Nepal has introduced a set of sustainable tourism reforms aimed at preserving its Himalayan ecosystems while supporting the livelihoods of local Sherpa communities. The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation recently rolled out new trekking permits, limiting the number of climbers per season on popular routes like Everest and Annapurna.
The policy includes mandatory local guide hiring and restrictions on single-use plastics above 3,000 meters. “This is not just about preserving nature, but also ensuring long-term economic sustainability for the region,” said Tourism Secretary Buddhi Sagar Lamichhane.
These changes have been praised by environmentalists and supported by tour operators in both Nepal and neighboring Indian states like Sikkim and West Bengal, where similar ecotourism efforts are being discussed.
