Nepal Eases Strict Rules for Solo Foreign Trekkers in Restricted Areas

Kathmandu. The government has made significant amendments to the strict regulations concerning 'single trekkers' when hiking in restricted areas of Nepal for foreign tourists. The Department of Immigration, through a departmental decision on Chaitra 8, has now made arrangements allowing even a single foreign trekker to obtain permission to enter restricted areas.

Previously, the department's policy of not granting permission to solo trekkers in restricted areas forced tourists to mandatorily find another partner. Organizations including the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN) had been complaining that this situation affected many tourists wishing to trek and impacted tourism promotion. Addressing these complaints, the department has opened the way for solo trekkers.

However, the department has also set some stringent conditions for foreigners wishing to trek alone. From now on, solo trekkers must apply through an agency, and they must be accompanied by a designated trekking guide. Furthermore, the concerned agency will be entirely responsible for any emergency rescue during the trek.

Keeping in mind the safety and monitoring of foreign tourists, the department has also set a new standard limiting one guide to lead a maximum of 7 trekkers. Department Spokesperson Tikaram Dhakal informed that this limit was set because monitoring the safety and activities of tourists becomes problematic when there is a large number of tourists in a single group.

Similarly, the process for applying for trekking permits has also been simplified. Foreign nationals can now apply for trekking permits from their own country. Previously, a valid visa number was mandatory, but now arrangements have been made to allow applications based on the visa application number (submission ID).

The department expects this online system to provide faster and hassle-free service to service recipients. Various designated areas in 13 districts of Nepal are considered restricted areas, where foreigners must obtain permission from the Department of Immigration to enter.