Kathmandu, April 18 -- Rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia have pushed up airfares and driven record increases in transport, accommodation, and logistics costs, but the appeal of Mount Everest-the world's highest peak-remains undiminished.

Climbers are pressing ahead with their plans despite escalating expedition costs, a recent fake rescue scam that shook confidence in Nepal's mountaineering industry, and higher government fees and insurance requirements.

Tour operators say the contrast within Nepal's tourism sector is stark.

Bookings for trekking and leisure travel have dropped to around 60 percent of normal levels, yet Everest expeditions have not seen a single cancellation. The trend suggests that the number of climbers this ...