Poon Hill Trek Permits: ACAP, TIMS & Rules
The Poon Hill trek needs two permits, the ACAP (NPR 3,000) and a TIMS card (NPR 2,000), about NPR 5,000 for foreign nationals. Here is exactly how to get them.
The Two Permits You Need
The Poon Hill trek lies entirely within the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal's largest protected area. It is a teahouse trek, not a mountaineering expedition, and it does not enter any restricted zone, so there is no climbing permit and no restricted-area permit, just two documents.
| Permit | Foreign nationals | SAARC nationals | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACAP | NPR 3,000 | Less (reduced rate) | Conservation-area entry |
| TIMS card | NPR 2,000 | Less (reduced rate) | Trekker safety registration |
Figures are 2026 estimates; confirm current rates with the Nepal Tourism Board or your agency before you travel.
ACAP, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
The ACAP is the main entry permit, issued by the Nepal Tourism Board and the National Trust for Nature Conservation, whose fees fund conservation and local development across the region. For foreign nationals it costs NPR 3,000; SAARC nationals pay a reduced rate.
It is checked at entry posts, commonly at Birethanti near Nayapul and at Ghandruk, and at points along the route, so keep it accessible with your passport and dry. The permit is single-entry for your trek and non-transferable.
TIMS, Trekkers' Information Management System
The TIMS card registers you in a central database so authorities can locate and account for trekkers in an emergency. For foreign nationals it costs NPR 2,000 (SAARC nationals pay less). It records your route and emergency contacts, and is checked alongside the ACAP at trail registration posts.
Where & How to Get Them
Both permits are issued in Pokhara (the most convenient base for Poon Hill) or in Kathmandu, at the Nepal Tourism Board offices and through registered trekking agencies.
You will need:
- Your passport (and a photocopy).
- 2–4 passport-sized photos.
- The fees in Nepali rupees (cash).
- Your itinerary and emergency contact details.
If you book a guided package, the agency routinely arranges both permits, you simply hand over your passport details and photos. Allow a little time in Pokhara before you start; permits cannot be obtained on the trail.
The Licensed-Guide Rule
Since 2023, Nepal's Tourism Board has required trekkers in many national-park and conservation areas, including the Annapurna region, to be accompanied by a licensed guide, tightening the era of fully solo, independent trekking.
- Enforcement on this popular, low, well-signed route has varied, but the safe and recommended approach is to hire a licensed guide.
- A guide handles permit logistics and navigation, enriches the village stops, and supports the local economy.
- Rules and enforcement keep evolving, confirm the current requirement with a registered agency or the NTB before you travel.
Guide and permit costs are broken down in the Poon Hill cost guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What permits do I need for the Poon Hill trek?
Two: the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, NPR 3,000) and the TIMS card (NPR 2,000), together about NPR 5,000 for foreign nationals. There is no climbing permit and no restricted-area permit. SAARC nationals pay a reduced rate.
Where do I get Poon Hill trek permits?
In Pokhara or Kathmandu, at the Nepal Tourism Board offices or through a registered trekking agency. Bring your passport, 2–4 passport photos and the fees in Nepali rupees. A guided package includes both permits.
Do I need a guide for the Poon Hill trek?
Since 2023 the Annapurna region requires a licensed guide, though enforcement on this popular low route has varied. The safe and recommended approach is to hire a licensed guide. Confirm the current requirement before you travel.
Can I get Poon Hill permits on the trail?
No. Both the ACAP and TIMS must be obtained in Pokhara or Kathmandu before you start, and are checked at registration posts such as Birethanti and Ghandruk. Allow time in town before heading to the trailhead.
How much do Poon Hill permits cost in 2026?
NPR 3,000 for the ACAP and NPR 2,000 for the TIMS card, about NPR 5,000 total for foreign nationals. SAARC nationals pay less. Treat these as estimates and confirm current rates before travel.
By the BriefNepal Travel Desk
Researched and maintained by our Nepal-based editorial team and reviewed for accuracy. Last updated July 1, 2026. Prices, permits and conditions change, always verify before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Let us know.
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