Restricted Areas in Nepal are designated regions that require special permits, known as Restricted Area Permits (RAPs), to protect their nature, culture, and heritage. Travelers wishing to visit these areas must typically be in groups of at least two, including a guide or fellow trekkers, for safety and management reasons. RAPs can be obtained from the Department of Immigration Office in Kathmandu and can only be issued through registered trekking agencies. It is crucial to carry an extra copy of your RAP and present it at various checkpoints. Following these regulations ensures a smooth and hassle-free exploration of Nepal’s restricted areas.
Required for: Upper Mustang Trek and Driving Tours
The Upper Mustang is one of Nepal’s most remote and sought-after adventure destinations. To explore the Kingdom of Lo, you need a special permit. The restricted area begins at Kagbeni, where you'll need to present your permit at an official checkpoint.
Restricted Areas Include:
Required for: Manaslu Circuit Trek, Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
The Manaslu region offers some of the finest natural and cultural experiences for visitors. However, it includes two restricted areas, the first being the Manaslu Conservation Area (CA), which begins at Jagat. While trekking the regular circuit, you will be within this area for over 5 days until you reach Samagaon.
Restricted Areas Include:
Required for : Tsum Valley Trek, Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
The Tsum Valley, with its traditional villages, remains a pristine area largely untouched by modern Western influences. The Nepalese government prioritizes preserving the ancient lifestyle, traditions, culture, and monuments of this region. To access the areas of Sirdibas, Lokpa, Chumling, Nile, Chekampar, and Chule, as well as the Tsumnubri Rural Municipality, a special permit is required.
Restricted Areas Include:
Required for: Upper Dolpo trek, Kang La Pass trek
Upper Dolpa is one of the most pristine and untouched regions in the Nepalese Himalayas. This restricted area, known for its rich history and stunning natural landscapes, offers an exceptional experience for adventurous travelers. With its multiple passes and remote beauty, Upper Dolpo is regarded as one of the best off-the-beaten-path trekking destinations in the world.
Restricted Areas Include:
Required for: Lower Dolpo trek
The Dolpo region, situated in Dolpa—the largest district in Nepal—boasts some of the most well-preserved cultures and traditional lifestyles in the mid-western rural areas of the country. This region is divided into two distinct restricted areas, with Lower Dolpo being the first. As its name indicates, Lower Dolpo encompasses the lower portion of the Dolpa district.
Restricted Areas:
Required for: Nar Phu Valley Trek, Kang La Pass Trek
The Nar Phu region offers an ideal off-the-beaten-path adventure for those exploring the otherwise popular Annapurna region. Venturing off the main trail, trekkers can discover the traditional villages of Nar and Phu, rich in historical, cultural, and traditional significance. Many consider this trek to be a well-preserved alternative to the Upper Dolpo in western Nepal.
Restricted Areas:
The Kanchenjunga Region includes four Village Development Committees (VDCs) that are designated as restricted areas in Nepal. These VDCs are Lelep, Yamphuding, Olangchung Gola in Taplejung, and Paping. To enter these restricted zones, a restricted area permit is required. Any area bordering the foreign regions of India and Tibet is classified as restricted. This designation aims to protect endangered plant and animal species, support responsible tourism, and prevent illegal activities.
Required for: Simikot Limi Valley Trek
Humla District, once regarded as an underrated destination in Nepal, has recently gained a dedicated following among trekking enthusiasts. The Limi Valley area, with its stunning landscapes reminiscent of the alpine highlands of Switzerland and Italy, offers exceptional travel and exploration opportunities. To visit this region, you'll need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which permits access to the Simikot, Changkheli, and Namkha Rural Municipalities.
Restricted Areas:
Required for: Gosaikunda Lake Trek, Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu Trek
This permit stands out from the others on the list as it includes religious pilgrimage aspects associated with the destination. Gosaikunda Lake is considered one of the holiest sites for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. Moreover, the region is renowned for the Tamang Heritage Trail, offering trekkers an enriching experience in Nepal.
Restricted Areas:
Required for: Makalu Barun NP trek, Great Himalayan Trail
The Solukhumbu region offers much more than just the well-trodden Everest Base Camp trek. Travelers can experience a captivating mix of natural beauty and cultural richness throughout the Khumbu area. This restricted area includes the Bhotikhola and Makalu Rural Municipalities.
Restricted Areas:
Required for: Makalu Base Camp trek, Barun Valley Trek
The Makalu region, nestled between the Everest and Kanchenjunga massifs, offers travelers a wealth of experiences. This restricted area includes the Makalu Barun National Park and covers the villages of Kimathanka, Chepuwa, Hatiya, and Pawakhola. It is also an excellent destination for wildlife photography.
Restricted Areas:
The main reason these areas are designated as 'restricted' is to protect their natural environment and cultural heritage from external influences. To trek in these regions, an environmental representative must register with local police and government offices along the route. Additionally, treks must be organized through a registered trekking agency and come fully equipped with necessary gear, including tents, support staff, cooks, and other provisions.
If you want to trek in Nepal's restricted areas, reach out to an authorized trekking agency registered in Nepal, such as Nature Trail. The agency can handle the permit application process for restricted areas on behalf of foreign trekkers.
Discover incredible offers for your upcoming adventure by subscribing to our newsletter with the latest travel tips and updates.
