Foreign hikers require new TIMS card in Nepal

Planning a trek in Nepal? What you should know about the new TIMS card.

With its cultural history and natural beauty, Nepal is a favourite destination for hikers. The Government of Nepal and related organizations are now taking steps to help locate and contact hikers in the event of the emergency.

Check out the latest update from the U.S. State Department travel advice:

“The Government of Nepal has authorized the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) to implement a new system for foreign hikers called the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS). Beginning January 1, 2008, foreign visitors on hiking trips in Nepal , including those not with organized hiking groups, need to have a valid TIMS card issued by TAAN, its member agencies, or NTB. In the case of an emergency, the new system will help authorities ascertain the whereabouts of trekkers. TIMS cards are available free of charge through authorized trekking companies, the TAAN office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, and the NT office.”

For more information about Nepal, see our Nepal Travel Advisory page.