Everest Route Opens for Spring 2026, and Solo Trekkers Can Now Get Restricted-Area Permits

The Everest climbing route officially opened after the annual rope-fixing mission, and a rule change now lets solo trekkers get restricted-area permits without joining a group.

Nepal officially opened the Mt Everest climbing route for the Spring 2026 season following the annual rope-fixing mission, clearing the way for this year's climbing and expedition season. The northern route via Tibet remains closed to foreign climbers this year, so all international Everest attempts are running through Nepal's southern route.

Separately, and more relevant for most travelers than climbers: as of a rule change effective 22 March 2026, solo trekkers can now obtain permits for Nepal's restricted trekking areas. The Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal officially removed the previous requirement of a minimum of two trekkers per group for these permits — solo travelers no longer need to form or join a group, just book through a registered agency and arrange a licensed guide.

For anyone planning a restricted-area trek (parts of Manaslu, Upper Mustang and similar regions), this removes what was previously the single biggest barrier for solo travelers.