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Nepal Removes Royalty Fees from 97 Peaks

Thanks to Cabinet meeting minutes made public on 3 August 2025, it has been revealed that the government of Nepal plans to remove royalty fees from 77 peaks in Karnali province and 20 mountains in Sudurpaschim.

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Simon Verspeak on the approach to Lasarmu La (6246m) in western Nepal - Becky Coles

The removal of these royalty fees is an attempt by the government to encourage more mountain tourism in western Nepal, which sees very few visitors compared to the honeypot sites further east.

It follows on from similar schemes which were put into operation between 2008 and 2018. However, it faces significant challenges due to the lack of infrastructure in Nepal's western provinces. Still, for those looking for an adventure off the beaten path, the savings may prove enticing.

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Paul Ramsden approaching the summit of Gave Ding in 2015 - Mick Fowler

Many of the included summits are unclimbed and would make good targets for MEF grant applicants who could save between $175 and $500 in fees if they choose to attempt them.

Several past MEF-supported expeditions have visited western Nepal and you can find further details on potential unclimbed summits by browsing their trip reports in our expedition archive.

A full list of the royalty-free peaks is yet to be released, but it is expected that the information will be added to Nepal Himal Peak Profile in due course.