A Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) Card is mandatory before setting out on any trekking in Nepal. It is a basic permit to trek that also ensures your safety and security in all the general trekking routes. The TIMS card can be attained form Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office in Kathmandu or its regional office in Pokhara, or Trekking Agencies’ Association Nepal (TAAN) office. It can also be attained from other government registered trekking companies in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. The counter in NTB office of Kathmandu is functional for all 7 days a week from 10 am to 5 pm. To make the card you will require certain documents like a copy of your passport, passport size photographs and fees depending on your trekking routes and whether travelling single or in group. A group trekker requires to pay a fee of NRs. 1000 and a free individual trekker (FIT) requires to pay a fee of NRs. 2000 per trekking route, per person entry. Whereas for people of SAARC countries, a group trekker requires to pay NRS 300 and a FIT requires paying NRs. 600 per trekking route, per person entry. Diplomats from any country are not charged for the card. To apply for the permit you will also need to provide some information about your trip like the dates, itineraries, insurance policy and contact numbers to make the TIMS card. The provided information will be stored and used in case of emergency and rescue operation is needed.
