Spring climbing season kicks off with 330 permits issued for Nepal’s mountains
KATHMANDU: Nepal’s spring climbing season is underway, with the Tourism Department issuing permits to 330 mountaineers across 35 groups as of Monday. The influx of climbers, including 77 women and 253 men, signals a robust start to the season, which is expected to boost tourism revenue and showcase Nepal’s iconic peaks.
Mount Everest remains the top draw, with 120 climbers from 12 groups gearing up to conquer the 8,848-meter giant. Annapurna I follows as the second most popular destination, attracting 66 adventurers from six teams, while Makalu has drawn 40 climbers across three groups. Permits have been issued for a total of 15 peaks, reflecting the diversity of Nepal’s Himalayan offerings.
The economic impact is already evident, with NPR 220 million collected in climbing fees so far. This revenue underscores the importance of mountaineering to Nepal’s economy, though it also highlights the need for sustainable management of these fragile ecosystems. As climbers prepare to tackle some of the world’s most challenging summits, the season promises both adventure and a vital economic lifeline for the country.
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