Climbers Summit World’s Fifth Highest Peak
The Himalayan commercial season is ramping up, as hundreds of climbers make their way to base camps
Eight climbers reached the summit of Makalu, the world’s fifth highest mountain at 8,485 metres (27,838 ft), to become the first people on top of an 8,000-metre peak in 2024. There are currently 45 climbing permits to climb Makalu this season.
The eight climbers, who were fixing ropes for future guides to lead clients up, were: Lakpa Sherpa (seventh summit of Makalu), Mingma Dorchi Sherpa, Mingma Tenje Sherpa, Mingma Jangbu Sherpa, Fura Tshering Sherpa, Ngima Dorchi Sherpa, Pem Nurbu Sherpa and Phurba Dorchi Sherpa. They made quick work of the route as they wanted to beat an incoming storm.
Lakpa Sherpa wrote on social media, “The mountain has become more than just a challenge; it’s a companion, a mentor, and a part of who I am. Leading and fixing routes on Makalu isn’t just a duty. It’s a calling, a chance to pay homage to the mountain that has shaped my life in ways I could never have imagined.”
Climbers have also reached the summit of Annapurna, the world’s 10th highest mountain, as more climbers continue to make their way to Everest base camp. Given the number of permits, Everest is heading toward another record year. Sadly, more climbers died on Everest last year than ever before – read about it here.
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