Nepal Opens 97 Mountains for Free Climbing to Promote Tourism in Remote Regions

Nepal has removed climbing permit fees for 97 mountains in the remote Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces for the next two years, aiming to attract mountaineers, boost local economies, and promote little-known mountains. The decision, made on July 17, 2025, covers peaks ranging from 5,870 to 7,132 metres, 77 in Karnali and 20 in Sudurpashchim.

Many of these are “virgin peaks” that have never been climbed, including Saipal (7,030 m), Api (7,132 m), and Api West (7,076 m). Tourism leaders hope the move will generate jobs and income for communities in areas with poor roads and limited economic opportunities. With climbing fees rising globally, from USD 350 for smaller peaks to USD 15,000 for Everest, this initiative could transform the far-western region into a new hotspot for adventure tourism. However, the success of the scheme will depend on improvements in access, infrastructure, and effective global promotion.

The decision was made during the cabinet meeting held on 18 Shrawan, which approved that all mountain climbing activities in these two provinces will be free of charge for a period of two years. Among these 97 mountains, three peaks rise above 7,000 meters, offering thrilling challenges for seasoned mountaineers.

Currently, foreign climbers are required to pay a permit fee ranging from USD 175 to USD 500 for these mountains. With the waiver, Nepal hopes to attract more international and domestic tourists, generate economic benefits for local communities, and put lesser-known regions on the global trekking and mountaineering map.

List of Mountains Open for Free Climbing

Here, you can include the detailed list of the 97 mountains if available: