DoT grants ski permits to 22 individuals

Published On: November 3, 2023 04:30 PM NPT By: Republica | @RepublicaNepal

KATHMANDU, Nov 3: In addition to mountain climbing, Nepal is gaining recognition for other adventure sports like skiing. This season, 22 individuals from various countries have secured permission to ski in the mountains of Nepal, as authorized by the Department of Tourism (DoT).

According to DoT statistics, the highest numbers of permits for skiing were issued to citizens of France, with 15 individuals obtaining permission. Following France, four people from Finland and three from Nepal also obtained skiing permits from the DoT. Additionally, two individuals from the United States, one from Norway, and one from Finland were granted permission for skiing. Notably, four of the permit recipients are women, with three hailing from France and one from Finland.

Ski mountaineering is a popular activity in the region, often incorporated into mountain climbing expeditions. DoT Director Rakesh Gurung explained that mountaineering teams frequently engage in skiing activities after reaching the base camp.

Gurung emphasized that skiing from mountain peaks outside government-designated areas requires specific permits related to both mountain climbing and ski mountaineering. The DoT has established designated mountain areas for skiing, including peaks such as Himlung, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Ratna Chuli, Putha Hiunchuli, and Everest.

In these designated areas, skiing enthusiasts are required to pay a $500 waste management deposit for skiing activities, as well as a $1,000 royalty fee for group skiing. The $1,000 royalty fee covers up to 10 people within a group, with an additional $100 per person added for groups exceeding this size. DoT regulations restrict group sizes to a maximum of 20 skiers.

Skiing is a globally popular adventure sport that attracts enthusiasts to snowy terrains. Nepal, renowned for its majestic mountains, has considerable potential for skiing, allowing enthusiasts to ski not only from mountain summits but also on high mountain slopes.

Further promotion and support for skiing, especially during snowfall in mountainous areas, could provide an additional boost to Nepal's tourism sector, enhancing its appeal and generating financial benefits.