Explore Nepal’s 100 newly opened peaks with free climbing permits. Save thousands compared to Everest and enjoy pristine Himalayan routes.
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Nepal’s government has announced the opening of 100 additional peaks for free climbing permits, a move designed to promote tourism beyond the increasingly expensive Mount Everest expeditions. With the cost of a single Everest climb now exceeding $70,000 USD, this new policy aims to attract budget-conscious adventurers and distribute tourism income more evenly across the country’s remote regions.
According to the Nepal Tourism Board, mountaineering contributes nearly 4% of Nepal’s GDP. However, over 60% of climbing revenue comes from Everest alone. By waiving permit fees for these 100 newly opened peaks — most of which range between 5,500m and 7,000m — Nepal hopes to encourage trekkers to explore lesser-known yet breathtaking routes.
| Peak | Height (m) | Permit Cost (USD) | Average Expedition Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Everest | 8,849 | $11,000 | $70,000+ |
| Mount Himlung | 7,126 | $0 | $6,000 – $8,000 |
| Pisang Peak | 6,091 | $0 | $3,000 – $4,000 |
| Mera Peak | 6,476 | $0 | $2,500 – $3,500 |
- No Permit Fee: Save up to $11,000 compared to Everest.
- Lower Expedition Costs: Affordable guided climbs starting from $2,500.
- Less Crowded Routes: Enjoy pristine trails and authentic cultural experiences.
- Varied Difficulty Levels: From beginner-friendly peaks to challenging technical climbs.
“This initiative is a game-changer for Nepal’s adventure tourism. It opens doors for climbers who dream of Himalayan expeditions but can’t afford Everest’s skyrocketing costs,” said Ramesh Thapa, veteran mountain guide and tourism consultant.
Interested climbers can apply through the Nepal Tourism Board’s official website. Applications for the free climbing permits open on September 1, 2025, with the climbing season starting in October.
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