Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Complete Guide for Everest Region Trekkers 2026

If you are trekking anywhere in Nepal's Everest region -- whether that is the classic Everest Base Camp trek, the stunning Gokyo Lakes circuit, the challenging Three Passes route, or a climbing expedition to peaks like Island Peak -- you need a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit. There are no exceptions.

This permit is one of two essential documents for the Everest/Khumbu region (the other being the TIMS card). It funds the conservation of one of the most extraordinary protected areas on Earth: the home of Mount Everest, sacred Sherpa monasteries, and some of the rarest wildlife in the Himalayas.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the Sagarmatha National Park permit for 2026: current costs, where and how to obtain it, what documents you need, what the permit covers, checkpoint information, park rules, and what to do if something goes wrong.

What Is Sagarmatha National Park?

Sagarmatha National Park is Nepal's most famous protected area, encompassing the upper catchment of the Dudh Kosi and Bhote Kosi river systems in the Solukhumbu District of northeastern Nepal. "Sagarmatha" is the Nepali name for Mount Everest, meaning "Forehead of the Sky."

Key Facts About the Park

• Established: July 19, 1976
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Designated in 1979, recognizing its outstanding natural value
• Area: 1,148 square kilometers (443 square miles)
• Buffer Zone: An additional 275 square kilometers surrounding the park
• Altitude Range: 2,845m (Monjo) to 8,849m (summit of Mount Everest)
• Location: Solukhumbu District, Province No. 1, northeastern Nepal

Notable Peaks Within the Park

The park contains some of the most famous mountains on Earth:

| Peak | Elevation | Rank (World) | |------|-----------|-------------| | Mount Everest (Sagarmatha) | 8,849m | 1st | | Lhotse | 8,516m | 4th | | Cho Oyu | 8,188m | 6th | | Ama Dablam | 6,812m | -- | | Pumori | 7,161m | -- | | Nuptse | 7,861m | -- | | Island Peak (Imja Tse) | 6,189m | -- | | Lobuche East | 6,119m | -- |

The park also includes the Ngozumpa Glacier (the longest glacier in the Himalayas), the Gokyo Lakes system, and the Khumbu Icefall.

Cultural Significance

Beyond its natural grandeur, the park protects the homeland of the Sherpa people, who have lived in this region for over 500 years. The park contains several important Buddhist monasteries, including Tengboche Monastery (3,867m), which hosts the annual Mani Rimdu festival. The Sherpa culture of mountaineering, trade, and Buddhist practice is inseparable from the landscape the park protects.

Who Needs This Permit?

Every person entering Sagarmatha National Park needs this permit. This includes:

• Trekkers on the Everest Base Camp trek
• Trekkers on the Gokyo Lakes trek
• Trekkers attempting the Three Passes trek
• Climbers attempting any peak within the park (Island Peak, Lobuche, Mera Peak if entering via Khumbu, etc.)
• Mountaineering expeditions to Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and others
• Day visitors to areas within park boundaries
• Researchers, filmmakers, and journalists working in the park

The only people exempt are Nepali citizens residing within the park boundaries and children under 10 years of age (who may enter free but should still be registered).

2026 Permit Fees

The current Sagarmatha National Park entry fees for 2026 are:

| Category | Fee | Approximate USD | |----------|-----|----------------| | Foreign nationals | NPR 3,000 | ~$23 | | SAARC nationals (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bhutan, Afghanistan) | NPR 1,500 | ~$11 | | Nepali citizens | NPR 100 | ~$0.75 | | Children under 10 (all nationalities) | Free | Free |

Payment methods:

• Cash (Nepali Rupees) at all locations
• Some offices accept USD or other major currencies, though change may be given in NPR
• Credit/debit card payment is generally not available at the Monjo checkpoint -- bring cash as a backup

Fee History and Changes

Nepal's national park fees have remained relatively stable in recent years, but periodic increases occur. Understanding the history helps you anticipate potential changes:

| Year | Foreign National Fee | Notes | |------|---------------------|-------| | Pre-2015 | NPR 1,000 | Long-standing rate | | 2015-2022 | NPR 3,000 | Increased after 2015 earthquake to fund reconstruction | | 2023-Present | NPR 3,000 | Rate maintained |

The government has periodically discussed increasing national park fees for foreign visitors. While no increase has been confirmed for the 2026 season, it is possible. Check with the Nepal Tourism Board for the most current rates before your trek.

Where to Obtain the Sagarmatha National Park Permit

You have several options for obtaining your permit, listed from most to least convenient:

Option 1: Through Your Trekking Agency (Recommended)

If you are trekking with a registered agency -- which is required under Nepal's 2024 trekking regulations for most routes -- your agency will typically obtain the Sagarmatha permit on your behalf as part of their service package.

Advantages:

• No need to visit any office yourself
• Agency handles paperwork and payment
• Often included in the trek package price
• Your guide carries the permit for the group

What to provide your agency:

• A copy of your passport (photo page)
• Two passport-sized photos (some agencies take these for you)
• Your trekking dates

What to verify:

• Confirm that the park permit is included in your package price
• Ask to see the actual permit before departure
• Ensure the dates on the permit match your trekking dates

Option 2: Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu

The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office in Kathmandu issues permits for all national parks and conservation areas.

Location: Pradarshani Marg, Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu (near the Exhibition Ground)

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Friday 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM (closed Saturday and public holidays)

Process:

1. Bring your passport, two passport-sized photos, and your TIMS card (or apply for TIMS at the same office)
2. Fill out the application form (available at the office)
3. Submit the form with your documents and photos
4. Pay the fee
5. Receive your permit card -- usually issued same day within 30-60 minutes

Option 3: Monjo Checkpoint (On the Trail)

If you did not obtain your permit in Kathmandu, you can get it at the Monjo checkpoint, which is the official entrance to Sagarmatha National Park.

Location: Monjo village, approximately 2,835m, between Phakding and Namche Bazaar on the EBC trail

When you will reach it: Typically on Day 2 of the EBC trek (Day 1 after flying to Lukla)

Hours: Generally open during daylight trekking hours (approximately 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM)

Process:

1. Present your passport and two passport-sized photos
2. Fill out the entry form
3. Pay the fee in cash (NPR preferred)
4. Receive your permit card

Advantages:

• Convenient if you forgot or could not get it in Kathmandu
• Available right on the trail

Disadvantages:

• Can create delays if there is a queue
• Cash only -- if you do not have NPR, you may face difficulties
• Photos are required and difficult to obtain on the trail
• If there are any issues (missing documents, etc.), you are stuck on the trail with limited options

Required Documents

To obtain your Sagarmatha National Park permit, you need:

1. Valid passport -- Must be the original (not a photocopy) with at least 6 months validity remaining
2. Two passport-sized photographs -- Recent photos (taken within the last 6 months). Standard 35mm x 45mm. White or light background. Some offices may accept digital photos on your phone, but physical photos are more reliable.
3. TIMS card -- Your Trekkers' Information Management System card. If you do not have one yet, you can apply for both TIMS and the national park permit at the NTB office simultaneously. See our TIMS card guide.
4. Completed application form -- Available at the issuing office. Basic information: name, nationality, passport number, trekking route, dates, emergency contact.

If trekking with an agency:

• Your agency may also need a copy of your passport photo page
• The agency will have a group trekking permit letter that lists all members

Application Process Step by Step

At the NTB Office in Kathmandu

1. Arrive at the NTB office at Bhrikutimandap during business hours
2. Request the application form from the permit counter
3. Fill out the form with your personal details, passport number, trekking route (e.g., "Everest Base Camp"), estimated entry and exit dates, emergency contact information, and insurance details
4. Attach one passport photo to the form and hand the second to the officer
5. Submit the form along with your passport for verification
6. Pay the fee (NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals)
7. Wait for processing -- typically 15-30 minutes
8. Receive your permit card -- a laminated card with your photo, personal details, and validity dates
9. Check all details on the permit card before leaving. Ensure your name, passport number, and dates are correct.

Through Your Agency

1. Provide your passport copy and photos to your agency when booking
2. The agency submits the application on your behalf (often as a group application for all trekkers)
3. The agency pays the fee (included in your package or charged separately)
4. Your guide carries the permits for the group
5. Verify your details on the permit before departure

Permit Validity

• Single entry: The permit allows one entry into Sagarmatha National Park
• Duration: Valid for the dates specified on your permit (your trekking period)
• No time limit within the park: Once inside, you can stay as long as your permit dates allow. There is no daily fee -- just the one-time entry fee.
• Cannot be extended: If your trek takes longer than planned, you may need to clarify your situation at the park office. In practice, rangers are understanding about weather delays and medical issues.
• Not transferable: The permit is linked to your passport number and cannot be used by anyone else

Checkpoints on the Trail

Your permit will be checked at official checkpoints within and around the park. Be prepared to show it at:

Monjo Checkpoint (2,835m)

This is the main entry checkpoint to Sagarmatha National Park, located in the village of Monjo between Phakding and Namche Bazaar.

• What happens here: Park rangers check your Sagarmatha permit and TIMS card. Your details are recorded in the park's trekker log. If you do not have a permit, you can purchase one here (cash only).
• Typical wait time: 5-15 minutes during normal periods, up to 30-45 minutes during peak season mornings
• Important: This checkpoint is where the trail crosses the Dudh Kosi river via a suspension bridge. The park boundary officially begins here.

Jorsalle Checkpoint

A secondary checkpoint located between Monjo and the steep ascent to Namche Bazaar. Permits may be checked here as well, particularly during busy seasons when the park increases monitoring.

Other Checkpoints

Occasional permit checks may occur at:

• Namche Bazaar -- Police checkpoint (checks permits and TIMS)
• Tengboche -- Occasionally staffed
• Pheriche/Dingboche area -- Periodic checks
• Lobuche -- Periodic checks during peak season

What Your Permit Covers

The Sagarmatha National Park entry fee funds a range of conservation and infrastructure activities within the park:

Conservation Programs

• Wildlife protection and anti-poaching patrols
• Habitat restoration and vegetation monitoring
• Snow leopard conservation program (camera trap surveys, prey population monitoring)
• Climate change research (glacier monitoring, weather stations)

Trail and Infrastructure Maintenance

• Trail maintenance -- Repairing and improving trekking paths, bridges, and steps
• Signage -- Trail markers, safety signs, and distance indicators
• Waste management -- Clean-up campaigns, waste collection points, recycling programs
• Toilet facilities -- Construction and maintenance of public toilets along trails

Community Development

• Local school funding in Sherpa communities
• Healthcare support for remote communities within the park
• Alternative energy projects (solar power, micro-hydro) to reduce firewood dependency
• Cultural heritage preservation -- Monastery maintenance and cultural programs

Emergency and Safety Services

• Ranger stations throughout the park for safety and information
• Search and rescue coordination with helicopter services
• Weather monitoring and warnings

Combining with TIMS Card

You need both the Sagarmatha National Park permit and a TIMS card to trek in the Everest region. These are separate documents issued by different authorities:

| Document | Issuing Authority | Purpose | Cost (Foreign) | |----------|------------------|---------|----------------| | Sagarmatha National Park Permit | Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation | Park entry and conservation funding | NPR 3,000 | | TIMS Card | Nepal Tourism Board / TAAN | Trekker tracking and safety | NPR 2,000 (individual) / NPR 1,000 (group via agency) |

Both can be obtained at the NTB office in Kathmandu, or your agency can handle both. See our complete TIMS card guide for details on the TIMS application process.

Park Rules and Regulations

When entering Sagarmatha National Park, you agree to abide by the following rules:

Prohibited Activities

• Hunting or harming wildlife -- Strict penalties including fines and imprisonment
• Collecting plants, flowers, or natural objects -- Including rocks, fossils, and medicinal plants
• Setting open fires -- Use of firewood is restricted; lodges use kerosene, gas, or electricity
• Playing loud music -- Respect the tranquility of the park and local communities
• Using drones without specific permission from the park authority and the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal
• Littering -- All waste must be packed out or disposed of in designated collection points
• Disturbing cultural sites -- Monasteries, mani walls, and chortens must be treated with respect

Environmental Responsibilities

• Stay on marked trails -- Do not create shortcuts or new paths
• Use designated campsites if camping (most trekkers use tea houses)
• Carry a waste bag and pack out all non-biodegradable waste
• Use toilet facilities where available; where not available, bury waste at least 30m from water sources
• Minimize plastic -- Bring reusable water bottles and purification methods. See our water purification guide

Cultural Etiquette

• Walk clockwise around mani walls and chortens (Buddhist monuments)
• Remove shoes before entering monasteries
• Ask permission before photographing people or religious ceremonies
• Dress modestly at cultural and religious sites

See our cultural etiquette guide for comprehensive guidance on respectful behavior.

Wildlife in Sagarmatha National Park

The park is home to remarkable biodiversity despite its extreme altitude. The permit fees directly fund protection of these species:

Mammals

• Snow leopard (Panthera uncia) -- The park's most iconic and elusive resident. Population estimated at 4-6 individuals. Camera trap surveys funded by park fees have provided vital data.
• Himalayan tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus) -- Wild goat frequently spotted on steep hillsides, especially between Namche and Tengboche
• Himalayan musk deer (Moschus leucogaster) -- Small, endangered deer with distinctive canine tusks
• Red panda (Ailurus fulgens) -- Found in bamboo forests at lower elevations of the park (below 4,000m)
• Himalayan black bear -- Occasionally spotted at lower elevations
• Himalayan pika, weasel, and marten -- Smaller mammals common throughout the park

Birds

Over 150 bird species have been recorded in the park, including:

• Himalayan monal (Nepal's national bird) -- Stunningly colorful pheasant
• Blood pheasant -- Found in rhododendron forests
• Lammergeier (bearded vulture) -- Massive vulture with 2.5m wingspan, often seen soaring above valleys
• Yellow-billed chough -- Common at high altitude, often seen around Gorak Shep and EBC

Vegetation

• Rhododendron forests (spectacular blooms in March-May)
• Birch and juniper forests (3,000-4,000m)
• Alpine meadows (4,000-5,000m)
• Moss and lichen communities (above 5,000m)

Important Facilities Within the Park

Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) Clinic - Pheriche

• Location: Pheriche, 4,371m (on the main EBC trail)
• Services: Altitude sickness diagnosis and treatment, supplemental oxygen, Gamow bag, emergency stabilization
• Staffing: Volunteer physicians during the main trekking seasons (March-May and September-November)
• Daily altitude sickness lecture: Free, usually at 3:00 PM -- highly recommended for all trekkers
• Cost: Consultations are donation-based; medications are charged at cost

Ranger Stations

Ranger stations are located at several points throughout the park, including Monjo, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche. Rangers can provide:

• Trail condition updates
• Weather information
• Wildlife sighting reports
• Emergency assistance coordination
• General park information

Emergency Services

• Helicopter landing zones: Available at Namche Bazaar, Pheriche, Gorak Shep, and several other locations
• Communication: Most lodges above Namche have satellite phone access for emergencies
• Rescue coordination: The park works with helicopter companies and the Nepal Army for emergency evacuations

See our guide on helicopter rescue in Nepal for detailed evacuation information.

If You Lose Your Permit

Losing your permit during a trek is stressful but manageable:

1. Report the loss to the nearest park ranger station or checkpoint
2. Show your passport as identification -- rangers can look up your entry in their logs
3. A replacement may be issued at the ranger station or at the Monjo checkpoint on your exit
4. A replacement fee may apply (typically the same as the original permit cost)
5. Having a photo of your permit on your phone helps speed up the replacement process

Practical Tips for Permit Day

If Getting Permits in Kathmandu Before Your Trek

• Combine permit runs: Get your Sagarmatha permit and TIMS card at the NTB office in a single visit
• Go early: Arrive when the office opens (10:00 AM) to avoid afternoon crowds
• Bring exact change: NPR 3,000 for the park permit plus NPR 1,000-2,000 for TIMS
• Bring at least 4 passport photos: Two for each permit
• Bring your passport original: Photocopies are not accepted for verification
• Allow 1-2 hours: For both permits combined, including wait times

If Your Agency Is Handling Permits

• Confirm inclusion: Verify that all required permits are included in your package and their cost is covered
• Provide documents early: Send your passport copy and photos to the agency well before your trek start date
• Check the permits: Before your trek begins, ask to see the actual permits and verify your details are correct
• Carry your own copies: Even if your guide holds the originals, keep photocopies in your daypack

Sagarmatha National Park and the Best Time to Trek

The park is open year-round, but conditions vary dramatically by season:

| Season | Months | Conditions | Crowd Level | |--------|--------|------------|-------------| | Peak Autumn | October-November | Clear skies, moderate temperatures, best views | Very high | | Winter | December-February | Cold at altitude, clear skies, fewer trekkers, some lodges closed above Tengboche | Low | | Peak Spring | March-May | Warming temperatures, rhododendron blooms, good visibility (hazier than autumn) | High | | Monsoon | June-September | Heavy rain, leeches, clouds, trails slippery, most trekkers avoid this period | Very low |

See our complete guide to the best time to trek the Everest region for detailed seasonal information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I enter Sagarmatha National Park without a permit?

No. The Monjo checkpoint strictly controls entry, and you will not be allowed past without a valid Sagarmatha National Park permit. There are no alternative entry points that bypass the checkpoint system.

Is the Sagarmatha permit the only permit I need for EBC?

No. You also need a TIMS card. Some routes may require additional permits (for example, climbing permits for peak ascents like Island Peak). The Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality also charges a local fee. See our comprehensive permits guide for the full list.

Can I get the permit at Lukla airport?

No. There is no permit office at Lukla. You must either get the permit in Kathmandu, have your agency arrange it, or purchase it at the Monjo checkpoint on the trail.

How long is the permit valid?

The permit is valid for your specified trekking period (the dates listed on the permit card). There is no daily fee -- just the one-time entry fee regardless of how many days you spend in the park.

Do I need a separate permit for Gokyo Lakes or Three Passes?

No. The Sagarmatha National Park permit covers all areas within the park, including the Gokyo valley, Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La passes. The same permit covers EBC, Gokyo, Three Passes, and any combination thereof.

Can I pay in USD at the Monjo checkpoint?

The checkpoint primarily accepts Nepali Rupees. While they may accept USD in some cases, this is not guaranteed, and you may receive unfavorable exchange rates. Bring NPR cash to be safe.

What happens if my trek runs longer than planned?

If weather, illness, or other circumstances extend your trek beyond the dates on your permit, rangers are generally understanding. Explain your situation at the next checkpoint. You are unlikely to face penalties for legitimate delays. However, significantly exceeding your permit dates without explanation may raise questions.

Is the Sagarmatha permit the same as the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee?

No. These are separate fees. The Sagarmatha National Park permit is a federal government fee for the national park. The Khumbu Rural Municipality fee is a local government fee. You may need to pay both. Your agency will typically handle all required fees.

Can I visit Sagarmatha National Park as a day trip?

Technically yes, but practically no. The park entrance is at Monjo, which requires at least a flight to Lukla and a day's trek to reach. There are no road access points to the park. Day visits are not feasible for most travelers.

Do children need a separate permit?

Children under 10 enter free but should still be registered at the checkpoint. Children 10 and older pay the full fee. Bring the child's passport as proof of age.

Summary

The Sagarmatha National Park permit is a straightforward but essential requirement for any trek in the Everest region. The simplest approach is to have your trekking agency handle it as part of your trek package. If you prefer to arrange it yourself, visit the NTB office in Kathmandu the day before your trek with your passport, photos, and cash.

The NPR 3,000 fee represents remarkable value -- it grants you access to a UNESCO World Heritage Site containing the highest mountain on Earth, extraordinary biodiversity, and one of the world's great trekking regions. The fee directly supports the conservation and community programs that keep this extraordinary place intact for future generations of trekkers and the Sherpa communities who call it home.

For the full picture of all permits required for trekking in Nepal, see our comprehensive Nepal trekking permits guide. For Everest region-specific planning, see our guides to the EBC trek, Gokyo Lakes, and the best time to trek the Everest region.