Here are some of the more common questions we get asked
“Nepal is a beautiful place to film, with a wide variety of locations, from Mountains and hills to green forests.Given that Nepal is mostly a Hindu nation, there may be ethical issues to take into account when filming. While filming in religious settings or during times when there are religious events, it is crucial to respect local customs and traditions and to ask for permission from the appropriate authorities. It’s also crucial to dress appropriately and refrain from hurting people’s religious sensibilities.”
- General questions
Where do I begin?
It is advised that filmmakers who want to shoot a movie in Nepal work with Nepali coordinator firms or people because there are formalities that must be followed both before and after the filming permission is approved. Also, they assist you in obtaining local permits and getting in touch with Nepali authorities and residents who are involved in your production.
What kind of permits are needed for filming in Nepal?
You must obtain a filming authorization from the Ministry of Information and Communications in order to shoot in Nepal. You might also require extra approvals from municipal authorities or the National Film Development Corporation, depending on the specifics of your project.
What documents must I submit when requesting a filming permit in Nepal?
A letter from your local coordinator, an assignment letter from the international director, an application form, and supporting documents such a synopsis, the complete script, and a filming schedule are all required when applying for a filming permission in Nepal. You must also supply the names, passport numbers, roles, and arrival dates of any foreign film crew working on the movie.
How long does it take in Nepal to obtain a filming permit?
A Nepal filming permission normally takes 15 to 20 days to secure. But, depending on your project’s specifics and the season, this may change.
Are there any restrictions on the sites in Nepal where I can film?
National parks and conservation areas, for example, have entry restrictions or need for specific authorization in order to enter. Moreover, videography could be prohibited in some places of worship or cultural significance. It’s crucial to conduct prior research on and secure authorization for your prospective filming sites.
Can I enter Nepal with my own filmmaking equipment?
You can bring your own filmmaking gear into Nepal, yes. However, you’ll have to disclose your equipment when you get there, and you could have to pay a customs fee.
What season is best for visiting Nepal?
Nepal’s terrain, which is divided into three zones: the high mountains, the mid-hills, and the flat plains known as the Terai, affects the climate differently. The high mountain regions, including the hiking sites of Everest, Langtang, and Annapurna, have a chilly climate all year long. The major cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara are located in the mid-hill regions, which are typically cold, with the exception of the summer months from May to July. Some cities continue to have colder temperatures than other cities in the area, nonetheless. The Terai lowlands, which include Lumbini, Chitwan, and Janakpur, experience scorching summers (March to July) and frigid winters (December to February). Hence, if you’re going on a hike, September through November and February through May are the greatest months for walking because they have good daytime weather and slower-dropping nighttime temperatures
Which Nepali sites are frequently used for movies?
Mount Everest, the Kathmandu Valley, the Annapurna Circuit, and Chitwan National Park are just a few of the stunning filming locations available in Nepal. Every place offers different views and cultural encounters.
In Nepal, are there any regional production companies?
Sure, there are a number of regional production businesses in Nepal that can help with your project’s production needs. These businesses may assist with finding locations, obtaining licenses, renting out equipment, and employing local labor.
For my film production, may I hire local crew?
You can hire locals for your Nepali film project, yes. In the country, there is a number of talented and seasoned actors, technicians, and directors.
What kinds of goods from Nepal may I bring back?
A wide variety of handicrafts are available in Nepal and are well-liked by tourists. Along with the highly sought-after Pashmina shawl, you are allowed to return other items of handmade apparel such woolen sweaters, jackets, trousers, and caps. Additional things to think about are traditional and modern carpets, precious stones, jewelry, metal and wooden goods, the Khukuri, a curved metal knife, music CDs, Nepali paper goods, ceramics, spices, tea, and Thangka paintings. Exclusive showrooms with a focus on these products can be found in well-known locations including Durbar Marg, Asan, Thamel, Patan, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
What kind of catering choices are there in Nepal for film crews?
Nepal offers a variety of dining alternatives, including both local and foreign food. Booking catering services through hotels, restaurants, or independent caterers is an option. It’s crucial to include catering expenditures in your overall production budget.
Can I hire security personnel in Nepal for my movie project?
It is essential that you ensure the safety of your crew and your equipment, so yes, you can engage security professionals for your film shoot in Nepal. For a price, local security companies can offer armed or unarmed guards; it’s crucial to pick a reliable business with knowledgeable staff.
When filming in Nepal, are there any religious factors I should be mindful of?
Given that Nepal is mostly a Hindu nation, there may be ethical issues to take into account when filming. While filming in religious settings or during times when there are religious events, it is crucial to respect local customs and traditions and to ask for permission from the appropriate authorities. It’s also crucial to dress appropriately and refrain from hurting people’s religious sensibilities.
Is it legal to use drones to film in Nepal?
Drones may be used for filming in Nepal, but you must receive permission from the country’s civil aviation authority. Regulations and restrictions apply to drone flights, so it’s critical to adhere to safety precautions and secure the required authorizations before taking to the skies.
Are there any tax breaks or refunds available for Nepali film production?
There aren’t any tax breaks or incentives offered right now for filming in Nepal.
What kind of weather can I expect in Nepal when I'm filming there?
Tropical to alpine climates can both be found in Nepal. Despite the fact that the weather is typically dry and clear during the filming season, there may occasionally be snowfall or rain in some places.
Can I use animals in Nepal for my film project?
You can utilize animals in your film project in Nepal, but only if you follow ethical standards for animal welfare and secure the necessary licenses.
Does Nepal have any language obstacles for filming?
Although English is widely spoken in Nepal, Nepali is the country’s official language. To facilitate contact with locals, it could be useful to engage a native fixer or interpreter.
What kind of emergency assistance are offered in Nepal to film crews?
Nepal has hospitals, police, and fire departments as well as other fundamental emergency services. These services might, however, be scarce in rural or distant places.
Are there any tax breaks or refunds available for Nepali film production?
There aren’t any tax breaks or incentives offered right now for filming in Nepal.
What kind of weather can I expect in Nepal when I'm filming there?
Tropical to alpine climates can both be found in Nepal. Despite the fact that the weather is typically dry and clear during the filming season, there may occasionally be snowfall or rain in some places.
Can I use animals in Nepal for my film project?
You can utilize animals in your film project in Nepal, but only if you follow ethical standards for animal welfare and secure the necessary licenses.
Does Nepal have any language obstacles for filming?
Although English is widely spoken in Nepal, Nepali is the country’s official language. To facilitate contact with locals, it could be useful to engage a native fixer or interpreter.
What kind of emergency assistance are offered in Nepal to film crews?
Nepal has hospitals, police, and fire departments as well as other fundamental emergency services. These services might, however, be scarce in rural or distant places.
Can I use fireworks or special effects in Nepal for my film project?
Sure, you can use pyrotechnics or special effects in your film project in Nepal, but you have to get permission first and adhere to safety rules.
Are there any restrictions on the filming of religious or cultural activities in Nepal?
In order to respect local customs and traditions, it is vital to get permission and abide by rules before shooting any religious or cultural activities in Nepal.
What kind of internet and communication services are offered to film crews in Nepal?
Rural or distant places may have limited access to communication and internet services, while big cities and towns have a variety of mobile, landline, and internet connectivity alternatives.
Can I film sequences underwater in Nepal?
Since Nepal lacks any significant oceans or seas, there are few places to shoot underwater shots. Nonetheless, some freshwater rivers and lakes might present chances for underwater filming.
What types of audio and music production services are offered in Nepal?
Since Nepal has a long history of music, there are many talented musicians and sound engineers that can help with recording, mixing, and scoring for movies.
What kind of accommodations are there in Nepal for film crews?
You can bring your own filmmaking gear into Nepal, yes. However, you’ll have to disclose your equipment when you get there, and you could have to pay a customs fee.
What kind of transportation choices are there in Nepal for film crews?
Taxis, buses, and rental cars are available for use by film crews in Nepal. It’s crucial to remember that some places can have difficult traffic conditions, so make appropriate plans.
Do you have any concerns about safety when filming in Nepal?
Filmmakers should be aware of some safety issues, such as altitude sickness when filming at high elevations or potential political upheaval, even though Nepal is typically a peaceful country. Research is crucial, and safety measures must be taken.
Can I enter Nepal with my own filmmaking equipment?
You can bring your own filmmaking gear into Nepal, yes. However, you’ll have to disclose your equipment when you get there, and you could have to pay a customs fee.
Can I film in Nepal on private property?
Absolutely, you are permitted to shoot on privately owned properties in Nepal, including hotels, restaurants, villas, and other such buildings. Working with a local fixer or production company in Nepal is necessary to do this because they will communicate with the property owner and alert the Ministry of Information & Communication in advance while obtaining general permits. Please be aware that prices may change depending on the property owner’s quote, which Nepal Film Production can handle on our clients’ behalf. Yet, it’s important to respect all government institutions, and it might cause a number of problems if you videotape official facilities.
