Record 274 climbers summit Everest from Nepalese side in single day
The Guardian • • world
Key Points:
- A record 274 climbers reached the summit of Mount Everest from the Nepalese side in a single day, taking advantage of clear weather after a delayed spring climbing season due to ice fall risks.
- Most climbers were assisted by Sherpa guides and used supplementary oxygen, with one Ecuadorian climber summiting independently without oxygen.
- The large number of climbers on one day caused queues and slow ascents in the dangerous "death zone," raising concerns about safety and overcrowding on the mountain.
- Veteran guide Kami Rita Sherpa set a new record with his 32nd Everest summit, while Lhakpa Sherpa achieved her 11th summit, the most by a female climber.
- Nepal issued 494 climbing permits this season, each costing $15,000, with the climbing season expected to end in late May amid ongoing verification of summit claims.