KATHMANDU, Nepal – A Nepalese mountaineering team said on Saturday it had reached the peak of K2, the second highest mountain in the world, a feat never before achieved during winter.
“The impossible has become possible!” team leader Nirmal Purja wrote on Facebook. “History made for humanity. History made for Nepal! “
Seven Summit Treks, the expedition company that is organizing the effort, said the 10 climbers had reached the peak on Saturday afternoon, achieving what they called “Savage Mountain” during the most dangerous climbing season.
Climbers say the K2 is one of the most difficult mountains to climb, even in a more tolerant spring climate.
“Staying on top of Mount K2 in winter is historic and remarkable work,” said Ang Tshering Sherpa, former president of the Nepal Mountaineering Association. “Nepalese climbers have proven their skills in mountaineering. It is a proud moment. “
K2 climbs 28,251 feet, second only to Mount Everest. Part of the Karakoram mountain range in northern Pakistan, close to China, K2 was considered the last of the 14 highest mountains in the world to be climbed in winter.
This time, it was tested by a team led by Purja, 37, who had already set records before. In 2019, Purja reached the summit of each of the 14 highest mountains in the world in just over six months, a milestone for climbers.
Seven Summit Treks praised Saturday’s rise as a milestone and a testament to teamwork, but also noted the risks that still await climbers.
“It is K2 and it is winter, many uncertain things can still happen, we never know,” wrote the company. “I hope everyone will descend to base camp safely.”
Climbers, part of a larger team, endured temperatures of minus -58 degrees Celsius during a journey that began in mid-December. They also undertook the effort in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic: only those who tested negative for Covid-19 were allowed to land in Pakistan and climb the mountain.
Climbers at K2 base camp were thrilled with the climb, although they recognize the risk that remains. “Here is a big thrill,” said Lakpa Dendi Sherpa in a base camp interview. “We are praying for your safe descent.”
Mingma Sherpa, president of Seven Summit Treks, said in an interview that the other climbers were hoping to climb the mountain after the first team fixed their rope at the top. “But I’m not sure if the weather allows them to climb.”