Permits Required for Annapurna Circuit Trek | Costs, Rules & More

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world, offering spectacular mountain views, vibrant local cultures, and a variety of Himalayan landscapes. But before planning your adventure, every trekker must ask:

What are the permits required for Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Unlike unrestricted regions in Nepal, the Annapurna region has strict trekking regulations to protect its environment and local communities. Obtaining the correct permits is essential for a legal, safe, and hassle-free journey.

In this guide, we’ll cover all Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permits - including types, costs, rules, and the process for application. We’ll also show how Best Heritage Tour simplifies the permit process so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

Why Permits Are Required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna region, managed under the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), is the largest protected area in Nepal. This conservation effort aims to:

Preserve the fragile Himalayan ecosystem
Support sustainable tourism
Protect local villages, culture, and wildlife
Ensure trekkers’ safety

Permits not only grant legal access to the trekking area but also contribute financially to these conservation and community programs.

Types of Permits Required for Annapurna Circuit Trek

To legally trek the Annapurna Circuit, you will need two main permits:

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

Each has a specific purpose and covers different aspects of trekking in the Annapurna region.

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit

The ACAP permit is mandatory for all trekkers entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, which covers the Annapurna Circuit. It ensures that visitors contribute to conservation, community projects, and sustainable tourism initiatives.

Key Details:

Issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) or through registered trekking agencies like Best Heritage Tour
Required at the start of your trek, typically in Besisahar or Pokhara
Includes access to all trekking trails within the Annapurna Conservation Area
Valid for the duration of your trek

2. Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

The TIMS Card is a safety and tracking system for trekkers in Nepal. It helps authorities maintain records of trekking groups and ensures assistance in case of emergencies.

Key Details:

Issued by the NTB or your registered trekking agency like Best Heritage Tour
Can be a green card (for individual trekkers) or a blue card (for trekking groups)
Required for safety, insurance, and legal trekking compliance

Many agencies recommend having both ACAP and TIMS to avoid issues at checkpoints along the route.

Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permit Costs (in USD)

Here’s a clear table showing the current costs of Annapurna Circuit permits for trekkers:

Permit Type	Cost (per person)	Issuing Authority / Where to Get	Remarks
ACAP Permit	USD 30	Nepal Tourism Board (Kathmandu / Pokhara)	Mandatory for all trekkers in the Annapurna Conservation Area
TIMS Card	USD 20 (individual) / USD 10 (group)	Nepal Tourism Board / Trekking Agency	Required for safety and trekking records

Note: Costs may vary slightly depending on season and currency fluctuations.

Where & How to Obtain Annapurna Permits

Obtaining trekking permits in Nepal is straightforward, especially with a registered trekking company like Best Heritage Tour.

Step-by-Step Process:

Contact a licensed trekking agency in Nepal
Provide required documents:
- Passport copy
- Nepal visa copy
- Two recent passport-size photos
- Trekking itinerary
Pay the permit fees (as shown in the table above)
Permits are typically processed within 1 business day
Receive your official ACAP and TIMS permits, ready for presentation at checkpoints along the trail

Permits are non-transferable and must be carried throughout the trek for inspection at police and conservation posts.

Rules & Regulations for Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permits

To ensure a smooth and responsible trekking experience, the Annapurna Conservation Area has the following regulations:

Valid ACAP permit is required for all trekkers
TIMS card must be presented at checkpoints
Trekking alone is permitted, but some high-altitude regions recommend group travel for safety
Permits are valid only for the dates and duration stated
Respect local culture, wildlife, and natural resources - cutting trees, littering, or disturbing wildlife is prohibited
Follow all park and conservation area guidelines

Following these rules ensures the safety of trekkers and the preservation of the region’s ecosystem and culture.

Documents Required for Annapurna Circuit Trek Permits

Before applying for ACAP and TIMS permits, make sure to have the following:

Valid passport (minimum 6-month validity)
Valid Nepal visa
Two passport-size photographs
Confirmed trekking itinerary
Contact details of guide or trekking agency

Best Heritage Tour will submit these documents on your behalf and ensure everything is processed efficiently.

Why You Should Use a Registered Trekking Agency

Many first-time trekkers underestimate the importance of a licensed trekking agency. For Annapurna Circuit permits:

ACAP and TIMS applications are processed faster through agencies
Agencies provide guidance on valid dates, entry points, and regulations
You get experienced guides who know the trail, culture, and checkpoints
Agencies handle emergency support, transportation, and accommodation arrangements

With Best Heritage Tour, you don’t just get permits - you get peace of mind and a fully organized trekking experience.

How Best Heritage Tour Makes the Permit Process Easy

At Best Heritage Tour, we specialize in providing seamless trekking services across Nepal.

Our services include:

Handling all ACAP and TIMS applications
Arranging licensed trekking guides
Providing official receipts and permit copies
Offering full trekking packages including accommodation, meals, and transport
Supporting you throughout your trek - from start to finish

With us, your Annapurna Circuit Trek becomes fully legal, hassle-free, and enjoyable, letting you focus on breathtaking views and cultural experiences.

Conclusion: Trek Annapurna Circuit Legally, Safely, and Hassle-Free

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is an adventure of a lifetime - from crossing high mountain passes to walking through lush valleys and traditional villages. But it all starts with the right permits.

By obtaining the ACAP and TIMS permits, you ensure a legal, safe, and responsible trekking experience while supporting Nepal’s conservation efforts.

With Best Heritage Tour, you can forget the paperwork and focus entirely on the journey. Our experienced guides and efficient service ensure your trek is smooth, memorable, and worry-free.

Contact Best Heritage Tour for Annapurna Circuit Trek Permits & Bookings

Phone / WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197 | +977-9810043046

Email: info@bestheritagetour.com | bestheritagetour@gmail.com

Info & Booking: www.bestheritagetour.com

Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal