KATHMANDU, AUGUST 29

For the first time in mountaineering history, 15 climbers are preparing to ascend Api Peak, located in Darchula district of Sudurpaschim Province.

At a programme organized by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) on Friday, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, extended his best wishes to the climbers. The government had earlier issued a climbing permit for Api Himal, one of the prominent peaks in far-western Nepal.

On the occasion, Minister Pandey remarked that the first ascent of the peak would mark a historic milestone not only for Sudurpaschim Province but also for the entire country. He noted that the expedition follows the government's recent decision to waive mountaineering fees for 97 peaks across Sudurpaschim and Karnali provinces for a period of two years.

During the farewell event, the Minister stressed that mountaineering plays a vital role in promoting Nepal on the global stage. He highlighted the joint contributions of Sherpa and non-Sherpa climbers in advancing Nepal's mountaineering legacy.

'This expedition will boost tourism activities both locally and across Sudurpaschim and Karnali provinces,' Pandey said.

All 15 climbers participating in the expedition hail from Api Rural Municipality in Darchula.

(With inputs from Rastriya Samchar Samiti)