July 28, 2025
Drone filming in Nepal offers breathtaking opportunities—from aerial shots of Himalayan peaks to cinematic sweeps over heritage sites and jungles. But Nepal enforces strict drone regulations, and foreign filmmakers must secure multiple layers of permission before legally flying a drone.
This guide walks you through the entire process for getting drone approval in Nepal as a foreign content creator, commercial filmmaker, or documentarian—so you can plan ahead, avoid legal issues, and fly responsibly.
Why Nepal Is Strict About Drones
Nepal’s geography and geopolitics contribute to tighter drone control:
- Proximity to military zones and international borders
- Sensitive heritage and religious sites
- Conservation laws protecting national parks and endangered species
- Past cases of unauthorized drone activity near airports and temples
Flying without permission can result in equipment confiscation, fines, or even arrest, especially in areas like Kathmandu, Lukla, Chitwan, and Upper Mustang.
Who Needs Drone Permissions?
You need permission if:
- You are not a Nepali citizen or resident
- You are using a drone for any commercial, research, or creative purpose
- Your drone weighs over 250 grams
- You’re filming in national parks, urban areas, or World Heritage sites
Even hobbyists are required to register and declare drones at customs upon arrival.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Drone Permissions in Nepal
Here is the streamlined process, as of 2025:
1. Apply to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN)
This is the central authority for drone operations.
Documents required:
- Drone specifications (brand, weight, range, frequency)
- Purpose of use (commercial/creative/research)
- Flight locations and dates
- Pilot license or previous flight experience (optional but recommended)
- Valid passport and visa copy
- Local contact or fixer details
Timeline: 2–3 weeks
Fees: No fixed fee, but certain applications (especially for commercial filming) may incur processing or operational charges.
2. Get Approval from the Ministry of Information and Communication (MoIC)
For any filming, you also need a separate Filming Permission Letter from MoIC.
Required:
- Synopsis or storyboard of your film
- Drone use specified in your application
- Crew and gear list
- Insurance proof (optional but advisable)
Note: If drone footage is a small part of a broader film shoot, you can request drone clearance as a clause in your main MoIC filming application.
3. Get Location-Specific Clearances
Depending on where you’re flying, apply to the following:
| Location Type | Authority |
|---|---|
| National Parks | Department of National Parks & Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) + Park Office |
| World Heritage Sites | Department of Archaeology (DoA) |
| Municipal Areas | Local ward office or metropolitan city |
| Monasteries & Religious Sites | Respective monastery/temple management board |
| Mountain Areas | Rural municipality or village council |
Some areas like Upper Mustang, Dolpo, or military zones require additional Ministry of Home Affairs clearance.
4. Declare Drone at Customs on Arrival
Upon arrival in Nepal (usually at Tribhuvan International Airport), you must declare your drone and present documentation.
- Have printouts of all approvals ready
- Fill out a temporary import form if requested
- Drones without paperwork may be seized or held until departure
5. Fly Responsibly
Even after you secure all permissions:
- Maintain line of sight
- Do not fly above 120 meters (400 ft)
- Stay 5 km away from airports
- Avoid crowds, religious ceremonies, and military installations
- Carry your documents at all times when flying
How Long Does It Take?
Total approval process:
3 to 6 weeks (especially if filming in protected areas)
Always plan ahead—don’t expect to land in Nepal and get instant clearance.
Tips for a Smooth Process
- Work with a local agency or fixer who understands the bureaucracy
- Map your flight areas using GPS coordinates and submit with your application
- Avoid drone use during major festivals or political events
- Respect local customs—some communities may object even with formal approval
Areas Where Drone Use Is Most Sensitive
- Kathmandu Durbar Square (and other UNESCO sites)
- Lumbini (birthplace of Buddha)
- Sagarmatha National Park (Everest region)
- Chitwan and Bardia National Parks
- Near the Indian and Chinese borders
- Lukla, Ramechhap, Pokhara airports
Alternatives if Drone Use Is Denied
- Hire a local drone operator with licensed clearance
- Use long-lens or stabilized handheld gimbals for dynamic shots
- Film from helicopter charters with civil aviation clearance