Nepal has announced significant changes to its mountaineering policies, including a substantial increase in the climbing permit fees for Mount Everest and the introduction of new regulations aimed at enhancing environmental conservation and climber safety.
Climbing Permit Fee Increase
Effective September 1, 2025, the permit fee for foreign climbers during the spring season (March-May) will rise from $11,000 to $15,000 per person. Fees for the autumn (September-November) and winter (December-February) seasons will also see increases, from $5,500 to $7,500 and from $2,750 to $3,750, respectively. This adjustment aims to generate additional revenue for the government and promote sustainable tourism practices.
Mandatory Guide Requirement
Under the revised regulations, every two climbers must hire a guide to scale any mountain over 8,000 meters, including Everest. This measure is intended to enhance safety and provide support to climbers navigating challenging terrains.
Environmental and Safety Measures
The new rules also focus on environmental conservation and climber safety:
• Waste Management: Climbers are required to bring back all human waste from higher camps using biodegradable bags, aiming to reduce pollution on the mountain.
• Insurance Coverage: Insurance for high-altitude workers, such as guides and porters, has been increased to provide better security for those assisting climbers.
These changes come in response to growing concerns over environmental degradation and safety on Everest. The Supreme Court of Nepal has previously directed the government to regulate the number of expeditions and address the rising pollution levels on the mountain.
The last revision of the climbing permit fees occurred on January 1, 2015, when the government switched from a group-based system to a uniform fee of $11,000 per climber for the spring season from the normal route.
These measures reflect Nepal’s commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Mount Everest and ensuring the safety of those who attempt to reach its summit.