Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit and their Cost: A Complete Guide

Most trekking destinations in the Annapurna Region, including the famous Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek, fall under the Annapurna Conservation area. Foreign nationals must have a few official permits to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area.

The non-permit holder is not allowed to trek or hike in this area. Thus, we have come up with some essential information about the Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit that you should know before trekking in Annapurna.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek permit fee is NPR 3000 for non-SAARC countries and NPR 1000 for SAARC countries. Furthermore, a TIMS card fee of NPR 2000 is also required for the trek.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek typically commences from Besisahar in the Marshyangdi Valley and concludes in Pokhara. The journey from Kathmandu to Besisahar takes approximately 7 hours, offering scenic views of paddy fields, quaint towns, and more.

For the best experience, it is recommended to set a journey on this trekking trail during the Autumn season (September to November) or Spring season (March to May).

Trekking Permits in Annapurna Circuit

As per the regulations set by the Nepal Tourism Board, starting from April 1, 2023, solo trekking in the Annapurna Circuit is not permitted. It is mandatory to join a government-registered trekking company and hire a guide for this particular trek.

However, it is worth noting that the active implementation of this rule may vary, and it is advisable to stay informed about the current policies and guidelines before planning your trek.

Following the regulations ensures your safety and enhances the overall trekking experience in the Annapurna Circuit.

Trekking along the Annapurna Circuit requires the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and the TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System). When booking your trek through a travel agency, they will handle the permit process on your behalf.

Though the Annapurna Circuit permit cost is often mentioned in US dollars, you can also pay them in local currency (NRS). It’s important to note that the permits are valid until your visa expiration date, so ensure your permits align with your visa duration to avoid any issues.

Having the necessary permits ensures that you contribute to the Annapurna region’s conservation efforts and enables you to enjoy a seamless and compliant trekking experience.

As mentioned earlier, you will need two trekking permits for Annapurna Circuit Trekking. They are described below:

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit (ACAP)

The Annapurna region is located within the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal’s largest conservation area, spanning 7,629 square kilometers. The Government of Nepal established this conservation area in 1992.

To travel within the Annapurna Conservation Area and undertake treks like the Annapurna Circuit, obtaining an Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit (ACAP) or ANCAP permit is mandatory. This permit aims to support sustainable economic and social development in the region, benefitting the local communities while preserving the environment and wildlife.

By obtaining the ACAP permit, trekkers contribute to the conservation efforts of the Annapurna region, ensuring its natural beauty and cultural heritage are protected for future generations to enjoy. The National Trust has operated ACAP for Nature Conservation.

Things that you will require to apply for ACAP

• Two copies of passport-size Photos
• Copy of your passport
• Name of the trek route
• Name and address of the trekking company
• Name and contact info of the guide
• Fees for the permit form

 

2. Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS)

To ensure the safety of trekkers in Nepal, the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) is mandatory for every trekker. A TIMS card, governed by the Nepal Tourism Board and the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), requires travel insurance.

It is an essential registration and tracking system that helps monitor trekker movements and provide necessary assistance. By having a TIMS card, trekkers contribute to a safer and more organized trekking experience in Nepal.

Requirements to apply for TIMS card

• Copy of your Passport
• Two copies of Passport size photographs
• Entry and exit point in your trekking destination
• Emergency Contact info in Nepal (the guest house you stay in or the Agency)
• Emergency Contact info from your Home Country
• The itinerary that shows the start and end dates
• Fees for the form

 

Where to get the Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit

While in Kathmandu, you can conveniently obtain the necessary permits for your trek. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) or ANCAP permit can be purchased from the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) office in Pradarshani Marg.

On the other hand, the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card can be obtained through your trekking Agency. Rest assured, if you choose to trek with a reputable trekking company, they will handle all the permit arrangements on your behalf, eliminating any concerns or hassles.

While in Pokhara, you can purchase the permits from the NTNC office Pokhara.

If you cannot acquire your trekking permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara, obtaining them at the checkpoint along the trekking route is an option. However, please note that obtaining permits at the checkpoint may involve paying an additional fee, double the regular cost. It is advisable to plan and arrange for your permits in advance to avoid any inconvenience or extra expenses.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit Cost

Cost for TIMS per person:
SAARC Countries: NPR 1000; approximately US $8
Other Countries: NPR 2000; approximately US $16

Cost for ACAP per person :
SAARC Countries: NPR 1000; approximately US $8
Other countries: NPR 3000; approximately US $24

Please note that the above prices include 13% VAT (Value Added Tax) per the regulations. If you choose to trek with a government-registered trekking company like Peregrine Treks and Tours, you must obtain a Group TIMS Card (Blue TIMS), which the company will provide.

It is essential to be aware that, according to the new rule implemented by the Nepal Tourism Board, individual trekkers are not permitted to obtain the trekking permit (Green TIMS) independently. Instead, they are required to join a government-registered trekking company for the permit process.

Important Information on Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit

• ANCAP and TIMS Cards both are for a single entry.
• The permits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
• The validity of the single permit is a maximum of 3 months.
• The price of the permits is the same regardless of how many days you are going.
• You must show your permits on all the counters along the trail to ensure the security of trekkers in the Annapurna region.

 

Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

If you wish to visit some restricted area that requires special permission from an authority, then you will require this card. However, it is not required in the Annapurna Circuit trek, but some other fabulous hiking trails might require one, such as:

Upper Mustang Trek
Gorkha Tsum Valley Trek
Upper Dolpo Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek

A strict rule is in place for obtaining a Restricted Area Permit, as it is mandatory to have a registered trekking guide accompany you. These permits can only be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal and apply to all restricted areas in the Nepalese Himalayas.

The Government of Nepal and the Nepalese Army collaboratively monitor the implementation of RAP in these trekking regions. These special permits are highly significant and are among the most crucial documents to acquire when visiting Nepal. The cost of RAP permits varies depending on the duration, season, and specific trekking area.

We trust that the information provided about the Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit has addressed any inquiries you may have had. Please get in touch with us if you have any additional questions or require further assistance regarding travel-related matters in Nepal. To get to know more about other aspects of the Annapurna Circuit trek, you can go through these pieces of information:

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty
Annapurna Circuit Trek FAQs
Significant Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek
A Complete Guide on Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost
Nepal to Ban Solo Treks! The guide is Mandatory for Nepal Trekking
Best time for Annapurna Circuit Trek

 

Important Information on Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit

• ANCAP and TIMS Cards both are for a single entry.
• The permits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
• The validity of the permit is a maximum of 3 months.
• The price of the permits is the same regardless of how many days you are going.
• You must show your permits on all the counters along the trail. It is for your safety, so please do not fail to do this at each counter.

Conclusion

We trust that the information provided about the Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit has addressed any inquiries you may have had. Please get in touch with us if you have any additional questions or require further assistance regarding travel-related matters in Nepal. We are here to help.