The climbing season has begun on Mount Everest, located in Nepal. Local authorities anticipate a high turnout in April and May. Nearly 400 climbers have already booked trips up the world’s highest peak from Nepal this year, according to the Kathmandu tourism authorities.
More reservations will likely be made before May. Everest marks the frontier between Nepal and China and measures 8,849 metres. It can be scaled from either country. Its peak climbing season stretches from April to May, favourable due to the pleasant weather conditions. Last spring, 478 foreign climbers secured climbing permits at a cost of $11,000 (approximately £10,000).
The permit price will increase to $15,000 (around £14,000) next year, with the tourism authorities suggesting this price hike may deter many climbers from undertaking the expedition this year. So far however, an overall reduction in climbers ascending the peak has yet to be noted.
The total cost for such an expedition usually amounts to a minimum of €40,000 (£34,000) per person, though it can rise to twice that amount. Besides the permit, expenses include equipment, accommodation, flights and sherpas.
According to the Himalayan Database, the summit has been scaled nearly 11,500 times since its first ascent by Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary in 1953. The ascent of the world’s tallest summit continues to gain more enthusiasts every year.
