TAPLEJUNG: The number of mountain climbers in Nepal has been steadily increasing in recent years. According to the Department of Tourism, Nepal collected Rs 638.29 million in revenue from mountaineering and peak climbing activities last year.
Between March 1 and April 21 alone, 41 climbers — 26 men and 15 women — successfully summited the 8,586-meter main peak of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain, located in Taplejung. This climb generated revenue of Rs 197,460.
During the same period, 66 climbers reached the summit of Mount Makalu in Sankhuwasabha district, contributing Rs 16.27 million to national revenue. Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, saw 374 successful ascents — 302 men and 72 women — bringing in Rs 554.99 million.
In total, 23 mountains and peaks were climbed this season. According to the Department of Tourism, 869 climbers — 678 men and 191 women, both Nepalis and foreigners — successfully reached various summits across Nepal. Altogether, these ascents generated Rs 638.29 million in revenue.
Nepal shares its Himalayan range with China’s Tibet region to the north. Other neighboring countries with portions of the Himalayas include India, Pakistan, Bhutan, and Tajikistan.
The Himalayan range includes some of the world’s tallest mountains. Notably, K2 — the second-highest peak — and Nanga Parbat, the ninth-highest, are located in Pakistan.
Of the world’s 14 peaks above 8,000 meters, eight are in Nepal: Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna I. However, these majestic peaks are increasingly being exposed due to the retreating snow line, a visible effect of climate change.
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