The Platinum Jubilee of the first ascent of Mount Manaslu was celebrated in Samagaun of Chumanubri Rural Municipality–1, Gorkha, today, i.e., on Saturday, marking 70 years since climbers first reached the summit of the world’s eighth-highest mountain.
Standing at 8,163 metres above sea level, Mt Manaslu is one of Nepal’s most iconic Himalayan peaks and a major attraction for mountaineers and trekkers from around the world.
The commemorative event was organized under the auspices of Chumanubri Rural Municipality with the support of the Manaslu Conservation Area Project, Nepal Mountaineering Association, and Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal, among other tourism-related organizations.
Gandaki Chief Minister Highlights Tourism Importance
Inaugurating the ceremony, Surendra Raj Pandey said the successful ascent of Mt Manaslu remains a historic milestone for Nepal’s mountaineering and tourism sectors.
He emphasized that such achievements have played a significant role in promoting Nepal as a leading global destination for adventure tourism and Himalayan expeditions.
During the event, statues of Japanese climber Toshio Imanishi and Nepali climber Urgen Tshering Sherpa were unveiled in honour of their historic ascent. The duo successfully climbed Mt Manaslu on May 9, 1956, becoming the first people to reach the summit.
Families of First Climbers Honoured
As part of the celebration, the son and grandson of Toshio Imanishi were felicitated for preserving the legacy of the pioneering Japanese mountaineer and strengthening the long-standing friendship between Nepal and Japan in the field of mountaineering.
The ceremony also honoured Samagaun’s pioneering climbers, including Mingmar Tshiring Lama, Nangsyal Cheden, and Diki Lama, recognizing their contribution to Himalayan climbing and local tourism development.
Tourism stakeholders and residents believe the Diamond Jubilee celebration will further promote the Manaslu region internationally while highlighting the cultural heritage and adventure tourism potential of northern Gorkha.
