In a landmark policy shift that solo trekkers have been waiting years for, Nepal has officially lifted its partner requirement for trekking in restricted areas, opening 13 previously off-limits districts to independent hikers.
The change covers some of the country's most spectacular and remote trekking destinations, including Upper Mustang, Manaslu, Dolpo, and Kanchenjunga—areas that previously required travelers to book through registered agencies and trek with at least one partner.
What Changed
Until now, Nepal's restricted area permits came with a mandatory partnering rule, ostensibly for safety and tourism management. Solo trekkers hoping to visit these regions faced a frustrating choice: find a trekking partner online, pay for a guide they didn't want, or skip the destination entirely.
The new policy eliminates the partner requirement while keeping the permit system in place. Trekkers will still need to obtain restricted area permits through authorized agencies, but they can now trek independently without being forced into groups.
Industry Impact
Nepal's tourism industry has been rebuilding since the pandemic, with trekking as a major revenue driver. According to the Nepal Tourism Board, the country welcomed over 1 million tourists in 2025, with the majority visiting for trekking and mountaineering.
The restricted areas represent some of Nepal's most pristine and culturally significant regions. Upper Mustang, known as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom," offers Tibetan Buddhist culture and dramatic high-desert landscapes. Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest mountain, features a challenging circuit trek that rivals the Annapurna Circuit for scenery but with far fewer crowds.
Permit Requirements Still Apply
While solo trekking is now allowed, travelers will still need to navigate Nepal's permit system. Restricted area permits typically cost between $500-700 for 10 days, depending on the region and season. These permits must be arranged through registered trekking agencies in , though the agencies no longer need to provide guides or partners.
