The Nepal government has implemented significant changes to its mountaineering regulations, aiming to enhance safety for climbers scaling Mt Everest and other towering peaks. As per the sixth amendment to the Mountaineering Regulation, which came into effect on Tuesday, it is now mandatory to have one mountain guide for every two climbers attempting mountains above 8,000 meters, including the 8,849-meter-tall Mt Everest.

Revised Regulations for Safer Expeditions

The updated rules, published in the Nepal Gazette, require high-altitude support staff or guides to accompany climbers to minimize risks. Previously, a single guide could oversee an entire group climbing peaks above 8,000 meters. For mountains below 8,000 meters, the new regulation mandates at least one guide per group.

Arati Neupane, Director at the Department of Tourism, emphasized that the amendment prioritizes climber safety by addressing the inherent risks of mountain expeditions. “These changes are designed to reduce accidents and ensure proper support for climbers,” she stated.

Positive Impact on Mountain Tourism

The revised regulations have been welcomed by tourism professionals. Mingma G Sherpa, Managing Director of Imagine Nepal Treks, praised the initiative, calling it a long-overdue decision that will enhance Nepal’s reputation as a safer and more reliable destination for mountain climbing.

However, Sherpa expressed concerns over increasing climbing fees, cautioning that higher costs might deter climbers. “While safety is crucial, raising royalties too much could discourage expeditions from coming to Nepal,” he warned.

Increased Climbing Fees

Alongside the new safety rules, the government has raised climbing permit fees for Mt Everest, effective September 1. Foreign climbers using the south route during the spring season (March-May) will now pay $15,000 per person, up from the previous $11,000.

Fees for other seasons have also increased:

• Autumn (September-November): $7,500 (previously $5,500)
• Winter (December-February): $3,750 (previously $2,750)
• Monsoon (June-August): $3,750 (previously $2,750)

Balancing Safety and Affordability

The government’s decision to mandate guides and increase royalties is expected to improve the overall climbing experience. However, it also raises questions about balancing safety enhancements with affordability.

These new measures not only aim to protect climbers but also reflect Nepal’s commitment to maintaining its status as a premier destination for mountaineering. As the changes take hold, they are likely to reshape the dynamics of mountain tourism in the region.