Severe high-altitude winds have temporarily halted rope-fixing operations on Kanchenjunga, forcing the summit fixing team to retreat safely to base camp after reaching an altitude of 8,200 metres, expedition organizers said.
According to Seven Summit Treks, the rope-fixing team had been preparing for the final summit push on the world’s third-highest mountain when extreme weather conditions disrupted the mission. Despite the setback, organizers said the expedition remains active, and climbers are preparing for another summit attempt once weather conditions improve.
High Winds Force Temporary Retreat
The expedition company confirmed that ropes have already been fixed up to 8,200 metres on the mountain, bringing the team close to the summit route. However, powerful winds at higher elevations created dangerous climbing conditions, compelling the fixing team to descend safely back to base camp before making the final push. “Severe high winds forced the team to retreat safely,” the company stated in an expedition update, adding that climber safety remains the top priority.
Some Teams Leave, Others Continue Preparations
As unstable weather continues across the Himalayan region, some expedition teams on Kanchenjunga have reportedly decided to end their spring expeditions and return to Kathmandu. However, Seven Summit Treks said its commitment to the expedition remains firm and that the team is closely monitoring weather forecasts for the next possible summit window. The company stated that it plans to resume rope-fixing operations immediately once conditions become favourable, allowing climbers to proceed safely toward the summit.
Veteran Sherpas Leading the Expedition
The overall expedition is being led by veteran climber Nuri Sherpa, who has extensive experience on Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks. Meanwhile, the rope-fixing mission is being coordinated by renowned climber Dawa Sherpa, popularly known as “Speed Dawa” in the mountaineering community for his rapid ascents and technical climbing expertise. Expedition officials praised the efforts of the Sherpa fixing team, saying they had shown determination and professionalism despite difficult weather conditions at extreme altitude.
Challenging Conditions on Kanchenjunga
Standing at 8,586 metres, Kanchenjunga is considered one of the world’s most technically demanding 8,000-metre mountains. Located in eastern Nepal along the border with India, the mountain is known for unpredictable weather, avalanche risks, and difficult climbing terrain. Strong winds frequently disrupt summit attempts during the spring climbing season, often forcing climbers to wait for narrow weather windows before making final ascents.
Expedition organizers said they remain fully prepared to complete the rope-fixing mission and support climbers aiming for the summit once conditions stabilize. “We remain determined and fully prepared to finish what we started,” the company stated, promising further updates as the expedition progresses.
