Nepalese Government set to introduce experience rules for Mount Everest climbers

Climbers who want to attempt Mount Everest should first have to demonstrate that they are experienced mountaineers, a panel advising Nepal's Government has recommended.

Its report proposes that applicants must already have climbed a Nepali peak of at least 6,500 metres, provide a certificate of physical fitness, and employ experienced guides.

Earlier this year at least 11 people died or went missing on Mount Everest.

Nine of the deaths occurred on the Nepali side of Everest and two on the Tibetan side, with four of them blamed on overcrowding.

The panel's report also proposes a fee of at least US$35,000 for those wanting to climb Everest, and $20,000 for other mountains higher than 8,000 metres.

The BBC quoted Nepal’s Tourism Minister Yogesh Bhattari as stating “we will take this forward by amending the laws and regulations. We will make our mountains safe, managed and dignified.”

Nepal is home to eight of the world's 14 highest mountains, and foreign climbers are a major source of revenue.

The Nepali panel was staffed by government officials, climbing experts and climbing community agencies.

It was set up after criticism from experienced climbers and guides of the system that allows anyone who pays $11,000 to climb Everest.

The Nepalese Government issued a record 381 permits this season.

Images shows climbers queuing to reach the summit of Mt Everest earlier this year.