Free Climb Initiative Launched in Nepal to Boost Remote Tourism

As Mount Everest faces overcrowding issues, Nepal's strategy to promote its hidden gems seeks to spur economic growth in its more impoverished regions.

In an effort to promote tourism and increase economic opportunities, Nepal has announced that it will waive climbing fees for 97 of its lesser-known Himalayan peaks over the next two years. This initiative is launched concurrently with a significant rise in permit fees for Mount Everest, where costs will surge to $15,000 (£11,170) starting September—the first hike in nearly a decade.

The Nepalese tourism department hopes this strategy will shed light on the less-traveled regions, specifically the Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces, which host these peaks. Despite their awe-inspiring scenery, these areas have historically attracted fewer visitors due to challenging access routes. "We aim to highlight our unexplored tourism offerings," said Himal Gautam, director of the tourism department.

Mountaineering plays a pivotal role in Nepal’s economy, with over $5.9 million generated last year from climbing fees, predominantly from Everest. However, only a fraction of tourism resources has flowed into remote areas, raising concerns over whether local infrastructure can support an influx of climbers.

Recent statistics reveal that just 68 climbers have successfully reached these 97 peaks in the past two years, compared to 421 permits issued for Everest in 2024. Overcrowding, environmental issues, and tragic fatalities have triggered calls for regulation, leading Nepal's Supreme Court to mandate limitations on climbing permits.

In addition to the rising Everest fees—$7,500 for fall climbs and $3,750 for winter attempts—the law under consideration would require climbers to first summit a mountain over 7,000m within Nepal. This would position the lesser-known peaks in Karnali and Sudurpaschim as valuable training sites for aspiring Everest summiteers.