Tragic Avalanche Strikes Broad Peak in Pakistan
The Government of Nepal has initiated efforts to repatriate the bodies of six Nepali mountaineers, including renowned climber Nirmal Purja “Nims Dai,” who lost their lives in a devastating avalanche on Broad Peak, the world’s 12th-highest mountain, located in Pakistan.
According to a statement issued by Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, the avalanche occurred on July 30, 2026, at an altitude of approximately 6,600 meters, while the climbing team was ascending from Camp II to Camp III.
Six Nepali Climbers Confirmed Dead
The avalanche claimed the lives of six climbers: renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja, popularly known as “Nims Dai,” Purna Bahadur Gurung (“Yukta”), Kili Pemba Sherpa (“Kilu”), Nima Sherpa, Nawang Thindu Sherpa, and Gyalu Sherpa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also confirmed that several members of the international expedition accompanying the Nepali team lost their lives in the same tragic incident, making it one of the deadliest accidents on Broad Peak in recent years.
Search and Rescue Operations Launched Immediately
The Ministry stated that search and rescue operations were launched immediately after authorities received reports that the climbing team had gone missing. Pakistani authorities, local rescue agencies, and mountaineers joined forces to conduct extensive search efforts in the challenging high-altitude terrain. Rescue teams have been working under extremely difficult conditions, including unstable snow, harsh weather, and the constant risk of additional avalanches. The Government of Nepal commended the courage and dedication shown by both Pakistani and Nepali rescue personnel involved in the ongoing operation.
Bodies of Two Climbers Recovered
According to the Ministry, the bodies of Pur Bahadur Gurung “Yukta” and Gyalu Sherpa have been recovered. Search operations are continuing for the remaining climbers, with rescue teams making every possible effort despite the dangerous mountain conditions.
Government Begins Repatriation Process
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it has begun the necessary diplomatic and administrative procedures to bring the bodies of the deceased Nepali climbers back to Nepal. The Embassy of Nepal in Islamabad has been coordinating closely with the Government of Pakistan and relevant authorities to facilitate the recovery, documentation, and repatriation process. Officials said the bodies will be returned to Nepal after all required legal and logistical procedures are completed.
Government Expresses Condolences
The Government of Nepal and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy and paid heartfelt tribute to the deceased mountaineers. The Ministry also extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, relatives, friends, and the entire mountaineering community, acknowledging the immense loss suffered by the nation.
A Significant Loss to its Mountaineering Community
Nirmal Purja, widely known as Nims Dai, was one of its most celebrated mountaineers, earning global recognition for his extraordinary climbing achievements and his contributions to promoting its mountaineering industry. The deaths of Purja and five experienced climbers represent a major loss to its mountaineering community. The Broad Peak avalanche is regarded as one of the deadliest mountaineering tragedies involving climbers in recent years. Search and rescue operations remain ongoing, and authorities are expected to release further updates as more information becomes available.
