News Summary
Prepared after thorough review.
- The Department of Tourism has issued a nine-point circular targeting trekking companies to ensure a smooth and organized mountain climbing season during spring.
- Applicants for climbing permits must submit detailed information and details of supporting staff at least two days prior, in compliance with regulations.
- The department has clarified that mandatory submission of rescue details during climbs is required, along with the process for refunding garbage deposit fees.
March 18, Kathmandu – To maintain order and efficiency for mountain climbing during the spring season, the Department of Tourism has issued a nine-point circular aimed specifically at trekking companies.
The department has directed applicants applying for climbing permits to submit applications with detailed information according to Schedule-1 of the Mountaineering Regulations, 2082 (Sixth Amendment) at least two days prior to the permit date.
While applying for climbing permits, the details of supporting staff must be compulsorily included and a climbing leader must be officially appointed. If additional temporary support personnel are needed, detailed reasons, numbers, and dates must be provided and prior approval must be obtained from the department, as specified in the circular.
According to Rule 21 of the Mountaineering Regulations, 2059, only leaders, mountain guides, or porters who reach the final camp are allowed to attempt ascending the summit. Only these designated assistants are permitted to proceed to the final camp and undertake the summit climb.
When requesting climbing permits, recent photographs of all team members and supporting staff must be uploaded to the system. These photos should also be suitable for use on official certificates.
Supporting workers must complete consent forms and contracts adhering to the regulatory format, with detailed information to be filled out by both the company and workers. A joint briefing involving team leaders, agency representatives, and liaison officers will take place daily at 3:00 pm (2:00 pm on Fridays) in the department’s conference hall, except on public holidays.
Currently, applications require submission of both hard and soft copies of documents. Going forward, original applications along with original receipts for salute fees, garbage deposits, insurance, copies of members’ passports, and citizenship certificates for Nepali nationals must be submitted only in digital format. Other necessary documents must be certified by the agency and uploaded to the mountaineering permit system.
The department has mandated compulsory submission of rescue-related details during the mountain climb to both the Tourism Department and Tourist Police Office, Bhrikutimandap. In cases where garbage deposit refunds from the 2025 climbing season remain unpaid, applicants must submit a request with necessary documentation promptly. The department assures that the deposit refund will be processed within seven days of receiving the application.
