Nepal's new climbing rules target reckless tourism
Nepal is considering introducing new regulations that will restrict high-altitude climbing to experienced mountaineers only. The new regulations aim to enhance safety on trails and limit "reckless tourism."
Nepal plans to introduce new regulations regarding high-altitude climbing, aimed at reducing the number of inexperienced individuals on the trails. Authorities wish to curtail "reckless tourism," local media report.
New safety regulations in Nepal
According to the proposal, permits for expeditions will be granted only to those climbers who have previously summited at least one peak of 7,000 metres.
The decision to revise the regulations stems from the growing issue of overcrowding on popular climbing routes, which has led to dangerous situations, particularly in the "death zone." In 2023, at least 12 people died on Mount Everest, and five were reported missing. That year, Nepal issued 478 climbing permits. In 2024, the number of casualties was eight.
The new regulations require that individuals applying for a climbing permit document the ascent of at least one peak of 7,000 metres. The draft bill has already been submitted to the Constituent Assembly, where the ruling coalition holds the majority needed for its passage.
Appeal from expedition operators
International expedition operators are urging Nepal to allow mountain guides to gain experience on 7,000-metre peaks.
- Mountain guides from other countries must also be allowed to work on Everest, as there are not enough qualified Nepali mountain guides - said Lukas Furtenbach from an Austrian expedition organizing company in an interview with the Reuters agency.
