Nepal to ban Solo Treks! Guide is Mandatory for Nepal Trekking

The price of the TIMS card doubled.

The tourism board has announced a new policy to streamline the process of issuing Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) cards to all visitors. Under the new policy, all tourists will be issued the same type of TIMS card regardless of their travel plans.

This move comes after discontinuing the previous system, where individuals traveling in groups paid a lower fee of Rs 1,000 (approx. $10) per person. At the same time, solo travelers were required to pay Rs 2,000 (approx. $20) each for their TIMS card. This decision is expected to simplify the process, promote transparency and ensure consistency in the fees charged for TIMS cards.

Tourists planning to visit Nepal should note that the TIMS Card price has recently been raised to 2000 rupees per person. This decision was made with the Ministry of Tourism’s and Finance’s approval. The increase in fees aims to improve the overall travel experience in Nepal and ensure the safety of both tourists and locals. Director Lamichhane assures that the additional revenue generated by the price hike will enhance tourism infrastructure and facilities.

According to Lamichhane, Nepal is committed to ensuring the safety of adventure-seeking tourists traveling to the country’s challenging destinations. The Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card prices have been standardized to ensure the highest standards.

As part of this process, citizens of SAARC countries will now pay 1000 rupees for the TIMS card, an increase from the previous fee of 600 rupees. The new pricing structure reflects Nepal’s dedication to providing the best possible experiences for travelers while maintaining safety and quality in its adventure tourism industry.

Trekers on the way to EBC
Trekkers on the way to EBC – Nepal Mandatory guide

Does this decision infer that the intended location is more expensive than others?

The Board’s recent decision has been anticipated to lead to an escalation in the cost of visiting the destination. Nonetheless, the rationale behind hiking the fees for the TIMS card was thoroughly evaluated and deemed necessary by director Lamichhane. This determination came after a comprehensive review of inputs from tourism entrepreneurs who suggested that the fee must be economically viable yet secure for travelers.

He said,” Sustainable tourism practices have become widely acknowledged globally, where the emphasis has shifted towards ensuring local communities benefit from tourism and obtain employment opportunities. This conscious shift towards tourism does not imply negative connotations towards tourists themselves.”

According to Lamichhane, after extensive consultation with tourism experts, the announcement was made that foreign trekkers who venture alone must now have a guide accompany them. In addition, the price of TIMS will also see an increase.

The TIMS Card procurement process has been made exceedingly simple and convenient, with the option to buy it online.

Obtaining a TIMS card required a personal visit to either the Nepal Tourism Board’s office or the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN). As part of its ongoing effort to streamline procedures and provide greater convenience to stakeholders, the Board has announced its plan to introduce online issuance of the TIMS card. The implementation of these new provisions is scheduled for April 1, 2023.

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Where do I need TIMS Card?

According to the regulations set forth by the Nepal Tourism Board, individuals trekking in the designated areas are required to obtain a TIMS Card and engage the services of a certified guide. It is recommended that interested parties consult with a government-registered trekking company to facilitate the process of obtaining the necessary documentation.

TIMS Notice TIMS Notice TIMS Notice TIMS Notice TIMS Notice

Imposition of Penalties for Trekkers without Guides and TIMS Card

The Nepal Tourism Board has recently announced new guidelines for foreign visitors seeking to embark on trekking expeditions within the country. These guidelines mandate that any foreign tourist who fails to secure a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card and engage a certified guide will be subject to significant penalties.

To ensure rigorous compliance with this policy, the Nepal Tourism Board has increased the price of TIMS cards for foreign tourists. These measures have been enacted to uphold Trekking Information Management System management’s highest standards in 2079.

Director of the Nepal Tourism Board, Maniraj Lamichhane, has implemented these provisions to guarantee the safety and well-being of tourists while maintaining optimal services, facilities, and safety protocols.

Penalties for Trekking in Nepal without a Guide

Nepal’s Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Minister, Sudan Kirati, has initiated the implementation of new standards for trekking in the country. Non-compliance with these regulations may result in a fine of 12,000 rupees. If a trekker embarks on a trek without obtaining a TIMS card through their trekking company, the company must purchase a TIMS card and pay a penalty of 10,000 rupees. To ensure compliance with this clause, employees stationed at the TIMS checkpoint shall receive a reward equivalent to 20% of any penalties collected.

New TIMS Cost

Tourists who previously embarked on solo trekking expeditions from third countries were required to pay a fee of 2000 rupees for a TIMS card, while those traveling in groups with a company were charged 1000 rupees. However, there has been a recent policy change. All tourists will now be issued a TIMS card for 2000 rupees regardless of travel arrangements. Trekkers from SAARC countries must pay Rs 1,000 to obtain a TIMS card.

Moreover, it is now mandatory for trekkers to hire a guide through a registered company for the entire trek. Diplomatic delegates, officials, development partner organizations, officials of donor agencies, and their immediate family members (spouses, children) who intend to trek in regions where a TIMS card is required will be charged a fee of 500 rupees per person. To avail oneself of this service, adhering to a specific regulation that necessitates submitting the relevant paperwork to the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) is imperative. The issuance of TIMS cards has been modernized to an electronic system to expedite the process.

According to the established protocol, once the prescribed documents have been submitted through the TIMS online system, there is no need to re-submit them for the same fiscal year. Furthermore, upon being granted, the TIMS Permit is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. Recently, the validity of a TIMS permit for a specific hiking area has been extended to include another adjoining area. This decision was made considering several factors, such as rugged terrain, natural calamities, harsh weather conditions, unfavorable health situations, and exceptional circumstances.

Cases when TIMS Not, Needed

For those who aspire to conquer the mountains, obtaining a TIMS permit may not be mandatory if they have obtained permission to do so. However, it is essential to have a valid climbing permit. Moreover, for the safety of climbers, it is highly recommended to acquire a TIMS card as a precautionary measure.

A TIMS card is unnecessary if you plan to explore the hiking trails via helicopter and return the same way. Nevertheless, possessing a TIMS card is mandatory if you embark on or return from a trek. Furthermore, if you are visiting the area for governmental purposes as a member of a donor agency, you will be exempt from the TIMS card fee.

Children under the age of 10 are not required to obtain TIMS permits. Nonetheless, tourists who traverse areas where TIMS are mandatory, such as those driving two-wheeled or four-wheeled vehicles, must provide teams and guides for their journey.

Initiation of emergency search and rescue operations

The Nepal Tourism Board, together with the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal and other affiliated trekking companies, hold significant expertise concerning the safety of tourists who have set out on trekking expeditions led by TIMS card holders and guides.

Should any unfortunate incident such as injury, illness, death, or loss occur due to natural calamities, unfavorable weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances, the emergency search and rescue coordination committee will be activated immediately to commence search and rescue operations.

Update on 03 April 2023

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Namtso Lake – Crystal clear blue saltwater in Tibet

Accommodation in Namtso Lake

Until recently, visiting Namtso Lake was a luxurious experience, with its scenic views and gorgeous guesthouses. But, these buildings have been removed to protect the lake’s peaceful environment. Unfortunately, camping is also not an option, as campfires cannot be lit on the lakeshore.

For those looking for a nearby place to stay, Damxung is the ideal location. This quaint town offers a wide range of basic accommodation options. Our top pick is Shenhu Namtso Hotel. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful stay in simple but comfortable double and triple rooms with private showers.

Accommodation in Namtso Lake
Accommodation in Namtso Lake

Road to Namtso lake from Lhasa

Travelers journeying from Lhasa to Namtso will experience the beautiful valleys of the region before beginning their ascent through winding mountain roads. A panoramic view of Namtso Lake is revealed as they cross the high passes. In 2019, the road to the lake was refurbished, and its quality is now excellent. However, heavy snowfall may block the route during the wet and winter months. As travelers approach Namtso, they will be able to witness the Qinghai Tibetan railway, the highest railway in the world, reaching a pass of 5,000 meters above sea level on the Tibetan Plateau.

Final words

Namtso Lake is a beautiful and spiritual destination. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and spend time in nature. The breathtaking views, the lake’s serenity, and the nearby monasteries’ spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination in Tibet. Whether seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous trek, Namtso Lake has something for everyone.

Jokhang Temple – Lhasa Tibet, History, Festivals

Rituals, Ceremonies, and Festivals

Jokhang temple is considered one of the most sacred temples in Tibet and has been a primary pilgrimage site for centuries. Within the temple, numerous rituals, ceremonies, and festivals are celebrated throughout the year. The most famous ritual is the circumambulation of the temple.

Pilgrims from all over Tibet and beyond come to Jokhang Temple to circumambulate the temple in a clockwise direction. This ritual is done to show respect for the temple and to gain blessings from the deities that it houses.

In addition to circumambulation, several other ceremonies and festivals occur at Jokhang Temple throughout the year. During the Tibetan New Year, Lhosar, the temple is filled with people who come to offer their prayers and blessings. The Butter Lamp Festival is also celebrated at Jokhang Temple, during which thousands of butter lamps are lit around the temple as a symbol of spiritual enlightenment.

Jokhang Temple Festival
Jokhang Temple Festival

Additionally, many Tibetan Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world visit Jokhang Temple to take part in the Buddhist teachings of the Fourth Dalai Lama, which are held annually in the temple. Furthermore, the annual Great Prayer Festival, or Monlam Chenmo, is widely celebrated at Jokhang Temple and features a range of religious activities and rituals.

The festival lasts two weeks, during which pilgrims participate in chants, prayers, and offerings. The celebration’s highlight is the symbolic Grand Circumambulation of Jokhang Temple, wherein the devotees circumambulate the temple and make offerings to the Buddha. The entire procession is usually accompanied by singing and chanting of prayers.

Reason to Visit Jokhang Temple

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Jokhang Temple to witness its remarkable beauty and learn about its fascinating history. From its traditional architecture to its intricate statues and breathtaking artwork, the Jokhang Temple is full of beauty that captivates the spirit and soul. Step into the past and explore its many chambers, each containing its unique history.

Feel the energy of this sacred place as you walk around and admire its many features. Let yourself be immersed in its serene atmosphere and its captivating beauty. Experience this site’s spiritual significance and appreciate its importance as a symbol of Tibetan culture and faith.

Conclusion

The Jokhang temple is a testament to the importance of Buddhism in Tibet and its history. It is a place full of spiritual and cultural significance, and its art and architecture reveal Tibet’s rich history and cultural traditions. The temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in Tibetan culture and Buddhism and is a great way to experience a piece of Tibet’s past.

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Insights

Best Season for Helicopter Tour in Nepal

The weather in Nepal was also quite dramatic. During the Everest Helicopter trip, the shifting weather might be a problem. It follows that fall and spring, when the Himalayas are less visible, are the finest seasons for this excursion.

During certain times of the year, you can be in awe of the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas and surrounding surroundings. It could be a bit problematic in the spring and winter compared to the fall and autumn. In certain seasons, the increased risk may result from poor sight near the enormous Himalayas and other mountains.

Similarly, the frequently shifting weather throughout the monsoon and winter seasons may negatively affect helicopter tours. Consequently, autumn and spring are the most suitable times to take an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour.

9 Breathtaking Trekking to do in Nepal

8. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking

When it comes to tramping, you no longer have to worry about the risk and schedule. Yes, there is a tramping trail around the Annapurna Region that is perfectly fit for elders and children with a minimum vacation period.

At an altitude of 3210 meters of Ghorepani Poon Hill, the Peregrine Treks and Tours team offers a magnificent view of Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Machapuchare, Lamjung Himal, and Mt. Himchuli. You can experience the relaxed and luxurious tramp in the Annapurna region for the last ten days in Nepal.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking  –Breathtaking Trekking to do in Nepal

By adding the value of ethnicity to the lives of the visitants, they also get to observe local communities. It is a massive chance to exploit the Magar and Gurung community people around the village of Poon Hil in the close-up. Also, experience the magnifying moment in the local area of Ghandruk.

The area enhances the lives of innocent local people of Ghandruk, where you can try the traditional dishes of Nepali culture. Like other tails, you can still add similar adventures to Ghorepani Poon Hill in the trek with much of an expedition.

Hence, the early eye-striking view of the shining ranges of Annapurna, Nilgiri, Mt. Macchapurchre, etc., also adds to the vision of creating the canvas on the top of the hill station of Poon Hill.

9. Helambu Trekking

The breathtaking trekking and expedition never come to an end here in Nepal. With the most reliable tramping route, as it nearly connects with the path of the capital of Nepal, the Helambu trek offers its best. With the last days of the expedition, the tramping days for the Helambu area are only nine days.

Peregrine treks bid the best as always. Passing through the crystal-clear waterfall in Sundarijal, the elevation gets to 3000 meters. When your eyesight strikes against the spectacular scenery of Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Langtang, and Mt. Dorje Lakpa, it feels like the rest of the world does not even exist.

Moreover, you must have heard a lot of Himalayan ethnicity in the region of the tramping residence. However, the visitant march in Helambu tramp, just like the Everest region’s local community, offers the Sherpa community’s glorious ethnicity. As for the pilgrimage sites, the Helambu tramp offers ancient monasteries filled with monks devoting their lives to Buddha.

Get a better expedition by enhancing the Tibetan lifestyle’s exploitation and tradition. Peregrine Treks and Tours grant you the immediate chance to upgrade the way of tramping with a lot safer and the slightest tramping path from Kathmandu towards Helambu.

Conclusion

Choosing to offer the best scenic view becomes more challenging than tramping toward the difficult path in Nepal. It is because each of these famous treks has its way of the expedition. If the Annapurna sanctuary mostly lets you exploit the area of mountain ranges and dense forests, the Langtang trek signifies the social aspect of sherpa and Tamang villages.

However, no matter where you tramp, each has its challenging steps leading to observing unique scenic beauty.

After deciding to tramp on these popular trekking regions, choosing the finest travel agency to guide you in each step becomes apparent. Our trekking agency supports you with the best health insurance policy, expert trekking guides and potters at affordable prices, and the best hospitality.

If you choose a package offered by trekking companies for these rewarding treks, you will not face these obstacles.

  • Scarcity of lodge rooms in high peak seasons as the Everest and Annapurna regions will have busier trails,
  • Stranded or lost due to heavy snowfall or other disasters,
  • Unrescued when you are sick (acute mountain sickness) or injured, and
  • Independent trekkers are not allowed to visit protected regions and National Parks.

Kathmandu Pokhara – 6 days Nepal Tour Package

Day Five – Shopping day for your near and dear one

On the fifth day, after having your breakfast, you must return to the Kathmandu valley. You can again visit the remaining places if you like to or if there are any on your lists. There is Narayanhiti Palace in Singha Durbar. It was the palace of our King before democracy arrived in the country. Now, it has been turned into a beautiful museum.

Beautiful pagoda-style temples were built in ancient times, which can also be visited quickly. You can also visit Thamel, which is full of crowds even at night, as it is the most popular tourist destination due to many pubs, clubs, and handcraft selling products.

Bhaktapur is an ancient Newar city to the east of the capital of Nepal - the city of Kathmandu
Bhaktapur is an ancient Newar city to the east of the capital of Nepal – the city of Kathmandu.

Last day of the Kathmandu Pokhara 6 days Nepal Tour.

Not so far, the last day has arrived. The sixth day is the last day of your Kathmandu to Pokhara 6 days tour. On this day, you will be safely taken back to the airport to fly back to your departure after breakfast at the hotel you have been staying at.

This trip can be made as memorable as you want. The peaceful country is full of diversity and scenic beauty—Kathmandu to Pokhara 6 days trip that can be bound between the Himalayas and hills with adventurous steps. A person should at least experience this trip once in their life. Nepal is a small yet beautiful country with amazing people around here. We always welcome our guests and love them as our people.

Potala Palace – Former residence of Dalai Lamas

Ticket and transportation to Potala Palace

There are several modes of transportation available to get to the Potala Palace. For foreign travelers, airplane service is always available; you can easily take a flight straight to the Lhasa Gonggar Airport, and from there, you can find a taxi service to the Potala Palace. A train service also runs from the Chinese mainland to Lhasa. You will also require a ticket to enter the Potala Palace site. Alternatively, the tour company will take care of it if you visit the Palace with them. The ticket price will be higher during peak season, which runs from April to November. Typically, a ticket for one person ranges from USD 15 to 30 depending on the season. The Palace is open from early morning until late afternoon, depending on conditions. The Potala Palace is easily reachable by road or air.

Best time to Visit

The Potala Palace is accessible to the public all year. However, the best time to visit this ancient Palace for a spectacular experience is in April and November. There will always be a sizable crowd in the vicinity of Potala Palace. It is an excellent time to visit if you enjoy crowds, the hustle and bustle, and the diversity of ceremonies. You may also visit in early July, when there will be a marvelous panorama of the surrounding environment and outstanding traditional Tibetan activities. You can also travel during the off-season, before July, if you desire a peaceful tour with fewer crowds.

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Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty – Weather, Temperature, Altitude Sickness

The primary difficulty during Mardi Himal trekking is the weather and temperature.

The Mardi Himal Trek difficulty is commonly influenced by weather and temperature. Weather can be unpredictable while trekking. The temperatures ought to be stumbling trouble on your way to the mountaintop. So, before trekking this exhausting peak, ensure you understand the climate and local weather over the changing seasons.

During the winter, the standard surface temperature of Mardi Himal degrees drops from 10 to 15 degrees. The temperature falls through five levels as you climb 1000 meters higher, making you feel cold. In the meantime, the temperature might also plunge under zero at nightfall. In the Himalayan range, it is rarely hot.

During the winter, the entirety of the hillsides of Mardi Himal might also be encased in ice. Likewise, this creates a stumbling block during traveling. The climate in the area is changeable, and snowstorms may want to occur. The temperature in the vicinity may be insufferable early in the morning and late at night.

Similarly, the vicinity receives sizeable to heavy rainfall throughout the monsoon season, in June, July, and August. The pathways connecting to the Mardi Himal are muddy and treacherous due to the storm and rain.

Trekking on slick, rainy mountains can be a miserable experience. Similarly, winter and monsoon trekking to Mardi Himal may not be a trouble if you respect adventures and challenges. You will cherish the Mardi Himal Trek in such months just as much.

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Autumn - Mardi Himal Trek best season
Autumn – Mardi Himal Trek best season

Altitude Sickness

The subject of the Mardi Himal trek is similarly exacerbated via altitude sickness. Altitude illness is becoming extraordinarily common on the Mardi Himal trek. However, it is a prerequisite. Nevertheless, altitude ailment is prevalent at greater heights, and it can be an extreme difficulty when trekking. Moreover, you will attain 4500 meters or above throughout the Mardi Himal trek. As a consequence, altitude ailment is a normal phenomenon on the trek

 

Altitude illness manifests itself in several ways, consisting of nausea and diarrhea. Headaches and loss of breath are also traditional aspects effects. There is no omission of any of the indicators. Altitude ailment is hazardous and can even be fatal.

Furthermore, the best way to cope with this difficulty is to drink adequate water and let your body return to normal. Alcohol is now not accepted all through this stroll since it promotes dehydration. Keep a bottle of water on you always, and take your time.

Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty – Accommodation

Tea homes are moderately priced at some point in treks due to the rate of lodges and motels in Pokhara and Kathmandu. Pre-booking can assist you in achieving the appropriate deals, even if discovering all lodgings is no longer an issue. This is additionally a vital issue in evaluating the challenge of the Mardi Himal Trek.

Further, cafes and eating places are conveniently accessible and grant diverse dining picks as you travel from one location. You might not have to fear ingredients or slumbering along the route because the trail is so effortlessly accessible.

You can additionally save money by using bringing your water bottle. You can use the pills to detoxify your water and retail cash on tea shop water refills. You’ll have to pack your snacks and meals throughout the trip. It is less complicated to purchase because meals are tremendously inexpensive in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Proper Training and Exercises before trekking

The Mardi Himal trek’s uphill section is complex. Likewise, you can avoid the Mardi Himal Trek difficulty with extensive ability and preparation. Before trekking, you must dedicate a lot of preparation and exercise. Similarly, if you are now not used to hiking, you may additionally battle to cope with the altitude and daily strolling hours. The hike consists of a few ascents, deceleration, and off-trail hiking.

Walking constantly for 7 hours or extra in a single day can be relatively strenuous and exhausting. So, if you are simply a beginner, make sure you do some suitable warm-up strategies before starting your trek. Likewise, make the Mardi Himal walk more on hand and enlarge your bodily energy by participating in several outside activities.

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Tengboche – Oldest Sherpa Village in Nepal

The best time to Visit Tengboche Village

The best time to visit the village of Tengboche falls in spring and autumn when the daytime temperature usually ranges around 14 to 16°C with clear visibility. The summer season usually accompanies higher humidity and rainfall, while in winter, you may face cold day temperatures between 4 and 6 degrees.

Main Attraction

Apart from the ancient and mythical Tengboche Monastery, the village also offers excellent views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and more. The village community is also promoting eco-tourism to attract more tourists. Most Sherpa residents are turned into guest houses and lodges with tiny but comfortable tea houses where you can delight your taste buds with authentic Nepalese dishes.

Lukla to Tengboche

An unforgettable domestic flight with breathtaking views from Kathmandu will take you to Lukla. From Lukla, a short hike will take you to Namche Bazaar, the heart of the Everest Region. The trek then continues for 5 hours, passing through rhododendron forests to a beautiful yet small village of Monjo to Phortse, where you can submerge yourself in the Sherpa culture. You also have a fantastic view of the Ama Dablam.

The path continues along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing the river on a beautiful suspension bridge. Another five-hour hike, and you will reach the charming village.

Trek to Tengboche
Trek to Tengboche