KATHMANDU: Nepali mountain guides have been deployed to build routes to the summit of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam as the spring climbing season approaches.
The Nepal Mountaineering Association has entrusted an eight-member climbing team led by experienced guide Ashok Lama with the task of rope fixing and route clearance on these iconic peaks.
The 8K Expedition Company has taken on the management responsibility for the project. The team, which includes skilled climbers such as Karma Gyaljen Sherpa, Pem Nurbu Sherpa, Ming Dawa Sherpa, Tashi Sherpa, Pasa Rinji Sherpa, Pas Tenjen Sherpa, and Tashi Nurbu Sherpa, has been equipped with ropes, climbing gear, and technical devices to ensure safety and efficiency.
Lakpa Sherpa, Managing Director of 8 Expedition Company, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to complete the task on time.
“We are committed to building safe and reliable routes despite unpredictable weather conditions,” he said, adding that over 600 climbers are expected to attempt Everest this season.
The route construction team will clear the path from Everest’s second camp to the summit, installing ropes at key points. Additionally, the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC) has mobilized ‘Icefall Doctors’ to build and maintain the route from the base camp through the treacherous Khumbu Icefall to Camp II.
Chair Lama Kaji Sherpa of the SPCC explained that this spring, the Icefall Doctor team, led by Ang Sarki Sherpa and Dawa Jangbu Sherpa, will stabilize unstable ice structures, hang ropes, and place ladders in hazardous areas. The process is expected to take around 20 days.
Tourism entrepreneurs are optimistic about the upcoming season, with climbing activity significantly increasing. The Department of Tourism has reported a surge in inquiries from climbers, and expedition companies are actively preparing for what they expect to be a busy year.
Mingma Sherpa, chairman of Seven Summit Treks Pvt. Ltd., noted that climbers are arriving in large numbers, with his company alone expecting to guide more than 100 climbers to the summit this year—an increase from the 70 climbers last year.
Comment