Foreigners trekking without licensed guide banned in Nepal

Foreigners trekking without licensed guide banned in Nepal

Foreign nationals are now required to hire a licensed trekking guide when trekking in Nepal, as the government has prohibited solo trekking. The decision will take effect on April 1, 2023, according to Mani Raj Lamichhane, the Director of the Nepal Tourism Board. The government has made this decision to ensure the safety and benefit of tourists.

The new rule is expected to reduce incidents of tourists getting lost while also benefiting both trekkers and guides. Hiring a guide offers several advantages for trekkers, such as local knowledge, safety, and companionship.

As a result of this decision, tourists will no longer be able to obtain a TIMS card, an essential trekking permit required for trekking in Nepal, without a certified guide. This means that tourists will have to book their treks through a registered trekking company, which will arrange the necessary permits and TIMS cards for them.

Traveling with a Drone in Nepal?
Flying a drone in Nepal is legal as long as specific rules and regulations are followed. This comprehensive article provides guidance on traveling with a drone in Nepal, including the rules for drone use, how to obtain a drone permit, no-fly zones in Nepal, penalties for breaking the rules, and more.

Drone flights in Nepal require a permit from the appropriate government offices, including the Department of Tourism, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation. Drones weighing less than 2kg do not require a permit from CAAN but still require permission from other government offices.

To obtain a drone permit, applicants must provide essential documents such as a copy of their citizenship or passport, a drone manual and specifications, a color picture or photocopy of the drone showing model and serial numbers, a customs clearance certificate, a VAT bill from the retailer, or a customs clearance certificate if the drone is imported. Additionally, details of the location and purpose of the flight must be included in the application.

Before applying for a drone permit, applicants must fill out a registration form to obtain a unique identification number (UIN) for their drone, which is valid for one year. The drone permit is valid for three months and may take 3–4 business days to obtain, depending on the local administration.