A Filmmaker’s Guide
to Shooting in Nepal
Our company works with local professionals to make sure you
are getting the right help throughout media production.
Permits in Nepal: What You Need to Know
Nepal is a stunning country to film in, but it can be challenging when it comes to organizing permits. Luckily, it’s mandatory for a local production company like Fixer Nepal to handle your permit applications.
We’ll apply on your behalf to the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology for an international film shooting permit, and any further permits, such as those needed for the use of drones during filming. Permit applications can take anywhere between one week and two months to process, depending on whether you aim to film in non-restricted areas or more culturally sensitive places such as heritage sites and conservation parks.
Timing Your Nepal Film Production around the Weather
Kathmandu has good filming weather most of the year. For outdoor shoots, the best time in Nepal is October and November, with clear skies. The spring months of March, April and May are also fresh and pleasant, though storms are not unheard of. Winter is very cold with snow that, though spectacular to see, can be challenging to film in. Summer brings equal difficulties with regular heavy monsoon rains.
Planning Filming Equipment Rental & Local Crew Logistics
Renting equipment locally is the cheapest option when it comes to ensuring you have the filming equipment you need. You’ll avoid the significant red tape and customs costs associated with bringing gear into the country. This is because Nepal is not an ATA Carnet country, so importing equipment involves extensive paperwork and coordination.
There are several English-speaking film professionals here, so forming a great crew will not be a problem. Their rates are higher than crews in neighboring countries, but having reliable communications and support is worth it when dealing with filming logistics in a foreign country.
We’ll also ensure you are teamed with a top, English-speaking team, with the vetted credentials to ensure your video production happens smoothly and swiftly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it an ATA carnet country?
Nepal is not an ATA carnet country. As you must work with a local film fixer such as Fixers Nepal, they will help, engaging a customs broker if necessary.
Is it safe for me and my team to film there?
Yes.
Do I need a visa or a work visa to film there?
Most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival in Nepal. However, for filming, this visa must be converted to a film or work visa, depending on the scope of work. Certain countries must apply in advance at their local Nepalese embassy, so check to see if your country is one of them.
Do I need a local company to film or get visas there?
Yes.
Do I need a permit for drones?
Yes. And as a foreign filmmaker, you will also need a local, licensed operator to manage your drone.
Is there a cash rebate/tax exemption or any other fiscal advantage?
Not yet.
Can I shoot in a national park and, if so, under what circumstances?
You can film in national parks with the proper permits, but the process can take 2–3 weeks and your crew size and equipment will be restricted.
Working with Nepal Fixers
As a leading film fixer in Nepal, we aim to offer full-service support for your film or video. The work we do includes everything from pre-production planning and on-set support to all manner of logistics, remote filming and post-editing activities. We’re a member of Storytailors, a global video production support agency, with a client roll-call featuring some of the best-known brands across the world—Netflix, the BBC, the New York Times, Nike, Panasonic, UNICEF, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and more.
As part of this network, we’ve worked on several multi-location projects with our Storytailors colleagues around the world, ensuring that the Storytailors’ reputation for high standards and consistent success is readily maintained.