Climbing and Expedition

Climbing and expedition activities in Nepal, especially on Mount Everest, are among the most sought-after and challenging adventures in the world. The 2025 spring climbing season on Everest officially opened after a team of experienced Sherpa climbers fixed ropes along the south-east ridge route from Nepal, securing the path all the way to the 8,848.86-meter summit. This critical work, performed by a specialized rope-fixing team known as the Icefall Doctors and coordinated by the Expedition Operators Association of Nepal, ensures climber safety and helps reduce congestion during summit attempts.

The standard Everest expedition typically involves a multi-stage ascent starting from Everest Base Camp, progressing through Camps 1, 2, 3, and 4, before making a final summit push. Acclimatization and preparation at base camp and intermediate camps are essential, with the summit push usually taking 7-9 days depending on weather and snow conditions. The route includes technical challenges such as crossing the Khumbu Icefall, which is secured with ladders and fixed ropes by the Sherpa teams.

In 2025, a record number of 456 climbers from 57 countries received permits to climb Everest from the Nepal side, reflecting increased demand ahead of a scheduled permit fee hike from USD 11,000 to USD 15,000 starting September 2025. The largest contingents come from India and the United States. Costs for climbing Everest vary widely depending on the level of service, guide support, and expedition style, with prices ranging from around $30,000 for essential services to over $75,000 for full-service foreign-guided expeditions.

Besides Everest, other Himalayan peaks such as Lhotse and Ama Dablam also see fixed ropes installed and expeditions launched in spring, often coordinated by the same Sherpa teams. The climbing season is relatively short and highly dependent on favorable weather windows, with most summit attempts concentrated in May.

Environmental concerns have prompted efforts like the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee’s waste removal initiatives to keep the mountain clean despite heavy climbing traffic. The Sherpa community continues to play a vital role, not only in guiding and supporting climbers but also in route preparation and conservation efforts.

In summary, Nepal’s climbing and expedition scene in 2025 is marked by well-organized, professionally supported ascents primarily on Everest’s south side, significant international participation, and ongoing efforts to balance adventure tourism with safety and environmental stewardship. This makes Nepal a premier destination for serious mountaineers aiming to conquer the world’s highest peaks.