|

Mount Everest is Closed for Spring 2020 Climbing Season

Climbers on the way from base camp in Everest, Tibet to the advanced camp,passing Rongbuk glacier

UPDATE: Nepal will reopen Himalayan Mountains including Everest for Fall season in 2020. On July 30th Nepal started issuing climbing permits. Tibetan side remains closed for all foreign climbers. In 2021 only domestic tourists were visiting Everest from Tibetan side.

We post all updates in travel regulations on Tibet side in the following article:

With coronavirus cases spreading around the world both China and Nepal made a decision to close Mount Everest for climbers for the spring season 2020.

First, Chinese authorities terminated climbers permits. The news appeared that Nepal will be checking medical history of everyone traveling to Everest. Later, it was confirmed that Nepalese side of Everest would also be closed for the spring season in 2020. 

MOUNT EVEREST CLIMBING SEASON

Northern ascent to Mount Everest in Tibet
Northern ascent to Mount Everest

Right now spring season is the only time when climbers can summit Everest from Tibetan side, meaning that their attempt will be postponed for at least 1 year to 2021.

In Nepal climbers can summit Everest in fall and even winter. However, the best weather conditions are in May-early June, and all commercial summits happen during the spring season.  

Traditionally, spring climbing season in Everest is at the end of May sometimes stretching to the beginning of June when the window of good weather opens. To acclimatize properly for the climb, teams start coming to Everest area in April. From the day they reach Base Camps climbers, their guides and Sherpa prepare for the summit.

HOW THE VIRUS AFFECTED TRAVELING IN TIBET

Climbers tents during the Everest ascent in Tibet
Climbers tents on Tibetan route to Everest

Starting from the end of January Tibet and Tibetan side of Everest were already closed for all travelers. All main landmarks, such as Potala Palace and Jokhang temple in Lhasa were closed for all visitors. Tourism authorities cancelled permits for Tibet and stopped issuing new ones. When the situation will improve, it will be possible to travel in Tibet again.

Tourists that visit Everest receive a special permit for the Everest region. It is different from the climber’s permit. Cancellation of the climbing season doesn’t affect traveling to Everest as a tourist.

RELATED POSTS

Tibet reopened for all travelers in 2023

TIBET REOPENING 2023

TIBET TRAVEL UPDATE FOR FOREIGN VISITORS – MARCH 2023 Tibetan tourism bureau announced that starting from April 1, 2023, we can apply for Tibet Travel Permits and all visitors from all countries can finally visit Tibet. TIBET TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS All foreigners visiting Tibet need Tibet Travel Permit. To apply for it we need clear photos…
Meditation Places in Tibet

The Best Meditation Places in Tibet

In this article, we explore the best meditation places in Tibet. Tibetan Buddhist monks have been practicing meditation for centuries. Meditation is an essential part of studying Tibetan Buddhism. At the same time, it is also beneficial for anyone. No wonder meditation is becoming increasingly more popular as people experience it’s positive effects on everyday…
Plane landing at airport in Kathmandu

17 Travel Gadgets for Your Next Trip

In this post, you will see a list of travel gadgets to take on your next adventure. We will not mention any brand names, and there are no affiliate links. You will find information about tech gadgets that can make your travel more fun, comfortable, safe and memorable. Some things we are using ourselves, others…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *