Ahead of the Everest climbing season, Nepal has mandated all mountaineers to have GPS trackers. Previously, this requirement was optional, and only a few companies used trackers.
A tracker is a chip embedded in the climber’s jacket. It needs to be rented in Nepal, costing between $10 and $15 for each chip. Upon return from the route, the chip must be returned and will be used for subsequent climbs.
Trackers use the Global Positioning System (GPS) and exchange information via satellite. Nepal is the primary country for climbers aspiring to conquer the world’s highest mountains, with 8 out of the top 10 peaks located here.
Annually, Nepal issues several hundred permits for climbing. Last year, 478 such permits were issued. 12 climbers lost their lives, and 5 went missing. The cost of a climbing permit is $11,000, and with additional expenses for equipment and Sherpa guides, the total cost amounts to $35,000 and above.
Climbing Everest can take approximately 2 months. The weather window is very short, usually in mid-May.
Useful links:
- Hotel Booking – Booking.com
- Flight tickets – Aviasales
- Car rental – Local Rent
- Travel insurance – Hotline Finance
