Nepal plans to waive climbing fees for 97 Himalayan peaks to boost tourism

The peaks eligible for the waiver range from 5,870 metre (19,258 feet) to 7,132 metre (23,398 feet). Officials hope the policy will help boost visitor numbers, create jobs, and strengthen the local economy in the far-western region, which remains among the poorest and least developed in the country.

“Despite their breathtaking beauty, the number of tourists and mountaineers here (western Himalayas) is very low as access is so difficult. We hope the new provision will help,” Gautam added.

In the past two years, only 68 climbers have attempted these remote peaks, compared to the 421 permits issued for Mount Everest in 2024 alone, a BBC report pointed out. Authorities hope that offering free permits will shift some interest away from overcrowded routes and toward lesser-known destinations.

Both Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces face significant challenges in infrastructure and accessibility. While the new policy could bring economic benefits, it remains uncertain how well local communities and facilities can handle a potential increase in mountaineering activity.

Rising Everest fees and new rules

The announcement comes as Nepal raises permit fees for climbing Mount Everest and other peaks starting September. Everest’s peak-season fee will increase from $11,000 to $15,000, while smaller mountain permits will rise from $250 to $350.

Mountaineering is a key source of income for Nepal, generating $5.9 million in fees last year, with Everest accounting for more than three-quarters of the total, according to the BBC report. However, authorities are under pressure to manage overcrowding and environmental challenges on the world’s highest mountain.

In April 2024, Nepal’s Supreme Court ordered the government to limit the number of climbing permits issued for Mount Everest and other peaks to protect their capacity. A proposed law would also require climbers attempting Everest to have first scaled a mountain over 7,000 metres in Nepal, potentially making the newly free-to-climb peaks ideal training grounds.