944 climbers, Rs 1 billion in royalties - and a hanging serac threatening Nepal's Everest season
Summary
Nepal has issued climbing permits to 944 mountaineers for the Spring 2026 season, generating over Rs 1 billion in royalties, despite delays caused by a hanging serac threatening the Everest climbing route. A dramatic rescue on Annapurna and record-breaking ascents are notable events this season.
Key Points
- Nepal issued permits to 944 climbers from 76 countries for the Spring 2026 mountaineering season, generating over Rs 1 billion in royalties.
- Everest accounts for 410 climbers, contributing nearly 87% of total royalty income, with China not opening the north side route this season.
- A hanging serac in the Khumbu Icefall has delayed the opening of the Everest route, impacting expedition schedules and rope fixing.
- A high-altitude rescue on Annapurna involved locating missing climber Dawa Nurbu Sherpa and evacuating him after over 48 hours, highlighting the need for increased insurance coverage for Himalayan rescues.
