The avalanche that killed a climbing legend - and a generation of record-setting guides
Their fellow guides say their deaths in Pakistan dealt a devastating blow to Nepal's mountaineering community.
The avalanche that claimed the lives of a renowned climber and a new generation of world-class mountain guides shook the mountaineering community. Among the victims was Nirmal Purja, a British-Nepali climber who had achieved the remarkable feat of scaling all 14 of the world's highest peaks in just over six months.
Purja, also known as Nims, was leading an international team on the expedition to Broad Peak, the world's 12th highest mountain, when the tragedy struck. His fellow guides, Kili Pemba Sherpa and Pur Bahadur Gurung, were also climbing legends with impressive resumes. Kili Pemba had recently earned the prestigious mountaineering Grand Slam by completing his last of the 14 highest peaks.
The avalanche dealt a devastating blow to Nepal's mountaineering community, which had long recognized the invaluable contributions of Nepali mountain guides, or Sherpas. Kili Pemba, in particular, was celebrated for his dedication and bravery, having led amputees to the summits of Everest and Manaslu.
The loss of these skilled guides highlights the challenges faced by mountaineers in Pakistan's rugged Karakoram mountains, where access is limited and expeditions are more arduous. Despite the risks, guides like Pur Bahadur Gurung, who scaled 12 of the 14 highest peaks, and Nima Sherpa, who climbed four eight-thousanders in a single year, continue to push the boundaries of mountaineering.
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