The decision came after the Chinese government, facing growing protests against its rule in Tibet, secretly asked Nepal to close the southern route to the world's tallest mountain during the torch relay in early May, the peak time for Everest climbing, Voice of America reported.

Climbers planning to begin their expeditions at the time were angered by the Nepalese decision, the report said.

Everest straddles both Nepal and China and each country has its own route to the summit for which climbers pay thousands of dollars every year.

Noted Everest climber Pemba Dorje Sherpa said the torch relay event from the Chinese side should not interfere with Nepal's climbing season.

The New York Times reported China, which has already decided to close its north face Everest route, doesn't want any pro-Tibet protests to mar the Olympics.

The report said Nepal will keep its route closed from May 1 to 10. It quoted the country's tourism minister that China had urged his government to help prevent disruptions to the torch event.