• Jasmine Neupane
  • Updated on Dec 4, 2024

A Complete Guide on Drones Rules in Nepal

Table of Contents

Nepal continues to be a traveler's dream, with its majestic mountains, lush dense forests, and breathtaking valleys. Every year, travelers and photographers travel from all over the world to see this natural splendor.

Just like trekking, photography has evolved in Nepal. Photography using drones is growing increasingly popular in Nepal, and people are using it to capture the country's stunning scenery from various perspectives. Nepal has every type of landscape potential for the perfect drone photo. There are tranquil high-altitude lakes, lonely valleys, tropical forests, alpine grasslands, and a lot more.

You'll have lots of opportunities to capture pictures of Nepal's mountains from Everest's snow-covered snow-capped slopes to the Annapurna highlands, which are covered with pink and crimson rhododendron flowers in the spring and autumn. Enjoy your hiking trip in Nepal while shooting amazing photos of the Himalayas.

However, despite this attraction, there are numerous fundamental problems about the legality of drones in Nepal. Many people are wondering whether we can bring a drone to Nepal.

As a result, we hope that this blog will answer all of your questions and clear up any confusion about drone activities in Nepal.

Can we bring drones to Nepal?

So, are drones legal in Nepal? The answer is simple: yes. You can carry a drone to Nepal. However, you must follow the right procedure to apply for a flying permit while obeying all laws imposed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN).

Drone Regulations in Nepal

There are some requirements and regulations you have to meet before visiting Nepal with a drone. The first step is to obtain a customs clearance certificate for the device from the Customs Office at Tribhuvan International Airport. The next step is to register your gadget and receive permits from the following departments/government offices:

  1. Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal

  2. Ministry of Home Affairs

  3. Department of Tourism

  4. Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation

Drone Registration in Nepal

It is required to register all flying equipment used for any purpose with the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal and get a unique identification number (UIN) for your item.

This is significant because after acquiring the UIN, you must apply it to the device by mentioning it on a SIM card, an ID tag, or a security plate.

To register your drone and acquire a UIN, complete a registration form and go to the Flight Safety Standard Department (FSSD) for further instructions. Make sure you carry your drone and the following documents:

  • Duly filled Application Form- RPA/Form/001 for Drone Registration

  • Photograph of drone showing drone serial number

  • Registration fee USD 10 plus 13 % VAT

  • Passport Size color Photograph of applicant

  • Tribhuvan International Airport Custom Declaration of Drone

  • Tribhuvan International Airport Custom Declaration of Drone

  • Copy of Foreign Passport with valid visa of Nepal

  • Purpose of Operation and Letter of commitment – RPA/Form/002

All these documents should be compulsorily attested with the application form to be submitted at the CAAN.

Drone Category in Nepal

Category

Operations

Weight

A

Very Low Risk

Less than 250 gms

B

Low Risk

250 gms to 2 kg

C

Regulated Low Risk

2 kg to 25 kg

D

Regulated High Risk

Above 25 kg

Category A: "Very Low Risk" Operations:
These operations apply to drones weighing less than 250 grams. Drones in this category are thought to cause little threat to the airspace and the surrounding area. They usually involve small, easy to carry drones used for free time or basic photography from above.

Category B: "Low Risk" Operations:
Operations in this category use drones weighing between 250 grams and 2 kilograms. While still considered low-risk, these drones may be significantly larger and capable of carrying greater loads. They are commonly used for recreational purposes, aerial photography, and small-scale business uses.

Category C: "Regulated Low Risk" Operations.
Drones designated as Category C weigh between 2 and 25 kg. These operations are deemed low risk, but they are regulated and monitored by aviation authorities. Drones in this classification are frequently used for business reasons such as surveying, mapping, agricultural, and infrastructure evaluations.

Category D: "Regulated High Risk" Operations.
This category includes drones with a weight greater than 25 kg. Operations employing such drones are rated as high risk due to their larger size and potential for greater effect in the case of an accident or failure. Category D businesses are subject to strict restrictions and safety standards. These drones are commonly employed for specialized tasks including heavy cargo hauling, industrial inspections, and emergency response missions.

Authorities can develop appropriate regulatory frameworks and safety precautions for various types of drone activities by categorizing them based on their maximum take-off weight (MTOW).

Points to Consider Before Traveling to Nepal with Drones.

  • To begin, determine whether your drone meets the security regulations established by the airline or airport in your nation.

  • Second, determine whether your drone is carrying any dangerous products that fail to meet with transportation standards. (For example, high-voltage batteries might demand additional explanation while passing through airport security.)

  • Third, research and review your airline's specific drone travel restrictions.

  • Finally, ensure that the rules governing drones are in effect where you intend to take off and land.

However, operating a drone in Nepal is not straightforward. Before utilizing a drone, you need be aware of some things. You must be familiar with Nepal's drone rules, regulations, and authorization processes. You may take a brief exam to ensure that you understand the regulations. Furthermore, if you wish to fly a drone in Nepal, plan your trip for when conditions are optimum.

No-fly zones

The following are the locations where drones are not permitted.

  • UNESCO World Heritage sites and sacred locations, such as the Buddhaneel Kantha Temple

  • Airports and international boundaries within a radius of 5 kilometers

  • Singha Durbar and the official houses of the President, Prime Minister, and other significant officials within a radius of one kilometer.

  • Military and high-security areas

  • Conservation Areas and National Parks (filming is permitted with the required permit)

  • Conflict Zones

Penalty for violating Nepal's drone laws.

According to Nepal's civil aviation law, you will be punished or imprisoned based on the severity of the crime.

Things to consider while operating a drone in Nepal.

A drone is capable of performing tasks that a normal camera cannot. It can reveal a perspective that is not visible to the naked eye. As a result, it is always prudent to use caution when operating a drone. The following are some tips for flying a drone in Nepal.

  • Respect people's privacy and avoid invading their personal places.

  • Drones must not be utilized to transport things that could endanger living beings.

  • Ensure your drone flies in accordance with your vision.

  • Avoid flying in populated regions, events with huge crowds, and disaster areas.

  • Do not fly your drone if it's misty or foggy.

  • Flying a drone at night can lead to accidents.

  • Keep your drone below 400 m and away from flying objects.

  • Make sure you're not breaching any local restrictions while flying your drone.

  • Respect the locals' concerns and refrain from taking drone shots if you are asked not to, especially during religious occasions.

Nepal - An Ideal Location to Film a Drone Video

Nepal, with its lush woods, high Himalayan mountains, and alpine valleys, is a photographer and traveler's heaven. The country's pristine landscape and snow-covered mountains provide numerous photo possibilities for eager tourists and vloggers.

From the Annapurna highlands awash in pink and crimson rhododendron blossoms in the spring to Everest's snow-covered alpine meadows, the mountains of Nepal will give you several opportunities to capture magnificent aerial photographs. Enjoy your trekking expedition while capturing breathtaking footage of the Himalayas.

While obtaining a drone permit can be stressful for a visitor, one can always seek assistance from a trustworthy local organization. Going around the local offices can be intimidating because of the numerous communication issues that may arise. 

Using the services of a local travel agency can make the process go much more smoothly and quickly. Each day of your vacation is valuable, and you don't want to spend it running around government offices. Employing a local agency to complete tasks can be beneficial. You save both time and work.

The Civil Aviation Authority's website provides more specific information about drone rules in Nepal.

 

Jasmine Neupane

Jasmine Neupane

I'm Jasmine Neupane, a passionate tour operator and avid blogger, ready to embark on adventures both on the ground and in the digital realm. With a bachelor's degree in Travel and Tourism Management under my belt, I've cultivated a deep understanding of the industry and a fervent love for exploration.

At 24 years old, I bring youthful energy and fresh perspectives to the world of travel. Whether I'm crafting immersive itineraries for eager travelers or penning captivating stories on my blog, I'm always on a quest to inspire others to discover the wonders of our diverse planet.

Join me as I navigate through the vibrant tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences that make travel truly transformative. From hidden gems off the beaten path to bustling metropolises brimming with life, I invite you to journey with me as we uncover the beauty and excitement that awaits around every corner.

Welcome aboard, fellow adventurers. Let's wanderlust together.

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