Wish to climb the world’s tallest peak, Mount Everest but don’t think you can afford it? Well, think over it again. To promote off-season climbing on Everest and boost tourism hit by years of a Maoist conflict, Nepal officials plan to slash down the climbing fees.
Nepal is home to eight of the world’s 14 highest mountains and has more than 2,000 Himalayan peaks out of which 326 are open to foreign climbers. Large percentage of revenue comes from tourism and in an attempt to lure more climbers, Nepal is offering discount rates.
During peak season (March through May), climbing Everest costs approximately $70,000. The Government may offer a 50 per cent discount to autumn climbers and a 75 per cent discount to those who brave the winter months. The government foresees drawing 600,000 visitors in the current fiscal year, which ends in mid-July 2008. If you are an adventure junky and wish to summit the world’s tallest peak without straining your pocket, it’s just the right time!
Source: CNN
