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A record-breaking 274 climbers successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest from the Nepali side on Wednesday, marking the highest number of single-day ascents ever recorded from Nepal.
According to Nepal’s Expedition Operators Association, the previous record was 223 climbers in a single day, set on May 22, 2019. Officials believe this year’s number could still rise because some climbers may not have reported their successful summit to the Everest base camp yet.
The world’s tallest mountain, standing at 8,849 meters (29,032 feet), lies on the border between Nepal and Tibet, China. However, expedition operators said there were no climbs from the Tibetan side this year because Chinese authorities did not issue climbing permits.
Why the Record Matters
The huge number of climbers highlights Everest’s growing popularity, but it also raises serious safety concerns. Mountaineering experts often warn about overcrowding near the summit, especially in the dangerous “death zone,” where oxygen levels are extremely low and survival becomes difficult.
Long queues near the top of Everest have previously caused exhaustion, delays, and even fatalities during climbing seasons.
This year, Nepal issued 494 Everest climbing permits, with each permit costing $15,000. In response to criticism over overcrowding and inexperienced climbers, Nepal has recently introduced stricter rules and higher fees for expeditions.
Officials Still Verifying Final Numbers
Nepal’s tourism department said climbers must provide photos and other proof before their summit achievements are officially confirmed and certificates are issued.
Expedition organizer Lukas Furtenbach of Furtenbach Adventures said large numbers are manageable if expeditions are properly organized and climbers carry enough oxygen supplies.
He added that his teams avoided the main crowd and were not affected by congestion on the mountain.
Everest Tourism Continues to Grow
Everest climbing remains a major source of tourism income for Nepal. Every spring climbing season, hundreds of mountaineers from around the world travel to the Himalayas hoping to stand on the roof of the world.
Despite growing safety concerns, demand for Everest expeditions continues to rise year after year.
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