If you have a passion for mountaineering and dream of conquering Mount Everest someday, there’s some important news coming out of Nepal. The country plans to implement new restrictions on climbing permits for Everest to enhance climber safety and ease overcrowding on the mountain. According to a draft law that has been introduced as part of the Integrated Tourism Bill, only climbers who have successfully summited at least one peak of 7,000 meters (22,965 feet) in Nepal will be eligible to apply for an Everest permit.
This proposed legislation has already been submitted to the upper house of Parliament, where the ruling coalition, holding a majority, is expected to approve it.
Nepal is renowned for its majestic mountains, including eight of the world’s fourteen highest peaks, but it has faced backlash for allowing a significant number of novice climbers on Everest. In 2023, the country issued 478 permits, leading to a tragic loss of life, with at least 12 climbers dying and five others reported missing. Overcrowding, especially in the ‘death zone’ where oxygen levels plummet, has been linked to these fatalities.
Nepal Has Given Everest Permits To 402 Climbers So Far In 2025
Hence, now obtaining the Everest Permit will become a bit difficult. As per the proposed rules, climbers must present evidence of having scaled a 7,000-meter mountain in Nepal before applying for an Everest permit. Additionally, the local staff leader and guide must be Nepali citizens, and medical evaluations from accredited hospitals are mandatory. Notably, permit fees are set to increase by 36% for the first time in nearly a decade. The permit fees, which initially were over Rs 9.4 lakh, have risen to over Rs 12.8 lakh. This is the first hike in almost 10 years.
In Nepal, some notable 7000m peaks include Baruntse, Tilicho Peak, Putha Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South.
Lastly, when it comes to Everest Permits, the climbing season has already begun, and so far in 2025, Nepal has 402 permits. The numbers are expected to increase in May.
