Nepal proposes new Everest permit rules to enhance safety

Nepal is set to tighten its Mount Everest permit requirements, allowing only climbers who have previously scaled at least one 7,000-meter peak within the country. The proposed law aims to reduce overcrowding and improve safety on the world’s highest mountain, where long queues in the “Death Zone” have contributed to fatalities. In 2023, 12 climbers died and five went missing after Nepal issued 478 permits.

The draft law also mandates that the expedition leader and guide must be Nepali citizens. Critics, including international expedition operators, argue the rule should accept equivalent climbs from outside Nepal and include peaks close to 7,000 meters, like Denali or Aconcagua.

They also call for foreign IFMGA-certified guides to be allowed, citing a shortage of qualified local guides. The bill has been submitted to the National Assembly, where the ruling alliance holds a majority. Nepal has over 400 open peaks, including 74 above 7,000 meters.