Tragedy struck the Himalayan region once again as seven climbers, including five foreigners and two Nepalis, lost their lives in an avalanche that hit the Rolwaling region of Dolakha district on Sunday morning. Authorities confirmed that four climbers remain missing, while four others sustained injuries in the deadly incident.
Avalanche Strikes Expedition on Yalung Ri
According to Dolakha District Police Chief, DSP Gyan Kumar Mahato, the avalanche occurred around 8 a.m. on Sunday (Kartik 11) at an altitude of 5,630 meters near Yalung Ri Himal, located in Gaurishankar Rural Municipality–9. A 15-member climbing team was on an expedition to summit Yalung Ri Himal when the disaster struck. The names and nationalities of all members are yet to be confirmed as rescue efforts continue in challenging weather conditions.
“The climbers were moving towards the summit when they were caught in a sudden avalanche,” DSP Mahato said. “So far, seven bodies have been recovered, and efforts are ongoing to locate the missing climbers.”
Rescue Efforts Underway
Local authorities, along with Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and local rescuers, have been mobilized for the search and rescue operation. However, the remote location and adverse weather have hampered immediate rescue and evacuation. Helicopter support has been requested, but strong winds and snow conditions have delayed air operations. Rescuers are now attempting to reach the site on foot to recover the remaining climbers.
Details of the Expedition
The ill-fated expedition team consisted of 15 members, including Nepali mountain guides and international climbers. Locals said the group was divided into smaller climbing parties, with one group consisting of four climbers, two foreigners and two Nepalis, who were near the avalanche zone.
After completing the Yalung Ri climb, the team reportedly planned to attempt Dolma Khang (over 6,000 meters), another peak within the Rolwaling range. Two members of the team were said to be staying in Na Village, preparing for the next climb, according to local eyewitnesses.
Unstable Weather Conditions in the Himalayas
The incident comes amid unstable weather conditions across the Himalayas following recent snowfall and changing temperatures. Experts say such conditions have increased the risk of avalanches in several climbing regions, including Manaslu, Rolwaling, and Everest areas. The Rolwaling region, located near the Nepal-Tibet border, is known for its remote valleys and technically challenging peaks, attracting fewer but more experienced climbers each year.
Authorities Urge Caution
Officials have urged all ongoing expeditions to monitor weather updates and adhere to safety guidelines. “We are deeply saddened by this loss,” said DSP Mahato, adding that a detailed report will be made public once the missing climbers are found and their identities verified. The Department of Tourism and local authorities are coordinating with expedition organizers and embassies of the affected foreign nationals to manage the recovery and repatriation process.
