In brief
An avalanche on Pakistan’s Broad Peak killed all ten members of an expedition, six of whom were Nepali, including celebrated mountaineer Nirmal Purja. Tributes poured in from Nepal’s Prime Minister, the mountaineering community and friends from school, speaking of his courage, dedication and future inspiration. Students lit candles at his former school in Chitwan while social media filled with messages of loss and legacy. Purja, known worldwide for scaling all 14 highest peaks in six months, had also received an MBE and served 16 years in the British military. The tragedy underscores both the peril of high‑altitude climbing and the deep national grief over a beloved hero.
An avalanche on Puah’s Broad Peak in Pakistan claimed the lives of all ten members of a diverse expedition, six of whom were Nepali, including celebrated mountaineer Nirmal Purja.
Purja, who is best known for climbing all fourteen tallest peaks worldwide in just over six months, was instantly embraced by the global climbing community. His legacy now ignites widespread tributes in Nepal and abroad.
The Prime Minister said: “His history of courage, dedication and contribution will always remain inspiring.” Students and staff at the Small Heaven School in Chitwan lit candles, recalling “the bravery and pride Purja brought to the country.”
Purja’s brother wrote on Facebook: “I feel as though I have lost my whole world. My brother was not only my younger brother – he was my heart.” He added, “Although our hearts are broken, we are incredibly proud of you. Your legacy will live forever.”
Social media flooded with messages calling for remembrance: “Heritage will remain” and “the country has lost a legend.”
Purja’s life highlighted Nepalese guiding prowess; he was the first Gurkha to summit Everest while serving in the British military. Despite allegations that surfaced in 2024, he denied any misconduct when accused by two women in the U.S. and Pakistan.
Other distinguished Nepali climbers aboard the expedition included Pur Bahadur Gurung, known as Yukta, who has summited Everest ten times, and Kili Pemba Sherpa, a prominent guide who had led a historic 2021 winter K2 expedition.
The tragedy reflects the enduring risks of high‑altitude mountaineering while spotlighting the loss of a national hero beloved by friends, family and followers worldwide.
