Nepal will offer free climbing permits for 97 Himalayan peaks in Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces over the next two years. The goal is to develop tourism in the country’s most remote and underdeveloped areas.
The peaks eligible for free permits range from 5,970 to 7,132 meters high. Due to difficult access, few tourists visit these peaks — only 68 climbers ascended them in the last two years, compared to 421 permits issued for Everest in 2024.
Nepal earns significant revenue from climbing permits. In 2023, this income reached $5.9 million, with over 75% coming from Everest.
The government expects the initiative to create jobs and strengthen the local economy. However, plans to improve infrastructure and transport in these regions remain unclear.
Nepal’s parliament is considering a rule requiring climbers to first summit a local peak over 7,000 meters before attempting Everest. Officials believe the free peaks offer ideal training grounds.
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