Nepal’s decision to increase permit fees for climbing Mount Everest by over 35% has sparked controversy among mountaineering experts, who argue that the country prioritizes revenue over environmental concerns and climber safety.
Nepal Raises Permit Fees for Climbing Mount Everest
Nepal has increased the permit fees for climbing Mount Everest by more than 35%, making the world’s tallest peak more expensive for mountaineers. The new rate of $15,000 will come into effect starting in September and apply to the popular April-May climbing season along the standard South East Ridge or South Col route.
Impact on Climbers and Revenue
The increase in permit fees is a significant change from the previous fee of $11,000, which had been in place for nearly a decade. The higher cost may deter some climbers, but expedition organizers believe it will not have a major impact on the number of people attempting to scale Mount Everest. Approximately 300 permits are issued each year.
Environmental Concerns and Safety Measures
Nepal’s decision to raise permit fees has been met with criticism from mountaineering experts, who argue that the country allows too many climbers on Everest while doing little to keep it clean or ensure climbers’ safety. However, officials claim that cleaning campaigns have been organized to collect garbage, and rope fixing and other safety measures are undertaken regularly.
Rise in Climbing Fees for Other Seasons
The new rate of $15,000 will not only apply to the popular April-May climbing season but also to the September-November and December-February seasons. The fees for these less popular seasons will increase by 36%, to $7,500 and $3,750 respectively.
Government’s Response
Regmi, director general of the Department of Tourism, stated that the royalty (permit fees) had not been reviewed for a long time and have now been updated. However, he did not specify what the extra revenue would be used for.
