Age limits for climbing Mt Everest
Recent summit attempts of teenagers have caused a lot of debate in the climbing community. In 2001, sixteen year old Temba Tseri Sherpa (Nepali boy) became the youngest climber to summit Everest, although he lost a few fingers and toes because of frostbite. Last spring (May 2010) the record was taken by Jordan Romero, who ascended World’s highest mountain at the age of 13!
As a response to the tendence of taking very young climbers above the Death Zone (plans were already there to bring a 11-year old next spring), the China Tibet Mountaineering Association (CTMA) has issued new regulations since 2 weeks for climbing Mt Everest. As from June 10th (2010), two age limits will be set to climb Everest from the north side: a minimum age of 18, and a max of 60. Exceptions can be made for climbers providing positive medical records but 16 will still be the absolute lowest limit according to CTMA.
The CTMA’s decision was welcomed by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), who already set a minimum age of 16 after Temba’s summit push. In Nepal the maximum age to climb Everest is not restricted.
Pro or con? Let us know…
Additional permit required for every trekker in Nepal
Per April 1st 2010, an additional permit will be required for every trekker who is visiting one of Nepal’s trekking and climbing areas. For travellers who book their trek/expedition at an official trekking agency, a surplus of $10 per person will be applicable. The ones who will organize their trip themselves will be charged $20 per person.
Since Mountain Consult is a registered Nepali agency, we will provide every of our clients with this so called ‘TIMS card’ (Trekkers Information Management System)
If you like to read more about this card, check the website of TAAN (Trekking Agencies Assocation of Nepal); http://www.taan.org.np/tims_taan.php
Administrator
Eveline Wessels
