15 Restricted Trekking in Nepal: Areas, Permits, Guide 2026

The Upper Mustang trek and the Upper Dolpo trek represent two of the most sought-after experiences for high-altitude adventurers seeking remote Himalayan landscapes. These journeys take travelers into culturally isolated regions where ancient Tibetan traditions remain largely untouched by mass tourism. However, unlike standard routes, these expeditions fall under strictly regulated zones. To enter these protected landscapes, trekkers must secure a specialized restricted area permit, which is a mandatory legal requirement enforced by the Government of Nepal to maintain the ecological and cultural integrity of these fragile environments.

Planning these excursions requires a fair amount of logistical heavy lifting. One thing we’ve learned from our experience is that you can’t actually apply for these permits on your own; they have to be handled through an authorized trekking agency.

Whether you are looking into an Upper Mustang tour package or dreaming of a deeper, off-the-beaten-path expedition, getting a handle on the entry requirements is the very first step. Because these spots are managed as restricted zones, we always emphasize having your documentation and licensed guide arrangements squared away before you even arrive. It makes the difference between a stressful start and a smooth, easy journey.

By following these government regulations, you aren’t just checking a box—you’re ensuring your visit is fully compliant while getting to experience the raw, authentic beauty of these regions exactly as they are meant to be seen.

What Is a Restricted Area Trek in Nepal?

A restricted area trek in Nepal is any trekking route that requires special permits or documents to pass through, issued by the Government of Nepal through the Nepal Tourism Board and Nepal Immigration in Kathmandu.

The word "restricted" means exactly what it says: you need special permission to enter. Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpo are among the most well-known restricted areas. Still, Nepal has 15 designated restricted trekking zones in total — each with its own permit fee structure, ward-level boundary definitions, and access rules.

Only a few foreign trekkers have historically visited these areas, precisely because they sit among Nepal's most remote and protected landscapes.

What Every Trekker Must Know Before Planning a Restricted Area Trek in Nepal

Nepal has two categories of trekking routes. Many routes are open to FIT (Freelance Individual Trekkers) or any group size without special documentation. Restricted area routes are different — they are strictly controlled and authorized by the Government of Nepal.

Mandatory Rules for Restricted Area Trekking

• Official Authorization: Required from the Department of Immigration.
• Licensed Guide: A certified guide is mandatory for all trekkers at all times.
• Minimum Group Size: A minimum of 2 trekkers is required; solo applicants cannot apply directly.
• Agency Booking: Permits must be processed via a registered trekking company; they are not available at trailheads.
• Valid Visa: Your Nepal visa must cover the entire duration of the trek.
• Fixed Routes: Itineraries are strictly enforced and cannot be altered once the permit is issued.
• Expeditions: Climbing expeditions passing through these zones must also secure these permits.

Solo Traveler Assistance

If you are traveling alone, Adventure Mountain Treks provides group-joining options to meet the minimum size requirement:

• Email: info@adventuremountaintreks.com
• Phone (WhatsApp/Viber): +977 986-2790129

Essential Tips for Restricted Area Trekking in Nepal

• Secure Permits: Permits must be obtained through a registered trekking agency at the Nepal Tourism Board or the Department of Immigration. This applies to standard treks and expeditions crossing these zones.
• Follow Fixed Routes: Stick strictly to the approved itinerary; route changes are not permitted after the permit is issued.
• Staff Safety: All guides, porters, and support staff must be covered by mandatory personal accident insurance.
• Gear Up: High-quality, appropriate clothing and safety equipment are compulsory.
• Observe Regulations: Strictly follow all local laws, including those for national parks and conservation areas.
• Respect Culture: It is your responsibility to honor and preserve local traditions, culture, and customs throughout your journey.

All 15 Restricted Area Permits in Nepal — 2026 Exact Costs, Ward Numbers & Trek Details

Below is the complete, government-verified list of all 15 restricted trekking zones in Nepal with exact permit fees and restricted ward boundaries, sourced directly from Adventure Mountain Treks' operational data.

1. Upper Mustang

Required for: Upper Mustang Trek

Permit fee:

• USD 500 per person (first 10 days)
• USD 50 per person/day (beyond 10 days)

Restricted zones:

• Lomanthang Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 5
• Lo-Ghekar Damodarkunda Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 5
• Baragung Muktichetra Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward no. 3 and Satang Village of Ward no. 5

Explore the restricted area packages of Upper Mustang  with us:

• Upper Mustang Trek
• Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
• Upper Mustang Trek with Heli Return

About this region: Upper Mustang was a forbidden kingdom closed to the outside world until 1992. The ancient walled capital of Lo Manthang, cave monasteries carved into desert cliffs, and a Tibetan-influenced culture untouched by mass tourism make this one of the most extraordinary restricted area treks in Nepal. At USD 500 for 10 days, it is also the most expensive — a cost that directly keeps visitor numbers low and the landscape intact. The restricted zone begins at Kagbeni, where the official checkpoint is located.

2. Upper Dolpo

Required for: Upper Dolpo Circuit Trekking, Beni to Dolpo via Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Permit fee:

• USD 500 per person (first 10 days)
• USD 50 per person/day (beyond 10 days)

Restricted zones:

• Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 4 to 6
• Shey Phoksundo Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 7
• Charka Tangsong Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 6

 Wanna Explore Upper Dolpo Circuit Trekking ? Visit our site for more amazing Trekking Packages!

About this region: Upper Dolpo in the Dolpa district is one of the remotest and most untouched destinations in the entire Himalayan range. The landscape is high Tibetan plateau — stark, dramatic, and almost completely devoid of commercial trekking infrastructure. The famous Shey Phoksundo Lake, ancient Bon monasteries, and the trail made famous by Peter Matthiessen's The Snow Leopard are all here. At USD 500 for 10 days, the permit cost matches Upper Mustang, placing both firmly in the elite category of Himalayan trekking experiences.

3. Gorkha Manaslu Area

Required for: Manaslu Circuit Trek, Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek, Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

Permit fee:

• September to November (Peak season): USD 100 per person/week + USD 15 per person/day beyond 1 week
• December to August (Off-peak season): USD 75 per person/week + USD 10 per person/day beyond 1 week

Restricted zones:

• Chumnubri Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4

Visit the restricted trek of the Gorkha Manaslu Area with affordable trekking packages:

• Manaslu Circuit Trek
• Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley
• Tsum Valley Trek

About this region: The Manaslu restricted zone is the most popular restricted area trek in Nepal after Upper Mustang. The permit covers the section of the Manaslu Circuit from Jagat through Samagaon, Samdo, Dharamsala, and the Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) to Bimthang and Dharapani. This is a separate permit from the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) — both are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The restricted area status is the single biggest reason the Manaslu trail still feels wild, uncrowded, and authentic compared to Everest and Annapurna routes.

4. Gorkha Tsum Valley Area

Required for: Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek, Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

Permit fee:

• September to November (Peak season): USD 40 per person/week + USD 7 per person/day beyond 1 week
• December to August (Off-peak season): USD 30 per person/week + USD 7 per person/day beyond 1 week

Restricted zones:

• Sirdibas–Lokpa–Chumling–Chekampar–Nile–Chule villages
• Chumnubri Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 3, 6, and 7

Explore the restricted trekking areas of Gorkha Tsum Valley Area with Adventure Mountain Treks:

• Tsum Valley Trek
• Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley

About this region: Tsum Valley is a hidden sacred Himalayan valley branching off the main Manaslu route near Philim. The Tsumba people have preserved a way of life that has remained essentially unchanged for centuries — ancient Buddhist monasteries, butter-lamp ceremonies, and a community that had almost no contact with the outside world until the valley was opened to trekkers in 2008. It is one of the most culturally intact areas in all of the Himalayas. This permit is required in addition to the Gorkha Manaslu RAP when combining the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley.

5. Humla

Required for: Humla Limi Valley Trek

Permit fee:

• USD 50 per person/week
• USD 10 per person/day (beyond 1 week)

Restricted zones:

• Simikot Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1, 6, and 7
• Namkha Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 6
• Changkheli Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 3 to 5

About this region: Humla is Nepal's most isolated district, situated in the far northwest on the Tibet border. The Limi Valley — tucked between Nepal and Tibet — contains three ancient villages (Til, Halji, and Jang) inhabited by Tibetan-speaking communities who have maintained their culture in near-complete isolation. Humla is also the overland Nepali gateway for pilgrims traveling to Mount Kailash in Tibet. Access requires a flight to Simikot from Nepalgunj — there are no roads into this district.

6. Taplejung

Required for: Trekking in Phantanglung, Mikwakhola, and Sirijunga Rural Municipalities

Permit fee:

• USD 20 per person/week (first 4 weeks)
• USD 25 per person/week (beyond 4 weeks)

Restricted zones:

• Phantanglung Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 6 and 7
• Mikwakhola Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward no. 5
• Sirijunga Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward no. 8

About this region: Taplejung district in far-eastern Nepal is the gateway to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), the world's third-highest peak. The restricted zones cover the high valleys approaching the mountain from both the north and south. This region sees very few trekkers and offers some of Nepal's most remote and genuinely wild Himalayan wilderness alongside Limbu and Rai cultural encounters.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking is considered to be the adventurous trek of Nepal. Explore it with us! 

7. Lower Dolpo

Required for: Lower Dolpo Trek, Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek

Permit fee:

• USD 20 per person/week
• USD 5 per person/week (beyond 1 week)

Restricted zones:

• Thulibheri Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 11
• Tripurasundari Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 11
• Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 3
• Shey Phoksundo Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 8 and 9
• Jagdulla Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 6
• Mudkechula Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 9
• Kaike Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 7

Shey Phoksundo Lake Trekking is situated in the Lower Dolpo Area. Explore the beautiful journey to the Shey Phoksundo Lake with us!

About this region: Lower Dolpo covers the southern and lower sections of the Dolpa district, including access to the famous Shey Phoksundo Lake — Nepal's deepest lake at 145 metres, set against the backdrop of turquoise water and dramatic canyon walls. At USD 20/week, it is one of the most affordable restricted area permits in Nepal relative to the quality of landscape and remoteness it delivers. The Kaike-speaking Dolpali communities here are one of the smallest and most distinct ethnic groups in Nepal.

8. Dolakha

Required for: Trekking in Gaurishankar and Bighu Rural Municipalities

Permit fee:

• USD 20 per person/week (flat rate)

Restricted zones:

• Gaurishankhar Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward no. 9
• Bighu Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward no. 1

About this region: The Dolakha restricted zone covers remote valleys below the Gaurishankar Conservation Area on the Tibet border. Gaurishankar (7,134 m) and Melungtse (7,181 m) dominate the skyline. This is one of the least-visited restricted areas in Nepal — virtually unknown to mainstream trekking and offering completely pristine wilderness for the very few trekkers who reach it.

9. Sankhuwasabha (Makalu Region)

Required for: Makalu Base Camp Trekking

Permit fee:

• USD 20 per person/week (first 4 weeks)
• USD 25 per person/week (beyond 4 weeks)

Restricted zones:

• Bhotkhola Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 5
• Makalu Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward no. 4

Wanna explore Makalu Base Camp Trekking ? Visit our site to explore more packages!

About this region: Mt. Makalu (8,485 m) is the world's fifth-highest mountain and one of the most technically demanding eight-thousanders. The trek to its base camp passes through the Makalu Barun National Park, a protected area with extraordinary biodiversity — primary forest, alpine meadows, glacial terrain, and one of the highest concentrations of rare Himalayan wildlife in Nepal. At USD 20 for 4 weeks, it is an exceptional value for the remoteness and scenery delivered.

10. Solukhumbu

Required for: Trekking in specific zones of the Khumbu region beyond the standard Everest trail

Permit fee:

• USD 20 per person/week (first 4 weeks)
• USD 25 per person/week (beyond 4 weeks)

Restricted zones:

• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward no. 5

About this region: This permit covers specific zones within the Khumbu region beyond the standard Everest Base Camp corridor — primarily relevant for Great Himalayan Trail trekkers and those venturing into the most remote corners of Solukhumbu district. The standard Everest Base Camp trek does not require this permit.

11. Rasuwa (Gosaikunda)

Required for: Gosaikunda Lake Trek, Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

Permit fee:

• USD 20 per person/week (flat rate, same year-round)

Restricted zones:

• Gosaikunda Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward no. 1 and some areas of Ward no. 2

The most sacred place in the Rashuwa is the Gosaikunda Lake. Visit Gosainkunda Lake Trek with trekking guides based in Kathmandu.

About this region: Gosaikunda Lake (4,380 m) is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in Nepal for both Hindu and Buddhist devotees. The annual Janai Purnima festival draws thousands of pilgrims from across Nepal to bathe in its sacred waters. The trek passes through Langtang National Park, rhododendron forests, and high-altitude grasslands. At USD 20/week with no seasonal variation, this is one of the most accessible restricted area permits in Nepal.

12. Manang (Nar Phu Valley)

Required for: Nar Phu Valley Trekking, Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit

Permit fee:

• September to November (Peak season): USD 100 per person/week + USD 15 per person/day beyond 1 week
• December to August (Off-peak season): USD 75 per person/week + USD 15 per person/day beyond 1 week

Restricted zones:

• Narpa Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 5
• Nasho Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 6 and 7

Let's explore  the beautiful Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit along with us!

About this region: Nar and Phu are two ancient villages hidden in a remote side valley off the Annapurna Circuit near Chame. The junction is passed by thousands of Annapurna Circuit trekkers every season without most ever knowing the valley exists. Inside, the landscape is high Tibetan plateau — yak pastures, ancient monasteries, and one of the oldest cheese-making traditions in Nepal. The permit cost at USD 100/week reflects its restricted, border-sensitive status on par with the Manaslu zone.

13. Bajhang

Required for: Saipal Trek, exploration of Saipal Rural Municipality

Permit fee:

• USD 90 per person/week (first week)
• USD 15 per person/day (beyond 1 week)

Restricted zones:

• Saipal Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 5

About this region: Bajhang in far-western Nepal is one of the country's most genuinely unexplored districts. Mt. Saipal (7,031 m) is the dominant peak. Organized trekking here is almost nonexistent — this is frontier territory in the truest sense, with no established trail infrastructure and very limited local teahouse facilities.

14. Mugu

Required for: Exploration of Mugumakarmarong Rural Municipality, Rara Lake extended routes

Permit fee:

• USD 100 per person/week
• USD 15 per person/day (beyond 1 week)

Restricted zones:

• Mugumakarmarong Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward nos. 1 to 9

Let's explore the Rara Lake Trek for a beautiful journey with us!

About this region: Mugu district in mid-western Nepal is one of the country's most isolated regions. The Karnali River system cuts through dramatic gorges here, and the landscape transitions sharply from subtropical lowlands to high Himalayan terrain. Rara Lake — Nepal's largest lake — lies at the edge of the restricted boundary. The USD 100/week permit reflects the district's extreme border sensitivity and extremely low visitor numbers.

15. Darchula

Required for: Api Nampa Trek, exploration of Vyas Rural Municipality

Permit fee:

• USD 90 per person/week
• USD 15 per person/day (beyond 1 week)

Restricted zones:

• Vyas Rural Municipality — All areas of Ward no. 1

About this region: Darchula sits at Nepal's far-western tip where Nepal, India, and Tibet meet. Mt. Api (7,132 m) and Mt. Nampa (6,755 m) are the trekking draws. This is essentially untouched by commercial trekking — no established lodges, no trail signs, no teahouse network. For those seeking the absolute frontier of Himalayan trekking, this is it.
 

Complete Reference Table — All 15 Nepal Restricted Area Permits 2026

All permits are issued in Kathmandu only — through the Department of Immigration or via a government-registered trekking agency. No permit can be purchased at any trailhead.

How to Obtain a Restricted Area Permit in Nepal?

Where to apply: Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu — through a government-registered trekking agency. This is the only legal route for restricted area permits.

Documents required:

• Passport original + minimum 2 photocopies
• Minimum 2 passport-sized photographs
• Valid Nepal visa (expiry must cover the full duration of your trek)
• Booking confirmation from a registered Nepal trekking agency

Minimum group requirement: 2 trekkers. Individual trekkers cannot apply for a RAP directly. Solo travellers must either find a second trekker or join a group departure operated by a registered agency.

Processing time: Same-day to 24 hours when applying through a registered agency with complete documents.

Critical: No restricted area permit can be obtained at any checkpoint on the trail. Attempting to enter a restricted zone without a valid permit results in being turned back and potential fines. All checkpoints operate against a central government database.

Best Season for Restricted Area Trekking in Nepal

  Permit cost note: The Gorkha Manaslu, Gorkha Tsum Valley, and Manang Nar Phu permits are cheaper in the December–August window. If budget is a priority and you are an experienced cold-weather trekker, spring (March–May) offers the same landscape quality at the lower off-peak rate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Restricted Area Permits Nepal

Can I get a restricted area permit without a trekking agency?

 No. All restricted area permits in Nepal must be issued through a government-registered trekking agency. The Department of Immigration does not issue RAPs to individual foreign trekkers directly. A licensed guide must accompany you — a permit alone is not sufficient.

What is the minimum group size for a restricted area permit?

 A minimum of 2 people is required to issue any restricted area permit. This can be 2 trekkers, or 1 trekker plus a licensed guide in some interpretations — but in practice, a guide is mandatory in addition to the group minimum. Confirm with your agency.

Can solo trekkers do restricted area treks in Nepal? 

Solo trekkers cannot apply independently. Adventure Mountain Treks operates group joining departures for all major restricted area treks throughout the spring and autumn seasons. Contact info@adventuremountaintreks.com for current group departure schedules.

Do I need a guide even if I have the permit? 

Yes. A licensed guide is mandatory regardless of permit status. This is legally enforced at checkpoints throughout every restricted route.

Which restricted area permit is the most expensive? 

Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpo are jointly the most expensive at USD 500 per person for the first 10 days, with USD 50 per person per day beyond that.

Which restricted area permit offers the best value? 

The Gorkha Manaslu permit (USD 75–100/week) consistently delivers the best balance of permit cost, trek quality, and cultural richness. The Manaslu Circuit Trek — Nepal's finest off-the-beaten-path circuit — is accessible on this permit alongside the MCAP and ACAP, with a total permit cost of approximately USD 168 per person in peak season.

Can I combine two restricted area treks on one trip?

 Yes. The most popular combination is the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley, which requires both the Gorkha Manaslu RAP and the Gorkha Tsum Valley RAP. Adventure Mountain Treks offers this as a dedicated combined package: Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley.

Is TIMS required for restricted area treks?

 TIMS requirements vary by region and are updated periodically by the Nepal Tourism Board. Your trekking agency will confirm current TIMS requirements at the time of booking. For the Manaslu Circuit as of 2025–2026, TIMS is not required.

About Adventure Mountain Treks

Adventure Mountain Treks is a government-approved trekking company (License No. 2231/073) based in Thamel-26, Kathmandu, Nepal. Operating since 2007, we are affiliated with the Nepal Tourism Board, the Department of Tourism, the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), and the Village Tourism Promotion Forum (VITOF) Nepal.

We handle the complete permit process — RAP, MCAP, ACAP, and all local fees — for every client on every restricted area trek we operate. You arrive in Nepal ready to walk.

📞 +977 986-2790129 (WhatsApp/Viber) 📧 info@adventuremountaintreks.com 📍 Thamel-26, Kathmandu, Nepal

View All Restricted Area Trek Packages 
 

Updated on:  4th May, 2026