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Documents Required for Drone Permit in Nepal | Drone Permit Form

Nepal is one of the most visually stunning countries in the world. From the snow-covered Himalayan peaks to ancient temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, deep valleys, vibrant cities, and remote villages, every corner of Nepal feels like it was made to be captured from the sky.

Because of this, drone photography and videography in Nepal has become increasingly popular among filmmakers, content creators, YouTubers, researchers, travel vloggers, and commercial production houses.

However, flying a drone in Nepal is strictly regulated. Whether you are planning to use a drone for a documentary, commercial shoot, research, or personal project, you must obtain an official drone permit from the Government of Nepal.

At Best Heritage Tour, we regularly assist international and domestic clients with filming coordination, travel logistics, and permit guidance. In this guide, we explain all the documents required for a drone permit in Nepal, based on official government requirements, so you can prepare everything correctly and avoid delays or rejections.

 

Why Do You Need a Drone Permit in Nepal?

Before getting into the documents, it’s important to understand why Nepal requires a drone permit.

Nepal has:

  • Sensitive heritage zones

  • Archaeological and religious sites

  • National parks and conservation areas

  • Border-sensitive regions

  • Air traffic routes near mountains and airports

To protect national security, cultural heritage, wildlife, and public safety, drone flights are regulated by multiple government bodies. Flying a drone without a permit is illegal and can result in:

  • Confiscation of equipment

  • Heavy fines

  • Legal action

  • Deportation (for foreigners)

That’s why securing a proper drone permit is not optional - it’s mandatory.

 

Who Needs a Drone Permit in Nepal?

You need a drone permit in Nepal if:

  • You are a foreign filmmaker or photographer

  • You are using a drone for commercial purposes

  • You plan to shoot documentary, TV programs, films, or advertisements

  • You want to fly a drone in heritage sites, national parks, or restricted areas

  • You are part of a research or media project

Even Nepali citizens must follow permit rules depending on drone size, purpose, and location.

 

Authorities Involved in Drone Permit Approval

Drone permits in Nepal are not handled by just one office. Depending on your project and location, approvals may be required from:

  • Ministry of Information and Communications (MoIC)

  • Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN)

  • Home Ministry

  • Department of Archaeology

  • National Park or Conservation Area Offices

  • Local Development or Trust Funds

  • Security agencies

This is why proper documentation is crucial.

 

Documents Required for Drone Permit in Nepal

Below is a detailed explanation of all official documents required for obtaining a drone permit in Nepal, as outlined in government forms and guidelines.

1. Letter from Local Coordinator

A formal letter from the local coordinator addressed to:

  • Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications

This letter confirms:

  • Purpose of filming

  • Drone usage

  • Compliance with Nepali laws

 

2. Authorization Letter from Foreign Filmmaker

Foreign applicants must submit an authorization letter stating:

  • Appointment of the local coordinator

  • Acceptance of responsibility

  • Compliance with regulations

 

3. Application Form

The first and most basic requirement is an official application form.

  • The application must be properly filled

  • It should follow the prescribed government format

  • It must include official postal stamps (NPR 50) as required by Nepali regulations

This form is submitted to the concerned ministry through a local coordinator or authorized agency.

 

4. Supporting Documents for Permit Consideration

Supporting documents are the core of your drone permit application. These explain what you are filming and why.

a. Script of the Filming Story

You must submit:

  • A detailed filming script for TV commercials

  • A storyboard explaining scenes, angles, and objectives

For documentaries:

  • A clear synopsis

  • Subject matter explanation

  • Educational or informational purpose

This helps authorities ensure your content is appropriate, respectful, and non-sensitive.

b. Theme (Concept) and Lyrics (If Applicable)

If your drone footage includes:

  • Music videos

  • Promotional films

  • Branded content

You may be asked to submit:

  • The theme or concept

  • Lyrics (if any)

  • Visual narrative explanation

c. Details of Content and Objectives

For TV programs or productions, you must clearly state:

  • Purpose of filming

  • Intended audience

  • Distribution platform (TV, YouTube, OTT, etc.)

  • Educational, promotional, or commercial intent

This section plays a major role in approval.

 

5. Crew Member Details

You must submit complete information about your filming crew, including:

  • Full name list

  • Passport numbers (for foreigners)

  • Positions (director, drone pilot, cameraman, producer, etc.)

  • Arrival and departure dates

  • Short bio-data of foreign crew members

This is a mandatory security requirement.

 

6. Filming Itinerary

Authorities require a day-by-day filming schedule, which must include:

  • Exact filming dates

  • Drone flying dates

  • Specific locations

  • Backup days (if any)

The itinerary must match your location permissions.

 

7. Equipment List

You must provide a detailed equipment list, including:

  • Drone model and specifications

  • Camera equipment

  • Batteries

  • Controllers

  • Accessories

The equipment list is used for:

  • Custom clearance

  • Security verification

  • Monitoring restricted equipment

 

8. Consent Letters from Concerned Organizations

Depending on where you plan to fly the drone, additional consent letters are required.

a. Department of Archaeology

Required if filming in:

  • Kathmandu Durbar Square

  • Patan Durbar Square

  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square

  • Changunarayan

  • Boudhanath

  • Swayambhunath

  • Lumbini (heritage zones)

b. Pashupati Area Development Trust

Mandatory for drone filming around:

  • Pashupatinath Temple

  • Gausala area

  • Nearby heritage zones

c. Sanctuary Fund or Conservation Authority

Required if filming in:

  • National Parks

  • Conservation Areas

  • Wildlife Reserves

d. Ministry of Home Affairs

Mandatory for filming in:

  • Upper Mustang

  • Upper Dolpa

  • Restricted border regions

Note: A fee of USD 5000 per location may apply in restricted areas.

e. Department of Wildlife Conservation

Required for:

  • Drone use inside conservation zones

  • Wildlife filming

  • National parks

f. Lumbini Development Trust

Required if filming in:

  • Lumbini (birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha)

  • Sacred garden and surroundings

 

9. Local Coordinator Details (Mandatory)

Foreign filmmakers must appoint a local coordinator agency in Nepal.

You must submit:

  • Name of the local coordinator agency

  • Office address

  • Email address

  • Contact person

  • Contact number

At Best Heritage Tour, we frequently act as a local coordinator, helping clients navigate permits smoothly.

 

Important Notes on Location Charges

  • Location charges may apply depending on the filming site

  • Heritage and restricted areas have additional fees

  • Fees vary by location and authority

 

How Long Does It Take to Get a Drone Permit in Nepal?

On average:

  • 7-15 working days

  • Can take longer for restricted areas

  • Delays occur if documents are incomplete

Proper preparation is key.

 

Common Reasons for Drone Permit Rejection

  • Incomplete documentation

  • Vague filming objectives

  • Missing consent letters

  • Incorrect equipment details

  • Attempting restricted areas without approval

 

How Best Heritage Tour Can Help

At Best Heritage Tour, we don’t just organize tours - we help travelers, filmmakers, and content creators navigate Nepal legally and smoothly.

We can assist with:

  • Local coordination

  • Permit guidance

  • Filming logistics

  • Travel planning

  • Restricted area access support

Our experience working with international clients allows us to reduce delays and avoid costly mistakes.

 

Final Thoughts

Flying a drone in Nepal is an incredible opportunity but only when done legally and responsibly. Understanding the documents required for a drone permit in Nepal is the first and most important step.

With the right preparation and local support, your project can move forward smoothly while respecting Nepal’s laws, culture, and heritage.

If you’re planning a drone shoot or filming project in Nepal and need expert local assistance, Best Heritage Tour is here to help.

Contact Best Heritage Tour

For drone permit guidance, filming coordination, or customized travel support in Nepal, feel free to get in touch with our team.

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

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

Website: www.bestheritagetour.com

Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal

Author: Best Heritage Tour

Date: 1st February, 2026

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