I’ve always dreamed of becoming a drone pilot, and taking shots of mountains and trekking trails from above had been on my bucket list. Finally, I bought one, and before heading out, I realized carrying it into the mountains wouldn’t be easy and that I needed to understand the drone rules in Nepal first.
While researching, I quickly learned that flying a drone in Nepal wasn’t as straightforward as I expected. From Nepal’s drone regulations to restricted areas in national parks and popular trekking regions, there was a lot more to learn than I expected.
Consequently, I created this guide. I’ll share everything I learned about drone permits, no-fly zones, trekking-specific rules, penalties, and practical drone travel tips to help you prepare before your adventure. Let’s start with my experience planning to fly a drone in Nepal.
To legally fly a drone in Nepal, you must register your drone with the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) and obtain flight permission before flying. Depending on where you plan to fly, additional approvals may also be required for national parks, conservation areas, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and restricted regions. The entire process usually takes around two to four weeks, so applying well in advance is recommended.
Why I Needed a Drone Permit in Nepal
When I started planning my Manaslu Circuit Trek, I knew I wanted to take my drone along. I was already imagining taking shots of the stunning panoramas of Manaslu, other peaks in the Mansiri Range, and the region’s green landscape from above.
At first, I thought packing the drone and carrying a few extra batteries would be the only things I needed to worry about. However, the more I researched, the more I realized that flying a drone in Nepal involved much more than simply pressing the take-off button. Just having a drone doesn’t mean we can fly freely anywhere.
There were different permits to obtain, restricted areas to be aware of, and specific rules depending on where I planned to fly. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) also requires drone operators to comply with specific registration and operational requirements, especially in protected areas and heritage sites, and near airports.
Since the Manaslu Region is considered a restricted area, I decided not to rush and to properly gain insight into the entire process before leaving home. The further I went in the process, the more I discovered how confusing the rules can be, even for locals like me.
Anyway, it turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. If you’re planning to bring a drone on your next adventure in Nepal, let me walk you through everything I’ve learned, starting with the basic rules and regulations.
My Drone
Speaking of the drone I used to shoot glimpses of my trek on the Manaslu Circuit, it’s a DJI Mini 4 Pro, and it weighs just 249 g (8.8 oz). According to CAAN’s drone classification system, my DJI Mini 4 Pro falls under Category A (Very Low-Risk Operations) because its maximum take-off weight is 250 g or less.
| Drone Category | Risk Level | Maximum Take-off Weight (MTOW) |
|---|---|---|
| Category A | Very Low-Risk Operations | 250 g or less |
| Category B | Low-Risk Operations | More than 250 g up to 2 kg |
| Category C | Regulated, Low-Risk Operations | More than 2 kg up to 25 kg |
| Category D | Regulated, High-Risk Operations | More than 25 kg |
Its camera has a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor with a 24 mm equivalent lens and an f/1.7 aperture.
It supports true vertical shooting with 4K/60 fps HDR and slow motion up to 4K/100 fps, and can shoot up to 48 MP photos. For advanced color grading, it offers a 10-bit D-Log M setting.
I bought it especially for travel photography and filmmaking to promote Nepal’s tourism. I had heard that most countries don’t require a pilot license or special permits to fly such a lightweight drone. However, in Nepal, the rules and regulations are slightly different from those in many other countries. Although my DJI Mini 4 Pro falls under Category A, I still had to complete the required registration and obtain flight permission before flying.
The Documents I Prepared
Actually, the required documents for flying a drone in Nepal differ slightly for Nepali citizens and foreign nationals. If you’re a foreigner, you should check the latest requirements applicable to foreign nationals. However, as a Nepali citizen, I had to provide CAAN with the following documents:
- Printed copy of my citizenship certificate.
- RPA/Form/001 (Drone Registration Form).
- RPA/Form/002 (Purpose of Operation and Commitment Letter).
- Recent passport-size color photograph.
- A photograph clearly showing the drone model and serial number, along with an aerial photograph taken by the drone.
- Copy of the drone specifications from the manufacturer’s manual.
- Copy of the VAT bill (since my drone was purchased in Nepal) or the customs clearance certificate (if imported).
Note: Since my DJI Mini 4 Pro weighs less than 250 g (Category A), these additional requirements did not apply to my application:
1. Drones in Category C and Category D (over 2 kg) must have a valid third-party liability insurance policy.
2. Applicants registering Category C and Category D drones must bring the drone to CAAN's Flight Safety Standards Department (FSSD) for physical verification before receiving the drone registration certificate.
3. The drone should have a model/serial number and a CE marking or type approval certificate, where applicable.How I Got My Drone Permit: Step-by-Step Process
What I first thought about the permit process was that it’d be like just filling out a form and waiting for approval. However, the process was much more time-consuming than I thought. Actually, registering a drone and obtaining flight permission were two different things.
After I finally understood the process step by step, I felt a bit more at ease, and everything became more straightforward. If you’re also thinking of making a drone vlog in Nepal soon, check the exact steps I followed.
Step 1: Register a Drone with CAAN
It’s the first step in operating your drone legally in Nepal. I submitted all the required documents mentioned above to CAAN’s Flight Safety Standards Department (FSSD) office in Sinamangal, Kathmandu.
Once my application was approved, I had to pay a USD 50 registration fee plus 13% VAT. Payment can be made either at the Rastriya Banijya Bank, TIA branch, or through ConnectIPS to CAAN’s FSSD account. I chose the latter and finally received my drone registration certificate with UIN (Unique Identification Number).
Note: The drone registration certificate is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be renewed annually.Step 2: Apply for Flight Permission
Since registration and obtaining the UIN are just the first step, I also had to submit a few more documents to apply for flight permission. They are as follows:
- A request letter explaining the purpose of my flight.
- A copy of my drone registration certificate.
- A map of the planned flight area.
- The GPS coordinates (latitude and longitude) of the flight area.
- My proposed flight dates.
- Drone operation specifications.
Note: If your planned flight involves private property or certain public areas, CAAN may require a No Objection Letter (NOC) from the property owner or the relevant authority.Step 3: Obtain Security Clearance
I let out a deep sigh after completing Steps 1 and 2, thinking I’d finally made it. Nonetheless, there was one more surprise awaiting me ahead, and that was a security clearance.
You know what? CAAN won’t grant flight permission without it. Therefore, I had to fulfill one more requirement by obtaining a security clearance from Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA).
Step 4: Obtain Additional Permission for Special Areas
After receiving CAAN approval, I had to apply for one last permit, as some locations require additional permission, such as the following:
- National Parks
- Conservation Areas
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Military or security-sensitive areas
- Protected government property
- Certain restricted trekking regions or areas managed by the relevant authorities
Since I was planning to trek the Manaslu Circuit, I also obtained additional permission because part of the trail passes through the Manaslu Restricted Area, while the entire trekking route lies within the Manaslu Conservation Area. Similar requirements also apply to other restricted trekking regions in Nepal, such as Upper Mustang and Nar Phu Valley.
Step 5: Carry the Required Documents While Flying
When it was finally time for the Manaslu Trek, I ensured that all the required documents I had worked hard to obtain for flying my drone in the region were in my backpack. Having them with me made it much easier to answer any questions from the authorities along the route.
How Long the Approval Took
One question kept running through my head throughout the whole process: “How long is all of this actually going to take?” I wasn’t just applying for a drone registration certificate; I was also applying for flight permission, security clearance, and additional permission to fly in a restricted area, as I was trekking on the Manaslu Circuit. Consequently, it wasn’t that easy to get all the required approvals in just a few days.
I had to visit CAAN first to obtain a drone registration certificate, and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) to obtain security clearance, along with the relevant authorities to obtain additional permission required for flying in protected areas. I have to say there’s no fixed timeline for the entire process.
I just kept running around from place to place with my documents until I finally got approval. A favor I did for myself was that I started the paperwork a few weeks before my travel dates, so if anything took longer, I’d still have time to finish everything without rushing. For me, it took almost two weeks to get the job done.
Therefore, if you plan to take your drone to any trekking destination in Nepal, especially a restricted area like the Manaslu Region, I’d strongly recommend starting your paperwork at least a couple of weeks before your trek. Even if you obtain a flight permission more quickly than expected, additional approvals can take extra time. Rushing through the process at the last moment may cause you more trouble.
Drone Registration Fee in Nepal
The fee that CAAN charged me for registration was USD 50 plus 13% VAT. In total, it amounts to USD 56.50. You’re required to pay it only after your application is approved. You don’t have to worry about paying early in the process; wait until your application is approved.
At the time of writing, this is the current CAAN drone registration fee. I also heard that the VAT was 10%, but that was the previous rate. Moreover, if you’re a foreigner and want to use your drone for documentaries or commercial purposes, you may need to obtain additional approvals from the relevant government authorities, depending on the purpose of your operation and where you plan to fly.
Mistakes I Almost Made
Before I began researching, I was staying cool, thinking I had understood everything. Nevertheless, in fact, I was just being overconfident.
Below are some mistakes I almost made, and I’m glad that I figured them out before it was too late:
- Thinking small drones under 250 g don’t need permission. Always check the latest CAAN rules and regulations before flying.
- Assuming trekking areas are unrestricted. Many trekking routes in Nepal pass through national parks, conservation areas, or restricted regions, where additional approvals may be required.
- Forgetting to carry my registration certificate. Ensure that you keep both printed and digital copies with you.
- Flying near airports or military areas. These are strictly no-fly zones and should always be avoided, or else you could face punishment.
So these are the things I learned from my experience. I also recommend not assuming anything. Instead, spare some time to check the latest rules and regulations before you head into the mountains, so you can enjoy your trip and drone videography to the fullest.
Where I Couldn’t Fly My Drone in Nepal
Before flying my drone in Nepal, I learned that having a drone registration certificate and flight permission doesn’t automatically allow me to fly everywhere. Some areas require additional approval, while drone flights are generally not permitted in others.
During my trip, I made sure to avoid flying in the following locations unless I had the required permission:
- Within 5 km (3.1 mi) of any airport or designated air route.
- Within 1 km (0.6 mi) of Nepal’s international borders.
- Sensitive areas in the Kathmandu Valley, including major religious, archaeological, and historical heritage sites, Singha Durbar, government offices, and the residences of the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, and other designated high-ranking officials.
- Within an aerial radius of 1,000 m (3,281 ft) of the offices and residences of the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, and other designated high-security officials.
- Within an aerial radius of 1,000 m (3,281 ft) of military headquarters and training centers, and 500 m (1,640 ft) around other security installations.
- National parks, wildlife reserves, conservation areas, and other protected areas without the required approvals.
- Reservoirs, mines, and geological resource areas.
- Areas affected by security operations or emergency situations.
- Any additional restricted areas announced by the Government of Nepal, provincial governments, or local authorities.
Tips That Made the Process Easier
Here are some tips that can make your drone application process easier, which I applied during my experience:
- Ensure all the required documents are prepared before visiting CAAN.
- Double-check the drone serial number before submitting your application.
- Clearly explain the purpose of your drone operation in Nepal.
- Carry printed copies of your drone registration certificate, flight permission, and any additional approvals, along with digital copies.
- Start the application process at least two weeks before your adventure.
Was It Worth Getting the Permit
Looking back, I think I made a wise decision by gaining insight into the drone permit application process a few weeks before my travel date. When I finally got the registration certificate, flight permission, and the required additional approvals, I had peace of mind and shot videos with confidence without worrying about facing legal issues later. Despite the lengthy process and the need for some patience, it was better to avoid fines and the risk of having my drone confiscated during the journey.
Final Thoughts
Nepal’s Himalayas look magnificent from above, and capturing their aerial views is one of the best things to have in our gallery. For that, we need to use a drone, and it comes with responsibilities. Having one doesn’t automatically give us the right to fly anywhere, anytime we want.
My experience showed me that going through the legal process to fly a drone in Nepal gives us peace of mind and confidence. The process might test our patience, but when it’s finally done, it helps ensure that we remain on the safe side throughout our journey.
If you’re also visiting Nepal soon for drone vlogging or filmmaking, know that obtaining the necessary approvals from CAAN and the relevant authorities is mandatory before flying. Always spare some time to check the latest requirements first, as rules and procedures may change over time.
Drone Permit in Nepal FAQs
Yes. Tourists can bring a drone into Nepal. However, before flying, they must register the drone, obtain flight permission, and secure any additional approvals required for the intended flight location.
Absolutely. Bringing a drone into Nepal isn’t a problem. Just remember that bringing it into the country and flying it are two different things. You’ll still need to complete the required registration, obtain flight permission, and secure any additional approvals required for your intended location before taking off.
Yes, you can. Even though the DJI Mini is small, don’t assume it’s exempt from Nepal’s drone regulations. You’ll still need to follow the applicable registration, flight permission, and approval requirements before flying. It’s always worth checking the latest requirements before your trip.
Yes, but it’s not as simple as packing it in your backpack. Since the trek passes through Sagarmatha National Park, you’ll need the required approvals before flying your drone, including permission from the park authority.
Usually not without permission. Most national parks and conservation areas have their own drone regulations and require prior approval before drone operations. It’s always best to check the latest requirements before your trek.
At the time of writing, CAAN charges a drone registration fee of USD 50 plus 13% VAT. The fee is paid only after your registration application is approved. However, additional fees may apply if you plan to fly within national parks, conservation areas, wildlife reserves, or other protected areas, depending on the required permits.
There’s no fixed answer. Some parts of the process can be completed fairly quickly, while additional approvals for protected or restricted areas may take longer. To be safe, I’d start the application process at least two to four weeks before my trek or trip.
Yes. If you’re caught flying without the required registration, flight permission, or other necessary approvals, or in a restricted area, the authorities may confiscate your drone and take further legal action in accordance with Nepal’s regulations.
Yes. If you’re planning to shoot videos for a business, a commercial project, a documentary, or monetized content, you may need additional approvals besides the standard drone registration and flight permission, depending on the purpose and location of the operation.
No. At the time of writing, the drone registration certificate issued by CAAN is valid for one year and must be renewed before it expires.
It depends. Third-party liability insurance is generally required for drones weighing more than 2 kg. For smaller drones, insurance may not be mandatory, but it is still recommended.
No. Flying a drone near Tribhuvan International Airport or within controlled airspace is prohibited unless you have specific authorization from the relevant authorities.
Yes, but with permission. Drone operations in Kathmandu require the necessary approvals, and additional restrictions may apply near airports, government buildings, military areas, and other sensitive locations.
