The 12th expedition of Himalayan Ascent on Mount Everest was a mixed season of personal bests peppered with challenges. As we reflect on the highs and lows of this season, we remain proud of our commitment to safety and teamwork, even in the face of adversity.

Smooth Beginnings and Strong Team Spirit: With excitement and anticipation, we kicked off our expedition with a formidable team consisting of 10 clients, 8 of whom aimed to conquer Everest while 2 set their sights on Lhotse. The group also included 2 climbing without supplemental oxygen. We were well-prepared to take on the world’s highest peak with our experienced team of 12 Sherpas.

Weather Woes and Rescue Missions: After a smooth start, the weather began to play tricks on us during our second rotation. Unpredictable conditions and unfavourable forecasts forced us to make difficult decisions. Our priority shifted from reaching the summit to ensuring the safety of our team members. We had to conduct rescue missions for 2 Sherpa guides from above Camp 2 and base camp. These unexpected events served as poignant reminders of the inherent risks of mountaineering.

When the much-awaited summit weather window finally arrived, we faced yet another unexpected hurdle. Half of our clients, disheartened by the crowds and their experience on the Lhotse face, made the difficult and personal choice to abandon their summit bids. Although they didn’t reach the summit, personal bests were still achieved during a very busy Everest season.

Persistence and Teamwork: Undeterred by the challenges, the remaining team members, along with our dedicated guide, embarked on their summit push on the 22nd of April. However, extreme cold temperatures forced them to turn around at the Balcony. Although we did not stand atop the summit this season, we take immense pride in our commitment to never leave anyone behind.

The Value of Safety and Client Care: Himalayan Ascent has always prioritized safety and client well-being, and this season was no exception. We are proud to have maintained our impeccable record of not losing a single client since our establishment. Our ethos of prioritizing human lives over personal achievements continues to guide us as we learn valuable lessons from this challenging season. We recognize the importance of adapting to unpredictable weather patterns and carefully managing our clients’ expectations. With a commitment to continuous improvement, we aim to make the upcoming seasons safer and more rewarding for all.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our clients, Sherpas, and the entire Himalayan Ascent team for their unwavering spirit throughout this trying season. Planning for our 13^th Everest expedition is already underway based on team safety and the preservation of this awe-inspiring mountain.

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Whilst we understand the actions taken by the government to protect the general Nepal population, unfortunately many who rely on the Spring season income for their livelihood will go without this year. We are saddened by the impact the closure will have across the tourism sector in Nepal, but in particular the impact this will have on expedition and trekking staff that are the cogs and gears behind all Nepal adventures. We are working to reduce the financial impact for some of our staff.

This is a difficult and stressful time for everyone, we wish you good health over the coming few months as this pandemic runs its course. We look forward to partnering with you again when Nepal reopens for business. We’ll be ready to hit the trails and peaks strong!

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The autumn season will start in no time with off the beaten treks in Mustang, Annapurna and a charity treks in the lower and upper parts of the Khumbhu. We also have plans for climbs on Ama Dablam and Mera peak.

New beginnings for us….after 8 years working together as Himalayan Ascent and countless more years before we started this adventure together…Lakpa has now moved onto another business and has left Himalayan Ascent. We wish him well as he pursues his other endeavours. I am sure we will work together again if the opportunity arises. This leaves Himalayan Ascent as now a family owned business of Sumit Joshi and Sabita Rana, and we look forward to continuing to support your adventures in the Himalayas in the future.

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Our Everest team took a break on April 18. It was a resting day, we burnt juniper and quietly contemplated the events of 2 years past when we lost some good friends and guides. We miss you Ankaji.

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After spending 2 nights in C3 on Annapurna, strong winds have yet again delayed summit aspirations for Lakpa and his team. They are safely back in BC waiting for another summit opportunity. Over at Everest BC, we held our main pujaon the 14th with all climbers and gear. Our Sherpas are busy now stocking C1 and C2, while our other climbers are practicing ladder crossings in preparation for their first foraythrough the icefall on the 20th.

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