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Nepali climber survives six days alone on Everest
Dawa Sherpa, a veteran Nepali guide presumed dead, was discovered crawling toward Everest Base Camp six days after vanishing above 7,500 meters. Frostbitten but conscious, he has become the first person known to survive solo at that altitude for nearly a week.
Discovery and rescue
A cleaning crew spotted Sherpa slowly sliding down the Khumbu Icefall on Thursday. He was airlifted to Kathmandu's HAMS Hospital, where doctors report he is awake and speaking.
Pemba Sherpa, executive director of 8K Expeditions, called the survival "a true self-rescue" and "nothing short of a miracle." No one has previously survived alone at that elevation for so long, he added.
Family's relief and earlier despair
Sherpa's daughter, Mhendo Lhamo Sherpa, told Reuters he recognized her during a hospital visit. "He is good and speaks. We are happy," she said.
His wife had already performed last-rite prayers, believing him lost. The 52-year-old guide-known as Hillary Dawa Sherpa in honor of Edmund Hillary-had last been seen resting near Camp 4 after a grueling 11-day summit push.
Search efforts draw criticism
Relatives questioned the speed of the search. Kung Sherpa told Outside magazine that initial rescue attempts were delayed. 8K Expeditions eventually coordinated the effort that located Sherpa.
Record season marred by fatalities
More than 1,000 climbers reached Everest's summit this season, setting a new record. However, five deaths have been reported, including three Nepali support staff.
Chris Thrall, a British climber and former Royal Marine, had posted a tribute video assuming Sherpa had perished. In it, he recalled urging Sherpa to descend as the guide paused for a rest during their descent from Camp 4.
"Hillary, are you okay, brother?" Thrall asked. "Yes, yes, fine Chris, please go, go!"
Chris Thrall, Instagram tribute
Thrall and a Polish teammate continued down, expecting Sherpa to follow. Harsh conditions extended their summit push from five to 11 days, complicating the descent.
Medical update
Dr. Nishant Dhakal of HAMS Hospital confirmed Sherpa is receiving intensive care. Frostbite on his hands is the primary concern, but his overall condition is stable.
