How to Obtain Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permit?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal is among the best hikes in the world. The base camp location is directly beneath the towering Annapurna peaks and is reached via a scenic trail that winds through forests of rhododendrons, over roaring rivers, and ascends to the foot of the Annapurna range.
To complete this fascinating hike, the necessary permits must be obtained. Thus, in this article, we’ll go over step-by-step guidance on how to obtain Annapurna Base Camp Trek permit.
We’ll go over the several kinds of permits that are required, where to apply, how much a permit costs, and what paperwork is needed. Here, you will find all the information required to obtain permits for your journey to Annapurna Base Camp, whether you are trekking alone or with a guide.
Once you have a permit, you may start one of the best treks in Nepal and see the breathtaking Annapurna peaks!
Table of Contents
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
To access the trails in the Annapurna Conservation Area, you must obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) from the Nepal Tourism Board. This permit allows entry for a limited period, and the fees collected go towards conservation efforts and development in the region.
Rather than applying for the ACAP yourself in Kathmandu or Pokhara at the Nepal Tourism Board office, you can have your trekking agency handle acquiring it on your behalf.
Cost of Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
| Foreign citizens | $30 ( Nrs 3,000 ) per person |
| SAARC citizens | $10 (Nrs 1,000 ) per person |
Children under 10 years old can enter the Annapurna Conservation Area for free without needing a permit.
TIMS Card
To monitor and ensure the safety of trekkers in the Annapurna region, you must get a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. This system tracks the movements of hikers within the trekking area.
The TIMS card can be obtained from the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) or approved trekking agencies. There are two types – the green card for independent trekkers and the blue card for guided groups.
Cost of the TIMS Card
| Trekker | Cost per person | Card colour |
| Solo trekker – non-SAARC | NPR 2,000 / US$17 | Green |
| Solo trekker – SAARC | NPR 600 / US$5 | Green |
| Trek group – non-SAARC | MRP 1,000 / US$8 | Blue |
| Trek group – SAARC | MPR 300 / | Blue |
Attention all trekkers: TIMS card costs in Nepal are subject to change. Before lacing up your boots, please connect with the Nepal Tourism Board or your trekking agency to check on the most up-to-date TIMS card rates. Permits required and prices charged may fluctuate.
Required Documents
Here are the required documents for obtaining an Annapurna Base Camp trekking permit:
- Passport – You need a valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
- Nepal Visa – You need a valid Nepal tourist visa. This can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport or from a Nepalese embassy/consulate prior to travel.
- Insurance Proof – You need to show proof of adequate travel/trekking insurance coverage.
- Passport Photos – Bring 2 passport size photos for permit forms.
Final Say
With the essential Annapurna Conservation Area and TIMS permits in hand, you are all set for the adventure of a lifetime. Follow the detailed steps provided above to secure these required documents for your upcoming Annapurna Base Camp trek.
The permit process can be a bother initially, but will become a breeze with some pre-planning. Apply well in advance and carry permit copies to avoid hassles on the trail. Most importantly, gear up for amazing Himalayan vistas and a memorable trek to Annapurna Base Camp – an iconic must-do for trekkers and mountain lovers!
The Annapurna region awaits with its dazzling peaks, aromatic rhododendron forests and lively mountain villages. With permits in place, you are ready to start the trekking journey of your dreams. Witness the majesty of Machhapuchhre up close and relish the sense of achievement upon reaching Annapurna Base Camp.
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