KATHMANDU, Jan 22 (Reuters) - Nepal has announced a significant increase in permit fees for climbing Mount Everest, raising the cost by 36% to $15,000, a move that has not occurred in nearly a decade. This adjustment marks the first major change in the permit structure since the previous fee of $11,000 was set, according to Reuters and The Guardian.

The updated fee structure will take effect in September, coinciding with the popular climbing season from April to May, during which approximately 300 permits are issued annually. Fees for other climbing seasons will also see similar increases, with the lesser-traveled September-November season rising to $7,500 and the rare December-February climbs to $3,750. Narayan Prasad Regmi, the director general of the Department of Tourism, emphasized that the royalty fees "had not been reviewed for a long time" and that this revision reflects current conditions in the mountaineering sector.

Despite the sharp increase, expedition organizers suggest that it is unlikely to deter climbers. Lukas Furtenbach from Furtenbach Adventures expressed understanding of the government's decision, mentioning, "I am sure the additional funds will be somehow used to protect the environment and improve safety on Everest." Yet, it remains uncertain how the raised revenue will be allocated, and Regmi has not specified any concrete plans for its use.

As climbers face increasing criticism over waste management and safety on Mount Everest, some report that the mountain is "becoming increasingly dry and rocky" amid concerns tied to global warming and environmental changes. Regmi noted that northward cleaning campaigns and safety measures are regularly organized, but issues persist with the number of climbers allowed on Everest.

This fee hike comes amid ongoing discussions about sustainability and the impact of climate change on high-altitude environments. As Nepal relies heavily on tourism revenue from climbers, the balance between economic benefit and environmental preservation continues to be a pressing concern.