Nepal has issued climbing permits to 222 mountaineers from 42 countries for the autumn 2026 climbing season, with expeditions planned on two of the country’s 8,000-metre peaks, Mount Manaslu (8,163 metres) and Mount Makalu (8,463 metres). According to data from the Department of Tourism, recorded as of September 1, 2026, the permitted climbers include 173 men and 49 women. The figures demonstrate continued international interest in Nepal’s high-altitude mountaineering during the autumn season, traditionally one of the important periods for Himalayan expeditions.
Manaslu Draws Majority of Autumn Climbers
Mount Manaslu has emerged as the dominant destination among the two peaks, receiving 219 climbing permits. The group comprises 170 male and 49 female climbers from different parts of the world. The strong interest in Manaslu reflects the mountain’s established position on the international mountaineering circuit. At 8,163 metres, Manaslu is the world’s eighth-highest mountain and has become a major target for climbers seeking high-altitude Himalayan expeditions.
In comparison, Mount Makalu, the world’s fifth-highest mountain at 8,463 metres, has attracted three climbers for the autumn season so far. All three permit holders are male. The significant difference in permit numbers between the two peaks also highlights the varying levels of expedition activity across Nepal’s high-altitude mountains during the autumn season.
Climbers Represent 42 Countries
The autumn expeditions bring together mountaineers from 42 countries, underlining Nepal’s continued appeal as an international destination for adventure and expedition tourism.
China accounts for the largest contingent, with 39 climbers, followed by France with 26, the United Kingdom with 17, the United States with 11, and Canada with 10.
The participation of climbers from such a wide range of countries contributes to Nepal’s international profile as a leading Himalayan mountaineering destination. The autumn climbing season also brings expedition teams, guides, support staff and associated tourism activity to mountain regions and gateway destinations.
Nepal Collects More Than $661,000 in Climbing Royalties
The government has collected US$661,500 in climbing royalties from the 222 permits issued for Manaslu and Makalu as of September 1. The revenue generated from mountaineering permits represents an important source of income for Nepal’s tourism sector and contributes to the country’s wider mountain tourism economy.
With the autumn expedition season underway, further climbing activity could increase the number of international mountaineers visiting Nepal’s Himalayan regions. The continued demand for high-altitude expeditions also highlights the importance of maintaining safe access, effective expedition management and sustainable practices in Nepal’s mountain destinations. The latest permit figures reinforce Nepal’s position as one of the world’s premier destinations for high-altitude adventure and mountaineering tourism, with its Himalayan peaks continuing to attract climbers from across the globe.
