Do Indian Travelers Need a Visa for Mount Everest? Complete Guide
Oct, 19 2025
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Mount Everest is the world’s highest peak, drawing adventurers from every corner of the globe. If you’re an Indian trekker eyeing the legendary base camp, the first question on many minds is: do you need a visa? The short answer is yes, you need a Nepal visa, plus a few extra permits to legally set foot on the mountain’s southern slopes. This guide walks you through every step - from choosing the right visa type to securing the Sagarmatha National Park permit, budgeting for fees, and avoiding common pitfalls - so you can focus on the climb instead of paperwork.
Understanding the Visa Landscape for Indian Citizens
India and Nepal share an open border for tourists, but that openness does not extend to a visa‑free entry for trekkers. Indian nationals must obtain a visa from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or apply online through Nepal’s e‑visa portal. There are three primary visa categories relevant to Everest trekkers:
- Tourist Visa (Single‑Entry) - most common, valid for 30 days, extendable up to 150 days with a fee.
- Tourist Visa (Multiple‑Entry) - useful if you plan to return to Nepal after a side excursion.
- Special Expedition Visa - issued for high‑altitude expeditions, often coordinated by a recognized trekking agency.
For a standard Everest Base Camp trek, the single‑entry tourist visa is sufficient, provided you schedule your return before the visa expires. If you’re climbing beyond base camp with a climbing permit, the expedition visa becomes mandatory.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Apply for a Nepal Visa from India
- Gather required documents:
- Valid Indian passport (minimum 6 months validity, at least two blank pages).
- Recent passport‑size photograph (white background, 2" × 2").
- Proof of travel - flight tickets or a confirmed trekking itinerary.
- Choose your application method:
- Online e‑visa portal - upload documents, pay by credit card, receive a PDF approval.
- In‑person at the Nepalese Embassy in New Delhi - submit documents, pay cash, collect visa on the spot (usually within 2 business days).
- Pay the visa fee. As of October 2025, the rates are:
- Single‑Entry Tourist Visa - US $30 for stays up to 15 days, US $45 for 15‑30 days, US $90 for 30‑150 days.
- Multiple‑Entry Tourist Visa - US $125 for 30 days, US $200 for 150 days.
- Special Expedition Visa - US $250 plus a refundable security deposit.
- Receive your visa approval (PDF for e‑visa) and print it. If you applied at the embassy, you’ll be handed a sticker to affix inside your passport.
- Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, present the printed approval and passport. Immigration officers will stamp the visa, and you’re good to go.
Most Indian trekkers complete the process within 48 hours, especially when using the e‑visa system.
Beyond the Visa: Mandatory Trekking Permits
Reaching Everest’s southern flank requires three extra permits in addition to your Nepal visa. Each permit serves a specific purpose - conservation, safety, and local community support.
- Nepal Trek Permit - Also called the Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card. Cost: US $20 (individual) or US $35 (group). Issued in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit - Protects the park’s fragile ecosystem. Cost: US $30 per person.
- Everest Base Camp Entry Permit - Allows access to the base‑camp area. Cost: US $15 per person.
Most trekking agencies bundle these permits into a single package, but if you’re going solo, you’ll need to visit the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or the park office in Lukla.
Key Checkpoints on the Journey: From Kathmandu to Lukla
Understanding the travel chain helps you anticipate where each document is required.
- Kathmandu - Arrive, clear immigration with your Nepal visa, and obtain the TIMS card and park permits.
- Lukla - Fly into the gateway town (1200 m) for the trek. Your base‑camp permit is verified here.
- Trailhead - Hike to Everest Base Camp, typically a 12‑day round‑trip. Your permits are checked at checkpoints in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.
Both Kathmandu and Lukla have tourist information centers that can help with last‑minute paperwork.
Cost Breakdown: Budgeting for the Visa and Permits
| Item | Fee (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single‑Entry Tourist Visa (30 days) | 45 | Most common choice |
| Tim s Card (Individual) | 20 | Required for all trekkers |
| Sagarmatha National Park Permit | 30 | Protects park’s wildlife |
| Everest Base Camp Entry Permit | 15 | Needed for base‑camp area |
| Agency Service Fee (if applicable) | 50‑100 | Covers paperwork handling |
In total, expect to spend around US $160‑$210 per person for visas and permits alone, not counting flights, accommodation, guides, or equipment.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Expired Passport - Ensure your Indian passport has at least six months left; otherwise, the visa will be denied.
- Late Permit Application - Permit offices close for a few weeks each year (typically late October to early November). Book at least two weeks before your trek start date.
- Missing Photo Specifications - Nepali immigration is strict on photo size and background. Use a professional service if you’re unsure.
- Ignoring the TIMS Card - Some trekkers think the visa covers the trek; it doesn’t. Carry the TIMS card at all times.
- Assuming Visa Equals Work Permission - The tourist visa does not allow any form of paid work. Any guide or porter must have a separate work permit.
What If You’re Doing a Full‑Scale Expedition?
Climbing beyond base camp requires a climbing permit issued by the Nepal Ministry of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation. These permits are significantly more expensive (US $2,000‑$4,000 per climber) and involve safety briefings, insurance requirements, and a minimum group size. Most Indian mountaineers partner with a licensed expedition company that handles the paperwork, insurance, and logistics.
Quick Checklist Before You Depart
- Passport (6 months validity, blank pages)
- Approved e‑visa PDF or embassy visa sticker
- TIMS card (individual or group)
- Sagarmatha National Park permit
- Everest Base Camp entry permit
- Travel insurance covering high‑altitude trekking
- Flight tickets to Kathmandu and Lukla
- Cash (USD or Nepali rupees) for on‑the‑trail purchases
Double‑check each item a week before your flight. Missing just one can delay your trek by days.
FAQs
Do Indian citizens need a visa to enter Nepal for trekking?
Yes. Indian travelers must obtain a tourist visa (single‑ or multiple‑entry) or a special expedition visa if climbing beyond base camp.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Kathmandu?
No. Nepal does not offer visa‑on‑arrival for Indian nationals. You must apply online or at the embassy before you travel.
How long does a Nepal tourist visa stay valid?
A 30‑day single‑entry visa is valid for 30 days from the date of entry. It can be extended up to a total of 150 days at a cost of US $125.
What permits are required for the Everest Base Camp trek?
You need a TIMS card, a Sagarmatha National Park permit, and an Everest Base Camp entry permit. Some agencies bundle these into a single fee.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
While not legally required, most trekking agencies and the Nepalese government will not let you register for permits without proof of high‑altitude rescue insurance.
Can I extend my visa while in Nepal?
Yes, you can apply for an extension at the Immigration Office in Kathmandu. The fee is US $125 for a total stay up to 150 days.
Armed with the right visa, permits, and a solid checklist, you’ll spend less time worrying about paperwork and more time soaking in the Himalayas’ awe‑inspiring vistas. Safe travels, and may your ascent be unforgettable!