Nepal expresses shock over missing climbers after Broad Peak avalanche

Nepal has voiced deep shock following the disappearance of several international mountaineers, including prominent Nepali climbers, after a devastating avalanche struck Pakistan's Broad Peak (8,047 meters) in the Karakoram Range. The incident occurred on Thursday.

The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation of Nepal stated it is actively coordinating with the Pakistani government through the Nepali Embassy in Pakistan to facilitate effective search and rescue efforts for the missing climbers. The ministry identified the missing individuals as expedition leader Nirmal Purja ("Nims Dai"), Pur Bahadur Gurung ("Yukta"), Kili Pemba Sherpa ("Kilu"), Nima Sherpa, Nawang Thindu Sherpa, and Gyalu Sherpa.

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We are shocked by the news that mountaineers from various countries, including world-renowned Nepali climbers, have disappeared in an avalanche on Broad Peak (8,047 meters) in the Karakoram Range of Pakistan on 2083 Shrawan 14 (correspondingly 30 July, 2026). We request all concerned stakeholders to take necessary initiatives and coordinate for the speedy search and rescue of the missing climbers.

Search and rescue teams are engaged at the site, but operations face challenges due to difficult weather and operational conditions. According to The Kathmandu Post, four bodies have been recovered. The identities of these recovered individuals have not yet been confirmed by the Alpine Club of Pakistan president, Irfan Arshad Khan.

The expedition reportedly consisted of 10 climbers, including five Nepalis led by Nirmal Purja, one Pakistani, one Omani, one American, and one Chinese national. The entire team has reportedly been out of communication since the avalanche struck the world's 12th highest mountain.

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We request all concerned to inform us that continuous coordination is being carried out with the Pakistani government through the Nepali Embassy in Pakistan for the speedy search and rescue of the missing Nepali climbers.