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How much does TIMS card cost?

Nepal Travel advice & Safety
Mountain Sherpa Admin
|
Apr 03, 2023

How much does TIMS Card cost ?

The Nepal Tourism Board has announced a significant revision in its policies pertaining to trekking activities in the country. As part of the new regulations, the fee for obtaining a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card has been standardized at 2000 rupees for all foreign tourists, regardless of whether they are trekking solo or in a group with a company.

For travelers from SAARC countries, the fee has been reduced to 1000 rupees for a round trip. In addition, the Board has also made it mandatory for trekkers venturing into areas where TIMS is applicable to hire a guide from a registered company for the duration of their walk.

However, there are certain exceptions to this rule, such as diplomatic delegations, officials of donor agencies, and their families, who are allowed to hire a guide for a nominal fee of 500 rupees per walker, provided they submit the necessary documents to the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TANN).

To streamline the process of issuing TIMS cards, the Board has introduced an online system that eliminates the need for trekkers to submit their documents multiple times within the same financial year. Once issued, the TIMS permit is valid for a period of 90 days from the date of issue and can be used for trekking in multiple areas, subject to certain conditions.

These measures are aimed at enhancing the safety and security of foreign tourists, particularly in the wake of natural disasters and adverse weather conditions. By making it mandatory for trekkers to hire a guide, the Board hopes to minimize the risk of accidents and ensure a smooth and enjoyable trekking experience for all visitors to Nepal.

Heavy fines for hikers without guides and TIMS cards

Nepal, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, is taking measures to ensure the safety of foreign tourists who embark on trekking expeditions in its mountainous terrain. The Nepal Tourism Board has recently implemented stringent regulations, mandating foreign tourists to obtain a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card and hire a trekking guide before venturing into the great outdoors.

In a bid to enforce compliance with these regulations, the Nepal Tourism Board has imposed a hefty fine on those who flout the rules. The fee for obtaining a TIMS card has also been doubled, signaling the importance that Nepal places on the safety and well-being of its visitors.

To further ensure the effectiveness of these measures, the standards related to managing the pedestrian information management system 2079 have been implemented. With these measures in place, foreign tourists can rest assured that they will have a safe and enjoyable trekking experience in Nepal's magnificent landscapes.

Under the Revised TIMS Provision effective from March 31, 2023, certain Protected Areas in Nepal require trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide and carry a TIMS card issued by a trekking agency. The following trekking regions and routes are subject to this regulation.

Everest Regions:

Everest Base camp Trek

Everest Chho La Pass Trek

Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek

Everest Three Passes Trek

Everest View trek

Everest base camp trek with helicopter return

Everest base camp luxury lodge trek

Annapurna Regions:

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

Mardi Himal trek

Khopra Ridge Trek

Annapurna view comfort trek

Annapurna base camp trek

What will be the penalty?

If they are found going on a trek without taking a team permit and a guide, now the hikers will be banned from the trek. A fine of 12,000 rupees will be paid to hikers who return after completing the trek without taking a TIMS permit and guide.

If it is found that the company has not taken the TIMS card, then the passenger will be fined 10,000 rupees and will be asked to buy the TIMS card from the company. In order to enforce this provision, it is also mentioned in the procedure that the staff working at the team's check post will be given an incentive equal to 20 percent of the fines collected. According to the board, this will encourage hikers or companies that conduct trekking without a TIMS permit within the trekking area where TIMS is applicable.

Who does not need to take TIMS?

Individuals who have been granted permission to climb the mountains are not obligated to obtain a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) permit; however, they must possess a climbing permit. Nonetheless, climbers have the option to voluntarily acquire the TIMS card for their own safety.

Visitors who utilize a helicopter as a means of transportation to and from the hiking area are not required to obtain a TIMS permit. However, those who plan to trek or return by other means should obtain the TIMS card. Moreover, personnel from donor agencies who need to travel to the area for government-related work shall be exempted from the TIMS fee.

Children who are under the age of 10 and accompany hikers are exempted from obtaining a TIMS permit. Furthermore, travelers who make use of two-wheeled or four-wheeled vehicles in regions where TIMS are applicable must also acquire TIMS permits and guides.

How is the emergency search and rescue?

The Nepal Tourism Board, Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), and affiliated trekking companies possess knowledge regarding the status of tourists who have ventured into the trekking regions with team cardholders and guides. In the event of unforeseen circumstances, such as injury, illness, death, or disappearance due to natural calamities, adverse weather, or any other reasons, an emergency search and rescue coordination committee will be promptly activated to search and rescue the affected individuals. The committee will efficiently utilize all available resources and expertise to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected parties.

How to book best Sherpa Guides?

Looking to book a Sherpa guide and obtain your TIMS card for your upcoming trek? Look no further! Our team is here to assist you every step of the way. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional service to our clients and ensuring that their trekking experience in the Himalayas is safe and memorable.

Our Sherpa guides are experienced and knowledgeable, with years of experience leading treks in the region. They will provide you with the guidance and support you need to make your trek a success. Additionally, we can assist you in obtaining your TIMS card, which is essential for trekking in Nepal.

To book your Sherpa guide and obtain your TIMS card, simply contact us and we will take care of the rest. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and provide you with all the information you need to make informed decisions about your trekking adventure. Don't wait - contact us today to start planning your Himalayan adventure!

 

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