Mountain Guide Dies In Nepal After Climbing World's Fifth-Highest Peak

Nepali guides and porters account for a large portion of deaths on the Himalayas

A Nepali guide died after successfully summiting Mount Makalu, the world's fifth-highest mountain, marking the first fatality of the spring climbing season in Nepal. Lakpa Tenji Sherpa, 53, reached the 8,485-meter peak while assisting foreign climbers but encountered health issues during the descent.

"He was unwell and had to be assisted down by his team members," stated Rakesh Gurung from Nepal's tourism department.

Seven Summit Treks, the expedition organizer, is awaiting further details on the incident. Despite this tragedy, many climbers have reached the top of Makalu following a rope-fixing team's successful ascent last month.

Nepali guides and porters face significant risks on the Himalayas, highlighting their sacrifices for the aspirations of numerous climbers. Nepal, with eight of the world's 14 highest peaks, is a popular destination for climbers during the spring season due to favorable weather conditions.

This year, Nepal has issued more than 900 permits for mountain expeditions, including 414 for Everest, generating royalties exceeding five million dollars.