Nepal’s spring climbing season has gathered strong momentum, with 700 mountaineers securing permits by 15 April, according to the Department of Tourism.
The largest share of permits has been issued for Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, where 297 climbers from 30 expedition teams have been authorised to attempt the summit. Among them are 63 women climbers. Across all peaks, the department said the 700 climbers belong to 85 expedition teams, including 177 women.
The popular Himalayan peak Ama Dablam has attracted 70 climbers from six teams, while Makalu has received 54 climbers from eight teams. Meanwhile, Kangchenjunga has seen 22 climbers from two teams granted permits. Officials said climbing permissions have so far been issued for 25 mountains this season, including most of Nepal’s peaks above 8,000 metres.
The permits issued by 15 April have generated NPR 755.8 million (approximately USD 5.6 million) in royalty revenue, with Everest alone contributing NPR 652.6 million. Spring remains the most expensive and popular season for Everest expeditions compared with autumn or winter attempts.
Most climbers this season come from China, Europe and the United States. By nationality, the highest number of permit holders are from China (89), followed by the United States (71), Germany (55), India (49), the United Kingdom (48), Russia (45) and Canada (30).
The figures underline Nepal’s continued importance as the world’s leading destination for high-altitude mountaineering, with the spring window remaining the busiest period for major Himalayan expeditions.
