Circumspect | Alert
The trekking and tour industry in Nepal boasts over 2,174 registered companies affiliated with the Trekking Agencies Association in Nepal (TAAN) as of March 2024. While the majority of these enterprises uphold legal standards by registering with the Nepalese government and the Nepal Travel Association, there exists a fraction that operates without official recognition, relying solely on expiring guide licenses to continue their activities. It's imperative for travelers to exercise caution when engaging with companies that may not adhere to legal regulations, may lack proper registration, or may evade tax obligations to the Government of Nepal. It's crucial for our valued travelers to Nepal to grasp the reality that certain agencies may conduct business without adhering to the legal procedures mandated by the country's laws.
We vigilantly monitor individuals who conduct personal, unaffiliated trekking, tours, and climbing activities, often through clandestine online platforms, which contravenes Nepalese laws and regulations as well as the guidelines set by trekking associations. Engaging with such illicit operators poses significant risks to travelers throughout their journey. Consider, for instance, whether such companies would be equipped to arrange helicopter rescues in the remote Himalayas in case of emergencies. Would they be financially prepared to handle unforeseen challenges without imposing additional costs on travelers? The answer is typically no, as these operators prioritize their own interests over the safety and well-being of travelers, often operating at the expense of their clients' security.
The Government of Nepal has explicitly disavowed these unauthorized entities, warranting heightened vigilance when dealing with them. Signs of deception may include the absence of contact information or essential company details on their websites, indicating their lack of transparency. We at Skyline Treks and Expedition urge all trekkers to demand the following documentation before embarking on any trek through unlicensed entities:
- Proof of registration with the Government of Nepal
- Positive reviews on platforms like Trip Advisor from previous clients
- Valid licenses and affiliations with reputable organizations such as TAAN, NMA, NTB, and KEEP, supported by legal documentation and employee insurance policies
- Transparent tax records and commitments to environmental sustainability
Fortunately, we are affiliated with both governmental and non-governmental organizations, empowering us to conduct trekking, touring, climbing, hiking and other travel-related activities in Nepal with authority and integrity.
The excellence and certification of our operations are evidenced by the following:
- Certificate of registration from the Government of Nepal
- Certificate of Excellence from the Nepalese Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation
- Endorsement from the National Bank of Nepal (Nepal Rastra Bank)
- Tax compliance certificate from the Nepal Tax Office
- Recognition from TAAN for our exemplary services
- High praise from former clients on Trip Advisor
- Comprehensive employee insurance coverage certified by Nepal Insurance Company
- Approval from the Department of Cottage and Small Industry
We encourage you to verify our registration documents, licenses, and authorizations on our website to alleviate any concerns you may have. We remain committed to conducting our operations transparently and responsibly, prioritizing the safety and satisfaction of our clients above all else. Our dedicated porters and guides go above and beyond to ensure your experience in Nepal is nothing short of exceptional. We urge you to choose a legitimate company wisely and invest your resources in the reputable Nepalese trekking industry. By engaging with authorized companies, you not only ensure the safety of your funds but also contribute to the sustainability and integrity of the industry as a whole.