Everest Alliance and GoNature Introduce Largest-Ever Mountaineering Award
A historic milestone has been reached for the global mountaineering community with the establishment of a groundbreaking $30,000 award. Set up to recognize individuals and organizations dedicated to developing Nepal’s mountaineering sector, this initiative stands as the largest prize ever introduced in the nation’s alpine history. Beyond celebrating athletic achievements, the award aims to honor those who provide vital support to the vulnerable Himalayan communities that form the backbone of mountain tourism.
The initiative is a collaborative effort between Everest Alliance Nepal and China’s GoNature Outdoor Sports Group Co. Limited. The official memorandum of understanding was signed during the recent Everest Summiteers Summit 2026 in Kathmandu by Sudarshan Nepal, President of Everest Alliance Nepal, and Zhao Le, Vice-President of the prominent Chinese outdoor brand PELLIOT.
The total purse will be divided equally across three distinct categories, with each recipient receiving a $10,000 prize. To guarantee absolute transparency and fairness in the selection process, the organizers are forming a high-level jury composed of five international experts, which will include one representative from Nepal.
This prestigious accolade will be formally presented during the Third Everest Summiteers Summit, scheduled to take place in Nepal in 2027. By spotlighting both grassroots workers and institutional supporters, the award marks a significant step forward in fostering sustainable tourism, strengthening cross-border alpine partnerships, and ensuring the long-term welfare of the Himalayan region.
