Nepal has revised its trekking permit rules to allow solo foreign travellers access to restricted areas that previously required groups of at least two people. The change, announced by the Department of Immigration following requests from tourism industry stakeholders, is aimed at encouraging independent travel and supporting visitor numbers in some of the country’s most remote regions.
Solo trekkers will still be required to hire a licensed guide and book through a registered trekking agency, which assumes full responsibility for emergency rescue and logistics. A single guide may accompany up to seven trekkers under the updated guidelines.
The revised policy covers restricted areas across 13 districts, including Upper Mustang, Upper and Lower Dolpa, the Manaslu and Tsum Valley regions in Gorkha, and the Nar and Phu valleys in Manang. These are among Nepal’s most sought-after off-the-beaten-path destinations, drawing travellers looking for high-altitude wilderness and deep cultural immersion well beyond the main trekking circuits.
The department has also introduced a digital permit application system, allowing foreign tourists to apply using their valid Nepali visa numbers, with an advance payment option available for applicants outside Nepal.
