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Updated: 5 May 2026
The route through the treacherous Khumbu Icefall has been successfully established up to Camp II, marking a key milestone in the 2026 spring climbing season, according to a 29 April 2026 press release by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation D epartment of Tourism, Nepal.
This critical milestone, achieved in coordination with the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, Expedition Operators' Association Nepal, and Nepal Mountaineering Association, paves the way for summit rope fixing to begin shortly.
The route from Everest Base Camp through Camp I to Camp II is often regarded as one of the most dangerous sections of the climb. This season proved no exception.
A massive and unstable ice serac within the icefall posed a serious obstacle, delaying progress for weeks. Combined with persistent snowfall, strong winds, and hazardous rockfall zones, the conditions tested even the most experienced climbers.
However, after repeated efforts and strict adherence to safety protocols, the Icefall Doctors, highly skilled Sherpa specialists responsible for route fixing, successfully secured the passage between 26 and 27 April.
With the lower route now operational, the Expedition Operators' Association Nepal has been instructed to proceed with rope fixing from Camp II to the summit of Mount Everest.
Climbers who have completed acclimatisation rotations are already preparing for their summit bids, marking the transition into the most anticipated phase of the Everest season.
To streamline operations and enhance safety oversight, the Department of Tourism Nepal has established a temporary field office at Everest Base Camp as of 26 April 2026. Dedicated liaison officers, including experienced Everest summiteers, are stationed on-site to coordinate expedition activities throughout the season.
As the season advances, all expedition members are urged to maintain strict adherence to safety protocols in the high-risk alpine environment.
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