Nepal increases Everest climbing fees by 36%, first hike in a decade
Since September, the authorities in Nepal have increased the entry fees for climbing the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest, by over 36%, Reuters reported on Wednesday. A permit during the peak season will cost CAD 20,100 and during the least popular time, it will cost CAD 5,000.
The authorities in Kathmandu announced on Wednesday that this is the first increase in nearly 10 years for the Mount Everest climbing permit.
The royalty (permit fees) had not been reviewed for a long time. We have updated them now, explained a member of the Nepalese government, Narayan Prasad Regmi, to Reuters. It was not specified where the additional revenue will be directed.
The new rate will apply during the popular climbing season, which runs from April to May, along the standard route via the South East Ridge or through the South Col. The pioneers of these routes were New Zealanders Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, who made the first documented ascent of Mount Everest in 1953.
Fees for the less popular September-November period and the least frequented December-February period will also rise by 36%, to CAD 10,100 and CAD 5,000, respectively.
300,000 entry permits annually
Reuters emphasized that the increase, discussed since last year, should not discourage climbers. Each year, the authorities in Nepal issue about 300 permits for climbing the world's highest mountain, which is often criticized by the climbing community.
Reuters cites complaints about the excessive number of permits issued, negligence regarding the safety of expedition participants, and cleanliness on the climbing routes.
Revenues from Himalayan climbing are one of Nepal's most important sources of income and primary source of employment. Eight of the world's 14 highest mountains are located in Nepal.
