organized by licensed trekking companies, and sometimes accompanied by a guide.

Who needs it?

Trekking in the controlled or highly popular trekking areas may require TIMS.

Although TIMS passes are not compulsory in the Annapurna area at this time, they are highly recommended for safety reasons.

The TAAN has appealed to the government to make TIMS mandatory across the entire country; however, this has not been implemented as of 2026.

Pro Tip: Always carry your TIMS card, even though it is not mandatory. Many teahouses or check-points will require the card for verification and insurance purposes.

Is TIMS Card Mandatory in 2026?

In 2026, TIMS is not compulsory in any trekking area of Nepal, such as Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, Manaslu, Upper Mustang, and many more. Although Trekking Agencies' Association Nepal (TAAN) recommended TIMS be compulsory for all trekkers, it has yet to be implemented by the government.

Current Enforcement Reality

• All Regions: TIMS is highly recommended for safety and tracking, but there will not be any legal repercussions for not utilizing TIMS for treks.
• Safety Consideration: TIMS is still a useful system for responding to emergencies and helping authorities quickly trace trekkers.

Regional Differences (for context)

Pro Tip: Although it is not necessary, a TIMS card can add immensely to your safety and even make communications between you and local officials or rescue teams easier.

ACAP vs TIMS: A Comparison Table

Knowing the differences between ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) is very important for trekking in a safe and legal manner in Nepal. The differences have been highlighted in the following table:

Key Takeaways

• ACAP is a mandatory document for all those who plan to go for the Annapurna trek, and the absence of the document may lead to fines or even refusal of entry into the
• The TIMS Card is optional but helpful for independent hikers, especially concerning safety and tracking for emergencies.
• Bringing printed copies of both (if the TMS acquired voluntarily) is always advisable, especially in the remote locations.

Permit Requirements in Other Trekking Regions (Context Only)

Although ACAP is Annapurna-specific, there are permit requirements in other trekking areas in Nepal as well. Familiarity with these requirements is essential to avoid penalties.

1. Everest Region (Sagarmatha / Khumbu)

Permits Required:

• Sagarmatha National Park Permit (SNP)
• Lukla VDC Fees

Issuing Authority: Department of National Park/Lukla VDC

Notes: Trekking without SNP is prohibited; treks such as Lukla/EBC are closely monitored.

2: Langtang Region

Permits Required:

• Langtang National Park Permit

Issuing Authority: NTB / Langtang National Park Office

Notes: TIMS is recommended; children under 10 are exempt from the park fee.

3. The Manaslu Region

Permits required:

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
• Manaslu Conservation Area Project permit

Issuing Authority: NTB, special permits may be required through licensed agents

Notes: It's generally advised against trekking alone; foreign trekkers will need an agency's help in arranging for an RAP.

4. Upper Mustang

Permits required:

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit

Issuing Authority: NTB

Notes: Sensitive region with preservation of local culture; trekking without a permit is prohibited.

5. Dolpo

Permits Required:

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Permit from Local Dolpo Region

Issuing Authority: NTB

Notes: Region at high altitude; frequently merged with TIMS registration for security reasons, though optional.

6. Kanchenjunga

Permits Required:

• Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit
• Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

Issuing Authority: NTB / Local Conservation Office

Notes: The routes are remote and mountainous; trekking permits help to regulate this activity and support conservation efforts.

Pro Tip: The fee system and checkpoints vary from region to region; always check with the concerned NTB authorities or a licensed local trekking company before embarking on your trek.

Guide Requirement and Solo Trekking Rules (2026)

Rules and regulations for trekking in Nepal mostly deal with trekker safety and guides, and regulations differ from region to region.

Trekker Essentials: Guidelines and Regulations for Trekking in Nepal

Guide Requirement

• Annapurna Region: Trekkers require no guide for legally entering or performing any of the treks.
• Restricted Areas (Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Dolpo): A guide is required for obtaining a permit.
• Everest Region: While guides are not mandatory on trails in the Everest region, they are strongly advised.

Solo Trekking Considerations

• In many areas, solo trekking is permitted; however, trekkers must be self-reliant and knowledgeable about local emergency response systems.
• Trekking alone is prohibited in restricted areas; instead, hikers must use an organized service or a professional guide.
• Permits for ACAP, SNP, RAP, and other requirements must be carried; failure to do so could result in entrance restrictions or penalties.

Safety and Rescue Context

• Particularly in more isolated areas, a guide or organized organization provides emergency assistance, local contact information, and route verification.
• Even if guides are not required, having one can mitigate any threats posed by climate, height, or route guidance.
• TIMS is optional but supplements guide services by allowing the tracking of trekkers during emergencies.

Pro Tip: Always notify a local organization or trekking lodge when trekking on your own regarding your itinerary. This could literally be a lifesaver in case of an emergency.

Common Mistakes Trekkers Make

Even seasoned travelers can fall prey to mistakes when it comes to trekking permits in Nepal. Knowledge of these will help ensure a safe trek.

1. Reliance on Outdated Information

• Rules regarding trekking and fees for trekking passes change every year.
• Using outdated blog posts or old guides may result in fines or even denial of entry.

2. Assuming One Permit Covers All Regions

• ACAP is restricted to Annapurna alone; Everest, Langtang, Manaslu, and other areas demand different
• Incorrect comprehension of this can lead to problems.

3. Not Carrying Permits During Trek

• Many checkpoints ask for copies of permits.
• In villages that lack internet connections, these digital copies can be rejected.

4. Misunderstanding the Rules

• Trekkers generally believe that TIMS is compulsory everywhere.
• TIMS is recommended but is not currently mandatory at the time of 2026.

5. Disregarding Guide or Agency Recommendations in Restricted Areas

• Doing solo treks in the restricted areas of Manaslu or Upper Mustang without the help of a guide is prohibited.
• This can cause a revocation of a permit and/or evacuation order.

6. Forgetting Children / Group Variations

• Children below the age of 10 years do not require ACAP, and assuming so may cause misunderstandings in checkpoints.
• Group permits also have regulations that differ from individual permits. Ignorance of this aspect might make the permit invalid.

Pro Tips:

Always cross-check from official sources of NTB or ACAP and also consult a licensed trekking company to avoid such mistakes.

How a Local Trekking Agency Can Help

Hiring a professional local trekking company can help you deal with the issue of trekking permits and ensure that you abide by trekking regulations in Nepal as you trek.

Permit Handling

• Agencies obtain permits like ACAP, SNP, RAP, among others, on your behalf, saving time and reducing errors.
• They ensure that all the paperwork is correct for adults, children, and groups.

Route Verification

• The local police forces are familiar with every official checkpoint, as well as every point of entry
• They design routes according to permit regulations, thus reducing the possibilities of being fined or refused entry.

Compliance Assurance

• Agencies remain updated on the 2026 fees and guidelines for permits and TAAN.
• They offer expert advice on whether you need guide or TIMS cards to ensure that your trek is legal and safe.

Pro Tip/Call to Action: We have all the necessary permits and knowledge to make your Annapurna trekking experience easy, legal, and hassle-free. Get in touch with Shikhar Adventure to obtain your permits and prepare your trek.

Final Trekking Permit Checklist (2026)

Before you begin the journey itself, ensure that you have all essential documents and preparations. The above-mentioned checklist assists in preventing last-minute complications.

Permit & Documentation

• ACAP Permit (required for the Annapurna region, exempt for children below 10 years)
• Other regional permits if trekking outside Annapurna range (e.g. SNP, RAP)
• Passport valid for at least 6 more months
• Photocopies of permits & passport

Safety & Support

• Travel or trekking insurance including high altitude trekking & emergency evacuation
• Confirmation of guidance on restricted areas or if you are using an agency
• Emergency contact phone numbers (local police agency, nearest hospital)

Personal Essentials

• Passport-sized recent photos (generally 2 to 4)
• All digital and physical copies of the permits and documents
• Trekking itinerary shared with your agency or local contacts

Optional but Helpful

• TIMS Card (although not mandatory, it is useful for security reasons if you are traveling alone)
• Local maps or GPS device
• Copies of receipts for permits

Pro Tip: Store all documents in a secure location easily accessible. When going through a checkpoint, government officials may request hard copies; therefore, being prepared saves time and hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions about Permits

1. Is an ACAP permit mandatory for each trekker in the Annapurna region?

Yes. Foreign trekkers are required to possess an ACAP permit, but not children under the age of 10. It is necessary for legal trekkers and checkpoint access.

2. Can I trek Annapurna on my own?

Yes, for most treks, a guide is not necessary from a legal viewpoint, though in certain restricted areas, a licensed guide is always preferable to ensure assistance, if need be, in difficult circumstances.

3. Do I need a TIMS card in 2026?

No, TIMS is not compulsory for any region so far. TIMS is highly recommended for independent trekkers actuating as a safety tracking device.

4. Where can I obtain the ACAP permits in Nepal?

The permits can be obtained in Kathmandu, Pokhara, online from NTNC, or from trekking agencies. Keep both printed and electronic copies.

5. What if I trek without an ACAP permit?

Trekking without a valid ACAP permit could get you fines, prohibited entry in checkpoints, and compelled evacuation. Always get your ACAP permit prior to trekking.

6. Are exemptions available for children?

ACAP Permits Issued to Children – Children who are below 10 years old are exempted from having to hold an ACAP permit.

Is this helpful?

7. In what ways can a local agency assist with permits?

Licensed agencies can obtain ACAP, regional permits, and advice about regulations, check-points, and safety so that trekkers can enjoy a hassle-free trek.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Trekking in Nepal can be life-altering, but it is necessary to be aware of the rules concerning trekking permits.

Key Takeaways

• The ACAP permit is required for Annapurna, and those under 10 years are exempted.
• TIMS card is recommended for safety but not obligatory until 2026.
• Other expeditions in the Everest, Langtang, Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Dolpo, and Kanchenjunga regions requires separate permits.
• Always carry physical copies of your permits, passport, and contact numbers.

But with proper preparation, you will be able to focus on enjoying the beautiful landscapes and culture of Nepal and your trekking adventure in the Himalayas without worrying about any legal and permit formalities involved in the process.

To make the trekking experience smooth and easy for you, we can assist in getting the required permits and provide valuable information. Get in touch with us for a secure start on the Annapurna trek.