Drone Regulations in Nepal: A Complete Guide for Foreigners

Flying drones in Nepal offers a unique opportunity to capture the country’s breathtaking landscapes, from the towering Himalayas to its ancient temples and pristine national parks. However, before you take to the skies, it’s essential to understand the country’s drone regulations to ensure a smooth and legal flying experience. Nepal has implemented strict guidelines to regulate drone activities, ensuring the safety of airspace, wildlife, and cultural heritage.

For foreigners, flying a drone in Nepal requires obtaining the necessary permits, registration, and authorization from various government bodies, including the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to obtain your drone permit, including the documents required, how to apply, and what regulations you must follow. By complying with these regulations, you can enjoy a hassle-free drone flying experience in one of the world’s most beautiful countries.

Whether you’re visiting Nepal for leisure, filming, or research, it’s crucial to understand and follow all drone laws to avoid penalties and ensure safe operations. From altitude restrictions to no-fly zones and insurance requirements, this guide covers everything you need to know to operate your drone legally in Nepal. By preparing in advance and working with reliable agencies, you can ensure your drone experience in Nepal is both enjoyable and fully compliant with local laws.

Why Drone Regulations in Nepal are Crucial

Nepal’s breathtaking scenery, including towering mountains like Mount Everest, ancient temples, and pristine national parks, makes it a top destination for drone enthusiasts. Drones are commonly used for aerial photography, videography, research, surveying, and more. However, due to their potential impact on air safety, privacy, and the environment, the government has implemented regulations that govern the operation of drones in the country.

By adhering to these regulations, drone operators help ensure that their activities do not endanger wildlife, disturb local communities, or interfere with other aviation activities. These regulations also help maintain the safety and security of Nepal’s airspace, especially in high-altitude regions where air traffic is carefully controlled.

General Rules for Flying Drones in Nepal

Before you start flying your drone in Nepal, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the general rules that govern drone operations. These rules help maintain safety, respect privacy, and protect Nepal’s cultural and natural heritage.

1. Altitude Limits: The maximum allowable altitude for drone flights in Nepal is 400 feet (120 meters) in non-restricted airspace. For areas near airports or congested areas, the altitude limit is reduced to 200 feet (60 meters). These restrictions are enforced to avoid interference with manned aircraft and ensure drone operations are safe.
2. No-Fly Zones: There are specific areas where drones are prohibited, including:
3. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Drone flights over cultural heritage sites, including temples and historical monuments, are strictly controlled.
4. National Parks and Protected Areas: Drones are not allowed over wildlife reserves or national parks, unless special permission is granted from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC).
5. Airports and Military Zones: Drones cannot be flown within a specified distance from airports, military zones, or other sensitive government locations to avoid air traffic interference.

3. Line of Sight: Operators must keep their drone within visual line of sight at all times during the flight. Using FPV (First Person View) systems is only permitted if a spotter is present and in communication with the pilot.
4. No Night Flying: Drone flights are prohibited at night unless prior permission has been obtained from the relevant authorities. This ensures safety and reduces the risk of accidents in low-visibility conditions.
5. Respect for Privacy: Drones should not be used for unauthorized surveillance or to invade the privacy of individuals. Avoid flying over private property without the owner’s consent.

Authorities Responsible for Drone Regulations in Nepal

In Nepal, drone operations are governed by multiple government sectors to ensure the safety and security of the airspace. Before flying a drone, you must obtain the necessary permits from these agencies:

1. Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN): CAAN is the primary authority responsible for overseeing aviation activities in Nepal. The agency sets regulations for the use of drones, including how drones should be operated, the areas where drones can be flown, and the safety measures that must be followed. Foreigners who wish to fly drones in Nepal must obtain approval from CAAN before taking to the skies.
2. Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA): The Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation plays an important role in regulating drone flights in Nepal, especially in areas with cultural or historical significance. If you plan to fly your drone near or over UNESCO World Heritage Sites or national parks, you must also obtain approval from the MoCTCA. This is to protect heritage sites and wildlife from the possible disruption caused by drone flights.
3. Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC): If you intend to fly your drone over national parks or conservation areas in Nepal, you must get approval from the DNPWC. These protected areas are home to a rich variety of wildlife, and the use of drones is strictly regulated to avoid disturbing the natural habitat of animals and birds.
4. Nepal Police and Local Authorities: Depending on where you want to fly your drone, you may need approval from local authorities or the Nepal Police. This is particularly the case in sensitive areas, high-security zones, or remote regions where additional safety measures are necessary. It’s crucial to check with local authorities for specific rules regarding drone operations.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Drone License in Nepal?

Foreigners who wish to operate drones in Nepal need to apply for a drone permit through the appropriate channels. The process for obtaining approval and the necessary flight permits usually takes 1.5 to 2 months. This timeline accounts for document verification, application review, and approval by the relevant authorities. It’s important to plan ahead and submit your application well in advance to avoid delays and ensure your drone flight is legally authorized.

Necessary Documents for Obtaining a Drone Flight Permit in Nepal

To fly a drone legally in Nepal, you must submit several documents as part of the application process. These documents help the authorities verify your identity, drone specifications, and flight purpose. The comprehensive list of the required documents are:

1. Copy of Your Passport (Photo Page): A clear copy of photo page of your passport is required for identity verification. The authorities need to confirm that you are a legitimate foreign visitor or tourist in Nepal.
2. Arrival Stamp in Nepal: A stamp on your passport indicating your arrival in Nepal is necessary. If you have not yet arrived in Nepal or do not have the arrival stamp in your passport, companies like Female Guide Holiday can assist you by processing it under their company name. This process typically takes about 15 days.
3. Drone Details (Make and Model): You must provide specific details about your drone, including the make, model, and technical specifications. This helps authorities determine whether your drone complies with national safety and operational regulations.
4. Drone Serial Number: The unique serial number of your drone is required for registration purposes. This helps authorities track and identify your drone in case of any issues.
5. Drone Purchase Bill: A copy of the bill or invoice from the drone’s purchase is required to verify that the drone is legally owned and registered. This also helps prevent the operation of stolen or unregistered drones.
6. Purpose of Flight: You must clearly state the reason for flying your drone. Whether it’s for personal use, commercial filming, or research purposes, authorities need to understand the nature of your drone activity.
7. Itinerary (Including Start and End Dates): A detailed itinerary outlining your planned travel dates and drone flight schedule is required. This allows the authorities to know when and where you intend to fly your drone, ensuring proper airspace management and safety protocols.

Steps to Obtain a Drone Flight Permit in Nepal

Here is a step-by-step guide to the process of obtaining a drone permit in Nepal:

1. Prepare Your Documents: Gather all the necessary documents, including a copy of your passport, drone details, purchase bill, and itinerary. Ensure all the required paperwork is in order before you begin the application process.
2. Submit Your Application: Submit your completed application and supporting documents to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). You can also seek assistance from a trusted local agency like Female Guide Holiday, which can help navigate the application process smoothly.
3. Review and Approval: CAAN, along with other government bodies such as MoCTCA, the DNPWC, and local authorities, will review your application. This step involves verifying your documentation, checking safety measures, and ensuring that your drone flight complies with national regulations.
4. Pay Fees: Depending on the type of drone operation (commercial or recreational) and the specific flight areas, you may be required to pay an application fee or processing fee. These fees vary and are usually part of the permitting process.
5. Obtain Permit and License: Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will be issued the necessary drone flight permits. This document authorizes you to legally operate your drone in Nepal for the specified duration and locations.

Registration and Authorization of Drones in Nepal

To fly a drone in Nepal, especially for foreigners, you need to register your drone and obtain authorization from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). This process ensures that all drones operating in Nepal comply with national safety standards and regulations.

1. Drone Registration: Before you can apply for a flight permit, your drone must be registered with CAAN. The registration process involves submitting your drone’s specifications, serial number, and proof of ownership (purchase bill).
2. Authorization Process: Once your drone is registered, you must apply for permission to fly. Depending on the nature of your flight, you may be required to submit additional documentation and follow a more detailed application process.

Insurance Requirements for Drones in Nepal

In Nepal, drone operators are encouraged to have drone insurance to cover any potential damages or accidents that may occur during flight. While drone insurance is not a mandatory legal requirement, it is highly recommended, especially for commercial operators or those flying in sensitive areas.

Insurance policies typically cover:

• Liability for damage to property or persons caused by the drone.
• Damage to the drone in case of accidents.
• Loss of the drone due to unforeseen circumstances, such as crashes or malfunctions.

Having drone insurance provides peace of mind and ensures you are financially protected in case of an incident. It is also a factor considered when applying for flight permits in Nepal, especially for commercial operations.

Penalties for Violating Drone Laws in Nepal

Failure to comply with Nepal’s drone regulations can lead to serious penalties. Violations can result in fines, the suspension or revocation of your drone flight permit, and, in some cases, legal action. Some of the potential penalties for violating drone laws include:

1. Fines: Drone operators who fail to adhere to regulations, such as flying in no-fly zones or exceeding altitude limits, may face fines. The amount of the fine varies depending on the severity of the violation.
2. Seizure of Drone: In cases of serious violations, such as unauthorized drone flights over sensitive areas, the authorities may seize your drone.
3. Revocation of Permit: Repeated or serious violations can lead to the revocation of your drone permit, preventing you from flying in Nepal in the future.
4. Legal Action: If your drone causes damage to property, disrupts air traffic, or invades the privacy of individuals, legal actions may be taken against you, leading to criminal charges.

To avoid penalties, always make sure to follow the guidelines set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). Also, respect no-fly zones, and seek the necessary permissions from local authorities.

Conclusion

Flying a drone in Nepal is an incredible experience that allows you to capture the breathtaking beauty of the country from a unique perspective. However, to ensure a safe and legal experience, it’s important to follow all regulations, obtain the necessary permits, and understand the insurance requirements and penalties for violations.

By working with reputable companies like Female Guide Holiday, you can streamline the permit application process and avoid delays. With the right documentation and adherence to the rules, you can enjoy flying your drone while respecting the laws and environment of Nepal.