Nepal has waived climbing fees for 97 Himalayan peaks in Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces for two years to boost tourism in lesser-known mountain regions.
Nepal’s Global Standing in Mountaineering
- Home to 10 of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest.
- Mountaineering is a major source of national revenue.
The Challenge
- Most climbing expeditions target popular peaks like Everest and Annapurna.
- Lesser-known mountains, especially in Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces, remain under-visited.
Details of the Initiative
- Number of Peaks: 97.
- Height Range: 5,970m to 7,132m.
Regions Covered
- Karnali Province – remote, mountainous, least developed.
- Sudurpaschim Province – far-western Nepal, limited tourism infrastructure.
- Duration: Two years (Fee waiver until 2027).
Objective
- Promote adventure tourism in untapped areas.
- Boost local economies by attracting climbers to new destinations.
- Spread tourism benefits beyond traditional hotspots.
Economic and Social Impact
- Fee waivers reduce immediate earnings from permits but increase overall income through lodging, transport, and local services.
- Expected job opportunities in guiding, hospitality, and mountaineering logistics in underdeveloped provinces.
- Potential cost savings for climbers, attracting budget-conscious adventurers and mountaineering clubs.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Nepal’s initiative to waive climbing fees for 97 Himalayan peaks aims to boost tourism in remote regions.
- Climbers can scale peaks ranging from 5,970m to 7,132m for free until 2027.
- The program seeks to promote adventure tourism, stimulate local economies, and create job opportunities.
- The fee waiver can lead to increased footfall, benefiting lodging, transport, guides, and local services.
