Khumbu Icefall Route Opened Up to Camp II for Everest Climbers

Kathmandu, April 29: The climbing route through the Khumbu Icefall up to Camp II has been successfully established for the 2026 Everest climbing season, according to the Department of Tourism.

The route was opened in coordination with the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, Expedition Operators’ Association, and the Nepal Mountaineering Association.

Officials said a major obstacle, a large unstable ice serac in the Khumbu Icefall, was safely managed after repeated efforts by Icefall Doctors and Sherpa climbers.

Route opening work began on March 16 after the traditional Puja ceremony at Everest Base Camp. However, progress was delayed by bad weather, strong winds, snowfall, and dangerous icefall conditions.

On April 26 and 27, a joint team of Icefall Doctors and Sherpa climbers secured the most difficult section between Base Camp and Camp I, allowing safer movement for climbers.

The Department of Tourism has now directed the Expedition Operators’ Association to begin rope-fixing work from Camp II to the summit of Mount Everest as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, climbers and support staff have already started moving upward after completing acclimatization at higher camps.

The department also said a temporary field office has been set up at Everest Base Camp to support coordination and facilitation throughout the climbing season.