Two Indian climbers lost their lives on Mount Everest while descending after successfully reaching the summit, expedition officials confirmed. The deceased have been identified as Sandeep Are and Arun Kumar Tiwari, both part of an expedition organized in collaboration with Boots and Crampons and supported by Nepali logistics teams.
Successful Summits Followed by Fatal Descent of Two Indian Climbers
According to Nivesh Karki, Sandeep Are successfully reached the Everest summit on May 20, 2026, at 10:55 a.m. (Nepal time). Arun Kumar Tiwari summited a day later, on May 21, 2026, before both climbers began their descent. Despite reaching the summit successfully, both climbers encountered severe difficulties during their return journey from the upper sections of the mountain.
Sandeep is struggling above Camp IV
Officials said Sandeep Are began experiencing serious health complications while descending from above Camp IV. He reportedly suffered from snow blindness and showed symptoms of high-altitude sickness, which significantly slowed his movement. A rescue team of four to five Sherpa guides assisted him down to Camp II, but despite continuous efforts, he tragically passed away shortly after arrival.
Arun Kumar Tiwari Dies Near Hillary Step
Arun Kumar Tiwari died near the Hillary Step while descending from the summit route on the morning of May 22. He had successfully reached the summit the previous day but fell critically ill during the descent. Expedition officials stated that his body remains at high altitude, making recovery operations extremely challenging. Preparations are underway to bring him down safely.
Rescue Efforts by Sherpa Teams
Both climbers were assisted by experienced Sherpa rescue teams during their descent. Multiple Sherpa climbers worked tirelessly to support the stranded mountaineers in extreme conditions, highlighting the critical role of high-altitude rescue operations on Everest.
Confirmation from the Expedition and Police Authorities
Nivesh Karki confirmed that Sandeep’s body has already been brought down to Base Camp. The District Police Office, Solukhumbu, also confirmed both deaths and stated that the exact cause will be determined after postmortem examinations. Authorities noted that another Indian climber from the same expedition is currently being rescued from the South Col region.
Growing Concerns Over Everest Safety
With these two fatalities, the death toll on Everest this season has now reached five, including three Nepali climbers earlier in the season. The incidents once again raise concerns over the extreme risks associated with high-altitude climbing, especially during descent when climbers are physically exhausted after summiting.
