Filming in Nepal

A country of spectacular beauty and serenity, Nepal is guarded by the mighty Himalayas – eight of the world’s highest mountains, warm and hospitable people ingrained in cultures dating back generations and diversity of topography, nature and abundant wildlife. Nepal is home to the most fascinating temples, shrines, stupas, festivals, living Gods and Goddesses and arts and cultures that have transcended time. This is the place where directors, cinematographers, writers, poets, dreamers and artists find inspiration for their art and creativity.

We welcome you to Nepal. Have an incredible filming experience, Come Shoot in the Himalayas Where your vision turns into reality!

Ministry of Communication and Information Technology

The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MoCIT) was established in 1992 and covers Postal Services, Telecommunications, Broadcasting, Press & Information and Film Development.

MoCIT’s main duties and responsibilities

• To develop/promote and disseminate arts and music that reflect national values, culture, art and heritage.

• Drafting of the Acts/Regulations related to film production, exhibition and distribution, and to promote the use of local resources related to filmmaking.

• To manage and regulate filmmaking in Nepal for foreign filmmakers.

Film Development Board, Nepal

The Film Development Board (FDB) was established by the Government of Nepal for the development and promotion of the Nepali Film Industry in June 2000.

FDB has been continuously working towards creating a supportive environment for the development of the Nepali Film Industry and promoting different aspects of film production in Nepal. It also works to promote films in the international market, and attempts to bridge the gap between film entrepreneurship and other government agencies.

FDB acts as a bridge between the public, the government, and the entire process of filmmaking. It functions to safeguard the interests of the people, serve as the watchdog of the government, and advocate for the rights of the filmmakers. The Board is also keen to facilitate foreign filmmakers who choose Nepal as a destination for film making

Filming Permission Procedure

Documents Required

Letter from the local coordinator: A letter made by the assigned local coordinator, informing the Secretary of Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MoCIT) about the purpose of applying for shooting permit.

• Authorization Letter: An assignment letter made by the foreign filmmaker, showing they have chosen and hired a local coordinator.

Application Form: An application form as prescribed by the rules affixing Nepali postal stamp amounting Rs 50.

Documents: Supporting documents needed for permit consideration:

    • Script of the filming story; story board for TV Commercials; synopsis for documentaries.

    • Theme (concept) and lyrics for music videos.

    • Details of content and objectives of programme presentation for TV programs.

Crew Member Details: Name-list, passport numbers, positions and arrival date of foreign film crew with bio-data.

Itinerary: A schedule of filming in Nepal specifying exact dates and locations (for all types of productions)

Equipment List: Equipment list with values for custom clearance.

Once the application is submitted, MoCIT may seek the following consent letters:

• Consent letters of concerned organisations:

• Consent Letter of Department of Archaeology if filming in archaeological places like Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, Changu Narayan, Durbar Squares, Boudhanath, Lumbini, Swayambhunath etc.

• Consent Letter of Pashupati Development Fund Office, Gaushala, Kathmandu if filming in the Pashupatinath temple area.

• Consent letter of Nature Trust for Nature Conservation if filming in Annapurna, Manaslu, Gaurishankar Conservation Areas, the fees is US $1500 (except SAARC countries), NRs 50,000 (SAARC countries), NRs 10,000 (Nepal). 25% extra will be charged for aerial (drone) filming.

• Consent letter of Ministry of Home Affairs if filming is to be done in Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpa. The fees is US $5000.00 in each place.

• Consent letter of Department of Wildlife Conservation, Babar Mahal, Kathmandu if filming in conservation areas.

• Consent letter of Lumbini Development Fund if filming in Kapilvastu Lumbini, birth place of Lord Gautam Buddha.

Note: Location fee/charges may be applicable depending upon the location where the filmmaker is going to shoot. For aerial (drone) filming operation - special permission from Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Defense would be applicable. You can directly contact at film development board ,Nepal we will be coordinating with local Film Production Companies to facilitate you and respond you all immediately.

Film Development Board 

Email:fdbnepal@gmail.com

Check the Filming Destination in Nepal Gandaki Province Documentary: Filming Destination Nepal-Gandaki Province Documentary