Free Climbs for 97 Peaks: Nepal's Bid to Boost Remote Tourism Amid Everest Surge

Nepal is offering free access to 97 peaks in the Himalayas for the next two years to enhance tourism in its remote areas, while costs to scale Mount Everest will rise significantly to $15,000 starting in September. The move aims to draw attention to the scenic but less-traveled Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces, home to breathtaking mountains but historically low visitor numbers.

Nepal's tourism department hopes that waiving climbing fees will stimulate local economies and job growth, especially in these impoverished provinces. Despite the promotional effort, concerns remain about the lack of infrastructure and how communities would handle a potential influx of climbers. In comparison, Everest has seen overcrowding and significant environmental issues, prompting authorities to consider limits on climbing permits. With a burgeoning demand for Everest climbs, this initiative may provide aspiring climbers much-needed experience in the less-trafficked areas of Nepal’s stunning landscape.