The Department of Immigration has reminded the stakeholders of the government policy regarding the mandatory provision of trekking guides while traveling to restricted areas in 13 districts across the country.
According to the Department, prior approval from the Department was needed for trekking in the restricted areas.
The Department has also stated that issuance of trekking permits for foreigners traveling in groups through agencies in the restricted areas was made prompt, efficient and user-friendly through the online system.
Department's Spokesperson and Director Tikaram Dhakal mentioned that contact numbers have been arranged to facilitate the service seekers in case of technical issues to receive trekking permits. The Department also decided to issue trekking permits to individual trekkers for going to the restricted areas.
The application should be filed through an agency to receive approval for trekking and the trekking guide should be mandatorily assigned as well as the entire responsibility related to rescue operations, in case of emergency, should be taken by the concerned agency.
The Department mentioned that a trekking guide could lead up to seven trekkers per group and the approval would be granted accordingly.
Foreign nationals going on treks could also apply for the permits from their own country by using their visa application number.
The Department stated that such a provision would contribute to the country's tourism promotion, employment creation, safety and security of trekkers and facilitation in trekking.
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