Ten Nepali guides complete first winter ascent of K2
Updated
Updated · The Atlantic · May 4
Ten Nepali guides complete first winter ascent of K2
3 articles · Updated · The Atlantic · May 4
The team reached the 8,611-metre summit on 16 January 2021 in gale-force winds and temperatures near minus 58C, then sang Nepal’s national anthem.
The feat ended the last major unsolved challenge in high-altitude mountaineering after repeated failures by elite climbers and drew global acclaim for an all-Nepali team.
The report frames the ascent as a milestone in Sherpas’ long struggle for recognition, amid their growing control of Everest guiding and continued exposure to disproportionate risk.
With record fees and rescues, is Everest's 'safer' new era just a luxury product with a hidden cost?
Amidst a $20M fraud scandal, can Nepal’s new tracking chips and rules truly clean up the Everest industry?
K2’s 2021 Winter Summit: Nepali Team’s Historic Achievement and Its Impact on High-Altitude Mountaineering
Overview
On January 16, 2021, a team of ten Nepali climbers made history by completing the first-ever winter ascent of K2, the last 8,000-meter peak to be summited in winter. This achievement was driven by strong national pride and a desire to honor the vital contributions of Nepali high-altitude guides and porters. Key figures like Mingma Gyalje Sherpa and Nirmal Purja were motivated to secure recognition for Nepalese climbers and highlight their essential role in mountaineering. Their unity and determination not only marked a milestone for Nepal but also reshaped global perceptions of high-altitude climbing.