The Everest Conundrum: Balancing Ambition with Prudence A record 274 climbers scaled Mount Everest on May 20 from the Nepali side, prompting a mix of awe and concern.
While Nepal's tourism industry has made significant progress, allowing such a large number of climbers raises questions about safety and sustainability.
Nepal's Department of Tourism issued 494 permits to climb Everest this year, each costing $15,000.