Nepal has announced a significant hike in climbing permit fees for Mount Everest, set to take effect from 2025. This move aims to regulate the increasing number of climbers, improve safety measures, and contribute to environmental conservation.
Currently, climbers pay $11,000 (approx. ₹9,15,000) per person for a permit to scale Everest during the peak season of April-May. However, from September 2025, this fee will rise by 36% to $15,000 (approx. ₹12,48,000). The charges for off-peak seasons, including September-November and December-February, will also increase, with permits costing $7,500 (approx. ₹6,24,000) and $3,750 (approx. ₹3,12,000), respectively.
The decision marks the first fee revision in nearly a decade. With growing concerns over overcrowding and environmental degradation on Everest, authorities believe this fee hike will help manage the influx of climbers more effectively. In recent years, the mountain has seen record numbers of expeditions, leading to traffic jams on its treacherous routes. This has raised safety concerns, as climbers face prolonged exposure to extreme weather conditions at high altitudes.
Beyond regulating the number of climbers, the additional revenue is expected to support initiatives aimed at reducing waste accumulation on the mountain. Nepal has already undertaken several cleaning drives to remove discarded oxygen cylinders, tents, and other debris left by climbers. The increased permit fees could further contribute to maintaining Everest’s ecological balance.
While some adventure enthusiasts see the hike as a necessary measure for sustainable mountaineering, others worry that it may make Everest expeditions even more exclusive. Despite the increase, experts believe the impact on total expedition costs will be minimal, as an Everest climb typically costs anywhere between $40,000-$150,000 (approx. ₹33 lakh – ₹1.25 crore), depending on the services and support chosen by climbers.
Nepal remains a key destination for mountaineers worldwide, with eight of the world’s 14 highest peaks within its borders. Revenue from climbing permits plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, supporting local communities, tourism infrastructure, and rescue operations.
With the new permit fees in place, authorities hope to strike a balance between adventure tourism and environmental conservation, ensuring that Everest remains a challenging yet sustainable destination for climbers.
