Except in Popular Trekking Routes, “solo Trekking No Longer Permitted in Nepal”
According to a recent announcement by the Nepal Tourism Board, starting April 1, 2023, tourists visiting Nepal will be required to hire a licensed guide or porter before trekking in the Nepal’s wilderness. The government has taken this step to ensure the safety of tourists as solo trekkers often face insecurity and are at risk of getting lost. The new regulation is expected to have a significant impact on Nepal’s adventure tourism industry, especially on popular trekking routes such as Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani-Poonhill and Langtang Valley, which are frequently visited by solo trekkers.
Nepal Tourism Board FAQs – Link (Click Here)
However, the Everest region appears to be an exception to this new rule. Technically, trekkers are required to have a Trekker Information Management System (TIMS) card to trek or climb in the Everest region. The local municipality has waived this requirement and instead charges its own fees, which are then invested directly in the region. It is uncertain whether the Everest National Park Office will impose restrictions on solo trekkers in the future.
Official statement from Khumbu Municipality
In our opinion, this decision has both advantages and disadvantages. Well-known trekking destinations with low risk should be exempted from this rule, but popular and low-risk trekking destinations such as Pun Hill, Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal and Everest Base Camp, where the trek is clearly marked and there is a presence of other trekkers, should be safe for solo trekkers. On the other hand, trekking destinations that pose high risk, especially in terms of altitude and in remote locations with few trekkers or local settlements, should require the presence of a guide. Examples of such trekking destinations include Manaslu Circuit Trek, Annapurna Circuit, Dolpo Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang and Kanchenjunga Trek.
