Is a guide officially mandatory for the ABC trek in Nepal (current rules)?
Hi everyone,
I’m planning to do the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek in Nepal soon, and I’m getting mixed information online about the guide rules.
I would prefer to trek independently without a guide, but I want to understand the actual legal/official situation.
As of 2025/2026, is hiring a licensed guide officially mandatory for foreign trekkers on the ABC trek according to Nepal rules? Or is it just recommended but not strictly required/enforced?
Would especially appreciate answers from:
- people who recently did ABC without a guide
- anyone who got permits themselves
- locals/guides who know the current enforcement situation at checkpoints
Not looking for opinions on whether I should hire a guide - just trying to understand the official rule vs. real-world enforcement. Thanks!