Hi! Today we’re bringing you the news that stirred up strong emotions in a great many people, especially those who They’re off to Nepal soon i They had planned to spend their trip without a Nepalese guide.
There had already been a lot of talk about it online for the past few days, appeared reports that Nepal is planning to amend its legislation when planning introduce a requirement to use a Nepalese guide on every trekking route, or to be more precise, in all protected areas. It was also mentioned that the TIMS card may be issued only with the involvement of a Nepalese mountaineering agency.
Yesterday, the Nepal Tourism Board finally published its official statement certifying these changes. There was a commotion amongst the tourists.
Some people agree with this change, understanding the arguments put forward by the Nepalese authorities and by supporting her, others – quite the opposite. We understand both sides, we won’t go into detail about our position here.
Key facts about the new trekking regulations
Anyone planning to go trekking in a protected area in Nepal (most of the popular trekking routes), must use the services of a licensed Nepalese guide.
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management Systems) is essential i may only be issued through a mountaineering agency that operates legally and is registered in Nepal.
What this means for trekkers:
- No more solo trekking on popular routes
- The obligation to hire a guide under licence
- TIMS Card only via a Nepalese agency
- Applies to all protected areas – Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu
Which routes are covered by the new regulations?
The new regulations apply to protected areas, which means most of the popular trekking routes in Nepal:
Main areas covered by the regulations:
- Sagarmatha National Park (Everest Base Camp)
- Annapurna Conservation Area (Annapurna Circuit, ABC)
- Langtang National Park (Langtang Valley)
- Manaslu Conservation Area (Manaslu Circuit)
- Makalu Barun National Park
- Dolpo and other protected areas
Virtually every popular trekking route in Nepal is located in protected area, so The new regulations apply to the vast majority of trekkers.
What you need to know about compulsory guides
Licensed Nepalese guide it’s not just legal requirement, but also safety guarantee i support in the mountains. New regulations are intended to improving the safety of trekkers and support from the local community.
Guide qualifications:
- Nepal Tourism Board Licence
- First aid training courses
- Knowledge of the routes i local conditions
- Communication skills in English
What the guide provides:
- Security on the trail
- Emergency assistance
- Knowledge of local culture and tradition
- Logistical support whilst trekking
The TIMS Card – new rules for issuing
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management Systems) that is mandatory document For all trekkers in Nepal. From now on, it can only be obtained through a Nepalese agency.
New TIMS rules:
- Only through a registered agency in Nepal
- When you book a guide
- Cost remains unchanged
- Compulsory for all protected areas
Documents required for TIMS:
- A copy of your passport and a Nepalese visa
- Passport photo
- Route details trekking
- Guide details and agencies
How does this affect the cost of trekking?
The obligation to hire a guide means additional costs for trekkers planning independent trips.
Approximate costs for a guide:
- US$20–35 per day – trekking guide
- Guide insurance – around 50 USD
- Transport of the guide – included in the price of the service
- Accommodation and meals guide
Total additional cost hiring a guide for 14-day trek that’s about 350–500 USD, depending on the guide’s experience i route length.
Our range of trekking guides
We would like to remind you that we have always offered the option of choosing services flexibly. One of these is the option to hire a guide. You can find out more in the dedicated tab on our website.
Our trekking guides:
- Licensed by the Nepal Tourism Board
- Experienced in leading groups
- Knowledge of the routes first-hand
- Safety training and first aid
- Competitive pricing no hidden costs
For customers who are already planning a trip We offer flexible adaptation to the new regulations and assistance with organisation in accordance with the new requirements.
Reactions from the trekking community
The new regulations have provoked mixed reactions within the trekking community. Supporters argue that, that the guides improve safety i support the local economy. Opponents indicate that restriction of freedom i additional costs.
Arguments in favour:
- Safety for trekkers in the mountains
- Support for the local community
- Professional assistance in emergency situations
- Cultural education whilst trekking
Arguments against:
- Additional costs for budget travellers
- Restriction of freedom choice
- A reduction in spontaneity expeditions
- Compulsory expenditure for experienced trekkers
What next? Information and updates
If further information becomes available on the new regulations, we'll let you know via our communication channels. The situation may still develop, so keep an eye on official announcements.
Sources of information:
- Nepal Tourism Board – official announcements
- TAAN (Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal)
- Our office in Kathmandu – local updates
Those planning a trip in the coming months should consult the agency as for current requirements i procedures for obtaining TIMS.
In the meantime, we are publishing the official press release concerning the requirement to use a Nepalese guide and information on TIMS card – you’ll find them in in dedicated sections our website.
