Dhaka, May 3 -- Nepal is set to tighten regulations for Mount Everest climbers with a new law requiring climbers to first summit a 7,000-meter peak within the country. Aimed at reducing overcrowding, improving safety, and protecting the Himalayan environment, the rule is part of the Integrated Tourism Bill read in Parliament on April 18.

This move comes as Nepal prepares to increase the cost of an Everest permit by 36% starting September 2025, raising it from approximately USD 15,000 to over USD 20,000. With mountaineering a major revenue source-supported by permit fees and tourist spending-the government is balancing tourism income with rising concerns over safety and sustainability.

In recent years, Everest has seen a surge of inexper...