To stand at the world's most famous base camp, you need more than just determination. You also need the right papers. Our complete Everest Base Camp Trek Permit Guide tells you about all the permits, fees, and steps you need to take to make your Himalayan dream come true.
We'll walk you through every step, from getting into Sagarmatha National Park to getting a pass from the local government, with the confidence of someone who has led hundreds of trekkers through these same checkpoints
The first thing in your Everest Base Camp Trek Permit Guide is a simple fact. Getting the right licenses is the first step toward hearing your footsteps echoing off of old stone paths. There must also be right paperwork for every wave of colorful prayer flags. You have to get through Nepal's permit system before getting to breathe in the clean Himalayan air.
"Do I really need special permits just to trek to Everest Base Camp?" You can hike to Everest Base Camp as long as you have the right documents. Plus, it's not as hard as you think. But getting these licenses is already a win on the way to 17,598 feet.
👉Complete Everest Base Camp Trek Package from Shikhar Adventure
There are strict rules about conservation in the Everest Region. Local government also looks out for the unique culture and surroundings. Multiple licenses are needed to protect Sagarmatha National Park's fragile ecosystem. These permits also help the Sherpa villages in the area. In addition, they help keep the number of hikers on famous trails under control. Everyone is much safer now that this permit system is in place.
The permit system's main pros are:
Nepal's government has a plan for how to use permit fees. They also help with protection efforts and keep mountain trails in good shape. This money is also used by local authority to build infrastructure in the Khumbu Region. Because of this, your permit fees directly protect this area.
For the whole trip, each trekker needs exactly two passes. To begin, the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit lets you into the park. The Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit covers the village's surroundings. But these aren't just rules made by the government. They are also your official tickets to amazing treks. Also, each pass is used for a different but still important purpose.
With this pass, you can visit Nepal's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, it completely covers the whole protected area. It also gives you entry to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes. A permit check is done at Monjo village by park guards. In addition, they give important talks about protection. Wildlife protection still works because of this method.
Key Points:
The local governments just recently set up this permit system. It also does a good job of managing the effects of tourists in Khumbu. But it focuses on building up communities in particular. Making money helps build health posts and schools. In addition, it takes care of important hiking tracks. This implies that the permits you pay benefit the surrounding Sherpa villages.
Community Benefits:
To get permits, you have to go to certain offices in Kathmandu. You can also get them in places where people go trekking. We also strongly suggest that you use Kathmandu apps before you fly.
You can get a Sagarmatha Permit in Monjo at the park entrance gate.
All permit price details from Nepal Tourism Board: Nepal Tourism Board Permit Fees
Different nationalities pay different amounts for permits. But knowing the costs helps you make a more accurate budget. Also, these costs are really reasonable.
| Nationality | Cost (NPR) | Cost (USD) | Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreigners | 3,000 | ~$23 | ~€21 |
| SAARC Nationals | 1,500 | ~$11 | ~€10 |
| Nepali Citizens | 100 | ~$1 | ~€1 |
| Nationality | Cost (NPR) | Cost (USD) | Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreigners | 3,000 | ~$23 | ~€21 |
| SAARC Nationals | 1,500 | ~$11 | ~€10 |
| Nepali Citizens | - | - | - |
Check out Shikhar Adventure's Everest Base Camp Trek Cost Guide (2025)
Currently, Nepal doesn't offer comprehensive online systems. However, some authorized agencies arrange permits remotely. Moreover, this service includes delivery to hotels.
In spite of this, applications made in person are still the most reliable. Direct touch also lets you get answers right away to questions. Confidence goes up a lot because of this exchange.
It is against the law to go trekking without a pass. Also, checkpoint guards notice breaches right away. But there are effects beyond just being embarrassed.
Insurance companies won't pay for things that aren't allowed. So, you'll have to pay for medical emergencies out of your own pocket. Also, helicopter rescues cost between $5,000 and $15,000. Our Everest Base Camp Trek for Beginners guide will help you stay safe while you hike.
You need certain things in order to get permits. But organizing supplies keeps things simple. Also, backup copies save trips if the originals go missing.
Read Shikhar's Complete Guide to Everest Base Camp Trek to learn more about EBC Trek package.
If you know what the checkpoints are for, you can easily navigate. However, these are very important for safety. In addition, friendly encounters can teach you a lot.
Trekkers with a lot of experience come up with good plans. But you have to plan permit related things ahead of time. Also, doing what is suggested saves hours.
Check out our Everest Base Camp Trek vs. Luxury Trek comparison to see the differences.
Processing times are affected by busy times a lot. But knowing trends helps with making plans. The weather also changes how the office works.
Check out our Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek and Everest Base Camp Trekking Seasons pages for more information. Step-by-step guides.
You can cut down on processing times if you know how to pay for your permits in Nepal. But cash is still the most common way. Also, problems can be avoided by properly preparing.
There are times when you need to think about things even more. But these problems can be solved with good planning. There are also other options available.
Permit problems are unique for people who are hiking alone. Individual apps, on the other hand, work well. Furthermore, freedom grows a great deal.
Read our Everest Base Camp Trek for Solo Travelers full guide for tips on how to do the trek by yourself.
No matter what age, children need their own licenses. There may be some deals, though. Also, certain paperwork is helpful.
These days, computer planning is needed for trekking. But physical copies are still important. In addition, technology fails all the time.
Of course, it's necessary. To go on a walk, you need to get both the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These licenses are required and will not be thrown out.
There are a total of two permits needed. For outsiders to enter Sagarmatha National Park, it costs 3,000 rupees. Foreigners must pay 3,000 Nepalese rupees for a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit.
To get a Sagarmatha pass, go to the Nepal Tourism Board office on Pradarshani Marg. The Lukla office of the Rural Municipality is the place you go to get a Khumbu pass. For ease of use, you could also use authorized trekking companies.
At the moment, there isn't a complete online method. But some licensed trekking companies get permission ahead of time. In-person applications are still the most safe and effective way to apply.
Trekkers from other countries have to pay 3,000 NPR ($23) for a Sagarmatha pass. 3,000 NPR ($23) for permit for the Khumbu Region as well. It cost about $46 USD all together, plus processing fees.
Fines 3x the original cost are serious effects. Take away of the equipment until payment is made in full. Possible expulsion and lifetime bans on trekking in Nepal. The insurance coverage ends.
Yes, but it's not a good idea for comfort. In the village of Monjo, you can get a Sagarmatha pass. In Lukla town, you can get a Khumbu pass. Both of the shops only take cash during certain hours.
Yes, trekkers of all ages need their own licenses. Some savings may be available based on age. Find out what the rules are for family groups at the permit office right now.
Processing the same day in Kathmandu offices is common. You might need to give yourself more time when things are busy in peak season. When an agency has a professional relationship, processing is generally faster. Save one to two days as a backup.
No, licenses cannot be given from one person to another. Each permit connects to details in a different passport. Different trekkers need new apps. Not refundable for passes not used.
To get a pass to trek to Everest Base Camp, you need two permits. If you want to enter Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, you will need to pay a total of $46 USD. Getting permits in Kathmandu also makes it easy to pass through checkpoints. In addition, these permits help with important conservation activities. They also give money to projects that improve communities. So, with the right planning, bureaucratic rules can be turned into confident first steps.
Are you ready to begin your Everest journey? Now that the permits are taken care of, the way to base camp is clear. The permits, on the other hand, are just the beginning of your trip. Also, our skilled team takes care of every detail in a professional way.
Get in touch with our hiking experts right away to start planning your whole Himalayan trip. We also give passes to summit views that you can trust. Our area knowledge and personalized service also make sure success. Now is the time to start living your Everest Base Camp dream, the mountains are calling!
