Over 1,300 climbers take autumn climbing permits

About 1,306 mountaineers have taken climbing permits for Nepal's peaks this autumn season, according to the latest data released by the Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation.

Of those taking permits, about 988 are male and 318 are female climbers. Manaslu, Ama Dablam and Himlung have been the most popular peaks among climbers this season.

The department said climber participation in mountaineering has been encouraging. Royalty refers to the fee payable to the government for a permit to climb a peak.

According to the department's report, royalty from mountain climbing alone has generated about NPR 304.8 million in revenue this autumn. Of that, about NPR 225.8 million came as royalty from Manaslu, while Ama Dablam generated about NPR 45.5 million in royalty.

Climbing permits were also issued this autumn for Sagarmatha, the world's highest peak, the department said. According to its country-wise breakdown, climbers from more than 75 countries came to Nepal this season.