Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS)

Nepal’s tourism begins its new year, 2008, with a new system called the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS). Nepal, aptly, has been called ‘a Trekkers’ Paradise’. Its high-standing mountains, scenic hills, and the luxuriant Terai offer some of the most spectacular trekking routes in the world. Passing through diverse cultures and nature, trekking in Nepal is a lifetime experience that involves a certain degree of physical risk owing to the rugged topography.

With Nepal’s distinction as a trekking destination and its growing charm, a provision for the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) has been implemented to control illegal trekking operations and ensure the safety and security of trekkers in general trekking areas through the mechanism of Prompt Information Service as required.

The past experiences have shown that difficulties have been faced while carrying out rescue operations promptly during times of accidents and natural disasters. Due to a lack of a proper record system for trekkers, their exact whereabouts and information about trekking routes often led to difficulties in locating missing trekkers during rescue and search missions.

The provision of Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) has come into force from Jan 01, 2008. Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) and Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) have started recording trekkers’ details and issuing TIMS Cards to trekkers.

Where & How to Obtain a TIMS Card? 

The visiting tourists, who are interested in the general trekking areas of Nepal, are required to receive TIMS Card at Government Government-registered trekking Company, Adventure Discovery Treks and Expedition will remain open 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM hours a day all the seven days a week, round the year, To obtain TIMS Card you need copy of Passport and two copies of Passport-size Photographs.

Why is TIMS Necessary? 

All important details of trekkers and trekking routes shall be maintained on a computerized Database Management System that may be useful for the safety and security of trekkers. To help carry out search and rescue operations for trekkers in case of natural calamities and other accidents by means of the Authentic Information Service. To maintain a record system that includes personal details of trekkers, trekking area, trekking routes, handling agencies, duration, etc. The data generated from the system will be useful to all stakeholders: tourism organizations, Government agencies, diplomatic missions, tour operators, research institutes, etc.

Unauthorized trekking operations will be controlled, thus resulting in better management of trekking service and in the benefit of all concerned: trekkers, agencies, field staff, Government, etc., and also occasional untoward incidents will be better prevented.

To upgrade the service standard and contribute to better management of sustainable mountain tourism development in Nepal.

TIMS REGULATORY PROVISIONS

• Every trekker has to compulsorily obtain a TIMS Card before they enter any of the prescribed trekking regions and routes.
• A Free Individual Trekker (FIT) or organized group trekkers are required to keep TIMS along with them throughout their treks.
• TIMS has to be shown to TAAN / NTB authorities, national park check posts, conservation area check posts, and police check posts on demand.
• Trekkers are required to keep their copies of passports along with them for verification during trekking.
• TIMS shall be non-transferable, non-endorsable, and valid only for a single entry.

TIMS will not be required for:

• The expedition members are permitted to climb the mountains.
• The visitors in the controlled areas are permitted by the Department of Immigration.
• The foreign guests were invited by the Government of Nepal.
• The authorities from different diplomatic missions in the country, who are holding official letter/s and traveling own risk.
• Visitors on a certain mission are recommended by the concerned department of the Government.
• Foreign Nationals having a residential visa.