Drones have revolutionized travel photography, and the allure of capturing Nepal's Himalayan landscapes from above is irresistible. The sweeping panorama of the Annapurna range, the dramatic ice formations of the Khumbu Glacier, the ancient villages clinging to impossible slopes -- these scenes are tailor-made for aerial footage. However, Nepal has strict drone regulations that many trekkers are unaware of, and flying without proper authorization can result in equipment confiscation, heavy fines, or even legal trouble.
This guide provides everything you need to know about legally and safely operating a drone in Nepal while trekking: the current regulatory framework, the permit process and its costs, restricted zones where flying is prohibited, the additional rules that apply within national parks and conservation areas, practical challenges of flying at altitude in cold conditions, and tips for getting the best results from your aerial photography.
The goal is not to discourage you from bringing a drone -- Nepal is genuinely one of the most spectacular drone photography destinations on Earth. The goal is to ensure you fly legally, safely, and in a way that respects both the regulations and the communities below.
Yes, mandatory for all drones
Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN)
Varies: USD 50-500+ depending on purpose
7-15 business days (plan ahead)
Separate permission required from DNPWC
No flying near airports, military zones
Typically 120m / 400ft AGL
Confiscation, fines, potential arrest
Understanding Nepal's Drone Regulations
Nepal's drone regulations are managed primarily by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), which governs all aircraft operations in Nepali airspace. The regulations have evolved rapidly in recent years as drone use has surged among tourists, filmmakers, and commercial operators.
The Legal Framework
As of 2026, Nepal requires a permit for the operation of any unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) regardless of size, weight, or purpose. This means that even small consumer drones like the DJI Mini series (which weigh under 250g and are exempt from many regulations in other countries) require a permit in Nepal.
The key regulatory principles are:
- All drone flights require prior authorization from CAAN
- Commercial and professional filming requires additional permits from the Department of Tourism or relevant authority
- National parks and conservation areas require separate permission from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC)
- Restricted zones (airports, military installations, government buildings) are strictly no-fly areas
- Insurance may be required depending on the drone weight class and purpose
Do Not Assume Rules Are Relaxed on the Trail
Many trekkers assume that because Nepal's enforcement infrastructure is limited in remote mountain areas, drone regulations are not enforced on trek routes. This is increasingly false. Park wardens, ACAP checkpoints, and even local communities report unauthorized drone use. Confiscation of equipment at checkpoints has become more common, and several trekkers have had equipment seized with no return. The risk is not worth it.
Drone Categories
Nepal classifies drones into categories based on weight and purpose:
| Category | Weight | Typical Examples | Permit Complexity | |----------|--------|-----------------|-------------------| | Micro | Under 250g | DJI Mini 4 Pro | Permit required (simpler process) | | Small | 250g - 2kg | DJI Air 3, Mavic 3 | Standard CAAN permit | | Medium | 2kg - 25kg | DJI Inspire 3, commercial rigs | Enhanced permit + insurance | | Large | Over 25kg | Professional cinema drones | Full aviation permit process |
Even micro drones under 250g require permits in Nepal, unlike in many Western countries where this weight class has fewer restrictions. Do not assume your small travel drone is exempt.
The Permit Process: Step by Step
Obtaining a drone permit for Nepal requires advance planning. The process involves paperwork, waiting times, and potential bureaucratic delays. Here is the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
Before applying, gather the following:
- Passport copy (photo page)
- Nepal visa copy (if already obtained)
- Drone specifications: Model name, weight, camera specifications, maximum flight altitude, maximum range
- Drone registration certificate from your home country (if applicable)
- Flight plan: General description of where and when you intend to fly (trekking route, dates, locations)
- Purpose statement: Why you want to fly (personal photography, professional filming, research, etc.)
- Insurance documentation (recommended; required for commercial operations)
Step 2: Submit Application to CAAN
Applications can be submitted to CAAN headquarters in Kathmandu. The process can be initiated:
- In person: CAAN headquarters, Babarmahal, Kathmandu
- Via email: Some advance communication is possible through CAAN's official email, though in-person follow-up is typically necessary
- Through a trekking agency: Many agencies offer drone permit assistance as an add-on service, which can save significant time and frustration
Step 3: Pay Fees
Permit fees vary based on purpose and duration:
| Purpose | Approximate Fee | Duration | |---------|----------------|----------| | Personal / tourist photography | USD 50-100 | Single trek / 30 days | | Professional filming | USD 200-500+ | Per project | | Commercial / survey work | USD 500+ | Per project | | Documentary / media production | Negotiated | Per project |
Fees are subject to change. Confirm current rates with CAAN before applying.
Step 4: Obtain National Park / Conservation Area Permission
If your trekking route passes through a national park or conservation area (which almost all major routes do), you need additional permission from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) or the relevant conservation authority (ACAP for Annapurna region, Sagarmatha National Park office for Everest region).
National park drone permissions are separate from the CAAN permit. You need both.
| Trekking Area | Managing Authority | Additional Permission From | |---------------|-------------------|---------------------------| | Everest region | Sagarmatha National Park | DNPWC / Park office | | Annapurna region | ACAP (NTNC) | ACAP headquarters or entry checkpoints | | Langtang region | Langtang National Park | DNPWC / Park office | | Manaslu region | Manaslu Conservation Area | DNPWC | | Upper Mustang | ACAP + Restricted Area | ACAP + Ministry of Home Affairs |
Use a Trekking Agency for Permits
The drone permit process is one area where using a trekking agency genuinely saves significant time and stress. Several Kathmandu-based agencies have established relationships with CAAN and can expedite the process. Expect to pay NPR 5,000-15,000 (USD 35-110) for the facilitation service on top of official permit fees. This is money well spent compared to days spent navigating bureaucracy yourself.
Step 5: Processing Time
Allow a minimum of 7-15 business days for CAAN to process your permit. During peak trekking season (October-November), processing may take longer due to volume. This means you should ideally begin the process at least 3-4 weeks before your planned trekking start date.
Apply Early -- Permits Cannot Be Rushed
The most common mistake trekkers make is arriving in Kathmandu expecting to obtain a drone permit in one or two days. This is rarely possible. CAAN processes applications in order, and there is no reliable expedite option for individual tourists. If you plan to fly a drone, begin the application process at least one month before your Nepal arrival date.
Restricted and No-Fly Zones
Even with a valid permit, certain areas are permanently off-limits to drone operations:
Absolute No-Fly Zones
- Airports and airstrips: A minimum buffer zone (typically 5km radius) around all airports and airstrips. This is critical for trekkers because high-altitude airstrips like Lukla (Tenzing-Hillary Airport) are in the middle of trekking routes
- Military installations: All Nepal Army and Nepal Police facilities
- Government buildings: Including the Singha Durbar (government complex), Royal Palace area, and key security installations in Kathmandu
- International borders: Areas near the Chinese (Tibet) and Indian borders
Conditionally Restricted Zones
- Lukla Airport vicinity: One of the most photographed airstrips in the world, but drone flights near Lukla are extremely dangerous and strictly prohibited. The approach corridor extends well beyond the airport perimeter.
- Kathmandu Valley airspace: The entire Kathmandu Valley is within Tribhuvan International Airport's controlled airspace. Flying drones in the valley (including over temples and heritage sites) requires specific CAAN authorization.
- Monasteries and religious sites: While not legally restricted in all cases, flying drones over or near monasteries (Tengboche, Thame, etc.) is culturally offensive and may be prohibited by local authorities. Park wardens can and do enforce local no-fly rules.
Map Your Route for Airstrips
Trekking routes, especially in the Everest region, pass near multiple airstrips. Before flying, identify all nearby airstrips and maintain maximum distance:
| Airstrip | Region | Buffer Needed | |----------|--------|---------------| | Lukla (VNLK) | Everest | 5km minimum | | Syangboche | Everest (above Namche) | 3km minimum | | Phaplu | Solu | 3km minimum | | Jomsom | Annapurna / Mustang | 5km minimum | | Manang | Annapurna Circuit | 3km minimum | | Simikot | Western Nepal | 5km minimum |
Lukla Is Not the Place for Your Drone
The Lukla airstrip approach corridor is one of the most dangerous in commercial aviation. Aircraft make steep approaches through a narrow valley with very little margin for error. A drone collision with an aircraft here could be catastrophic. The area around Lukla is heavily monitored, and authorities take drone violations extremely seriously. Save your drone flights for locations well away from any airstrip.
Practical Challenges: Flying Drones at Altitude
Even with proper permits, operating a drone in the Himalayas presents unique technical challenges that differ dramatically from flying at sea level.
Battery Performance in Cold and Altitude
Battery performance is the single biggest practical challenge for drone operators in the Himalayas:
- Cold reduces battery capacity: Lithium polymer batteries lose significant capacity in cold temperatures. At temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius, you may lose 30-50% of your stated battery life
- Altitude reduces air density: Thinner air at high altitude means propellers must spin faster to generate the same lift, consuming more battery power
- Combined effect: At 5,000m and minus 10 degrees Celsius, expect your effective flight time to be roughly 40-60% of sea-level specification
Practical battery tips:
- Keep batteries warm in your jacket's inside pockets until immediately before flying
- Use hand warmers wrapped around batteries during storage
- Land with at least 30% battery remaining (higher safety margin than at sea level)
- Bring at least 3-4 batteries for serious photography
- Charge batteries the night before in your teahouse (where power is available for a fee)
Altitude and Performance Limits
Most consumer drones have maximum operating altitude specifications:
| Drone | Stated Max Altitude (MSL) | Effective at 5,000m? | |-------|--------------------------|---------------------| | DJI Mini 4 Pro | 4,000m MSL | Marginal - performance reduced | | DJI Air 3 | 6,000m MSL | Yes - good performance | | DJI Mavic 3 | 6,000m MSL | Yes - good performance | | DJI Inspire 3 | 5,000m MSL | Marginal at highest EBC points |
If your route takes you above 4,000m (which most Himalayan treks do), ensure your drone is rated for those altitudes. Flying beyond the rated altitude risks motor failure, GPS instability, and loss of control.
The Early Morning Window
The best time to fly a drone in the mountains is early morning (6:00-8:00 AM) when winds are calmest and light is most dramatic. By mid-morning, thermal winds develop that create turbulent and unpredictable conditions, particularly near ridges and valleys. Plan your flights for the first hours after sunrise for both safety and photographic quality.
Wind Conditions
Mountain environments generate complex wind patterns that challenge even experienced drone pilots:
- Valley winds: Strong up-valley winds develop by mid-morning as the sun heats valley floors
- Ridge turbulence: Flying near ridgelines creates severe turbulence that can overpower drone stabilization
- Katabatic winds: Cold air flowing downslope from glaciers creates sudden, strong gusts, particularly in the evening
- Jet stream proximity: At extremely high altitudes (above 5,000m), winds can be dramatically stronger than at lower elevations nearby
Wind safety rules:
- Never fly in winds exceeding your drone's rated wind resistance (typically 10-12 m/s for consumer drones)
- Avoid flying near ridgelines where wind accelerates and becomes turbulent
- Be prepared for sudden wind changes, especially in glacier-influenced areas
- Always maintain visual line of sight
GPS Reliability
GPS accuracy decreases in deep valleys and near steep mountain walls due to satellite signal reflection and limited sky visibility. In narrow valleys, your drone's GPS lock may be weak, causing position drift. Switch to manual/sport mode only if you are an experienced pilot, and avoid autonomous flight modes in areas with poor GPS reception.
Best Locations for Drone Photography
Assuming you have proper permits, these locations offer extraordinary aerial photography potential:
Everest Region
- Above Namche Bazaar: Sweeping views of the town's amphitheater setting with Kongde Ri and Thamserku
- Tengboche Plateau: The monastery against the backdrop of Ama Dablam (fly from a respectful distance from the monastery itself)
- Kala Patthar area: Everest panorama from elevation (check wind conditions carefully)
- Gokyo Valley: The turquoise lakes against ice-covered peaks are stunning from above
Annapurna Region
- Above Ghandruk: Village terraces with Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre
- Poon Hill area: Sunrise panorama of the full Annapurna-Dhaulagiri range
- Manang Valley: Wide valley with Gangapurna and Annapurna III backdrop
- Upper Mustang: Desert-like landscapes and ancient cliff dwellings (restricted area permit required)
Langtang Region
- Kyanjin Gompa plateau: Wide, open valley ideal for drone operations with Langtang Lirung overhead
- Langtang Valley approach: Terraced fields and river valleys with Himalayan backdrop
For general photography guidance, see our trekking photography guide and best photography treks.
Fly from Open Spaces
Always launch and recover your drone from open, flat areas away from trees, power lines, and buildings. River flats, open meadows, and flat terrain near tea houses are ideal. Launching from ridgelines or steep terrain risks losing your drone if it drops during startup or if wind catches it before stabilization engages.
What Happens If You Fly Without a Permit
Understanding the consequences of unauthorized drone operation helps explain why the permit process is worth the effort:
Possible Consequences
-
Equipment confiscation: Security checkpoints, park wardens, and even police in villages have authority to seize drones operating without permits. Confiscated equipment is taken to the relevant authority in Kathmandu and may or may not be returned.
-
Fines: Monetary penalties for unauthorized drone operations range from NPR 50,000 to several hundred thousand rupees depending on the location and circumstances.
-
Legal trouble: In restricted zones (near airports, military areas, border areas), unauthorized drone flight can be treated as a security offense. This can result in detention, police interrogation, and potential criminal charges.
-
Visa complications: Serious violations may result in visa cancellation and deportation. This would obviously end your trek prematurely.
-
Community backlash: In some areas, local communities have become hostile toward drone operators after incidents of drones frightening livestock, disturbing religious ceremonies, or invading privacy. Flying without local understanding and consent can create confrontational situations.
Checkpoints Check for Drones
ACAP and Sagarmatha National Park checkpoints have become increasingly vigilant about checking for drones. If you are carrying a drone in your pack and cannot produce the relevant permits, the drone may be confiscated at the checkpoint with a receipt for collection in Kathmandu. Some trekkers have reported being turned back from checkpoints for carrying unpermitted drones.
Ethical Considerations
Beyond legal requirements, responsible drone operation in Nepal involves ethical considerations:
Community Impact
- Noise disturbance: Drones are loud, and the sound echoes dramatically in mountain valleys. Flying near villages, particularly early morning or evening, disturbs communities.
- Livestock disturbance: Yaks, horses, and livestock on mountain trails can be frightened by drones, potentially causing stampedes or animals falling off trail edges. Never fly near livestock.
- Cultural sensitivity: Flying drones over monasteries, religious ceremonies, or sacred sites (even from a distance) is culturally insensitive regardless of legality. The Tengboche monastery area has seen particular tension around drone use.
- Privacy: Aerial cameras can photograph people in private spaces. Be conscious of where your camera is pointed.
Environmental Responsibility
- Wildlife disturbance: Drones can stress and displace birds, particularly raptors and vultures that inhabit high Himalayan areas. The Himalayan griffon vulture and lammergeier are species of conservation concern.
- Crash debris: A drone that crashes in a remote mountain area becomes non-biodegradable litter in a fragile ecosystem. Fly conservatively and within your skill level.
- Battery disposal: Used or damaged LiPo batteries are hazardous waste. Do not leave them in teahouse trash. Carry them out and dispose of them properly in Kathmandu.
For broader photography ethics, see our photography etiquette guide.
Gear Recommendations for Himalayan Drone Photography
Drone Selection
For trekking specifically, weight and packability are critical considerations alongside camera quality:
| Drone | Weight | Camera | Pros for Trekking | Cons for Trekking | |-------|--------|--------|-------------------|-------------------| | DJI Mini 4 Pro | 249g | 4K/60fps, 48MP | Ultra-light, small packed size | Lower altitude ceiling, weaker in wind | | DJI Air 3 | 720g | Dual camera, 4K/60fps | Good balance of weight and capability | Moderate size | | DJI Mavic 3 Classic | 895g | Hasselblad 4/3 CMOS | Best image quality for weight | Heavier; 3+ batteries add weight |
Accessories to Bring
- Extra batteries: Minimum 3 batteries (4-5 recommended for serious work)
- Battery charging hub: Multi-battery charger to charge overnight in teahouses
- ND filters: Essential for controlling shutter speed in bright mountain light
- Protective case: Hard-shell case to protect drone in your backpack
- Landing pad: Collapsible landing pad to prevent dust and debris from entering motors
- Microfiber cloths: For cleaning camera lens (dust and moisture are constant)
- Silicone propeller covers: Protect propellers during transport
Power and Charging
Charging drone batteries in teahouses typically costs NPR 200-500 per charge. Power availability varies by location:
- Lower elevations (under 3,000m): Generally reliable power, solar and hydroelectric
- Mid elevations (3,000m-4,000m): Power available but may be solar-only with limited capacity
- High elevations (above 4,000m): Power may be limited to specific hours; charge when you can
A portable solar panel rated at 60W or higher can supplement teahouse power but is heavy and adds significant pack weight. For most trekkers, teahouse charging is the practical choice.
Battery Warming Technique
Before flying in cold conditions (common above 4,000m), warm your batteries by placing them inside your jacket against your body for 30 minutes. Some pilots also use chemical hand warmers attached to batteries with rubber bands during flight. A warm battery at launch can add 25-40% to your effective flight time compared to a cold battery.
Insurance Considerations
Equipment Insurance
Standard travel insurance policies typically do not cover drone equipment. If your drone is valuable, consider:
- Specific drone insurance: Companies like Coverdrone and SkyWatch offer policies covering loss, damage, and theft
- Travel insurance riders: Some comprehensive travel insurance plans offer equipment riders that can cover drones
- Credit card coverage: Some premium credit cards cover purchased electronics against damage and theft for a limited period
Liability Insurance
Nepal may require liability insurance for drone operations, particularly for drones above 250g or for commercial use. Liability insurance covers damage your drone might cause to third parties or property. Check with CAAN about current requirements when applying for your permit.
For comprehensive travel insurance guidance, see our travel insurance for Nepal trekking guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Flying a drone in Nepal is a privilege that comes with real responsibilities -- legal, ethical, and practical. The permit process requires advance planning and patience, the technical challenges at altitude are significant, and the cultural sensitivities are real. But for those who prepare properly, the results can be extraordinary. Aerial footage of the Himalayan landscape is among the most spectacular imagery possible anywhere on Earth.
Our strong recommendation is to treat the drone as a secondary tool to complement a good camera, not as your primary photography equipment. The weight, permit requirements, battery limitations, and restricted zones mean you will only fly your drone at a handful of locations during your trek. A quality mirrorless camera will serve you for every other moment. Plan your drone flights carefully, fly legally, respect the communities and environment below you, and the footage you capture will be worth every bit of the preparation.