Record 274 climbers scale world's highest peak via Nepal in one day
BBC • • general
Key Points:
- A record 274 climbers successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest via Nepal on Wednesday, surpassing the previous high of 223 climbers set in May 2019.
- The late start to this year's spring climbing season was due to a large ice blockage on the route, but favorable weather conditions allowed climbers to attempt the summit starting at 3:00 AM local time.
- Nearly 500 foreign climbers have been issued permits this year, the highest ever, despite concerns about overcrowding and safety risks in the "death zone" above 8,000 meters where supplemental oxygen is essential.
- Permit fees increased to $15,000 this season, the first hike in nearly a decade, yet tourism on Everest continues to grow, with expedition organizers claiming congestion can be managed with sufficient oxygen supplies.
- Notable achievements include Nepali guide Kami Rita Sherpa reaching his 32nd Everest summit, setting a new world record, and Lhakpa Sherpa, the "Mountain Queen," achieving her 11th summit, a personal best for a female climber.