Due to the presence of Sagarmatha National Park and its rich biodiversity, the popular destination of Everest Base Camp Trek is labeled as a protected area by the government of Nepal. So, to enter the restricted area of Everest, various permits and documents are required. Likewise, multiple checkposts are stationed at different locations of the Everest Base Camp trekking route, where government officials thoroughly check the licenses. Entry ahead is prohibited if any permits or documents are missing, and trekkers might need to return. The checkposts are at Lukla, Tok Tok, Monjo, Top Dadha, Phunkithanga, and Pangboche. All the trekkers passing through the base camp route should have an entry at these destinations.
The Everest Base Camp Trek permits are the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Rural Pasang Municipality Entry Permit.
What Permits Are Required for Trekking to Everest Base Camp?
The permits required for the Everest Base Camp trek are the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Rural Pasang Municipality Entry Permit, which are described below:
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (Mandatory for all trekkers)
The Sagarmatha National Park is a restricted area, so to enter the area, the government of Nepal has issued the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. The permit is mandatory for all trekkers who wish to trek towards the Everest Base Camp. Foreigners must pay an amount of NPR 3,000 per person for the entry permits.
In contrast, for SAARC nationals, the cost is NPR 1,500. Similarly, Nepalese trekkers should pay an amount of NPR 100 for the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. The permit fee also includes an additional 13% VAT. Likewise, there is no entitled entry fee for children under 10 years. Finally, trekkers must submit their passports and two copies of recent passport-size photographs to get this permit.
Permits and Cost For Trekking in Nepal
Where can I get the Sagarmatha National Park Permit?
To get the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, trekkers must visit the Nepal Tourism Board office, Exhibition Road (Pardarshani Marg), Kathmandu 44617. Check the website- https://ntb.gov.np/ for the Everest Base Camp trek permit online.
However, if trekkers wish to get the permit at the Everest trekking route, they can do so at the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Gate located in Monjo. In crowded seasons like spring and autumn, trekkers may need to stand in queue to obtain the permit, so it is advised to get the permit directly in Kathmandu.
Note: If trekkers wish for a hassle-free service, Nepal Trekking Planner can help them get the permit on their behalf.
Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit (Introduced by local authorities)
The Everest region lies under the Khumbu rural municipality. Trekkers need to obtain the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit to enter the region. The local authorities introduced the rural municipality permit in 2018 as a community initiative to support the local government. The permit is also mandatory for all trekkers, foreign and SAARC nationals, and costs NPR 3,000 per person. Similarly, trekkers must submit their passports and two copies of recent passport-sized photographs to get the permit.
Where can I get a Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit?
Trekkers can only get the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit at Lukla. Even if they are flying to Lukla or doing the Everest Base Camp trek by road (Jiri or Salleri), they can obtain the permit at the Sagarmatha National Park counter in Monjo.
Note: There are no alternative stations where you can get the permit except Monjo and Everest. Upon reaching Monjo, guides from Trekking Planner Nepal can also help you obtain the license.
Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (Required if trekking via Jiri)
Many trekkers wish to follow the traditional route to Everest Base Camp from Jiri. In that case, one must obtain the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit. The cost of the Gaurishankar Conservation Area permit for SAARC nationals is NPR 1,000 per person per entry. For foreigners, it is NPR 3,000 per person per entry. Similarly, for Nepalese, the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit cost is NPR 100, while children below 10 years are free. Trekkers must also submit their passports and recent passport-size photographs to obtain the permit.
Where can I get the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit?
To obtain the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit, trekkers must visit the Nepal Tourism Board officeBoard's office at Exhibition Road (Pardarshani Marg), Kathmandu 44617. They can also check the website—https://ntb.gov.np/—for an Everest Base Camp trek permit online.
Why Are These Permits Necessary?
Trekking permits are a crucial part of the logistics of the Everest Base Camp trek. The Everest Base Camp permits are authorized by the Nepal Tourism Board, ensuring legal access to Sagarmatha National Park and Gaurishankar Conservation Area. Similarly, the permits also allow assessment of the total number of visitors inside the Everest area, which ultimately helps to manage tourism, support the local communities, and protect the environment. Trekking permits mainly allow us to ensure the safety and well-being of trekkers. Permits help track trekkers' records and routes in case of emergency. Similarly, the permits also help the number of trekkers on the trekking trail to prevent overcrowding and compromise the safety of trekkers.
Some points to highlight the importance of permits for the Everest Base Camp trek are mentioned below:
Legal Requirement and Restricted Area Access
The Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit fulfill the legal requirement and provide access to restricted areas like Sagarmatha National Park and Gaurishankar Conservation Area. Failure to obtain the permit will result in a restriction on entry to such areas.
Conservation
The Everest Base Camp trek permit price generates revenue that directly contributes to conservation efforts within the Sagarmatha National Park. The revenues help the local authorities and government of Nepal protect the unique biodiversity and exotic species of flora and fauna.
Safety and Security
Obtaining a trekking permit helps to promote the safety and security of trekkers. Various checkposts stationed during the Everest Base Camp trekking route need trekkers to put on an entry. Doing so will help trekkers not divert from the trekking route and track trekkers' movement. Similarly, the permits will help regulate entry into restricted areas without compromising their safety.
Insurance claim
Permits serve as official proof of the trek in circumstances where trekkers may need to claim insurance. Similarly, an Everest Base Camp permit ensures that trekkers follow local law and reduce the risk of fines or legal claims.
Required documents for trekking permits
To obtain a trekking permit, trekkers need to provide additional supporting documents. These documents help ensure a smooth application process and avoid any delays.
The required documents for obtaining the permits for the Everest base camp trek are as follows:
- Passport: Trekkers need a photocopy of their passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of application. They might also need to submit an original copy of their passport.
- Passport-sized photos: Recent passport-size photos are usually 2 to 4 in number.
- Visa Copy: A copy of a valid Nepal visa.
- Travel Insurance: Proof of high altitude trekking travel insurance.
- Emergency contact information: Details of emergency contact.
Note: Trekkers may need to complete forms that require additional information, such as the intended trekking route, guide details, agency details, and others. Requirements may vary based on the trekking region and local regulations, so please check the latest guidelines with the Nepal Trekking Planner.
How to Obtain an Everest Base Base Camp Trek Permit?
To obtain the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Visit the office of the Nepal Tourism Board (Exhibition Road, Kathmandu, Nepal)
- Carry the required document and fee in cash (NPR is preferred)
- Ask for the application form
- Fill up the form with basic information
- Submit the application form and pay for the permit
- Submit the necessary additional documents
- Check for stamps required in the permit
To obtain the Khumbu Rural Municipality Entry Permit
- Visit the Lukla entry check post after landing at Lukla
- Trekkers can also visit Monjo if trekking from Phaplu or Salleri
- Ask for the entry permit at the checkpost
- Fill up the necessary form with basic information
- Submit the application form and pay for the permit
- Submit the required additional documents
- Check for stamps needed for the permit
Everest Base Camp Trek Permit Cost & Price
The Everest Base Camp Trek permit cost, and Everest Base Camp Trek permit price is mentioned below:
S.N | Everest Base Camp Trek Permit | Nepali | SAARC | Foreigners | Children |
1 | Sagarmatha National Park
Entry Permit | NPR 100 per person
per entry | NPR 1,500 per person
per entry | NPR 3,000 per person
per entry | Free below 10 years |
2 | Gaurishankar Conservation
Area Entry Permit | NPR 100 per person
per entry | NPR 1,000 per person
per entry | NPR 3,000 per person
per entry | Free below 10 years |
3 | Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural
Municipality Entry Permit | NPR 3,000 per person
per entry | NPR 3,000 per person
per entry | NPR 3,000 per person
per entry | Free below 5 years |
Rules and Regulations for Everest Base Camp Trekking
The rules and regulations for the Everest Base Camp Trekking are as follows:
- Ensure to book through a reputable agency that is well-recognized for the Everest Base Camp trek and provides a sustainable and environment-friendly trekking experience.
- Book a licensed guide from the Nepal Tourism Board who is native to the region and an expert in the area.
- Trekkers must stay on the designated trekking trail and should not divert on other routes that are not part of the journey.
- Obtain the required permits for the Everest Base Camp trek, including the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit.
- To avoid altitude sickness, trekkers are recommended to spend at least 2-3 days acclimatizing before reaching Everest Base Camp.
- Dress modestly, especially while visiting monasteries.
- Don't click photographs where prohibited; always ask permission before clicking pictures of local or spiritual landmarks.
- Respect local beliefs even if they contrast with your understanding.
- Buy travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
- Pay respect to the monks while on the trekking trail and allow them to walk first.
- If you see a herd of Yaks or mules carrying loads, it is better to step aside and allow them to pass safely.
Tips for a Smooth Permit Process
- The process for obtaining the permits can be lengthy, so you are advised to begin researching and preparing as soon as possible.
- Apply for the permit at least a month in advance to avoid delays, but ensure that the trekking date aligns with its validity.
- Understand the local regulations, especially the permit requirements in Kathmandu and Lukla.
- Identify which permits are required for the Everest Base Camp trek.
- Collect all the documents required for the smooth application of the trek and ensure they meet the local requirements.
- Ensure the application is complete to avoid delays.
- Consider engaging with a reputable trekking agency like Nepal Trekking Planner, who will obtain your permits.
Best time to obtain permits (peak vs. off-season)
The best time to obtain permits for Everest Base Camp is to apply 2-3 months in advance. As Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal, a huge number of people are in line to obtain the permit every year. Especially in trekking seasons like spring and autumn, which are the best seasons for Everest Base Camp Trek, the number of trekkers doing the trek is highest.
Ultimately, the number of individuals applying for a permit is also high. During the peak season, trekkers face maximum difficulty obtaining the permit due to the permit place being overcrowded. Trekkers and agency people spend almost a day waiting in line to obtain the permit, which is very hectic.
Thus, to avoid the hassle and get the permit on time, applicants are advised to apply at least one month before the start of the trek. However, make sure that the trekking date aligns with the permit's validity. If you are starting your trek in spring, applying for the trek in February is better. Similarly, if you are starting your trek in autumn, it is better to apply for the Everest Base Camp permit in August.
Note: It is better to get associated with a reputable travel agency to obtain the Everest Base Camp trek for a hassle-free permit process.
Hiring a trekking agency vs. an independent application
To obtain the Everest Base Camp trekking permit, trekkers can hire a trekking agency or organize the license independently. While both options have pros and cons, it depends on your preference, budget, and experience.
Hiring a trekking agency will allow for a hassle-free experience. The trekking agency will manage all the necessary permits on your behalf, and all trekkers need to do is submit the necessary documents required for the trek. Similarly, the trekking agencies are mostly locals of the region, so they are experienced in managing the logistics and dealing with the permit officials. Similarly, once trekkers hand over the work to the trekking agency, they will ensure that all the necessary permits are obtained correctly and on time.
However, trekking agencies can charge service fees to obtain permits, which makes them more expensive than independent applications. So, the added cost can hinder the experience for those on a budget.
On the other hand, if trekkers wish to apply independently, they can save costs as they will only pay for the permits and avoid service fees. Similarly, with the independent application, trekkers can plan accordingly, which means trekkers can plan their itinerary, schedule, and pace for the entire Everest Base Camp trek.
However, the independent application does involve a time-consuming visit to the permit office. Similarly, many trekkers might find it difficult to navigate the local regulations and permit requirements, which could result in a delay in the application process.
So, ultimately, it depends upon the trekkers to decide how to apply for the Everest Base Camp trek. Trekkers can associate with the agency for a hassle-free service at an added cost, or they can simply do it themselves while facing some difficulties but gaining some experience.
Common mistakes to avoid when applying for permits
Some of the common mistakes to avoid while applying for the licenses are as follows:
- Late application of the permits
- Incorrect or incomplete submission of documents.
- Not bringing enough cash for the permit fee.
- Applying for a TIMS card for Everest Base Camp Trek (not necessary).
- Applying for the permit with incorrect route details.
- Ignoring the validity, terms, and conditions of the license.
- Neglecting to register emergency contacts.
Do You Need a Guide or Porter for the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Hiring a guide or porter for the Everest Base Camp Trek is not mandatory. However, Trekking Planner Nepal strongly advises trekkers to hire a guide or a porter for the Everest Base Camp trek. A guide is not just a person who guides you through the trekking trail but also someone who helps you in emergencies. Guides are mainly native to the region, so they have a very strong tie-up with the locals, which can help trekkers get accommodation during peak season. Similarly, if trekkers fall ill during the trek, then the guide can make a big difference. Guides can help you with first aid or even request emergency helicopter evacuation during such circumstances.
Why Hiring a Trekking Guide in Nepal is Necessary?
Similarly, carrying luggage at high altitudes can be rugged; hiring a porter can enormously help in such scenarios. Porters can carry your luggage throughout the trek, which will not hamper your overall performance.
However, hiring a porter and guide will come with a cost. Trekkers must pay a certain amount to hire a licensed guide and experienced porter. So, people on a budget may not afford to take a guide, and the cost of the guide or porter can be allocated elsewhere. Similarly, some trekkers may want to trek alone and enjoy the beauty of nature without any companion. Hence, it depends upon the trekkers interest to hire a guide or porter.
Benefits of Hiring a Guide
- Guides know the best route, alternative trails, and hidden viewpoints along the Everest Base Camp trek.
- The guide can provide valuable information about the region, including the names of mountains, valleys, and landmarks.
- Guides provide valuable insights into the Everest region's local culture, tradition, and history, enriching the experience.
- Guides are skilled in recognizing the symptoms of altitude sickness and are equipped to handle emergencies.
- Guides can arrange helicopter rescues in case of emergency evacuation.
- Guides can handle all the logistics so that trekkers can trek easily.
- Guides can also help negotiate better prices for food and lodging.
Benefits of Hiring a Porter
- Porters can help carry trekking gear or baggage, reducing the physical strain for trekkers.
- Porter helps trekkers to trek longer distances comfortably.
- As porters carry maximum luggage, trekkers will have a lower risk of injury and fatigue.
- Hiring a porter can contribute to the livelihood of local communities.
- Hiring porters is a sign of ethical trekking that promotes responsible tourism and community development.
Rules and Regulations for Trekking in Sagarmatha National Park
- All trekkers must have a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit to enter the national park.
- The entry permit is non-refundable and non-transferable and is for single entry only.
- Entering the park without a license is illegal.
- Ask permission before photographing people, monasteries, and religious sites inside national parks.
- No hunting, trapping, or fishing inside the park boundaries.
- No off-trail trekking in restricted zones without additional permits.
- Disposal of garbage in designated areas.
- Respect the environment and wildlife.
- Avoid campfires inside the national park area.
- No one should walk in the park between sunset and sunrise.
- Do Not remove or damage plants and animals. All flora and fauna are fully protected and must not be disturbed.
- Camping inside the park should be done only in the designated areas.
- Do respect the culture and religious sites.
Summing Up
The Everest Base Camp trek is one of Nepal's most iconic trekking trails, lying inside the Sagarmatha National Park. To enter or complete the trek, trekkers must obtain permits. Without the permits, trekkers are not allowed to progress further on the trail. However, obtaining only the permit is not enough; trekkers should abide by the rules and regulations of the trek.
So, join hands with Trekking Planner Nepal for a mesmerizing journey through picturesque villages, dense rhododendron forests, and rugged mountain terrain while immersing yourself in the beauty of the Everest region. Let us assist you in trekking to the base of the highest mountain in the world and help you create an everlasting mountain story.
FAQs
Everest Base Camp trek permit online process – is it available?
No, there is not a fully online process for obtaining the Everest Base Camp trek permit. However, you can obtain the permit from the office of the Nepal Tourism Board (Exhibition Road, Kathmandu, Nepal) or at Lukla during the Everest Base Camp trekking route.
How much is the permit for Everest Base Camp Trek?
S.N | Everest Base Camp
Trek Permit | Nepali | SAARC | Foreigners | Children |
1 | Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit | NPR 100 per person
per entry | NPR 1,500 per person
per entry | NPR 3,000 per person
per entry | Free below 10 years |
2 | Gaurishankar Conservation Area Entry Permit | NPR 100 per person
per entry | NPR 1,000 per person
per entry | NPR 3,000 per person
per entry | Free below 10 years |
3 | Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality
Entry Permit | NPR 3,000 per person
per entry | NPR 3,000 per person
per entry | NPR 3,000 per person
per entry | Free below 5 years |
Do I need a permit for Everest Base Camp?
Trekkers need the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Rural Pasang Municipality Entry Permit for the Everest Base Camp trek.
How much does it cost to trek Everest Base Camp?
It will cost approximately $1,299 to trek to Everest Base Camp.
What visa do I need for Everest Base Camp?
You will need an on arrival visa of Nepal for the Everest Base Camp trek.
Is a passport required for Everest Base Camp Trek?
Yes, original passport or a photocopy of the original passport for the Everest Base Camp trek.
