Nepal is opening up 97 mountain peaks for free climbing over the next two years to ease the heavy tourist influx on Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. This move complements Kathmandu’s recent decision to increase the Everest summit fee to $15,000 starting September 2025. The Department of Tourism aims to encourage visitors to explore Nepal’s lesser-known natural treasures.
Mountaineering is a vital source of revenue for Nepal, generating $5.9 million last year. The fee waiver will apply to peaks in the Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces, with heights between 5,970 meters (19,590 feet) and 7,132 meters. Despite their stunning landscapes, these regions currently see fewer tourists compared to more popular destinations.
Himal Gautam, Director of Tourism, highlighted the low visitor numbers to these areas and expressed hope that the initiative will boost tourism there. While it is not yet clear if the government plans to improve infrastructure in these remote regions, interest among international climbers is growing. Notably, only 68 climbers reached these peaks in the past two years.
Mount Everest, standing at more than 8,849 meters, has faced overcrowding concerns, environmental damage, and deadly accidents in recent years. Responding to these issues, Nepal’s Supreme Court in April 2024 mandated restrictions on climbing permits for Everest and other peaks to better manage tourism and protect the environment.
This latest effort to promote alternative climbing options reflects Nepal’s strategy to balance tourism growth with sustainability and safety in its mountainous regions.
