Nepal has recently announced a decision to ban solo trekking and make it compulsory for foreign travelers to have a guide when trekking. The move, aimed at ensuring the security and wellbeing of foreign travelers, will take effect on April 1, according to a top official.
Maniraj Lamichhane (Director of the Nepal Tourism Board) stated that the decision was made to reduce the impact of travelers getting lost and to address any insecurities they may have while trekking alone. So, now tourists who go on solo treks will have to hire an adventure tour guide.
According to the Nepal Tourism Board, nearly 50,000 visitors trekked in Nepal without a guide or a porter in 2019, using only a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card and route permission. However, the TIMS permit without a guide has also been banned in the most recent decision.
The good news for tourists is that Nepal is taking concrete steps to ensure their safety and wellbeing while they engage in a trekking adventure in the country. With the ban on solo trekking and the compulsory hiring of an adventure tour guide, travelers can now have a more secure and enjoyable trekking experience while also promoting responsible tourism practices.
Nepal is well-known for its high altitude trekking destinations, and this decision is expected to strengthen the adventure tourism sector and promote responsible tourism practices as well. This move is seen as a positive step to ensure the security and wellbeing of foreign travelers.
