In August 2025, Nepal announced that climbing royalties are waived for two years on 97 peaks in its remote far west: 77 in Karnali and 20 in Sudurpaschim province. The peaks range from 5,870 m to 7,132 m and include Api (7,132 m), Api West and Saipal.
In short: The aim is to spread climbers beyond Everest and bring income to poor, remote districts. Critics note the region's lack of roads, flights and lodges: only 68 climbers visited these peaks between 2023 and 2025.
Exploring the far west
The far west offers wild treks to Rara Lake, Khaptad and Api Base Camp. See Rara Lake trek and Khaptad. Earlier, Nepal opened 104 new peaks in 2014.