Annapurna Circuit Trek Permits and Travel Requirements

Apart from the mystic mountains, Annapurna is home to diverse trekking trails spanning over 128 miles and hosting 1,226 species of plants and 474 species of birds. In 2023, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) reported a significant influx of trekkers, with thousands obtaining the necessary permits to explore this iconic route. This surge underscores the trek’s enduring allure and the importance of understanding the permit requirements to ensure a seamless journey.

Navigating the permit process is crucial for a successful trek. The ACAP permit, essential for all trekkers, costs NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25) for non-SAARC nationals and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Additionally, as of April 1, 2023, Nepal has implemented new regulations requiring all trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed guide, enhancing safety and enriching the trekking experience.

By acquainting yourself with these requirements, you not only comply with local regulations but also contribute to the preservation of the Annapurna region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Proper preparation ensures that your adventure is both memorable and responsible.

Basic Travel Requirements to Trek  Annapurna Circuit

Before you start the journey to Annapurna, here are some basic travel requirements to smoothen your journey.

• Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Nepal.
• Visa to Nepal: A visa is required to enter Nepal. You can get tourist visas at your arrival in Tribhuvan International Airport at Kathmandu or at land entry points, and you can also apply online for an online visa before arrival.
• Permits: For the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you do need two important permits:
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit: This permit is compulsory for all trekkers to help in protecting the natural and cultural heritage of the area.
• Trekker’s Information Management System Card: This is required by the Nepal Tourism Board, which issues the card for tracking safety.
• Guide or Porter (Optional): While not compulsory, the services of a licensed guide or porter are highly recommended in light of the new regulations starting in April 2023, which states that all trekkers must be accompanied by a guide for safety purposes.
• Health and Fitness: The Annapurna Circuit is a somewhat physically demanding trekking route with altitudes above 5,400 meters. It is paramount to be in good health and adequately prepared for high-altitude trekking.
• Travel Insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical expenses, evacuation, and trip cancellations-particularly at high altitudes.
• Equipment and Gear: Prepare for a range of weather conditions, from sweltering hot lowlands to freezing mountain passes. Ensure proper clothing with layers, trekking boots, rain gear, water bottles, and a first-aid kit.
• Money: It is better to have both Nepali rupees and USD in hand, as you may need to withdraw cash in Pokhara or at other local outlets along the trail. Credit cards may be acceptable in larger towns, but not in remote areas.

All The Permits Required for Trail to Annapurna Circuit

To trek the Annapurna Circuit, you’ll need a few permits to ensure both your safety and the conservation of the region. Below are the key permits required for this popular trek, along with where to obtain them and how to apply.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

The ACAP is an essential document to be carried by all trekkers in the Annapurna region for the conservation of its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. It contributes to environmental conservation, sustainable tourism, and local community development. All the trekkers must get an ACAP, whether their route touches the conservation area. Funds collected from ACAP are used to maintain trails, support eco-friendly initiatives, and manage waste disposal systems. Without this permit, Annapurna Circuit along with its surroundings is inaccessibility.

Where to Get It? 

The ACAP permit can be obtained in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office or in Pokhara at the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) counter.

How to Obtain?

• Documents Needed: A copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and the required fee.
• Cost: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25) for non-SAARC nationals, and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals.
• Application Process: Visit the NTB office in Kathmandu or the TIMS counter in Pokhara, complete the necessary forms, submit your documents, and pay the fee to obtain the ACAP.

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

The TIMS Card is designed to ensure the safety of trekkers and monitor their movements along the trail. It aids in providing timely assistance during emergencies and helps authorities track trekking activity in the region. TIMS also plays a role in preventing unauthorized trekking and preserving the region’s trekking culture. Independent trekkers and those in organized groups are required to obtain this card. It symbolizes a collaboration between trekkers and authorities for safe and responsible trekking.

Where to Get It? 

 The TIMS card can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara through the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office or the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) office. 

How to Obtain?

• Documents Needed: A copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and the required fee.
• Cost: NPR 2,000 (approximately USD 15) for independent trekkers and NPR 1,000 for trekkers in groups with a registered guide.
• Application Process: You can apply directly at the NTB office in Kathmandu or the TIMS counter in Pokhara. Complete the necessary paperwork, submit your documents, and pay the fee to receive your TIMS card.

Restricted Area Permit 

Some of the far-off and sensitive areas from or around the Annapurna Circuit need a Restricted Area Permit, including the Upper Mustang and Nar Phu Valley. These permits control entry with the aim of protecting the area’s unique cultural and ecological significance. Trekking in restricted areas involves taking a licensed guide to guarantee that visitors are safe and their conduct is appropriate. Permit costs vary by location and also depend on the length of time, as it is a per-day charge. The regulation in place works to control tourism impacts while protecting local communities and their traditions.

Where to Get It? 

Restricted area permits can be obtained in Kathmandu from the Nepal Tourism Board.

How to Obtain?

• Documents Needed: A copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and the required fee.
• Cost: The cost for a restricted area permit varies depending on the area, but it generally ranges from USD 10 to USD 100 per day.
• Application Process: Apply for a restricted area permit in Kathmandu through the Nepal Tourism Board. You will need to have a licensed guide to trek in these areas.

Local Permits

Besides ACAP and TIMS, some places in the Annapurna region have Local Permits imposed by the village authorities. These permits are nominal entrance fees that are collected to aid in local development for sustaining village resources. They might not be common along the entire circuit but may apply at some communities or points of entry. The local permits are part of the efforts put toward trying to balance the benefits accrued from tourism with the community’s needs. They also encourage cultural respect and responsible interaction between trekkers and locals.

Where to Get It?

These permits can be obtained from local checkpoints along the trail, such as the village entry points.

How to Obtain?

• Documents Needed:A copy of your passport and ACAP permit.
• Cost: Varies depending on the area, typically around NPR 100 to 300 (USD 1-3).
• Application Process: These permits are usually issued at the entry points to the specific areas and are collected by the local authorities.

Cost and Fees for the Trek Permit to Annapurna Circuit

The cost of the trekking permit for the Annapurna Circuit is subject to change based on season, type, and nationality. All trekkers need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS Card. In case one decides to make a entrance into restricted areas, such as the Upper Mustang or Tsum Valley, they will also need a Restricted Area Permit and pay local fees. The below table consists of all the permit fees based on the latest data.

Permit Type	Sep–Nov (Autumn)	Dec–Aug (Winter, Spring, Summer)	Fee for SAARC Nationals	Fee for Other Nationals	Additional Notes
Manaslu Restricted Permit (RAP)	USD 100 for the first 7 days	USD 75 for the first 7 days	–	–	Additional USD 15/day (Sep–Nov) or USD 10/day (Dec–Aug) beyond 7 days.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)	–	–	NRs. 1,000	NRs. 3,000	Required year-round for trekking in the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)	–	–	NRs. 1,000	NRs. 3,000	Required when entering the Annapurna region on the trek.
Chumnubri Rural Municipality Fee	–	–	–	NRs. 1,000	Newly introduced fees for foreign trekkers to support local development.
Tsum Valley Permit (Optional)	USD 35 for 7 days	USD 35 for 7 days	–	–	Additional USD 7/day for extended stays. Applicable if trekking through Tsum Valley.
TIMS Card (Optional)	USD 10	USD 10	–	–	Required only if continuing to the Annapurna Circuit or Base Camp.

Terms and Conditions for Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permits

Before you embark on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, there are certain terms and conditions that trekkers have to comply with regarding the acquisition and use of the necessary permits. Comprehension of these rules ensures a smooth and hassle-free trekking experience in compliance with local regulations.

1. Permits Are Compulsory
   • The ACAP and TIMS Card are to be carried by every trekker while on the trek.
   • Entry to the Annapurna region is strictly prohibited without these permits.
2. Permits are Non-Transferable and Non-Refundable
   • Each permit is issued in the name of the trekker and is not transferable to any other person.
   • Once issued, fees paid for the permits are not refundable under any circumstances.
3. Carry Valid Identification
   • Trekkers must present a valid passport and a passport photograph while obtaining permits.
     A copy of the passport also needs to be carried on the person during the trek for checking at various points.
4. Restricted Use of Permits
   • Permits are issued for a particular trek route and period. Any other areas might require additional permits or permissions.
   • Any use of a permit for areas other than that granted will attract penalties
5. Respect Conservation Rules: Annapurna is a conservation area. All the trekkers should respect the environmental rules: not littering, preserving the wild animals, and reducing their ecological footprint.
6. Permit Validity: The ACAP and TIMS are permits that are valid for one-time entry only. If the trekkers leave the conservation area and want to enter again, then new permits should be taken.
7. Permit Checkpoints are Mandatory: Trekkers need to show their permits at different checkpoints that fall in the way. Without this, one is charged some fines or refused entry altogether.
8. Seasonal Permit Regulations: Fees for permits remain the same throughout the year, yet trekkers need to take a look at the on-season and off-season variations in regard to accessibility and weather conditions.

Ensure a Comfortable and Safe Annapurna Circuit Trek with Expert Guidance from Mountain Routes

As surreal as trekking to Annapurna Circuit can be, it also invites tons of risks, so having the right support can make all the difference. Mountain Routes is a trusted name when it comes to getting local certified guides with years of experience. Getting an expert guide on the trek not only helps you navigate the trail but also enables clear insight into the culture of this region and treks with utmost ease. From helping to get all the essential permits, such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS Card, to crafting personalized itineraries that match your pace, we handle all the logistics for a seamless experience.

We follow proper acclimatization procedures to avoid altitude sickness, providing emergency support whenever needed, and thus making safety a top priority. With Mountain Routes guiding, you can be confident on the trek as every detailed aspect has been arranged accordingly for your comfort and safety.