Climbing Everest is Getting More Expensive

Do you aspire to climb the world's highest mountain, Everest? Be prepared to dig deeper into your pockets as the Nepalese government has announced it will increase the permit fees by one-third of the current cost.

On Tuesday (4/2/2025), Director General of Tourism Narayan Prasad Regmi stated that the fees have been increased for all months and seasons. Whether during the busy season or the off-season, which includes winter and the rainy season, the fees have been equally raised.

The cost during peak season, which is in spring and summer when the weather is favorable for mountain climbing, has increased from 11,000 US dollars (IDR 179.4 million) to 15,000 US dollars (IDR 244.7 million). Meanwhile, during the off-season, the cost has risen from 5,500 US dollars (IDR 89.7 million) to 7,500 US dollars (IDR 122.3 million).

"It is time for us to adjust the prices after being constant for 10 years. Besides, this is also for handling pollution and improving safety in camping areas and hiking trails," said Prasad Regmi.

According to him, the number of tourists coming to Nepal increases every year. The majority come to conquer Mount Everest. Nepal is also home to various high mountains in the world. Of the 14 mountains with heights above 8,000 meters, eight of them are in that country.

In 2024, from 400 international climbers who applied for climbing permits, the Nepalese government earned 4 million US dollars in foreign exchange. According to the government, they will use these funds to improve the search and rescue system for climbers.

In addition, funds are used to finance the logistics of transporting waste from the mountains. Nepal requires every climber to carry a special bag for waste disposal throughout the ascent and descent of the mountain. Relieving oneself in the wild mountain environment is strictly prohibited.

The price hike was greeted with trepidation by Nepal's nature tourism agencies. They fear that international climbers will be reluctant to go to Nepal and choose to climb Everest via China or Tibet, which have better facilities and infrastructure. (AFP)