A record-breaking 274 climbers successfully scaled Mount Everest in a single day, officials confirmed on Thursday. The climbers took advantage of clear weather conditions on Wednesday, according to Rishi Ram Bhandari of the Expedition Operators Association Nepal. This marks the highest number of climbers to reach the summit in one day from the popular southern route in Nepal.
Record-Breaking Ascent
The previous single-day record was set on May 22, 2019, when 223 climbers reached the summit from the Nepalese side and 113 from the Chinese side. However, Chinese authorities have closed the northern route this year, focusing all traffic on the southern face.
This year's climbing season began later than usual due to risks posed by a massive hanging serac over the key route. Despite this, approximately 494 climbers and an equal number of Sherpa guides are expected to attempt the 8,850-meter (29,032-foot) peak by the end of the month.
Historic Achievements
Earlier this week, veteran guide Kami Rita Sherpa scaled Everest for the 32nd time, breaking his own record. His closest rival, Pasang Dawa Sherpa, reached the summit for the 30th time this week. Additionally, Lakpa Sherpa scaled Everest for the 11th time, setting a new record for the most ascents by a female climber.
Since the first successful ascent by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay on May 29, 1953, thousands have conquered the world's highest peak.
