Nepal Weighs Experience Requirement for Everest Hopefuls

Climbers without high-altitude experience could be barred from Everest under a bill being drafted in Nepal.

Lawmakers are still debating how many prior ascents of peaks above 7,000 and 8,000 metres should be required before a permit is granted, according to Rajendra Lama, general secretary of Nepal's climbing association. He said the aim is to ensure climbers have enough time at altitude before taking on the world's highest and most technically demanding commercial expedition.

It is unlikely the rules will be ready in time for the spring 2027 season, according to the climbing publication Explorersweb.

The association also urged climbers to carry full insurance covering high-altitude climbing, helicopter evacuation and repatriation if needed.

Government fees for the classic route have risen this year. Foreign climbers now pay $15,000 in spring (March to May), $7,500 in autumn (September to November) and $3,750 in winter and summer, up from the previous $11,000 spring rate. The new fee system is already in force.