Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits and Cost Information
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is a dream for many adventurers, but before you can start your journey, it's essential to understand the permit requirements. Like many others, I had done plenty of research, but understanding the permit process and regulations took some time. It might seem like a small detail when you're caught up planning gear and routes, but getting the right permits is essential for making your trek to Annapurna smooth and worry-free.
Securing the right permits ensures that your trek is safe, and legal, and contributes to the conservation of the Annapurna region. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek, popularly known as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek requires 2 permits - Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) and The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). TIMS and ACAP are the mandatory permits for the ABC trek.
In this blog, I will guide you through everything you need to know about obtaining your Annapurna Base Camp trek permits, so you can focus on enjoying your trek without any concerns.
Essential Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits, Cost, and Required Documents
TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Permit is a mandatory permit for ABC Trek. TIMS is a permit implemented jointly by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) that is necessary for all trekkers planning to go to the Annapurna region. The TIMS card helps authorities keep track of trekkers for safety purposes. In case of emergencies, the TIMS card system enables officials to locate and assist trekkers quickly.
Notice: As per the new TIMS Provision effective from March 31, 2023, the Free Individual Trekkers (FIT) TIMS card has been closed. Trekkers must hire a licensed trekking guide and obtain a TIMS card through authorized trekking agencies registered with the Nepal Government. (Source: NTB).
How Much is the Cost of a TIMS Card?
The newly revised cost of the TIMS card are:
- NPR 2000 per person for Foreign citizens.
- NPR 1000 per person for SAARC citizens.
- A TIMS card is not required for Nepali citizens.
| Permit | For Foreign Citizens | For SAARC Citizens | For Nepali Citizens |
|---|---|---|---|
| TIMS Card | NPR 2000 | NPR 1000 | No TIMS is Required |
Required Documents For the TIMS Card
- Photocopy of your passport information pages.
- Two passport-sized photos.
- Detailed Itinerary.
You will also need to provide additional information:
- Start and end dates of your trek.
- Entry and exit points for your trek.
- Trek route and itinerary.
- Insurance policy number and details of what the policy covers for trekking at altitude. You’ll also need to supply the emergency phone number of the insurance company.
- Emergency contact number and address in Nepal (trekking company/hotel).
- Emergency contact number in your home country.
Where Can You Obtain a TIMS Card For ABC Trek?
Organized trekkers can obtain TIMS card from,
- The TAAN Secretariat in Maligaun Ganeshthan, Kathmandu.
- The TAAN TIMS Counter in Saatghumti, Thamel.
- The TAAN Secretariat in Pokhara.
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
The ACAP is another mandatory permit for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It is a national park entry permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area. The permit fees contribute to conservation efforts, ensuring that the area remains pristine for future trekkers.
This permit is mandatory for all the trekkers in the entire Annapurna region treks irrespective of the number of days. You can trek any part of the Annapurna region with a single ACAP permit without extra payments. But once you descend through the departure point, the ACAP permits become void and you have to issue a new one to again enter the Annapurna region.
How Much is the Cost of ACAP Permit?
- NPR 3000 per person for Foreign citizens.
- NPR 1000 per person for SAARC citizens.
- NPR 100 per person for Nepali citizens.
- Free for a child below 10 years as a child discount.
| Permit | Cost For Foreign Citizens | Cost For SAARC Citizens | Cost For Nepali Citizens |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACAP Permit | NPR 3000 | NPR 1000 | NPR 100 |
What are the Documents Required to get the ACAP Permit?
The required documents are:
- 2 Passport size photos.
- 1 copy of the passport.
- Application form (available at the NTB offices or through registered trekking agencies).
You must fill out an application form with other personal details to get an ACAP permit. Here are some of the major details you need to provide in the form:
- Full Name.
- Passport Number.
- Date of Birth.
- Home Location.
- Contact address in Nepal (can be Hotel, Travel Agency, Friends, or any other)
- Name of the Trek.
- Trek entry and exit points.
- Number of trekking days.
- Name of the Trekking Agency – Optional.
- Guide Name – Optional.
Where Can You Obtain ACAP for ABC Trek?
- You can obtain ACAP in the NTB (Nepal Tourism Board) office on Pradarshani Marg, Kathmandu 44617.
- You can also obtain ACAP in Pokhara at the Nepal Tourism Board Service Centre on the dam side or at the ACAP entry permit counter in Besisahar, Lamjung.
Make sure to include trek permits and all the required documents when preparing and planning the Annapurna Base Camp Trek packing list. These permits are needed at checkpoints during your trek.
Terms and Conditions For the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits
Single Entry Permits: ACAP and TIMS Cards both are for a single entry into the trekking area.
Non-Refundable and Non-Transferable: The permits are non-refundable and non-transferable under any circumstances.
Fixed Price: The price of the permits is the same regardless of how many days you plan to spend on the trek. Please note that the permit prices include 13% VAT as per the regulations.
Validity Period: The validity of the ACAP and TIMS card permit is a maximum of 30 days. However, the validity can be expanded after re-applying for the new permits.
Mandatory Checkpoints: You must present your permits at all designated checkpoints to the officials along the trail to count the flow of trekkers, and ensure the safety and security of all trekkers in the Annapurna region.
Identity Verification: Ensure you carry a valid ID that matches the information on your permits, as you may need to present your ID to verify your identity at various points.
Conclusion
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is an unforgettable adventure, and obtaining the right permits is your first step toward a successful journey. While the process may seem like a small administrative task, it’s a critical part of ensuring your safety, the conservation of the environment, and the well-being of local communities.
If you’re planning your trek, don’t wait until the last minute and get your Annapurna Base Camp trek permits early. With the right preparation, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be an adventure of a lifetime that you will never forget.