Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits

Anil Lamsal
Updated on February 26, 2026

Introduction

As many of you are getting interested for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It is also necessary for you to understand the permits.

Yes. You heard it right.

You need to have Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits to explore the trail.

It's to conserve the environment, ensure traveller safety, and support the local community. You cannot enter the Annapurna Conservation Area without permits.

Officials check and verify them at multiple points along the way.

In this blog. You will know what permits are required, how to get them, and how Overland Trek can help you in getting the permits.

Permits Required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Here are the permits required for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

1) Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

2) Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS)

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

ACAP is the permit issued by the National Trust for Nature Conservation. It grants you legal access to the Annapurna Conservation Area.

It is valid for the duration of your trek within the conservation area.

You must carry the permit all the time, physically. Children under 10 years old are exempt from the ACAP fee.

Trekkers from SAARC Nations have to pay less than individuals from other countries.

If you are found without valid permits. Then, you may be turned back or fined.

Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS)

The TIMS is a card that is managed by the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB).

It is used to ensure the safety of the trekkers and maintain the database.

There are two types of TIMS cards.

a) The Green TIMS

It is issued to the trekkers who are travelling through a registered trekking agency.

b) The Blue TIMS

It is issued to the independent or free individual trekkers (FITs). It doesn't include trekkers who are affiliated with an agency.

The Blue TIMS costs slightly more than the Green TIMS. It's because it covers administrative processing for solo registrations.

Cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits

Permit costs are set by government bodies and are updated periodically. The figures below reflect current rates for foreign nationals:

Permit Trekker Type Cost (NPR) Cost (USD approx.)
ACAP Foreign nationals NPR 3,000 ~$22
ACAP SAARC nationals NPR 200 ~$1.50
ACAP Children under 10 Free Free
TIMS (Green) Agency-guided trekkers NPR 1,000 ~$7.50
TIMS (Blue) Independent/solo trekkers NPR 2,000 ~$15

Note:

When you book the package with Overland Trek Nepal. We will manage all the permits for you.

For that, we need your passports and pp size photo.

Where can you get Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits?

To get ABC Trek permits. There are a few ways.

Permits in Kathmandu

If you are in Kathmandu. You can easily obtain both ACAP and TIMS permits from the NTB office. It is located in Pradarshani Marg, Kathmandu (near the Tourist Service Centre, Bhrikuti Mandap).

You can get your permits on the same day if you arrive early in the morning with the required documents. 

Permits in Pokhara

If you are in Pokhara. You can also get permits from here.

Pokhara is the city where most of the trekkers begin their journey. The permit office is located in the Damside area (also called Pardi). Near the Annapurna Conservation Area headquarters.

During the peak season, you might have to wait for the permits. Or else, processing time is similar to Kathmandu.

Permit Office Location Hours
Nepal Tourism Board (KTM) Bhrikuti Mandap, Kathmandu Sun–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM
ACAP / TIMS Office (Pokhara) Damside (Pardi), Pokhara Sun–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM

Documents Required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Before you trek to the Annapurna Base Camp. There are a few documents that need to be prepared. You can get them by visiting the permit office. Some of them are: 

Document Details
Valid passport Original passport — required for identity verification
Passport-size photos 2 copies per permit (4 photos total for both permits)
Passport photocopy Copy of the photo/ID page
Trek details Intended route, entry point, and approximate dates
Agency letter (if applicable) For Green TIMS — your registered trekking agency letter

Your photos must be recent. And, follow the size of a standard passport-size (i.e., 35mm x 45mm).

Do Solo Trekkers Need Permits?

Yes. Whether you are in a group or trekking solo. You must have the TIMS and ACAP permits.

The only difference for solo trekkers is that you must get the Blue TIMS card instead of the Green TIMS.

Let me tell you. Solo trekking is strongly discouraged by both the Nepal Tourism Board and experienced guides.

It's because of altitude risks, sudden weather changes, and other unknown terrain hazards.

Common Mistakes Trekkers Make With ABC Permits

Here are the most common mistakes that trekkers make with the permits.

Getting Old and Wrong Photos

You must have recently clicked the image for the permit. Do not submit blurry, oversized, or digitally cropped images. Get the standard 35mm x 45mm for passport photos printed on matte or semi-gloss paper.

Processing Late

If you have planned late. Then, there is a chance that you may process the permit later.

You may get late if the permit office is busy. So, to avoid it. Process permit work a few days earlier than trek day.

Not Carrying Permits physically

Digital copies or phone photos of permits are not accepted at checkpoints. You must carry the original paper documents.

You can keep them in a waterproof zip-lock bag to avoid getting wet and torn.

Overstaying the Permit Validity

This may occur if you get sick or ill during the trek. This is uncommon, but you need to keep in mind. Do check the validity dates on your permits carefully when they are issued.

Why Choose Overland Trek Nepal for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

We, Overland Trek Nepal, have specialized in Tours and Travel for the last 10+ years. We have experts and guides who understand and handle rough terrain, pressure, and the safety of trekkers.

Other Points are:

Customization Experts

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group. We help design your trek your way.

Best Hospitality Service

We are trusted accommodation partners and dedicated local guides for the Annapurna region.

Real-Time Support

From booking to trekking. We have our 24/7 support team, which is always with you.

Your Happiness Is Our Business

Our mission isn’t just to lead treks. It’s to make your journey memorable for life.

Overland Trek Nepal offers the best Annapurna Base Camp Trek experience. And now, we have the power to personalize every step!

Conclusion

Getting permits is the first step toward the majestic Annapurna Sanctuary.

This is needed to protect the local environment and ensure your safety on the trails. You are required to have fees, photos, and other essential credentials.

While saying that, don't let paperwork distract you from the views.

If you book an Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Overland Trek.

We will arrange all the required permits. So that you don't have to hassle.

At last, whether you choose to navigate the permit offices yourself or prefer a seamless experience. Preparation is the key.

Get your itinerary and Book with us. Now!


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