Frequently Asked Questions
Straightforward answers regarding permits, mountain logistics, crew hiring, customs clearance, and budgeting for productions filming in Nepal.
Permits & Ministry
Do I need a government permit to film in Nepal?
Yes. Any commercial, documentary, TV, or feature film production requires official filming permission from the Ministry of Information and Communications. Depending on your locations, additional approvals from CAAN (for drones), National Parks, Heritage Conservation Offices, or the Ministry of Home Affairs (for restricted border zones) will also be required.
How far in advance should we apply for filming permits?
We recommend starting the permit process 3 to 6 weeks before your crew arrives. For standard shoots in Kathmandu or Pokhara, 2–3 weeks is often feasible, but restricted territories (e.g. Upper Mustang, Dolpo, Manaslu) and multi-ministry national park clearances demand longer lead times.
Can our crew enter Nepal on standard tourist visas?
No. Crews filming commercially must enter under accredited media/film permits approved by the Ministry of Information. Arriving on tourist visas with broadcast camera packages creates severe customs seizure risks at Tribhuvan International Airport.
High Altitude & Logistics
How do you manage camera batteries and gear in freezing alpine conditions?
Above 3,500m, lithium batteries drain rapidly. We deploy insulated battery thermal wraps, heated gear cases, portable solar power banks, and low-noise Honda generators at basecamp to maintain continuous charging cycles.
What medical and emergency evacuation measures are in place?
Our high-altitude units are guided by certified Himalayan expedition coordinators. We maintain structured acclimatization rest days, pulse oximeter monitoring, Gamow bags/oxygen canisters, and 24/7 direct standby with Airbus H125 rescue helicopter charter fleets.
How much schedule buffer should we include for mountain weather?
For shoots relying on mountain flights (e.g. Lukla, Jomsom, Juphal), always budget at least 1 to 2 contingency buffer days on each leg. Mountain airstrips operate under visual flight rules (VFR) and morning cloud cover can delay flights without warning.
Crew & Equipment
What equipment can be rented locally in Kathmandu?
Kathmandu rental houses carry ARRI Alexa Mini LF / 35, RED V-Raptor, Sony FX9 / FX6 / Venice, Cooke and Angenieux primes, Teradek wireless video, Aputure lighting, DJI Inspire 3 drones, sound kits, and grip vans. We verify and test all kit prior to your shoot.
Can you provide bilingual crew and native dialect translators?
Yes. We supply bilingual DoPs, focus pullers, gaffers, grips, sound recordists, and field fixers fluent in English, Nepali, Tibetan, Maithili, and Sherpa dialects.
Drone Filming
Is drone filming allowed in Nepal and how are approvals secured?
Drone filming is strictly regulated and requires CAAN (Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal) approval, Ministry of Defense clearance, and local park permission. We provide licensed local pilots, drone flight corridor registrations, and military liaison to ensure full compliance.
Budgeting & Finance
How is pricing structured and do you provide itemized accounting?
We work on 100% transparent itemized line budgets. You receive clear cost breakdowns for permits, vehicles, crew day rates, lodging, and fees with real vendor receipts and bank transfer documentation. No hidden commissions.
Do you adhere to ethical porter guidelines and fair wages?
Yes. We strictly adhere to International Porter Protection Group (IPPG) guidelines: verified weight ceilings (max 25kg), proper alpine clothing/footwear, shelter, and above-market fair daily compensation.
Have a Specific Question Not Listed Here?
Every production is unique. Send us your dates, locations, and kit list for immediate feasibility feedback within 24 hours.