Everest fees rise, but Nepal’s ‘hidden peaks’ are now free

Summary

Nepal has increased the Everest climbing permit fee from $11,000 to $15,000, while offering free climbing permits for 97 remote Himalayan peaks in the Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces for two years to boost tourism and local economies.

Key Points
  • Nepal has raised the Everest climbing permit fee from $11,000 to $15,000 starting September 1.
  • Ninety-seven remote Himalayan peaks in Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces will be free to climb for the next two years.
  • These free peaks range from 5,870 to 7,132 metres and aim to promote tourism in underdeveloped regions.
  • New regulations require climbers aiming for Everest to have summited a 7,000-metre peak within Nepal, making these free peaks ideal training grounds.
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