Nepal closes Everest: Who can get permit to climb it?
How access conditions to Everest will change (photo: Freepik.com)
The government of Nepal is developing new conditions for those who strive to conquer the highest peak on the planet – Everest. From now on, access to the mountain may become more selective: permits for ascents will only be granted to certain climbers. Reuters reports on who will now be allowed to climb Everest.
Requirements become stricter
According to the draft of a new law, permits to climb Everest will only be issued to those who have already successfully climbed a mountain higher than 7000 meters.
This is intended to act as a filter that helps to screen out beginners who are unprepared for the extreme conditions at high altitudes. Special attention is paid to safety in the so-called "death Zone" – the area just below the summit, where the lack of oxygen increases the risk of fatal consequences.
In 2023, Nepal issued a record number of permits – 478. At the same time, at least 12 climbers died, and five others went missing. Authorities believe that the overcrowding of the route and the insufficient preparation of some tourists caused such a high number of tragedies.
Everest (photo: Wikipedia)
New conditions for guides and disputes over experience
In addition to stricter requirements for climbers themselves, changes also apply to guides. In the future, only Nepali citizens will be allowed to accompany expeditions. This decision is intended to stimulate the development of the local mountain industry and provide more opportunities for Nepalese Sherpas.
However, not all international operators agree with these restrictions. Some of them are calling for the recognition of climbing experience not only on Nepalese peaks but also on any mountains over 7000 meters worldwide. They believe that the strict territorial boundaries could be unfair to experienced climbers from other regions.
Although the law has not yet come into effect, its adoption may significantly change the rules for everyone who dreams of seeing Everest up close.
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