Trekking TIMS Information

Nepal, aptly, has been called ‘a Trekker’s Paradise’. It’s high standing mountains, scenic hills and the luxuriant Terai offers some of the most spectacular trekking routes in the world. Passing through the diverse, trekking in Nepal is a lifetime experience which involves a certain degree of physical fitness awing to the rugged topography.
With the distinction of Nepal as a trekking destination and its growing charm, a provision of Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) has been introduced to ensure safety and security of trekkers in general trekking areas and to control illegal trekking operations. This is done through the maintenance of information database of trekkers and the mechanism of Prompt Information Service as and when required.
Experience in the past show that there are many obstacles while carrying out rescue operations during times of crisis and natural calamities in the face of incomplete information. Because of lack of proper record system of trekkers their exact trekking routes are unknown and, therefore, rescue missions face difficulties in carrying out their job efficiently.
To counteract such problems of communication gap the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) was started from Jan 01, 2008. Through this, the details of trekkers to general trekking areas are recorded by trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) and Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and a TIMS Card is issued to trekkers which they must carry on their trip.

TIMS system is being implemented in a new format from April 1, 2010. NTB and TAAN have introduced separate TIMS Cards fro FITs and organized groups. FITs need to have Green TIMS cards by paying Nepali currency equivalent to US $ 20 per person, while those travelling  in groups need to have Blue TIMS card by paying Nepali currency equivalent to US $ 10 per person. Trekers takin the service of trekking agencies can pay fee for TIMS card in US dollars.
Where & how to obtain TIMS Card?
Trekkers to general trekking areas of Nepal must carry TIMS Card which they can receive at any one of the Following offices:
•    NTB, TAAN and Government registered trekking companies in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Opening Hours of TIMS counter:
•    TIMS counter at Government registered trekking companies will remain open 12 hours a day all the seven days a week round the year.
•    TIMS counter at TAAN/NTB offices will follow government working hours/days.
What you need to obtain TIMS Card:
•    Passport and two copied of passport-size photographs.
TIMS Card Issuing System
The following considerations have been taken into account in the process of issuing TIMS Card:
•    All important detail of trekkers and trekking routes shall be maintained on a computerized database management system useful for safety and security of trekkers.
•    This system will help during search and rescue operation for trekkers in case of natural calamities and other accidents by means of Authentic Information Service.
•    The system will maintain a database management that includes personal details of trekkers, trekking areas, trekking routes, handling agencies, duration and other necessary information.
•    The data generated from the system will be useful to all stakeholders including tourism organizations, Government agencies, diplomatic missions, tour operators and research institutes.
•    Unauthorized trekking operations will be controlled, thus, resulting in better management of trekking services benefiting all concerned: trekkers, agencies, field      staff        and Government; and occasional untoward incidents will also be better prevented.
•     The system will upgrade the service standard and contribute for better management of sustainable tourism development of Nepal.