MYAGDI: A total of 24 climbers have obtained permits to summit Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters) in Myagdi this autumn season, according to the Department of Tourism.
Dhaulagiri, the world’s seventh-highest peak, lies in Dhaulagiri Rural Municipality-4 of Myagdi district. The Department reported collecting Rs 5.71 million in permit (salute) fees from these climbers. Foreign nationals aiming to climb peaks over 8,000 meters—excluding Everest—are required to pay $900 per person as the autumn season climbing fee.
For smaller mountains, the fee ranges from $125 to $400 depending on altitude and season. According to the Department’s latest data, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 meters) in Gorkha remains the most popular autumn destination for climbers, with 374 people receiving permits so far. Dhaulagiri ranks second in terms of permit issuance this season.
Climbers, along with Sherpas, guides, porters, and support staff, have started reaching Dhaulagiri base camp, said Hari Prasad Tilija, a ward member of Dhaulagiri Rural Municipality-4 and hotelier at the Italian base camp.
This season, the climbing teams are approaching the base camp via the Yakkharka route in Mustang, as the traditional trekking trail through Mudi Bagar remains damaged, longer, and more challenging.
Last spring, 15 climbers from two expeditions generated Rs 3.69 million in revenue through climbing permits. However, the mountain has a tragic history as well. In autumn 2024, an avalanche buried a group of 14 climbers, killing five Russian nationals.
Known for its rapidly changing weather conditions, Mt. Dhaulagiri is considered one of the most dangerous and adventurous peaks to climb.
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