With the arrival of the spring climbing season, over 200 climbers have secured permits to ascend Sagarmatha (Mount Everest), the world’s highest peak, according to the Department of Tourism.
As of Thursday, a total of 214 climbers including 38 women and 178 men from 22 different mountaineering expeditions have received official permits to attempt the Everest summit. These climbers represent 31 countries, including Nepal, highlighting the continued international appeal of the Himalayan giant.
The Department began issuing permits at the end of March, marking the start of Nepal’s peak mountaineering season. “Climbers are now making their way toward their destinations,” said Aarati Neupane, Director at the Department of Tourism.
In total, the government has granted expedition permits for 17 different mountain peaks, including Everest, this season. So far, 497 climbers comprising 99 women and 398 men from 54 expeditions have obtained permits to scale various mountains across Nepal.
Substantial Revenue from Mountaineering Permits
Mountaineering continues to be a significant source of revenue for Nepal. The Department reports that Rs 365.815 million has been deposited in the government treasury from climbing-related royalties. Of this, Rs 316.986 million has been generated solely from Everest expedition permits.
Climbing Route Preparation Complete
In preparation for the summit attempts, the climbing route up to the Khumbu Icefall has been officially opened. The specialized team known as “Icefall Doctors” has completed rope fixing through the treacherous section, paving the way for climbers to progress toward higher camps and eventually the summit.
With the route now established and climbers steadily moving forward, Nepal’s iconic spring mountaineering season is well underway. The coming weeks will see increased activity in the Everest region, as mountaineers acclimatize, conduct rotations, and wait for favorable weather windows to make their summit bids.
