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Nepal Opens 97 Untouched Peaks in Karnali & Far West for Free Climbing - A Two-Year Golden Window for Adventure Tourism
- By: Naba Raj Amgai
- Posted on: Thu Aug 14, 2025
KATHMANDU - In a landmark move to boost mountain tourism in Nepal's remote western regions, the Government of Nepal has announced free climbing access to 97 peaks across Karnali and Far West provinces for the next two years.
The decision covers 77 peaks in Karnali and 20 in Far West, including towering giants like Saipal (7,030m), Api (7,132m), and Api West (7,076m) all now open to domestic and international climbers without permit fees.
A Long Awaited Push for the Forgotten West
Despite being rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and mountaineering potential, Karnali and the Far West have remained at the bottom of Nepal's development index due to harsh geography, limited infrastructure, and years of state neglect. This initiative, driven by Tourism Minister Badri Pandey, Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) board member Rajendra Lama, and supported by local bodies such as Api Himal Rural Municipality, marks a significant step toward putting these regions on the global climbing map.
Dr. Narayan Prasad Regmi, Director General of the Department of Tourism, calls the area 'one of Nepal's most beautiful yet least explored mountain landscapes,' stressing its untapped potential for both tourism and climate research.
Why This Matters for Climbers
Under Nepal's new mountaineering bill, aspiring Everest climbers must first summit a 7,000m peak in the country making the newly free Far West giants an attractive training ground. Until now, demand has been low, with only 68 climbers reaching these peaks in the past two years, generating a modest NPR 1.4 million in fees. In contrast, Everest alone brought in 77% of Nepal's $5.92 million climbing revenue in 2024.
Beyond Adventure: Local Impact & Climate Science
Adventure seekers aren't the only ones who stand to gain. Increased mountaineering could bring jobs, infrastructure, and global visibility to these underdeveloped provinces. Experts also highlight the potential for scientific research, as the region faces rapid climate change, unpredictable weather, and melting glaciers.
Training the Next Generation
To prepare local youth for tourism opportunities, the NMA will conduct Mountain Guide skill training this summer in Api Himal, Darchula. Graduates from the first phase of the Fundamentals for Mountaineering course will be eligible to join.
A Two Year Window of Opportunity
With 3,310 peaks above 5,500 meters in Nepal 461 already open for climbing and over 100 yet to be summited Karnali and the Far West's 'virgin mountains' offer rare first ascent opportunities. The real challenge now is infrastructure, safety, and promotion to ensure these regions become permanent fixtures on the world's adventure tourism calendar.
If harnessed well, this two-year fee-free climbing policy could transform Nepal's most overlooked mountains into its next big mountaineering hotspots.
- By: Naba Raj Amgai
- Posted on: Thursday Aug 14, 2025
About Author -Naba Raj Amgai
Naba Raj Amgai, stepped into the world of travel and tourism in 1996. He is Founder and Managing Director of Third Rock Adventures.
Beginning his journey in the tourism industry as a humble Porter Guide to founding hospitality establishments and an adventure travel company, he has come a long way.
In a career spanning more than two decades, he has achieved more than anybody dreams of achieving. Along with his professional achievements, his selfless contribution towards his community and society has won him a lot of accolades and praises.
Having dedicated more than two decades in the tourism and hospitality sector, he has amassed a wealth of experience.
After passing high school, he began helping out some trekking guides and was soon recruited as a porter guide at a reputed trekking agency. Within a short time, he was individually guiding clients across the well-known trails of the Himalayas.
He went on to lead tour groups on multi-country tours to Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and India. Being a part of mountain climbing expeditions familiarised him with expedition logistics and operations. Later on, he went to become the Executive Director and took over the reins of Operations, Sales and Marketing departments. Spending several years in the tourism field has made Naba Raj Amgai a destination expert.
Travelling is his passion and he has been to many countries across the world – USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, Holland, Germany, Austria and many parts of Asia.
His journeys to different parts of the world have enriched his travel experience and knowledge. This experience has been instrumental in planning and organizing successful trips for several clients.
As of today many reputed travel companies, hotels and restaurants are under his leadership. A dynamic and proactive leader, he continues to inspire and motivate people from all walks of life.
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