Restricted Trekking Areas of Nepal 2026

Background

Restricted Areas of Nepal is the best destination that any trekker can dream of; It offers the isolated trekking route and full of dreamy landscapes. Though Nepal is a small country, it can offer a wide variety of trekking experiences. The most commercialized trekking areas are the Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC), Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC), and Langtang Region. This trio trekking region has been overrated because most people are unaware of Nepal’s magic. Trekking regions designated as “Restricted” by the government of Nepal, meaning trekkers need a special permit to trek in those regions. The purpose of making those regions restricted is to conserve wildlife, the environment, and culture places. It is believed that it has helped in sustainable tourism management and has promoted responsible trekking in Nepal.

 There are 15 Restricted trekking destinations in Nepal, Nepal’s most beautiful places to visit in a life time.

Details of these 15 Restricted Trekking Areas of Nepal are listed below:

1. Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang is located in the northern central part of the Nepal. It is also known as a lost/isolated kingdom within the Himalayas of Nepal and it is Restricted Areas of Nepal. Upper Mustang was once the Kingdom of Lo and the last king of this kingdom was Jigme Dorje Palbar Bista until 2008. Upper Mustang is considered a restricted area after 1992 for preserving its unique culture, tradition, and geography. It is located in the rain shadow of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Range which is the reason Mustang receives very less amount of rain. It is also known as the Cold Desert of Nepal. Upper Mustang has lots to offer to its visitors; Mysterious ancient caves are found in the cliff, some containing, 2000 years of ancient murals and art crafts, stunning panoramic views of Himalayas such as Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri and The Annapurna Ranges, Kali Gandaki being the deepest Gorges of the World. Not to forget it could be the best place to go for the dot bike ride and cycling because of its structure and landscape.

• Trekking to Lo Mustang
• Visit Ancient Monasteries
• Tiji Festival
• Sky Caves
• Majestic Landscape
• Horse-riding
• Explore Hidden Villages
• Spiritual Retreat
• Explore the ancient salt route

Restricted Areas of Upper Mustang

Kagbeni – Chhusang – Ghami – Tsarang – Lo-Manthan – Chhondup – Chhoser – Surkhang

i. Lomanthang Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 1 to 5)

ii. Lo-Ghekar Damodarkunda Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 1 to 5)

iii. Baragung Muktichetra Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 3 and Satang Village of ward no.5)

2. Upper Dolpo

Upper Dolpo is located in the northwestern part of Nepal (west of Dhaulagiri), one of the most isolated, remote, and least developed parts of Nepal. The ancient culture and tradition of Tibet are well preserved till now. The landscape, high-altitude valleys, and people of Dolpo will amaze every traveler. It is also known as the “Hidden Gem of Nepal”. Upper Dolpo offers 800-year-old “Crystal Monastery”, Yangtser monastery and Buddhist arts, challenging trekking adventures high altitude passes like Kagmara La (5,115m) Jenga La, Numala Pass, and Shey La (5100m). Also, Upper Dolpo lies in the Shey Phoksundo National Park which is the largest NP of Nepal, protecting wildlife like snow leopard, blue sheep, Himalayan wolves, and many more. In Upper Dolpo Only 500 to 700 tourists visit, whereas to 30,000 to 35,000 tourists at Everest Base Camp. We conceder Upper Dolpo is the best trekking destination among all 15 Restricted Areas of Nepal.

Things to do around Upper Dolpo:

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extend Rate per Day
January	December	10	USD 500	USD 50

Restricted Areas of Upper Mustang

Shey Gumba – Vijer – Saldan – Tinje – Chharka – Murkot

i. Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 4 to 6)

ii. Shey Phoksundo Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 1 to 7)

iii. Charka Tangsong Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 1 to 6)

3. Gorkha – Manaslu Region

The Manaslu region is situated in the Gorkha District in the central northern part of Nepal. The Manaslu Circuit trek is an emerging restricted trekking destination in Nepal centered around Mt. Manaslu, 8163m, the world’s eighth-highest mountain. This mountain is also considered the training spot for Mt. Everest. Manaslu Circuit Trek is about a 177 km trail that takes approximately 14-18 days to complete. Manaslu region is considered an untouched trekking place because few trekkers are going there compared to EBC, ABC, and Langtang.

Things to do around Manaslu Region:

• Trek the Manaslu Circuit
• Cross the Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters)
• Visit Sama Gaon Village
• Explore Tsum Valley
• Hike to Manaslu Base Camp
• Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries (Lho, Sama, Samdo)
• Experience Tibetan culture in remote villages
• Wildlife spotting in Manaslu Conservation Area
• Visit Birendra Lake
• Witness panoramic views of Mount Manaslu
• Participate in local festivals
• Eco-friendly trekking and community tourism
• Visit sacred caves and meditation sites in Tsum Valley

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
December	August	7	USD 75	USD 10
September	November	7	USD 100	USD 15

Restricted Areas of Manaslu

Jagat- Philim – Deng – Ghap – Namru – Lho – Samdo – Samagaun – Bhimthang

4. Taplejung – Kanchenjunga Region

Kanchenjunga Region the restricted area of Nepal is located in the eastern part of Nepal. It is remote and less frequented by tourists it is ideal for those seeking solitude and adventure. Kanchenjunga circuit offers both the north and south base camp with cultural diversity, natural beauty, and remote villages. Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek would be the best choice that anyone can make if they are looking for rhododendron forests, high passes, glacier valleys, Himalayan Ranges views, diverse local culture, and wildlife.

Things to do around Kanchenjunga:

• Trek the Kanchenjunga Circuit
• Visit Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pangpema)
• Explore Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (Yalung Glacier)
• Hike to Ghunsa Village
• Discover the Tseram and Ramche areas
• Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries (like Ghunsa Monastery)
• Enjoy the views from Lapsang La Pass
• Explore the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area
• Wildlife spotting (snow leopards, red pandas)
• Experience local Limbu and Sherpa culture
• Participate in traditional festivals
• Trek through lush forests and rhododendron blooms
• Visit pristine glacial lakes (like Kambachen Lake)
• Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Kanchenjunga massif
• Engage in community-based tourism activities

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
January	December	7	USD 20	USD 25

Restricted Areas of Kanchenjunga:

Lellep – Yamphudin – Okanchungola – Papung – Papung

5. Gorkha – Tsum Valley

Tsum Valley offers the authentic Himalayan Experience with unique culture and stunning beauty. Recently a video of Tsum Valley became very famous on Youtube.

Things to do around Tsum Valley

• Tsum Valley Trek
• Visit Mu Gompa
• Rachen Gompa
• Dephyudonma Gompa
• Explore Tibetan Buddhist Culture
• Sringi Himal Base Camp
• Meditation Retreats
• Wildlife Spotting
• Local Homestays
• Explore the Sacred Caves
• Mani Walls and Chortens
• Photography and Stargazing

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
December	August	7	USD 30	USD 7
September	November	7	USD 40	USD 7

Restricted areas of Tsum Valley

Jagat- Sirdibas- Lokpa – Chumling – Chhekampar – Chunchet Lele – Chhule

6. Humla

The Humla Restricted Area is a remote region in the farwestern part of Nepal. For adventurous travelers offers an great trek route experience.

Things to do in Humla:

• Trek the Limi Valley
• Visit Yangzom Monastery
• Explore the Karnali River Valley
• Hike to Saipal Base Camp
• Experience local culture in Limi Valley villages
• Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries
• Wildlife spotting (snow leopards, red pandas)
• Attend local festivals (like Saka Dawa)
• Explore the unique architecture of local homes
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Saipal Himal range
• Engage in community-based tourism activities
• Learn about traditional agriculture and livestock herding
• Trek to Kermi and enjoy hot springs
• Participate in local handicraft workshops
• Experience the remote lifestyle of Humla’s ethnic groups

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
January	December	7	USD 100	USD 15

Restricted Areas of Humla

Mugu – Dolphu – Pulu – Bhangri – Bhangri

7. Manang – Nar Phu

Nar Phu, Nepal’s lost valleys are unique in their culture and architecture located in Manang district of Nepal. It is known as the Lost Valley because it was opened to tourists only after 2003.

• Trek the Nar Phu Valley
• Visit Nar Monastery
• Discover Phu Monastery
• Cross Kang La Pass
• Explore Traditional Villages
• Wildlife Spotting
• Participate in Local Festivals
• Photography
• Learn About Tibetan Culture
• Trek to Upper Nar and Phu
• Enjoy Local Cuisine
• Explore Natural Hot Springs
• Visit Ancient Chortens and Stupas
• Camping

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
December	August	7	USD 75	USD 15
September	November	7	USD 100	USD 15

Restricted Areas of Nar Phu

Koto – Nar – Phu – Khangla Phedi

8. Lower Dolpo

Lower Dolpo is a remote and culturally unique region located in the Dolpa District of northwestern Nepal. It lies within the Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is the largest national park in Nepal.

Things to do around Lower Dolpo:

• Trek to Phoksundo Lake
• Visit Shey Phoksundo National Park
• Experience Bonpo and Tibetan Culture
• Visit Ancient Monasteries (e.g., Shey Gompa)
• Cross High Mountain Passes (e.g., Kang La, Numa La, Baga La)
• Explore Remote Villages (e.g., Ringmo, Dho Tarap)
• Wildlife Spotting (e.g., snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep)
• Camp in Wilderness Areas
• Photography of Unique Landscapes
• Participate in Local Festivals (if timing aligns)
• Witness Traditional Salt Trade Routes
• Visit Bonpo Religious Sites
• Explore Rock Carvings and Ancient Artifacts
• Take Part in Meditation Retreats at Monasteries
• Enjoy Solitude in Remote Wilderness

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
January	December	7	USD 20	USD 5

Restricted Areas of Lower Dolpo

JHUPAL – JHUPAL – DUNAI – TARAKOT – DHO TARAP – TOKYO – PHOKSUNDO – CHHEPKA – CHHEPKA

9. Sankhuwasabha – All Restricted Areas

Things to Do around Makalu Region

• Explore the Arun River Valley
• Visit local villages and experience ethnic cultures
• Trek through the Barun Valley
• Camp at community teahouses
• Admire views of Mt. Makalu and other peaks
• Cross high passes like Shipton La and Keke La
• Photograph diverse landscapes (forests, glaciers, rivers)
• Spot rare wildlife in Makalu Barun National Park
• Visit traditional Buddhist monasteries and chortens
• Experience high-altitude trekking at Makalu Base Camp

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
January	December	7	USD 20	USD 25

Restricted areas of Sankhuwasabha

CHEPUWA – CHEPUWA – HATIYA – PAWAKHOLA – KIMATHANKA – KIMATHANKA

10. Rasuwa

Things to do in Rasuwa:

• Rasuwa valley
• Explore the Upper Langtang Valley
• Visit Tibetan monasteries and religious sites
• Trek to Tilman Pass
• Visit the Yak Cheese Factory in Kyanjin Gompa
• Explore Ganja La Pass
• Experience remote mountain life in teahouses or homestays
• Spot rare wildlife in Langtang National Park
• Trekking and climbing peaks (Naya Kanga, Yala Peak)
• Cross into Tibetan border regions

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
January	December	7	USD 20	USD 20

Restricted Areas of Rassuwa

Rasuwa – RASUWA – RASUWA – Rasuwa

11. Mugu

The Mugu region lies in the far western part of Nepal and is one of the country’s most remote and least developed areas. It includes part of Rara National Park, where Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest freshwater lake, is located. Portions of the Mugu region fall under restricted areas requiring special trekking permits, particularly areas close to the Tibetan border.

Things to do in Mugu:

• Trek to Rara Lake
• Explore Rara National Park
• Trek to the Tibetan border areas
• Visit traditional Tibetan-influenced villages
• Experience local culture and lifestyle in remote settlements
• Explore Mugu Karnali River Valley
• Spot rare wildlife and bird species
• Camp in remote high-altitude areas
• Visit Buddhist monasteries and chortens
• Trek to off-the-beaten-path routes toward Humla and Jumla regions

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
January	December	7	USD 100	USD 15

Restricted Areas of Mugu:

MUGU – MUGU – DOLPHU – PULU – BHANGRI – BHANGRI

12. Bajhang

Things to do in Bajhang:

• Trek to Saipal Base Camp
• Visit Tibetan-influenced villages
• Trek through the Seti River Valley
• Visit Buddhist monasteries and chortens
• Spot rare wildlife (snow leopards, musk deer)
• Cross high passes like Lasi Pass
• Explore Khaptad National Park
• Experience traditional local culture and lifestyle
• Camp in remote high-altitude areas
• Trek to isolated Himalayan landscapes

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
January	December	7	USD 90	USD 15

Restricted Areas in Bajhang

BAJHANG – BAJHANG – BAJHANG – BAJHANG

13. Darchula

Things to do in Darchula:

1. Trek to the Tibetan border
2. Visit remote villages like Khalanga and Darchula
3. Explore the Darchula Bazaar
4. Visit ancient temples and shrines
5. Trek to the Mahakali River Valley
6. Experience local culture and customs
7. Spot diverse wildlife
8. **Trek to high-altitude lakes such as Kankad and Bhotekhola
9. Visit Buddhist monasteries
10. Engage in cross-border trade activities

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
January	December	7	USD 90	USD 15

14. Dolakha

Things to do in Dolakha:

• Trek to Rolwaling Base Camp
• Climb Yalung Ri (5,634 meters)
• Visit Tashi Lhunpo Monastery
• Explore the traditional villages of Beding and Na
• Trek to Gokyo Lakes
• Experience local Sherpa culture
• Cross the Tashi Labsta Pass (5,755 meters)
• Spot rare wildlife such as red pandas
• Camp in high-altitude meadows
• Visit ancient chortens and mani walls

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
January	December	7	USD 20	USD 20

Restricted Areas of Dolakha

LAMABAGAR – LAMABAGAR – GAURISHANKAR – GAURISHANKAR

15. Mugu

Things to do in Mugu:

• Camp in scenic high-altitude meadows
• Trek to Api Base Camp
• Explore the remote villages of the region
• Climb Api Peak (7,132 meters)
• Visit the lush forests of the conservation area
• Spot diverse wildlife, including snow leopards and musk deer
• Experience the local culture of the indigenous communities
• Trek through the beautiful valleys and landscapes
• Visit the ancient temples and monasteries
• Enjoy birdwatching in the rich biodiversity

From Month	To Month	Minimum Days	Minimum Cost	Extended Rate per Day
January	December	7	USD 100	USD 15

Restricted Areas of Mugu

MUGU – MUGU – DOLPHU – PULU – BHANGRI – BHANGRI