Want to climb Mount Everest? Here’s detailed breakdown of what this adventure could cost you

Adventure lovers often dream of climbing Mount Everest at least once in a lifetime. However, standing atop the world’s highest peak is indeed challenging and also expensive. Recently, Saanika Shah (21) successfully summited Mount Everest. She earlier drew attention and prominence for performing a Bharatanatyam recital at Everest Base Camp.

For an Indian mountaineer, the total cost of an Everest expedition may typically fall between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 1 crore. The higher costs are due to permits, specialised gear, Sherpa guide, oxygen supplies, and logistics required to climb the peak. Here’s the breakdown of expenses

Breakdown of expenses

The Everest climbing permit alone can cost around Rs 12 to 13 lakh. Hiring a Sherpa guide may require incurring another Rs 6 to 7 lakh. Climbers are often charged an additional Rs 1.5-1.7 lakh as a summit bonus for Sherpas who guide them on how to reach the top, NDTV reported.

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Other key expenditures include buying specialised high-altitude gear such as insulated suits, oxygen masks, mountaineering boots, gloves, and sleeping bags, which may cost another Rs 6 to 7 lakh. The biggest share of the budget goes towards camps, transport, fixed ropes, oxygen cylinders, and expedition logistics, which may cost between Rs 20-30 lakh. If climbers opt for luxury packages with better facilities, the overall budget may exceed Rs 80 lakh or more.

Cost of adventure insurance, other miscellaneous costs

The estimated cost of adventure insurance is about Rs 1.3 lakh. Other miscellaneous costs, including baggage charges and travel expenses, vary depending on the climber’s location and expedition operator. Climbing Mount Everest also entails serious risks, including altitude sickness, severe weather conditions, and injuries. If a climber falls sick or becomes stranded at high altitude, a helicopter rescue may be needed to evacuate them safely. The cost can run into several lakh rupees.

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35% hike in Everest permit fee

Last year in September, Nepal announced a 36 percent hike in Everest permit fees. During the spring climbing season, the fee has increased from Rs 9.05 lakh to Rs 12.35 lakh per person, reports added. Climbers attempting to stand atop Mount Everest during the autumn season are now paying Rs 6.17 lakh, while during the winter season, the fee is Rs 3.08 lakh.

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