Annapurna Circuit Trek Permits & Checkpoints: Complete Guide

The Annapurna Circuit requires only one permit in 2026: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). It costs NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals. The TIMS card is no longer required despite outdated information across most websites. The trail has 11 checkpoints from Besisahar to Birethanti, with Manang being the most important for safety tracking before Thorong La Pass.

After guiding hundreds of trekkers through the Annapurna Circuit over the past decade, Majestic Trails Nepal has watched the permit system modernize from paper logbooks to QR-code digital tracking. This guide gives you accurate, current 2026 information based on direct experience walking the trail month after month — not recycled content from outdated blog posts.

Why Permits and Checkpoints Exist on the Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) was established in 1986 to protect the biodiversity and cultural heritage of this region. The permit system serves three essential purposes:

• Conservation funding — your permit fee directly supports wildlife protection, forest conservation, and sustainable development projects in local communities
• Safety and tracking — checkpoints create a systematic record of trekker movements. If a trekker goes missing or an emergency occurs, authorities can trace the last known location
• Emergency response — during natural disasters, avalanches, or severe weather events, checkpoint data helps rescue teams know exactly who might be stranded and where

We have seen this system save lives firsthand during emergencies.

What Permits Do You Need for Annapurna Circuit Trek in 2026?

You need only one permit for the Annapurna Circuit in 2026: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). No other permit is required for the standard circuit route.

That is the entire answer. The confusion online comes from outdated blogs still recommending TIMS cards or referencing old permit systems that no longer apply. As operators walking this trail every month, we can confirm that ACAP is the only permit any checkpoint requests in 2026.

ACAP Permit Cost 2026 — Annapurna Circuit Permit Fees

The ACAP permit costs NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals. Children under 10 years are exempt from permit fees. Tax is included in both rates.

Critical warning — double fees at checkpoints:

If you arrive at a checkpoint without an ACAP permit already issued, you will be charged double the standard fee. A foreigner without a permit pays NPR 6,000 at the checkpoint instead of NPR 3,000. Always obtain your permit in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or online before you reach the trail.

Online payment surcharge:

If you choose online payment via Visa or Mastercard, an additional 2.9% payment gateway charge applies. Counter payment in cash carries no additional charge.

TIMS Card for Annapurna Circuit — Is It Required in 2026?

No, the TIMS card is not required for the Annapurna Circuit in 2026. This is the most important factual correction in this entire guide.

Many blogs, guidebooks, and even some travel agencies still list TIMS as mandatory. This information is outdated. Based on Majestic Trails Nepal's current trekking operations — including treks completed this season — no checkpoint on the Annapurna Circuit asks for TIMS.

The permit system in Nepal has evolved. The ACAP permit now serves the tracking and information management functions that TIMS previously handled. We have guided dozens of groups this season alone, and not once has any checkpoint requested a TIMS card.

Save your money and avoid the hassle of obtaining a permit you no longer need.

Where and How to Get Your ACAP Permit

The ACAP permit can be obtained three ways: online via the official NTNC portal, in person at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu, or in person at the Tourism Service Center in Pokhara.

Online Payment (Recommended)

You can pay for your ACAP permit online at the official NTNC portal (epermit.ntnc.org.np) using a Visa or Mastercard credit card. After successful payment, you receive your permit directly by email. No office visit required.

• Payment accepted: Visa, Mastercard
• Additional charge: 2.9% payment gateway fee
• Delivery: Email confirmation immediately after payment

Counter Payment — Kathmandu

Nepal Tourism Board Office, Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu

• Open Sunday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (4:00 PM in winter)
• Closed Saturdays and public holidays
• Cash payment only (Nepali Rupees)

Counter Payment — Pokhara

Tourism Service Center, Damside, Pokhara

• Same operating hours as Kathmandu office
• Cash payment only (Nepali Rupees)
• More convenient if you are starting your trek from Pokhara

What You Need to Apply

• Valid passport
• Two passport-sized photos
• Permit fee in Nepali Rupees (counter payment) or Visa/Mastercard (online payment)

Let Majestic Trails Nepal Handle It

When you trek with Majestic Trails Nepal, we arrange all permits for our clients before the trek begins. You provide passport details and photos — we handle the paperwork. You receive your permit during your pre-trek briefing in Kathmandu or Pokhara. No queuing required.

Important Annapurna Circuit Permit Rules — Read Before You Trek

The ACAP permit comes with legal conditions you should understand before you trek. These rules are issued by the National Trust for Nature Conservation under the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973.

• Permits are non-transferable and non-refundable. Plan your trekking dates and itinerary carefully. Once issued, the permit cannot be reassigned to another person and the fee will not be returned.
• Single entry only. The ACAP permit is valid for one entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area. If you exit and want to re-enter, a new permit is required.
• You must carry the permit at all times. Conservation Area personnel can request to see your permit at any point during the trek.
• Check in at every checkpoint along the route. Registration helps authorities monitor trekker flow and enables emergency response if conditions change.

Failure to comply with these rules can result in fines, removal from the conservation area, or restrictions on future trekking permits.

Drones, Filming and Other Restrictions

The Annapurna Conservation Area has specific restrictions beyond permits. Trekkers planning specialized activities should know the rules before arrival.

• Drones: Strictly prohibited unless prior approval has been granted by the concerned authorities. Most casual trekkers cannot fly drones in the conservation area.
• Hunting: Prohibited throughout the conservation area.
• Fishing: Allowed only with a separate fishing permit issued by local Conservation Area Management Committees. Ask at your lodge for current procedures.
• Documentary filming: Requires prior approval from the Ministry of Information Communication and authorization from NTNC. Commercial filming carries additional fees and review processes.
• Scientific specimen collection: Requires advance approval from NTNC. This includes plants, soil, water, and any biological materials.
• Restricted areas: Some designated areas within the Annapurna Conservation Area require additional restricted area permits available from the Department of Immigration. The standard Annapurna Circuit route does not enter these zones.
• Mountaineering permits: Available separately from the Nepal Mountaineering Association — required only for trekkers attempting peaks, not for standard circuit trekkers.

How the Annapurna Circuit Checkpoint System Works

The permit system Annapurna Circuit Nepal uses has modernized significantly over the years. Here's what actually happens at checkpoints, based on our daily experience:

QR Code Scanning System

Most checkpoints now use an electronic QR code scanner system. Here's the process:

1. You present your ACAP permit
2. The officer scans the QR code on your permit
3. The system records your check-in at that location
4. When you leave the area (at the next checkpoint), the system records your check-out
5. After scanning, the officer signs your permit

This digital tracking creates a real-time record of trekker movements throughout the conservation area.

Manual Systems Still in Use

Not all checkpoints have gone digital. From our experience, these locations still use manual registration:

• Koto: Uses a paper logbook system
• Ghorepani: Manual registration with detailed questioning

When Technology Fails

We've encountered situations where the QR scanner malfunctions – it happens, especially in remote mountain locations with inconsistent electricity. When this occurs:

• You'll need to show your passport for verification
• The officer will manually record your details
• Your permit will still be signed

Pro tip from our guides: Always keep your passport accessible, not buried at the bottom of your pack.

How the Annapurna Circuit Checkpoint System Works

The Annapurna Circuit permit checkpoint system has modernized significantly. Most checkpoints now use QR code scanning, though some locations still use manual paper logbooks.

QR Code Scanning System

At most checkpoints, the process is:

• You present your ACAP permit
• The officer scans the QR code on your permit
• The system records your check-in at that location
• When you leave the area at the next checkpoint, the system records your check-out
• After scanning, the officer signs your permit

This digital tracking creates a real-time record of trekker movements throughout the conservation area.

Manual Systems Still in Use

Not all checkpoints have gone digital. From direct operator experience, these locations still use manual registration:

• Koto — paper logbook system
• Ghorepani — manual registration with detailed questioning

When Technology Fails

QR scanners occasionally malfunction in remote mountain locations with inconsistent electricity. When this happens, you need to show your passport for verification, the officer manually records your details, and your permit is still signed.

Operator tip: Always keep your passport accessible — not buried at the bottom of your pack.

All 11 Annapurna Circuit Checkpoints — Complete List in Order

The Annapurna Circuit has 11 checkpoints from start to finish. Here they are in exact order, with operator-specific detail at each one.

1. Besisahar Checkpoint

This is your first encounter with the permit system, located just 15 minutes after starting the drive from your departure point.

What happens: Staff scans permits and verifies basic information
Questions asked: Standard verification only
Waiting time: 5-10 minutes
Staff behavior: Professional and efficient

2. Dharapani Checkpoint

Located in the Manang District, this checkpoint marks your entry into the upper Annapurna region.

What happens: QR code scan and permit signing
Questions asked: Basic verification, sometimes asking about final destination
Waiting time: 5-15 minutes depending on crowd
Staff behavior: Friendly and welcoming

3. Koto Checkpoint

Koto uses the manual register system alongside digital verification. This checkpoint is particularly thorough.

What happens: Manual register entry, QR scan, permit signing
Questions asked:

• Your age
• Expected departure date from the region
• Group size
  Waiting time: 10-15 minutes
  Staff behavior: Detailed but friendly

The age and departure date questions help authorities track trekker flow and identify anyone who might be overdue.

4. Manang Checkpoint – THE MOST IMPORTANT

We tell all our trekkers that Manang is the checkpoint that truly matters. This is where the safety system becomes real.

What happens:

• Thorough permit verification
• Weather briefing if conditions are concerning
• Tracking of trekkers heading toward Thorong La Pass

Questions asked:

• Acclimatization status
• Next destination
• Health condition

Waiting time: This is typically the longest wait—15-30 minutes during busy periods

Why it matters:
The Manang checkpoint specifically tracks trekkers crossing Thorong La Pass. They maintain accurate counts of who heads up and who comes down. If weather conditions become dangerous, checkpoint staff can stop trekkers from proceeding.

We've witnessed staff giving weather warnings to trekkers and advising them to wait an extra day for safer conditions. This isn't common, but when it happens, it can save lives.

Tips for trekkers:

• Use your rest day in Manang to sort permits and paperwork early.
• Always listen to staff warnings—they can advise an extra acclimatization day if needed.
• Stay hydrated and well-rested; your health and acclimatization matter more than rushing.

We’ve seen trekkers saved by waiting an extra day based on staff advice—it’s rare but can be life-saving.

5. Muktinath Checkpoint

This is our hidden insight for trekkers—many people don't expect a checkpoint in Muktinath because they've just completed the challenging pass crossing.

What happens: Permit verification and check-in to the Mustang side
Questions asked: Standard verification
Waiting time: 5-10 minutes
Staff behavior: Congratulatory and supportive

We always remind our trekkers about this checkpoint so they're not caught off guard after the exhausting descent from Thorong La.

6. Jomsom Checkpoint

What happens: This serves as a checkout point if you're ending your trek here and flying out
Questions asked:

• Number of guides in your group
• Number of porters accompanying you
• Final destination

Waiting time: 5-10 minutes
Staff behavior: Routine and efficient

The questions about guides and porters help authorities ensure proper employment practices and safety standards.

7. Ghasa Checkpoint – Inconsistent Verification

Here's a rare insider detail from our guiding experience: Ghasa checkpoint is inconsistent. Sometimes staff thoroughly check permits, and sometimes they wave trekkers through with minimal verification.

We've never been able to determine a pattern—it seems to depend on staffing, time of day, and how busy the trail is. We always advise our trekkers to have permits ready regardless.

8. Shikha Checkpoint

Only relevant if you're taking the longer route toward Ghorepani via Shikha rather than the direct path.

What happens: Standard permit verification
Questions asked: Route confirmation
Waiting time: 5-10 minutes
Staff behavior: Friendly and helpful with directions

9. Ghorepani Checkpoint

This checkpoint uses the manual register system and serves as an important checkout point.

What happens: Manual registration, permit signing, checkout processing
Questions asked:

• Which hotel did you stay at last night?
• What is your next destination?
• How many days have you been trekking?

Waiting time: 10-15 minutes
Staff behavior: Thorough but friendly

The hotel questions help authorities verify that you're following your registered route and that lodges are properly recording guest information.

10. Birethanti – Final Exit

This is your final checkout point for the Annapurna Circuit.

What happens: Final permit verification and official exit registration
Questions asked: Standard checkout procedure
Waiting time: 5-10 minutes
Staff behavior: Congratulatory—they know you've completed the circuit!

Your entire journey is now recorded in the system from entry at Besisahar to exit at Birethanti.

Why Manang Is the Most Critical Annapurna Circuit Checkpoint

Manang checkpoint deserves special attention because it serves a vital function beyond standard permit verification. It is the safety control point for the entire Thorong La Pass crossing.

Manang specifically tracks trekkers crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m. Staff maintains accurate counts of who heads up and who comes down. If weather conditions become dangerous, checkpoint staff can stop trekkers from proceeding.

We have witnessed staff giving weather warnings to trekkers and advising them to wait an extra day for safer conditions. This is not common, but when it happens, it can save lives.

Operator tips for Manang:

• Use your rest day in Manang to sort permits and paperwork early
• Always listen to staff warnings — they may advise an extra acclimatization day
• Stay hydrated and well-rested; your health and acclimatization matter more than rushing
• We have seen trekkers saved by waiting an extra day based on staff advice

The September 2025 Thorong La Pass Incident

In September 2025, unexpected heavy snowfall completely blocked Thorong La Pass. Trekkers who had already checked in at Manang and were at Thorong Phedi or High Camp had to turn back. The pass was impassable for several days.

Because of the checkpoint records, authorities knew exactly who was in the danger zone. Nobody was unaccounted for.

For trekkers who needed to return quickly, the transport costs from Manang were significant:

Weather closures like this are relatively rare. Most crossings happen without incident. But the incident illustrates why proper permit tracking exists and why having a professional guide who knows current conditions adds genuine value during emergencies.

Annapurna Circuit Permit Mistakes — What Trekkers Get Wrong

After guiding hundreds of trekkers, we have seen every permit mistake possible. Here are the most common — and how to avoid them.

Keeping Your Permit Buried

Many trekkers stuff their permit deep inside their main backpack. This means at every checkpoint they are unpacking gear in the cold or rain while others wait. 

Fix: Keep your permit in a waterproof pouch in your daypack's top pocket or jacket pocket. You will access it 10+ times during the trek.

Losing Your Permit

Lost permits mean purchasing a replacement at full price — effectively doubling your permit costs. Permits most commonly get lost when changing jacket pockets, at tea houses (left on tables), or when reorganizing bags. 

Fix: Designate ONE specific place for your permit and always return it there immediately after checkpoints.

Not Having Passport Accessible

When QR scanners fail, you need your passport. Having it at the bottom of your bag creates delays and frustration. 

Fix: Keep passport in the same accessible pocket as your permit.

Arriving Without a Permit

The most expensive mistake. Trekkers who reach Besisahar or Birethanti without an ACAP permit pay double the standard fee at the checkpoint. 

Fix: Always obtain your permit before reaching the trail — Kathmandu, Pokhara, or online.

Do You Need a Guide for Annapurna Circuit in 2026?

Nepal has regulations requiring foreign trekkers to hire licensed guides. In practice, this rule is not strictly enforced on the Annapurna Circuit as of 2026. Independent trekkers pass through every checkpoint without being turned away for lacking a guide.

However, having an experienced guide adds genuine value:

• Permit arrangements handled for you
• Local knowledge of trail conditions and alternatives
• Emergency response capabilities
• Cultural interpretation and connections to local communities
• Supporting local employment
• Real-time weather information from other guides on the trail

The choice is yours. Going without a guide will not cause permit problems in 2026 — but guides genuinely add safety and depth to the experience.

How Majestic Trails Nepal Handles Your Permits

When you trek the Annapurna Circuit with Majestic Trails Nepal, we handle every permit detail before you arrive in Nepal:

• You send us your passport details and two photos via email
• We arrange your ACAP permit before your trek begins
• You receive your permit during your pre-trek briefing in Kathmandu or Pokhara
• No queuing at Nepal Tourism Board offices
• No risk of double fees at checkpoints
• Our guides handle all checkpoint interactions on the trail

This means you focus on the trek experience. We handle the paperwork, the language, the local knowledge, and the safety protocols. After 10+ years guiding the Annapurna Circuit, our team knows every checkpoint officer by name and every bend in the trail.

→ View our Annapurna Circuit Trek packages

Conclusion — Simple Process, Incredible Journey

Understanding Annapurna Circuit permits in 2026 does not need to be complicated. Here is what you need to remember:

• One permit only: ACAP at NPR 3,000 for foreigners, NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals
• TIMS is not required — ignore outdated information
• Pay online or at counter — both options work
• Avoid double fees by getting your permit before reaching the trail
• Keep your permit accessible at all times
• Manang is the critical checkpoint — listen to staff advice
• Birethanti is your final exit

The permit system exists to protect this incredible landscape and keep you safe. Embrace it as part of your Annapurna experience.

Trek the Annapurna Circuit With Majestic Trails Nepal

When you choose Majestic Trails Nepal for your Annapurna Circuit trek, we handle every detail from permit arrangements to checkpoint navigation. Our experienced guides know every checkpoint officer by name and every bend in the trail. We have been guiding this route for 10+ years.

→ View our Annapurna Circuit Trek packages
→ Contact our trek planning team — we respond within 2-4 hours with firsthand information from the trail