Nepal to Tighten Everest Climbing Rules, Restricting to Experienced Climbers Only

April 30, 2025 | 03:31 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Nepal is set to introduce stricter requirements for Mount Everest climbers through the proposed Integrated Tourism Bill currently under review in parliament. The goal is to reduce the number of climbing permits issued and enhance climbers’ safety on the world’s highest peak.

According to NDTV, one proposed requirement is that applicants must first have successfully climbed at least one mountain in Nepal over 7,000 meters. Mount Everest, located in the Himalayas, stands at 8,849 meters.

Nepal has 74 peaks over 7,000 meters among its 400 mountains open for expeditions, according to the country’s tourism department as cited by CNN. However, few of these high peaks are popular among mountaineers.

"Only a few of the 7,000-meter mountains attract climbers," said Tashi Lhakpa Sherpa from 14 Peaks Expedition, a major expedition organizer in Nepal. Tashi has climbed Everest eight times.

Mount Everest Climbing Requirements

In addition to having a certificate for climbing a 7,000-meter peak in Nepal, there are several other requirements for climbing Everest.

• Climbers must show proof of having climbed a 7,000-meter mountain (22,965 feet) in Nepal before applying for an Everest permit.

• Sardar (local head staff) and mountain guides (Sherpa) must be Nepali citizens.

• Medical certificate from a government-approved hospital, issued within the last month.

• Climbers must declare in advance if they intend to break a record.

• Permits are non-transferable. If an expedition is canceled due to natural disasters or other events, the permit will remain valid for two years but will not be refunded.

• The permit fee will also increase by 36 percent, from US$ 11,008 to Rp 250 million. This is the first fee hike in nearly 10 years.

Nepal heavily relies on climbing, exploration, and tourism. The country earns a significant amount of foreign exchange from Everest expeditions. Climbers spend thousands of dollars more on local logistics, porters, Sherpas, and equipment. However, this comes at the cost of increased litter, human waste, and environmental damage.

Aside from addressing environmental issues, the new regulations aim to ensure that only experienced climbers attempt to climb Everest, thereby reducing risky and expensive rescue operations.

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