Nepal is launching an exciting initiative to attract more tourists by waiving climbing fees for 97 of its majestic Himalayan peaks for the next two years! This move is part of an effort to draw attention to the country’s lesser-known mountains while the permit fees to summit Mount Everest, the tallest peak in the world, will increase to $15,000 starting this September.
The Nepalese tourism department hopes this strategy will highlight “unexplored tourism products and destinations,” particularly in the remote Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces. These areas are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also among the country's least developed. Mountaineering is crucial to Nepal's economy, generating $5.9 million last year, with a significant portion coming from Everest climbs.
However, with only 68 climbers tackling these 97 peaks in the last two years—compared to 421 permits issued for Everest in 2024—it's uncertain how successful the initiative will be. The government is also considering new regulations to limit the number of climbing permits for Everest due to concerns over overcrowding and environmental impact. If you’re looking to tackle these newly free peaks, they might just be the perfect training ground before heading to Everest!
