Source: https://rivet.global/blog/nepal-trekking-and-tour-companies-collecting-from-agencies
Published: 2026-10-15 · Updated: 2026-10-15 · By Rashidatou K.

# Nepali trekking and tour companies collecting from foreign agencies

Nepal's trekking operators are paid by agencies in Europe, the US and Australia. How payments reach Nepali banks, deposit terms and season planning.

## Key takeaways

- Foreign agencies pay Nepali trekking operators by international transfer to Nepali bank accounts.
- Tourism earnings are foreign exchange earnings and come into Nepal through banks under NRB rules.
- Deposits months ahead help operators prepare guides, permits and logistics for the season.
- Clear contracts on deposits, balances and cancellations protect both sides.

A Pokhara trekking company runs 60 groups a year on the Annapurna circuit, almost all booked through agencies in the UK, Germany and Australia. Deposits arrive in dollars and euros by international transfer from October for the spring season. The company uses them to book guides and porters, buy permits and secure lodges.

## How agencies pay

Foreign agencies pay Nepali operators by international bank transfer to the operator's account at a Nepali bank. Payments are usually in dollars or euros. Nepali banks credit them under NRB's rules on foreign exchange earnings.

## Terms that work

1. Deposit of 20 to 30 percent on booking.
2. Balance 30 to 60 days before the trek.
3. Cancellation terms stating what is refundable, when and in which currency.

Agencies that pay in full before the trek give the operator cash to prepare; operators that deliver well keep those agencies.

## Season planning

Spring and autumn bring most of the year's revenue. Set aside part of each season's receipts for staff, maintenance and marketing in the quiet months.

## Transfers take time

International transfers to Nepal pass through correspondent banks and can take several days. Ask agencies to send payments well before deadlines, with the booking reference in the transfer.

## Where Rivet fits

Rivet does not offer Nepal-registered companies accounts abroad, which Nepali rules generally do not allow. Agencies abroad that bank with Rivet can pay Nepali operators' bank accounts through Rivet's payouts where Nepal is among its destinations, with the rate shown before they confirm. Rivet is not a bank; regulated partner institutions hold the funds.

## Questions

### How do foreign agencies pay Nepali trekking companies?

Usually by international bank transfer, in dollars or euros, to the operator's account at a Nepali bank.

### Can Nepali tour operators hold accounts abroad?

Generally not. Earnings come into Nepal through banks under NRB rules.

### What payment terms are common?

A deposit on booking, often 20 to 30 percent, and the balance 30 to 60 days before the trek starts.

### How should cancellations be handled?

Set clear cancellation terms in the agency contract, including what is refundable and in which currency.