Nepal Opens New Opportunities for Mountaineers: Free Ascents to 97 Himalayan Peaks to Boost Tourism and Regional Development
In a strategic move to attract more tourists and ease the overcrowding on Mount Everest, the government of Nepal has announced that climbing permits for 97 Himalayan peaks will be issued free of charge for the next two years.
These peaks, located in the Karnali and Sudurpashim provinces in the western part of the country, were previously subject to permits that could cost thousands of dollars, especially during the peak climbing season.
The initiative aims to promote tourism in remote, less-developed regions, thereby providing economic opportunities to local communities that have long remained off the beaten path.
Both regions are among the poorest and least developed areas in Nepal, often lacking proper infrastructure and logistical support for mountaineering activities.
By making these mountains accessible without permit fees, the government hopes to stimulate exploration and create a new source of income for residents.
Additionally, the price for climbing Everest will see a significant increase starting September 2025, with permits during the high season (April-May) rising to $15,000 — the first hike in nearly a decade.
Off-season permits in September-November will be priced at $7,500, while winter and February permits will cost around $3,750.
Authorities believe that these measures will help reduce overcrowding on Everest, alleviate environmental pressures, and foster growth in lesser-known regions with high potential for adventure tourism.
According to Himalayan tourism officials, the new policy is expected to attract a broader range of climbers and outdoor enthusiasts, potentially creating jobs and improving local livelihoods.
Last year, mountaineering permits brought in about $5.9 million for Nepal, with over 75% of that revenue generated from ascents on Everest.
However, just two years ago, only 68 climbers reached the summits of the newly accessible peaks, compared to over 400 permits issued annually for Everest climbs.
The country also faces increasing safety challenges; in 2024, Nepal’s Supreme Court mandated restrictions on Everest permit issuance to curb over-tourism and protect mountain environments.
Parliament is also considering legislation that would require climbers to conquer peaks higher than 7,000 meters in Nepal before attempting Everest, which could promote these free peaks as training and acclimatization routes.
The regional communities of Karnali and Sudurpashim remain cautious, as experts warn that infrastructure development is essential to handle increased tourist flow sustainably.
Recently, two war veterans, Ivan Tarn and Oleksandr Dashko, who lost limbs during military service, successfully summited Everest’s base camp at 5,280 meters as part of a charity project — an inspiring example that demonstrates the resilience of injured soldiers and their ability to pursue extraordinary goals.
Meanwhile, questions about infrastructure upgrades and access to remote peaks remain unresolved, with experts emphasizing the need for careful planning to ensure safety and ecological sustainability.