Trekking Permits for Dolpo Region

The Dolpo region in northwestern Nepal is a restricted area that requires special permits for trekking. This remote region, bordering Tibet, is known for its pristine landscapes and unique Tibetan culture preserved in Upper Dolpo.

  • Dolpo is a restricted area designated by the Nepal government
  • To protect the unique culture and environment of the region
  • To control tourist numbers in this sensitive border area
  • To ensure proper documentation of all visitors

Required Permits for Dolpo Region

Permit Type Cost (USD) Validity Required For Where to Obtain
Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit $20 per week (first 10 days)
$5 per day thereafter
For duration of trek Lower Dolpo region Kathmandu or Nepal Tourism Board
Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit $500 for first 10 days
$50 per day thereafter
For duration of trek Upper Dolpo region Kathmandu only
Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit $30 Single entry All Dolpo treks Kathmandu or Nepal Tourism Board
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) $20 (with guide)
$10 (independent)
Single trek All treks in Nepal Kathmandu or Nepal Tourism Board

Important Notice:

Upper Dolpo requires a minimum of 2 trekkers to issue permits, and you must be accompanied by a licensed guide. Independent trekking is not permitted in Upper Dolpo.

Dolpo Permit Requirements by Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek (Including Shey Gompa)

  • Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit ($500 for first 10 days)
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit ($30)
  • TIMS Card ($20)
  • Passport copies (2)
  • Passport-size photos (4)
  • Guide's license copy

Lower Dolpo & Phoksundo Lake Trek

  • Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit ($20/week)
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit ($30)
  • TIMS Card ($20)
  • Passport copies (2)
  • Passport-size photos (2)

Dolpo to Mustang Crossing Trek

  • Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit ($500 for first 10 days)
  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit ($500 for first 10 days)
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit ($30)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) ($30)
  • TIMS Card ($20)
  • Passport copies (4)
  • Passport-size photos (6)

How to Obtain Dolpo Trekking Permits

Step-by-Step Process

  • Hire a licensed trekking agency (required for Upper Dolpo)
  • Provide required documents:
    • Passport copies
    • Passport photos
    • Travel insurance details
    • Flight/travel itinerary
  • Agency submits application to Nepal Tourism Board or Department of Immigration
  • Pay permit fees at designated banks
  • Receive permits (typically takes 1-2 working days)

Note: Permits must be obtained before arriving in Dolpo. There are no permit issuance points in the Dolpo region itself.

Key Permit Checkpoints

  • Juphal Airport: First checkpoint entering Dolpo
  • Dunai: District headquarters where permits are checked
  • Phoksundo Lake: National Park entry point
  • Shey Gompa: Upper Dolpo checkpoint

Important Regulations

  • Permits are non-transferable and non-refundable
  • You must trek with the same guide/agency listed on your permit
  • Permits must be carried with you at all times during the trek
  • Photocopies of permits are not accepted at checkpoints
  • Permit validity cannot be extended - you must exit the region by the end date
  • Special permission is required for filming/documentaries