KATHMANDU: The expedition to Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak, has generated Rs 218.84 million in revenue this season.
According to the Department of Tourism, both the number of climbers and the revenue collected have reached record highs.
A total of 480 climbers from various countries have received permits to scale the 8,163-meter peak, located in Samagaun of Chumanubri Rural Municipality-1, Gorkha. Department director Suraj Ghimire stated that the climbers, organized into 40 groups, include 354 men and 126 women. The teams began their ascent from the base camp on Tuesday.
Bhuwan Ojha, information officer at the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) in Gorkha, noted that the mountain is increasingly attracting foreign climbers. First successfully summited on May 9, 1956, Manaslu is recognized internationally for its natural beauty and challenging climbing routes.
Manoj Lamichhane, chief administrative officer of Chumanubri Rural Municipality, said the increase in climbers has boosted tourism activities at the base camp and surrounding areas.
The influx of trekkers and climbers has also created significant employment and income opportunities for local hotel owners, homestay operators, guides, and porters. Hotelier Phunjo Lama from Samagaun confirmed that local businesses continue to benefit from the growing number of visitors.
The record-breaking figures for this season underscore the mountain’s status as a vital pillar of Nepal’s mountain tourism sector.
