Nepal: Climbing Everest Only After 7,000 Meters

New Everest Climbing Regulations: Climbing a 7,000-meter Peak in Nepal First is Now Mandatory

Nepal's National Assembly has passed a new tourism bill that requires climbers to first ascend a 7,000-meter peak in Nepal before tackling Everest. This new regulation aims to deter inexperienced or unprepared climbers from attempting the mountain and to develop the expedition business in the country.

Every year, new regulations are proposed for trekking and mountaineering in Nepal, and now they are on the verge of becoming national law. The requirement for climbers to have prior experience ascending a 7,000-meter peak in Nepal before attempting Everest is the most notable innovation.

According to officials, this provision is designed to curb the growing number of inexperienced climbers attempting the world's highest peak, which often leads to congestion, accidents, and strain on rescue services. Nepal has 86 peaks between 7,000 and 7,999 meters, and the climbing fee for foreigners ranges from $500 to$800 during the spring season.

Some of the rules outlined in the bill have also featured in other recent ordinances, such as the requirement to provide a recent medical certificate to obtain a climbing permit. The bill also lays the groundwork for a general environmental fund that will collect money from climbers.

The bill will not come into effect this season as it first needs to be sent to the House of Representatives and then returned to the National Assembly before being signed into law by the president. This delay may prove beneficial for business in 2026, as those considering climbing Everest without prior experience on a 7,000-meter peak in Nepal may rush to do so in the spring before the new law takes effect.

Source: ExplorersWeb ↗, Angela Benavides