Restricted Area Trekking

Home to 8 of the 14 highest peaks in the world, Nepal is considered a paradise on earth and the ultimate destination for trekking and mountain climbing in the world. Since the 1950s The Himalayas of Nepal has been high in the sites for trekkers and mountaineers from all about the globe to explore its deep valleys and high snow-capped peaks. To this day, there are still selected areas of Nepal where the admission of foreign trekkers is firmly controlled, and that have only been open to trekking groups since the early 1990s.

Due to many of the restricted regions being close to the Chinese / Tibetan border with Nepal, the reason behind the lack of access into these areas date back to a time when the border with China was more a more complex issue than it is now. It is also has a lot to do with environmental, ecological and cultural preservation purposes. Some organisations, predominantly the Nepal Nature Conservation Society, are compelling the government to keep some places closed for ecological and biological reasons, to avoid both cultural and environmental degradation and to preserve the natural characteristics of these exclusive areas. If something were to go wrong whilst on a trek, an accident, theft, etc. trekkers would require immediate support or assistance. The government has also put restrictions on some areas because of the doubt of being able to provide the assistance or security that is required if problems such as these were to arise. Other reasons for trekking area restrictions vary, but may be due to political or military operations.

In order to be able to embark on a trek in these restricted areas, there are certain principles that must be followed. Depending on the area, there is a limit to the number of trekkers per season, but for most restricted trekking routes a minimum of at least 2 people is required. All participants must pay for and receive a special restricted area trekking permit, and the trip must be organized through an official, registered trekking company. The trekking party must also be accompanied by a liaison or environmental officer. The officer is there to take control of all the procedures and formalities associated with police and government offices during your trek. It is also often required that treks are completed within a time limitation.

We believe it is very important to be cautious and vigilant towards the rules and regulations in the restricted areas at all times. Although it is important when trekking in all areas to be respectful to the land and its people, trekking in restricted areas is an especially exclusive capability, and all who enter into these areas should practise a high degree of respect and responsibility. Some examples of restricted trekking destinations in Nepal include; Upper Dolpo, Lower Dolpo, Rara Lake, Kanchenjunga, Upper Mustang and Manaslu. Due to their exclusivity, these remote and less travelled areas offer you a remarkable experience into the true wilderness and untainted areas of Nepal. For most of these trekking areas, with the recent exclusion of Upper Mustang, teahouses or guest rooms are not available, therefore the more classic form of trekking camping is conducted. At The Asia Adventure Nepal, we organize and provide all the services and facilities required for camping throughout the treks. This includes all the necessary trekking gear, food, fuel, tents for dining, sleeping, mattresses, sleeping bags, tables and seating.

Restricted area trekking is a highly unique adventure, where you can experience rich cultural tradition, genuine adventure, unmatchable beauty and biological variety that has been seen and felt only by few. Embarking on a restricted area trek with The Asia Adventure Nepal will leave you with a feeling of thrill and amazement long after the trekking adventure has commenced.