Manang: Search and rescue teams have found and identified 15 bodies at the Himlung Himal Base Camp in Manang after a tragic avalanche, with one person still unaccounted for.
The recovery effort was led by the Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA), despite tough mountain conditions and over 14 feet of snow covering parts of the base camp.
The NNMGA announced that the second phase of the search and recovery operation has concluded, but Pasang Nuri Sherpa remains missing.
The avalanche hit the Himlung Himal Base Camp in Narpa Bhumi Rural Municipality-5 of Manang on September 27, burying Nepali workers and support staff who were preparing the mountain route and base camp for the autumn climbing season.
The identified victims include :
- Cheebi Bhote,
- Pasang Bhote,
- Birendra Gurung,
- Ghan Shyam Rai,
- Birkha Dhoj Tamang,
- Jagat Tamang,
- Kalam Buda,
- Lak Kumar Rai,
- Ngima Dorje Tamang,
- Santa Bir Tamang,
- Suraj Rai,
- Urkha Dhoj Bohara,
- Prem Tamang,
- Kirte Sherpa,
- Ash Gurung.
The avalanche struck while workers were setting up tents, routes, and facilities for foreign climbers, who were not present at the base camp at the time.
Rescue teams faced significant challenges due to high altitude, heavy snow, and ongoing hazards. Experienced mountain guides led the search teams through the snow-covered terrain to locate the missing workers.
The first phase of the recovery was directed by IFMGA mountain guide Mingma G. Sherpa, while IFMGA mountain guide Pasang Kaji Sherpa oversaw the second phase.
The recovery teams comprised skilled Sherpa guides and mountain personnel who searched the avalanche-affected base camp for survivors and missing workers.
The recovery operation is currently on hold due to continuing hazards in the area. The NNMGA indicated that efforts may resume when conditions improve.
The Himlung Himal, reaching 7,126 meters, is situated in the northern part of the Manang district and is a popular spot for climbers seeking high-altitude experiences.
This incident marks one of the deadliest during Nepal’s autumn climbing season, with 15 confirmed Nepali workers deceased and one person still missing.