Namo Nepal

Capture Nepal Safely and Legally 📸

Explore Nepal’s breathtaking landscapes with cameras and drones while respecting local laws and cultural sensitivities. Know the rules before you fly or shoot to ensure an amazing and trouble-free experience.

Always prioritize safety, privacy, and permits when using drones and cameras.

A drone flying over the Himalayas with a photographer capturing the scenic view.

Why Follow Photography & Drone Rules?

Protect Cultural Heritage

Safeguard local privacy and respect cultural sensitivities and sites.

Avoid Legal Issues & Fines

Ensure a trouble-free trip by avoiding significant penalties or confiscation.

Safe Drone Operation

Safely operate drones in Nepal’s stunning yet restricted and sensitive areas.

Preserve Natural Sites

Contribute to preserving Nepal’s precious natural and historic landmarks.

Key Stats: Unauthorized drone flights risk fines up to NPR 50,000 ($400). There was an over 35% increase in drone registrations in Nepal between 2022 and 2025.

Responsibility in a Photographer’s Paradise

Nepal is a photographer’s paradise, but drone use and photography come with responsibilities. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) governs drone flights, requiring permits for drones over 2 kg or flying beyond specified altitudes.

Photography rules protect privacy, safety, and respect for local communities. Follow Nepal’s regulations to enjoy your shoot without interruptions and to ensure your shots respect the local people and environment.

A photographer with a camera standing atop a mountain, capturing a panoramic view.

Five Critical Photography & Drone Rules

1. Drone Permit Requirements 📝

Drones >2 kg or flying above 120 meters require permits from CAAN, Ministry of Home Affairs, and Dept. of Tourism.

2. Flight Restrictions 🚫

Max altitude: 120 meters (394 feet). No flying over crowds, airports, or sensitive government areas.

3. Photography Restrictions 🖼️

Avoid capturing private property without explicit consent. Be mindful of rules in national parks and cultural heritage sites.

4. Respect Cultural Sensitivity 🙏

Seek permission before photographing people, especially in ethnic communities. Never disrupt religious ceremonies or sacred sites.

5. Safety & Privacy 🛡️

Maintain unaided visual contact (VLOS) with your drone. Never drop objects or animals from the drone.

Quick Summary of Key Drone Rules

Key Rule
Description
Drone Permit
Required for >2 kg or above 120m altitude
Maximum Altitude
120 meters (394 feet) limit
Distance Limit
500 meters (1,640 feet) horizontal distance
No-Fly Zones
Airports, government buildings, crowds >1000
Visual Line-of-Sight
Must keep drone in operator’s sight (VLOS)
Cultural Respect
Consent required to photograph locals
No Dropping Items
Prohibited from drones

Detailed Regulations and Consequences

Drone Law Compliance

Nepal’s drone laws were strengthened to balance technological freedom with safety, privacy, and security, enforced by CAAN.

  • Under 2 kg: Can fly up to 200 feet on *private property* without permits.
  • Larger Drones/Commercial Use: Require detailed approval from CAAN, Tourism, and Home Affairs Ministries.
  • Forbidden Zones: Flying near airports, historic sites, or mass gatherings is strictly prohibited.

Photography Ethics & Violations

Photography Guidelines: Respect local customs and ask permission before filming people, especially ethnic minorities. Avoid photographing military or security zones.

  • Fines: Penalties range from NPR 2,000 to 50,000 (~$40 to $400).
  • Confiscation: Unauthorized drone usage can lead to equipment seizure and legal action.
  • Impact: Violations negatively affect your trip and local communities/environment.

Plan Your Nepal Shot Right 🗺️

Stay informed, get permits, and capture Nepal’s beauty responsibly.

Quick Guide for Safe Flying:

  • Submit full specs and flight plans to CAAN.
  • Always fly below 120m and within 500m horizontally.
  • Keep Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) at all times.
  • Avoid crowds, military areas, and airports.
A drone operator navigating a drone in a scenic Nepali valley landscape.

FAQs: Drone & Photography Rules

1. Do I need a permit to fly a drone in Nepal?
Yes, for drones over 2 kg or flying above 120 meters altitude, permits are required from CAAN, Home Ministry, and Tourism Department.
2. Can I fly a drone without permission on private property?
If the drone is under 2 kg and flown under 200 feet, you can fly on private property with the owner's permission, but remain cautious of all other no-fly rules.
3. What are Nepal’s drone height limits?
Drones must generally stay below 120 meters (394 feet) above ground level, even with a permit.
4. Are there areas where drones are banned?
Yes, absolutely no-fly zones include airports, government/military sites, large crowds, and most national parks (without specific, hard-to-get permits).
5. Must I keep my drone within sight?
Yes, Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) is mandatory. You must maintain unaided visual contact with your drone at all times.
6. What are the penalties for illegal drone flights?
Penalties include fines up to NPR 50,000 (~$400), equipment confiscation, and potential legal actions, severely impacting your trip.
7. Can I film people or festivals with a drone?
Only with expressed consent and strictly within flight regulations (e.g., avoiding flying over large crowds or disrupting ceremonies).
8. Is drone use allowed in national parks?
Only with highly specialized and rarely granted permits. Many parks, especially conservation areas, restrict drone flights completely to protect wildlife.
9. Are there special rules for commercial drone use?
Yes, commercial flights require even more detailed documentation and stricter approvals from CAAN and the Ministry of Tourism than recreational flights.
10. Can foreigners apply for drone permits easily?
The process is well-defined but requires strict adherence to multiple steps and may take time. It must be completed *before* any drone operation commences.

Capture Nepal’s Beauty Responsibly ✈️

Follow rules, get permits, and fly safely to protect yourself and Nepal’s majestic landscapes.

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