Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What specific production services does Icefall Productions provide?
We offer end-to-end production support for international and local projects. Our core services include:
Line Production: Budgeting, scheduling, and on-the-ground management.
Location Scouting: Finding and securing diverse locations, from the high Himalayas to the jungles of the Terai and the heritage sites of Kathmandu.
Permits & Legal: Handling all government paperwork with the Ministry of Information & Communications, Film Development Board, and local authorities.
Logistics: Arranging transport, accommodation, and travel specifically tailored for film crews.
Can you handle filming permits for sensitive or restricted areas?
Yes. Nepal requires specific permits for filming in National Parks, heritage sites, and restricted zones (like Upper Mustang). We have extensive experience navigating the bureaucracy to secure these permits legally and efficiently. We recommend contacting us at least 3-4 weeks in advance for standard permits, and earlier for restricted areas like Everest or National Parks.
Do you specialize in high-altitude or mountain filming?
Absolutely. True to our name, we have specialized expertise in high-altitude logistics. We can arrange helicopter filming, Sherpa support for crew safety, and high-altitude equipment transport. Our team understands the unique acclimatization and safety protocols required for shooting in the Himalayas.
Does Nepal offer any tax incentives or cash rebates for international productions?
Currently, Nepal does not offer government-funded cash rebates or tax credits for foreign films. However, Nepal is a highly cost-effective filming destination compared to other Asian countries. Our labor rates, location fees, and logistical costs are competitive, allowing you to achieve high production value on a modest budget.
Do I need to bring my own crew, or can I hire locally?
You can do either. We have a robust network of experienced English-speaking Nepali crew members, including Gaffers, Key Grips, Sound Recordists, Art Directors, and Production Assistants. Many international productions hire their Heads of Department (HODs) from abroad and fill the support roles locally to save on travel costs.
What kind of camera and lighting equipment is available in Nepal?
Kathmandu is well-equipped with professional gear. Through our internal inventory and rental partners (including Icefall Technologies), we can source industry-standard cameras (ARRI, RED, Sony Venice), lenses (Cooke, Zeiss, Angénieux), and grip/lighting equipment. If your production requires highly specialized niche gear, we can assist with ATA Carnet customs clearance to bring your own equipment into the country temporarily.
How do you handle Customs clearance for equipment we bring with us?
We manage the temporary import/export process for filming equipment. We will guide you through the ATA Carnet process or the temporary import bond procedure to ensure your gear clears customs at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) smoothly upon arrival and departure.
How do you manage transport for large crews in remote areas?
We operate a fleet of production-ready vehicles for city shoots. For remote or mountain locations, we arrange 4×4 jeeps, porters, yaks for gear transport, and helicopters for aerial shots or rapid crew movement. We plan logistics meticulously to account for Nepal’s terrain and road conditions.
Is it safe to film in Nepal?
Nepal is generally very safe for international crews. However, geographical safety (landslides, altitude sickness) is a factor we take seriously. We provide comprehensive risk assessments for every shoot and can arrange for on-set medical officers or high-altitude rescue insurance if the script demands extreme locations.
Does Icefall Productions co-produce projects?
Yes, we are active co-producers. We look for stories that have a strong Nepali connection or universal themes that resonate globally. If you have a script or a project proposal, we are open to discussing co-production structures where we invest our services and expertise in exchange for equity or rights.
What types of projects do you work on?
Our portfolio is diverse. We work on:
Feature Films (Fiction & Non-fiction)
Documentaries (Wildlife, Cultural, Social)
TV Commercials (TVCs) and Brand Films
Reality TV & Travel Shows
Your Vision. Our Craft.
Let’s Collaborate
Tell us a bit about your project whether it’s a feature film, commercial, documentary, or high-altitude shoot and we’ll get back to you soon.