KATHMANDU: The autumn climbing season for Mount Manaslu has officially commenced. According to the Department of Tourism, 466 climbers from various countries began their ascent last Tuesday after receiving official permits.
The climbers, organised into 39 groups, consist of 342 men and 124 women who have departed from the base camp. Climbing support staff member Bisbahadur Gurung stated that the expedition began following a traditional prayer ceremony conducted by a Lama at the base camp. Gurung expects the climbers to complete their ascent within the next two to three weeks.
The Department of Tourism reported that the number of climbers this season is the highest recorded to date. Consequently, the government has collected Rs 212.44 million in revenue from climbing permits, marking a record high for the mountain. Revenue figures are based on the total number of permits issued for the current season.
Standing at 8,163 metres above sea level, Manaslu is the world’s eighth-highest mountain. Located in Samagaun, Chumanubri Rural Municipality-1 of Gorkha, the mountain was first opened for climbing on May 9, 1956.
