KATHMANDU: Nepal’s autumn climbing season drew as many as 802 mountaineers from 72 countries have secured permits to climb peaks ranging from Everest to Ama Dablam, according to the Department of Tourism.

The latest royalty report reveals that Nepal has collected Rs 191.39 million (USD 1.36 million) in mountaineering fees so far this season. Mt Manaslu (8,163m) continues to reign as the most popular mountain, drawing 374 climbers from 31 expeditions — the highest number of any peak this autumn.

Close behind are Himlung Himal with 98 climbers, Ama Dablam with 57, and Dhaulagiri I with 36. The autumn permits also include smaller but scenic peaks such as Saribung, Langtang Lirung, and Putha Hiunchuli, attracting both professional and emerging climbers.

While Sagarmatha (Everest) saw only a few teams this season, the variety of expeditions reflects Nepal’s growing appeal for technical, mid-altitude, and offbeat climbs.

Climbers from China, the UK, France, Germany, the US, Japan, and Italy lead the charts this year. The Department noted that this year’s participation of 613 male and 189 female climbers highlights the increasing gender diversity in global mountaineering.

Tourism officials say the strong autumn response underscores Nepal’s continuing reputation as the world’s premier mountaineering destination, even amid shifting travel trends.