Nepali authorities have issued at least 410 permits for climbers aiming to scale various peaks during the autumn expedition season, with Manaslu attracting the largest number of mountaineers.
According to Department of Tourism, a total of 320 men and 90 women from 55 countries have received permission to climb 16 different peaks as of September 25. Among them, 308 climbers will attempt Manaslu (8,163 meters), the world’s tenth-highest peak, continuing its reputation as a prime destination for the season.
Other notable peaks with permits issued include Dhaulagiri I (8,167 meters), Cho Oyu (8,188 meters), Annapurna IV (7,525 meters), and Ama Dablam (6,814 meters). Smaller but significant peaks such as Thorong Peak (6,144 meters) and Thapa Peak (6,012 meters) are also part of the list, indicating a broad interest in Nepal’s challenging climbs.
DoT officials said that this is an encouraging number for the autumn season, which has become increasingly popular in recent years for expeditions to selected peaks. The autumn season is considered second only to spring, particularly for specific mountains that offer favorable climbing conditions during this period.
Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, is generally avoided during the autumn season due to the instability caused by melting in the Khumbu Glacier, with most expeditions now concentrated in the spring or, more recently, during the winter.
Several expeditions have already begun, with fixed ropes laid last week. More than two dozen climbers from Seven Summit treks have successfully reached the summit of Manaslu, according to the expedition agency.