Climbing Mount Everest in 2025 typically costs between $30,000 and $160,000, with an average range of about $45,000 to $70,000 for most standard expeditions. The cost varies widely depending on factors such as the expedition package, level of support, permit fees, guide services, and additional amenities.
Key Cost Components and Ranges:
- Permit fees : Nepal has raised the climbing permit fees by 36% starting September 2025. For the peak season, permits now cost $15,000 (up from $11,000), while fall permits are $7,500, and winter/monsoon permits are $3,750.
- Expedition types :
- Local Nepali-guided trips can cost around $30,000 to $40,000.
- Western-guided expeditions with full support typically range from $60,000 to over $100,000.
- Independent or minimal support climbs might be in the $20,000 to $30,000 range but carry higher risks.
- Additional costs :
- Bottled oxygen, which most climbers use, adds around $465 per bottle (typically seven bottles required).
- Logistics, equipment, guides, Sherpas, base camp services, and insurance also contribute significantly.
Cost by Service Level and Side of the Mountain:
Service Level| Approximate Cost 2025| Notes
---|---|---
Budget local operator| $30,000 - $45,000| Minimal support
Mid-range guided expedition| $45,000 - $70,000| Balanced support
High-end Western guide expedition| $75,000 - $120,000+| Premium service and
gear
South side Nepal permit fee| $15,000 (peak season)| Increased from $11,000
North side Tibet expeditions| Around $35,000 to $70,000| Slight variations
Summary
Climbing Mount Everest is an expensive undertaking with costs influenced by the level of service, the ascent route (Nepal south side or Tibet north side), and additional logistics. Most climbers can expect to pay in the range of $45,000 to $70,000 for a supported, guided expedition in 2025, with options ranging from budget local climbs to luxury Western-led expeditions exceeding $100,000. The cost increase in 2025 includes higher permit fees as part of Nepal's efforts to tackle pollution on the mountain.
