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Nepal’s mountain tourism sector has recorded a sharp recovery since the COVID-19 pandemic, with the number of foreign tourists visiting the country for mountain activities increasing 5.8-fold between 2021 and 2025.
Data from the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation showed that the number of mountain tourists rose from 28,600 in 2021 to 165,056 in 2025, marking a 477.1 percent increase.
The number climbed to 61,669 in 2022 after international borders and air services reopened. The upward trend continued, with 101,792 visitors recorded in 2023 and 154,900 in 2024.
Home to Mount Everest and several other of the world’s highest peaks, Nepal has developed mountain tourism into a major contributor to its economy. The sector, which includes trekking and mountaineering, generates foreign currency, creates jobs and supports businesses and communities across the country.
In 2025, mountain tourists accounted for 14.2 percent of Nepal’s 1,162,365 foreign visitors, meaning roughly one in every seven international tourists took part in mountain activities.
Experts say the sector’s economic contribution extends well beyond tourist arrival figures. Mountaineer Speed Kaji Sherpa said tourists spend money on accommodation, food, transportation, guides, porters and climbing equipment, generating direct and indirect employment for more than a dozen people during a single visit.
Government data showed that 7,054 permits were issued in 2025 for 27 peaks managed through the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), generating $1.42 million, or around Rs 200 million, in royalty revenue.
Former NMA president Ang Tshering Sherpa said royalty revenue represents only a fraction of the sector’s overall economic contribution, as most climbers’ spending goes to private businesses and local service providers.
The Solukhumbu region highlights the potential for tourism beyond Mount Everest. Peaks such as Mera Peak, Island Peak and Lobuche East are attracting growing numbers of climbers.
Ministry statistics showed that the three peaks together attracted 6,486 climbers in 2025, highlighting opportunities to diversify mountain tourism beyond the Everest Base Camp route.
Despite the strong growth, the sector faces challenges related to environmental sustainability and skilled manpower.
Climate change, including melting glaciers and increased avalanche risks, poses a growing threat to mountain routes and tourism. At the same time, authorities and industry bodies are seeking to improve safety standards and professional skills.
The NMA and other organisations are prioritising professional training, including a recently launched 40-day Professional Mountain Guide (PMG) skills course in Kathmandu and Taplejung.
Stakeholders are calling for stronger links between tourism revenues and local development to ensure that mountain tourism remains a sustainable source of economic growth for Nepal.