KATHMANDU: The autumn climbing season on Mt. Manaslu (8,163 meters), the world’s eighth-highest peak, has started on a promising note, drawing significant interest from the global mountaineering community.
As of September 28, a total of 374 climbers—comprising 95 women and 279 men from 31 expedition teams—have received climbing permits for Manaslu, according to Himal Gautam, Director at the Department of Tourism.
Director Gautam noted that while some climbers have already reached the summit, others are currently acclimatizing or preparing for their final ascent. Last year during the same season, only 28 climbing groups had registered for Manaslu, highlighting a noticeable rise in activity this year.
Leading expedition companies such as Seven Summit Treks Pvt. Ltd., Satori Adventure Pvt. Ltd., and Elite Expeditions have already established base camps at Manaslu. With favorable weather conditions prevailing, climbs are also underway on other peaks including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Ama Dablam, Mera Peak, and Island Peak.
According to the Department, this autumn season has seen a total of 667 climbers—including 152 women and 515 men from 67 countries—obtain permits for 36 different mountains and peaks across Nepal. Notably, two expedition teams have also secured permits for Mt. Everest.
Additionally, permits have been issued for climbs on Dhaulagiri (8 climbers in one group), Makalu, and Lhotse (each with one group).
Over Rs 180 million in mountaineering royalties collected
The Department of Tourism reports that Rs 182.16 million has been collected in mountaineering royalties so far this season, with Manaslu alone contributing over Rs 150 million.
Director Gautam confirmed that this is the highest royalty collection recorded for an autumn season, surpassing previous years where seasonal revenue typically ranged between Rs 70–80 million.
Nima Chhiring becomes youngest climber to summit Manaslu
In a historic achievement, Nima Chhiring Sherpa has become the youngest climber to summit Manaslu, reaching the peak at 6:24 a.m. on September 28 at the age of 16 years, 4 months, and 18 days.
Adding to this season’s notable records, an 86-year-old Spanish climber successfully reached the summit of Manaslu, setting a record as one of the oldest to do so.
Polish mountaineer skis down Everest without oxygen
In a separate achievement, renowned Polish adventurer Andrzej Bargiel set a remarkable record by skiing down from the summit of Mount Everest without using supplementary oxygen. His expedition was organized through Seven Summit Treks Pvt. Ltd.
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