This year’s autumn season has seen a surge in climbers securing permits to scale Manaslu and other prominent Himalayan peaks. According to the Department of Tourism, a total of 132 climbers, comprising 34 women and 38 men from 12 groups, have obtained climbing permits for the current season.
Among these, Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world and the seventh-tallest in Nepal has attracted the largest number of climbers. A total of 120 climbers, including 32 women and 88 men, from 10 expedition groups have received permits to ascend the 8,163-meter peak, often referred to as the “Killer Mountain.”
Climbers from 31 countries, including Nepal, have secured permits for three peaks this season. Manaslu continues to be a favorite among climbers due to its challenging terrain and the favorable weather conditions that autumn offers. The autumn season, known for its stable and clear weather, is considered the most suitable time to attempt the ascent.
Manaslu holds a significant place in mountaineering history. On May 9, 1956, Japanese climber Toshio Imanishi and Nepali climber Gyalzen Norbu Sherpa made the first successful ascent of Manaslu. Two days later, Japanese climbers Norbu Higeta and Kichiro Kato also reached the summit, followed by Swiss climbers Hans Reiss and Fritz Luchsinger on May 18, 1956.
In addition to Manaslu, climbers are also targeting other peaks. Seven climbers from one expedition team have secured permits to climb Putha Hiunchuli, while five climbers from another group have obtained permits for Annapurna IV.
The Department of Tourism reported that a total of NPR 13,096,264 has been collected as royalties from climbing permits this season, reflecting the growing interest in Himalayan expeditions during the autumn months.
