Nepal Group Tour How to Plan

Overview

Nepal is an excellent group travel destination — the infrastructure for guided group tours is well-developed, pricing scales favourably with larger numbers, and the shared experience of seeing Everest or crossing a high pass together is one of the most bonding experiences a group can have. However, group logistics require planning well in advance, particularly for permits, teahouse bookings, and domestic flight reservations.

Groups of ten or more trekkers require a licensed trekking agency guide and must obtain group permits. A ratio of one guide per eight trekkers is standard, supplemented by one porter per one to two trekkers (porters carry a maximum of 30 kg by regulation). Book teahouses on popular routes (Poon Hill, Everest region, Annapurna Circuit) three to six months ahead for groups. Most teahouses have eight to twelve rooms; groups of twenty or more may need to split across adjacent properties.

Domestic flights for groups must be booked well in advance — Yeti Airlines and Buddha Air have limited seat blocks for group sales. Overland transport by chartered private bus is often more reliable for groups of 15-40 people on the Kathmandu-Pokhara and Pokhara-Chitwan routes.

FAQ

What is the maximum group size for trekking permits in Nepal?
There is no official maximum, but practical trail and teahouse capacity limits groups on popular routes to around 20-30 effectively. Special routes can accommodate larger groups with advance coordination.

Do all group members need individual TIMS cards?
Yes. TIMS cards are issued individually and must show each trekker's personal details and passport number. Group applications can be processed together through a registered agency.