Mardi Himal Trek Permit – What are the Necessary Requirements?

In 2024, over 244,045 visitors trekked through Annapurna region, making it the most regulated and protected trekking area in Nepal. 

And, one common question we get from trekkers is, “Do I need a permit for Mardi Himal trek?” 

If you’re planning a trek to Mardi Himal, then you must carry the official Mardi Himal trek permits, no exception.

So, what permits are needed for Mardi Himal trek?

To legally enter the area and safely get yourself on the trekking trail, you will require the following permits for Mardi Himal trek:

1. ACAP: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
2. TIMS Card: Trekkers Information Management System
3. Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality Entry Permit

If you’re trekking with a guide or an agency, you will be asked about these permits and if so, that means you are following the Nepal regulations for 2025 for protected areas and rural trail zones.

These permits will help with conservation, community development and even your own safety.

Learn about the Mardi trek difficulty here.

ACAP: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

The ACAP is a mandatory trekking permit needed as the whole route lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal’s first and largest protected area.

This permit was established in 1986 to protect this fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

This Annapurna trekking route overlaps with other routes like Annapurna Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, so trekkers who are planning multiple treks can benefit from one permit.

Annapurna Conservation Area spans around 7,629 square kilometers and protects:

• 1,226 species of flowering plants
  
• 105 mammals, including snow leopards and musk deer
  
• 523 bird species
  
• 23 amphibians and 40 reptiles
  

The money collected from this permit will go towards contributing to environmental protection. trail maintenance and development of local tourism.

Latest Mardi Himal ACAP Permit Price

Foreign Nationals: NPR 3,000 (~USD 27)

SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000 (~USD 8)

Nepali Citizens: Free

You can obtain this conservation area entry permit in either Kathmandu or Pokhara, or through a licensed trekking agency like Nepal Base Camp Treks.

TIMS Card: Trekkers’ Information Management System

A TIMS card is also a compulsory permit for all foreign nationals, so that Nepal’s tourism authorities can track trekkers for safety, coordination, as well as search and rescue missions.

It’s part of a national system to help maintain the official trekking business and respond better in emergencies.

A major rule change went into effect.

As of the 2023 policy change, independent trekkers can’t obtain a TIMS card without a licensed guide on routes such as Mardi Himal.

The purpose of this rule is to mitigate rescue risks and to improve trail management.

Latest Mardi Himal Trek Permit Cost, TIMS Fees

Foreign Nationals: NPR 2,000 (~USD 17)

SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000 (~USD 8)

TIMS helps keep you safe in case of altitude sickness, bad weather or a communications failure along the Mardi Himal trail.

Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality Entry Permit

While trekking Mardi Himal route, it takes you through the Machhauchhre municipality.

Unlike Annapurna, Machhapuchhre has implemented its own local entry permit for visitors.

While it is less talked about, this permit is officially required and checked at specific checkpoints near Kande and Dhampus.

This Mardi Himal trek permit helps support local trail infrastructure, trail signage, emergency shelters and clean water systems in the Mardi Himal region.

Municipality Entry Permit Fees

Foreigners: NPR 500 (~USD 4)

Nepali Nationals: NPR 100

Unlike ACAP and TIMS, this permit is normally issued on the trail or included when you book through a local agency.

Do You Really Need a Permit for Mardi Himal Trek?

Yes, you do. 

All trekkers, foreigners or locals, need Mardi Himal trekking permits.

While the trail may feel peaceful and remote, it does pass through conservation areas, rural municipalities and high-altitude areas where permits are required by law.

Let’s look at it in detail:

Trek Requires a Permit. But Why?

It’s The Law

The Mardi Himal trek runs through the Annapurna Conservation Area.

For that reason, you must get the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) before entering the trekking area.

If you do not get it, then you may find yourself stopped at a checkpoint and possibly get fined.

For Your Safety

You will need a TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System).

This card acts as a tracking tool for trekkers recorded by the Nepali authorities.

The Mardi Himal trek altitude goes beyond 4,000 meters, which increases the risk of altitude sickness.

In case you get injured or accident, lose your way or emergency, this permit ensures help from the rescue team reaches you.

It Supports the Trail You Love

The Mardi Himal permit price you pay for Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality is your share of helping maintain the pilgrimage routes, collecting and managing waste, as well as securing basic services for the local community.

You are helping to keep the trek beautiful and safe for everyone.

Where and How to Get a Mardi Himal Trek Permit Easily

Obtaining your Mardi Himal trek permit is simpler than you think.

You have three options, so choose what is most convenient for your travel schedule!

Option 1: From Kathmandu

Location: Nepal Tourism Board Office – Bhrikutimandap

If you are starting your trek in Kathmandu, you will want to head to the NTB for your ACAP and TIMS permits.

Opening Hours: Sunday to Friday, 10 AM – 5 PM

What to bring:

1. Passport
2. Two Passport-sized photos
3. Tentative trekking itinerary 
4. Your guide’s name and contact details, if you are using one.

Why would you choose this?

Sorting your permits in Kathmandu means one less thing to think about in Pokhara. 

You can arrive at the trailhead with everything sorted out, which means no scrambling at the last minute.

Option 2: From Pokhara

Location: Tourist Information Center – Damside, Lakeside

This is the most straightforward option if you are planning your Mardi Himal trek from Pokhara.

Most trekkers travelling to Mardi Himal will opt for this option. 

Opening Hours: Sunday to Friday, 10 AM – 5 PM

Available permits here:

1. ACAP
2. TIMS
3. Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality Permit

This center processes all three permits in one visit and no need to go anywhere else.

Why would you choose this?

Because it’s fast, easy and central, which is great if staying near Lakeside and or catching a bus or a taxi.

Option 3: With a Trekking Agency

Want to have it easy?

Let a registered trekking agency like Nepal Base Camp Treks arrange all your permits on your behalf.

You just:

• Leave your passport
• Choose your dates
• Pay the fees

They’ll take care of ACAP, TIMS and the local rural permit, all ready before your trek begins.

This is the easiest way to get Mardi Himal trek permits.

Booking through an agency is ideal for trekkers who value time, support and guidance on the trail.

Quick Tip: Some permits require a guide license number, another reason why it’s easier to go through a trusted agency if you’re trekking in Mardi Himal.

Mardi Himal Trek Permit Cost (Updated) 

This section breaks down all the costs of permits from your Mardi Himal trek cost, so that trekkers will know what they are paying for.

No surprises or hidden charges.

If you’re a foreigner, a national from SAARC and a Nepali citizen, you’ll find the definitive rates in both NPR and USD (approximately).

ACAP – Annapurna Conservation Area Permit Cost

Nationality	Cost (NPR)	Cost (USD)
Foreigners (Non-SAARC)	Rs 3,000	~ 27$
SAARC nationals	Rs 1,000	~ 8$
Nepali citizens	–	–

• Everyone trekking into the ACA (including Mardi Himal) will require an Annapurna Conservation Area permit.

• The NTNC collects the permit fee and uses the money for conservation and community development.

Trekkers’ Information Management System – TIMS Cost

Trekking Style	Nationality	Cost (NPR)	Cost (USD)
Group trekking	Foreigns	Rs 2,000	~ 17$
Group trekking	SAARC nationals	Rs 1,000	~ 8$
Solo trekking		(Not allowed anymore)

• If you were thinking about trekking Mardi Himal without a guide, you will not be able to do that as the policy has changed.

• The TIMS card ensures that your trekking location is registered in case of an emergency. 

Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality Permit

Nationality	Cost (NPR)	Cost (USD)
All	Rs 1,000	~ 8$

• This permit is specific to the Mardi Himal trail as you walk into the Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality.

• The fund goes directly to trail maintenance, sanitation maintenance and local services of the municipality. 

Hidden Charges to Remember

• Late application fee (if applying too close to closing hours)

• Currency exchange charges when paying in USD

• Agency service fee (if booked through a trekking company, generally a very minimal fee); 

Tips: It is best to carry Nepali rupees cash when applying for permits or while trekking in Nepal (no matter where).

Mardi Himal Trek Permit Requirements

While the permit procedure will not be very challenging, you want to show up with all the proper information and documentation.

Let’s understand what to bring and the length of time involved. 

Which documents are required for Mardi Himal Trek Permit process?

To minimize delays and extra trips, you will want to have these things prepared in advance:

• Passport (original + photocopy)

• 2 Passport photos (may also be taken close to the permit office)

• Nepal visa stamp (to prove legal entry)

• Travel itinerary (it can be tentative, but valid)

• Contact number and license number of your guide (if trekking with a guide)

If you are going through with our agency, we will gather this information from you and submit it on your behalf.

Quick tip: Once you have your documents ready, also take the time to plan your gear. A well-planned Mardi Himal trek packing list can make a big difference on any trek.

Mardi Himal Trek Permit Processing Time

The process is simple and usually takes less than half an hour, if the documents are ready.

In-person: 15-30 minutes

Through an agency: 1 working day

During busy trekking seasons (October to November, March to April), you should arrive early as there are substantial queues.

Important: Don’t forget that permit offices are closed on Public Holidays and Saturdays in Nepal, so plan accordingly for this too!

When Is the Best Time to Get Your Mardi Himal Trek Permits?

Being prepared and knowing when to get your Mardi Himal trek permits will save you from unnecessary mistakes that could cause delay, long queues or missing out.

So, when is the best time for Mardi Himal trek and how does the permit process differ? 

Let’s examine it by season.

Spring Season (March to May)

This is one of the best times to trek Mardi Himal trail, because of the clear blue skies and the beautiful blooming of rhododendrons.

Weather: The ideal trekking weather with beautiful, colorful forests and stunning mountain views that will enhance your trekking experiences.

Permit Tip: It is a peak season and so the permit offices can be busy.

Pro Tip: If you are worried about delays, obtain your Mardi Himal trek permits 1 – 2 days prior to your intended start date or use an agency for pre-arranging everything.

Autumn (September to November)

This is the second-most popular season for trekking the Mardi Himal.

Some Mountain views are truly epic and with stable weather conditions.

Weather: Cool crisp air, great visibility and warm days that are perfect for getting to High Camp or Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Permit Tip: This season has the highest demand for permits for the Mardi Himal trek, so apply early in the day.

Agency Tip: Booking through a guide means you will skip the long lines at the Nepal Tourism Board or the Pokhara Tourist Center.

Winter (December to February)

You can still trek in winter, but it is not for everyone.

Weather: Cold with possible snow accumulation near very high altitude areas like Badal Danda and High Camp.

Permit Tip: Permit offices are less busy now as some people will be on holidays and you will usually get your Mardi Himal trek permit processed more quickly.

Best Practice: You should have all supporting documents (passport, photos, etc.) and check and double-check the opening times if you are near any holidays.

Monsoon (June to August)

This is not the time of year to trek, but some adventurers want to go no matter the season.

Weather: Rainy, muddy and foggy with very poor views.

Permit Offices: Open but nearly empty.

Safety Tip: Be mindful of not getting altitude sickness, leeches and that trail conditions are unpredictable.

Ready to Start Your Mardi Himal Adventure?

Now that you know what Mardi Himal trek permits are needed, you are ready to start planning your adventure.

The Mardi Himal trek is one of Nepal’s hidden gems – a quiet trek through rhododendron forests, along ridgelines and to the amazing views at Mardi Himal Base Camp.

This base camp trek is short, rewarding and located in the middle of the Annapurna region, which is suitable for both new and experienced trekkers alike.

Whether you need help with permits, guides or even a full itinerary, our team at Nepal Base Camp Treks has you covered and will take the hassle out of the planning process.

Let us worry about the details so you can focus on the adventure!

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