Five Russian Mountaineers Perish on Mount Dhaulagiri in Nepal
Five Russian mountaineers have tragically died on Mount Dhaulagiri, the world’s seventh-highest peak, during Nepal’s autumn climbing season, The Associated Press reports.
According to Pemba Jangbu Sherpa of I AM Trekking and Expeditions, the climbers were reported missing since Sunday and their bodies were spotted on Tuesday by a rescue helicopter.
The group, who were attempting to summit the 26,788-foot mountain, are believed to have slipped and fallen. Two of the climbers had successfully reached the summit, while the remaining members had turned back before the top. Radio contact was lost between them and the team at the base camp.
The exact cause of the accident is currently under investigation. No decision has been made about retrieving the bodies, as the process would require extensive planning, manpower, and specialized equipment.
The autumn climbing season in Nepal, while less popular than the spring season, is gaining traction due to its less crowded conditions and lower permit fees. This season began last month.
