Nepali guides and porters make up a significant portion of fatalities on the Himalayas, as demonstrated by the death of a Nepali guide after summiting Mount Makalu. The guide, Lakpa Tenji Sherpa, successfully reached the 8,485-meter summit but tragically passed away while descending. He was reportedly unwell and needed assistance from his team members to descend safely.
Expedition organiser Seven Summit Treks is awaiting more details about the incident. Despite the risks involved, Nepal has issued permits to 59 foreign climbers for Mount Makalu, with many climbers successfully reaching the top after a rope-fixing team paved the way last month.
The dangers faced by Nepali guides and porters highlight the sacrifices they make to support the dreams of paying climbers seeking to conquer the world’s highest peaks. Every year, hundreds of climbers travel to Nepal, known for being home to eight of the world’s 14 highest mountains, to embark on expeditions during the spring climbing season when conditions are optimal.
In 2021, Nepal issued over 900 permits for mountain expeditions, including 414 for Mount Everest alone, generating millions of dollars in royalties. The allure of the Himalayas continues to draw climbers from around the world, but the risks and challenges faced by those who support these expeditions should not be overlooked.