If you are planning to climb Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world, then you have to be mentally, physically & economically well prepared.
You will need a $45,000 average. And for the custom climb, it will even cost $115,000 but there are several requirements or choices. If you take a western guide then it will cost you $65,000. Hiring a guide, gears, documents, permits will surely cost you high and that’s why let’s break down it.
Hiring guide and porter
Hiring the Sherpa to climb with you will cost you around $5,000 to $7,000. But if you hire a western guide then it will cost you more
Permit cost:
The cost of an Everest climbing permit is $15,000 as of 2025. This is a 36% increase over the $11,000 fee that was previously charged.
Key information regarding the permit fee:
A rise in cost: Recently, Nepal increased the permit fee dramatically in order to raise more money for mountain management and sustainability initiatives.
Cost during peak season: Climbing during the spring, when prices are at their highest, costs $15,000.
Other seasons: Climbing fees are also raised proportionately outside of the busiest times of year.
Required Insurance for the Everest Summit :
Climbing Mount Everest is one of the most challenging and dangerous adventures, requiring proper insurance to cover risks like high-altitude sickness, emergency evacuations, and trip cancellations. Here are the key types of insurance needed:
1. Travel Insurance
- Covers trip cancellations, lost baggage, and travel delays.
- Essential for international climbers.
2. High-Altitude Medical Insurance
- Covers illnesses and injuries related to extreme altitude.
- Includes emergency medical expenses and hospitalization.
3. Emergency Evacuation Insurance
- Covers helicopter rescue from Everest in case of severe altitude sickness, injury, or other emergencies.
- Ensure coverage extends beyond 6,000m (some standard policies exclude extreme altitudes).
4. Accidental Death and Disability Insurance
- Provides financial support in case of fatal accidents or permanent disability.
- Recommended for high-risk expeditions like Everest.
5. Expedition Cancellation Insurance
- Covers financial loss due to trip cancellation caused by illness, bad weather, or permit issues.
How to Choose the Best Insurance?
- Check altitude limits – Ensure coverage above 6,000m, preferably 8,000m.
- Include helicopter rescue – Essential for remote mountain evacuations.
- Look for global coverage – Policies should cover Nepal, including the Everest Region.
- Read exclusions – Some policies do not cover extreme sports like mountaineering.
- Read exclusions – Some policies do not cover extreme sports like mountaineering.
Before purchasing, always consult with your trekking agency or insurance provider to confirm that the policy meets Everest’s requirements.
Essential Gears for Summiting Mount Everest
Summiting Mount Everest requires specialized gear to survive the extreme cold, high altitude, and unpredictable weather conditions. Here is a complete list of essential equipment:
1. Clothing & Layering System
Base Layer (Moisture-Wicking)
- Thermal underwear (top & bottom) – Merino wool or synthetic
- Lightweight moisture-wicking shirts
Mid Layer (Insulation)
- Fleece or down jacket
- Insulated trekking pants
Outer Layer (Shell Protection)
- Waterproof, windproof, and breathable jacket (Gore-Tex recommended)
- Waterproof, windproof, and breathable pants
Summit Suit
- 8000m down suit (integrated one-piece or jacket & pants combination)
2. Footwear
Boots
- High-altitude double-layer mountaineering boots (La Sportiva Olympus Mons, Scarpa Phantom 8000, etc.)
- Trekking boots (for lower altitudes)
Socks
- Thermal wool socks (3-4 pairs)
- Liner socks (to prevent blisters)
Gaiters
- Waterproof gaiters to keep snow out of boots
3. Hand Protection
- Inner liner gloves (lightweight, moisture-wicking)
- Insulated gloves (for warmth)
- Heavy mittens (down or synthetic, extreme cold protection)
4. Head & Face Protection
- Mountaineering helmet
- Balaclava & neck gaiter
- UV-protection glacier sunglasses (Category 4 lenses)
- Ski goggles (for wind & snow protection)
5. Sleeping Gear
- Sleeping bag (-40°C rated, down-filled)
- Sleeping pad (insulated)
6. Climbing Equipment
- Ice axe
- Crampons (12-point, compatible with mountaineering boots)
- Climbing harness
- Carabiners (locking & non-locking)
- Ascender (Jumar)
- Descender (Figure 8 or ATC)
- Static & dynamic ropes (provided by guides)
- Trekking poles (adjustable, lightweight)
7. Backpacks & Bags
- Expedition backpack (70-90L)
- Daypack (30-40L) for acclimatization hikes
- Waterproof duffel bag (for gear transport)
8. Oxygen & High-Altitude Gear
- Oxygen bottles (4-6 recommended for summit push)
- Oxygen regulator & mask
- Pulse oximeter (to monitor oxygen levels)
- Altimeter watch
9. Navigation & Communication
- GPS device
- Satellite phone or radio
- Compass & map
10. Food & Hydration
- Insulated water bottles & hydration system
- High-energy snacks (nuts, chocolate, energy bars)
- Lightweight stove & fuel (for high camps)
11. First Aid & Emergency Gear
- High-altitude medication (Diamox, Dexamethasone, etc.)
- Basic first aid kit (bandages, pain relievers, blister treatment)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) & lip balm
- Personal hygiene kit (wet wipes, hand sanitizer, toothbrush)
The cost to climb Mount Everest can be affected by the route as well. The cost varies depending on whether you climb from Nepal (Southern Route) or Tibet (Northern Route). Key expenses include permits, guides, oxygen, equipment, and logistics. Below is a detailed breakdown of costs from both sides.
Pros & Cons of Each Route
| Factor | Nepal (South Route) | Tibet (North Route) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Cost | Higher ($45,000 – $70,000+) | Lower ($30,000 – $55,000) |
| Permit Cost | Expensive | Cheaper |
| Rescue Options | Helicopter evacuation possible | Evacuation only by road |
| Crowds | More crowded | Less crowded |
| Base Camp Comfort | Better facilities (lodges, internet) | Harsher conditions |
| Climbing Difficulty | Steeper, riskier (Khumbu Icefall) | Longer but less technical |
Final Budget Recommendations
- Budget Climbs (Minimal service, no Sherpa support): $30,000 – $40,000
- Standard Climbs (Guided with Sherpa & oxygen support): $45,000 – $60,000
- Luxury Expeditions (Full support, high-end service): $70,000 – $100,000+
Which Route to Choose?
- Nepal Route (South Col): Recommended for easier evacuation & better logistics.
- Tibet Route (North Ridge): Better for those looking for a cheaper and less crowded climb.
