The Nepalese government says it is considering imposing an age limit on people who want to climb Mount Everest to better manage the mountain.
A group of mountaineers approach the Hillary Step in May 2009. Photo: AFP (file)
A Ministry of Tourism spokesperson said no one under the age of 18 or older than 75 would be allowed to attempt the climb.
The ministry is also considering banning anyone with disabilities or who has not already scaled mountains that are higher than 6,500 metres.
Although the age limits will not apply to the vast majority of climbers, the ban on novices will have an impact.
Ministry spokespeople said that now "everyone is going to Everest," which has increased the level of risk, largely due to inexperienced climbers who are totally reliant on their paid guides for safety and incapable of helping other climbers who might be in trouble.
The Ministry hopes to have put the rules in place before the spring season, a popular time for climbers to attempt the ascent.