Author: explore_nepal
Kathmandu . With the arrival of the autumn climbing season, expedition operators in Nepal have started preparations to manage climbs on major peaks including Mount Manaslu, Mount Ama Dablam, and Mount Himlung. On Sunday, the Expedition Operators Association of Nepal (EOAN) organized a flag handover ceremony in Kathmandu to officially launch rope-fixing operations on Mount Manaslu, one of the most popular autumn climbing destinations.
This year, EOAN has introduced a new model for rope-fixing, taking direct responsibility for the entire process instead of assigning it to a particular outfitter as in the past. “We have formed a seven-member rope-fixing team composed of some of the best climbing guides,” said EOAN Treasurer Dawa Sherpa Lama, who proposed the initiative. He added that the association itself would now handle the logistics, ensuring accountability and smooth coordination.
To provide better services for climbers and workers, EOAN will also maintain a dedicated camp at Manaslu base camp. The camp will update expedition teams about rope-fixing progress and address their concerns. Lama explained that in previous seasons, climbers found it difficult to approach private outfitter tents for updates, but now EOAN will serve as a central contact point. He will coordinate the operation from Kathmandu, while renowned climber Mingma Gyabu Sherpa, also known as Mingma David Sherpa, will represent EOAN at base camp and oversee the mission on-site.
The rope-fixing team, led by Tashi Sherpa, includes Tshering Bhote, Lakpa Sherpa, Tashi Gyalzen Sherpa, Hira Bhote, Pasang Sherpa, and Karma Sarki Sherpa. The team is scheduled to leave for base camp on Monday and aims to complete the route setup by September 20. According to EOAN, this new collaborative approach will help ensure timely preparation of the climbing route for incoming expeditions.
Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism has yet to issue official climbing permits for the season. Spokesperson Liladhar Awasthi confirmed that while inquiries have been made, no permits have been granted so far. He also highlighted the government’s revised climbing fee structure, under which Manaslu permits now cost $3,000 in autumn, double the spring season rate. Similarly, Everest climbers will pay $15,000 in spring and $7,500 in autumn, while other 8,000-meter peaks will require fees ranging from $750 to $3,000 depending on the season.
