Nepal Waives Climbing Fees on 97 Peaks to Boost Tourism in Karnali and Sudurpaschim

With the government making climbing permits for 97 mountains free of charge for two fiscal years, stakeholders are preparing strategies to promote the new destinations.

The Nepal Tourism Board, Nepal Mountaineering Association, and travel agencies plan to reach out to international mountaineering bodies, Nepali embassies, celebrity climbers, and alpine clubs, urging them to consider these peaks for expeditions.

During the peak tourism season, the government announced that royalty fees for climbing 97 mountains in Sudurpaschim and Karnali provinces would be waived. Stakeholders welcomed the move but voiced concerns about poor roads, limited air connectivity, and inadequate accommodation. Mountaineering and trekking remain top draws for visitors to Nepal, and the decision opens up new options for climbers.

Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri remain the established destinations. But the waiver is aimed at boosting tourism in remote areas by encouraging climbs of lesser-known peaks. On August 3, the Cabinet decided to make all mountains in the two provinces royalty-free for the next two years. Among the 97, three rise above 7,000 metres.

Nepal Tourism Board CEO Deepak Raj Joshi said that although most climbers remain drawn to the popular peaks, waiving fees for new mountains will have a positive impact. He noted a global trend of climbers seeking fresh destinations, which could make these peaks strong alternatives.

“There is a global trend of choosing new destinations over established ones,” Joshi said. “This can increase the appeal of these peaks and bring benefits to those provinces.”

Promotion Plans

Joshi said the new peaks will be marketed by identifying target markets, highlighting them at adventure travel marts, and sharing details of Nepal’s offer with alpine clubs worldwide.

Celebrity climbers will also be invited to attempt these newly opened peaks. Other promotional activities are being planned.

According to Joshi, adventure markets for these mountains already exist in Europe and North America, though messages will also be sent to other regions. “We also plan to send information to Nepali embassies abroad so they can promote these peaks,” he said. “Domestically, the Nepal Mountaineering Association and local governments will coordinate to prepare trails and ensure safety.”

Tourism Entrepreneurs Encouraged

Suresh Nakarmi, Managing Director of Shakti Treks and Expedition, said the government’s decision has broadened mountaineering options and created fresh choices. He expects the waiver to attract more climbers.

“We will include these peaks in our packages and promote them,” Nakarmi said. “We will also spread the message through our international networks and design new packages.”

He added that since Kathmandu will remain the entry and exit hub, hotels and businesses in the capital will also benefit.