In brief
Renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja died in an avalanche on Broad Peak during a multi‑national climb in Pakistan. Elite Expeditions confirmed the loss and expressed profound sadness. The tragedy involved ten climbers, including three from Purja’s expedition, and shocked governments in Pakistan and Nepal. Purja, who first completed all fourteen 8,000‑metre peaks in 2019, was celebrated for his record and courage. Rescue teams continue to search for survivors and bodies amid the dangerous Karakoram terrain.
Renowned British‑Ne pali mountaineer Nirmal Purja is among 10 people killed in an avalanche on Broad Peak in Pakistan. His employer, Elite Expeditions, released the news with profound sadness.
Purja, 43, was known worldwide after he climbed all fourteen 8,000‑metre peaks in September 2019, earning an MBE from the late Queen in 2018.
Pakistani officials said bodies of three other climbers from his expedition – an American, an Omani and a Nepali – were recovered. The tragedy shocked Nepal’s Prime Minister, who called the loss “shocking.”
Purja’s brother, Kamal, mourned the loss and said the family would miss him every day but takes pride in his legacy. British Defence Secretary Wes Streeting praised Purja’s dedication and service.
Naila Kiani, spokesperson for the Alpine Club of Pakistan, confirmed the avalanche and that rescuers still search for bodies. Broad Peak, 8,047 m, has a history of many fatalities; Purja had not planned to summit the peak.
The incident highlights the risks of high‑altitude mountaineering. Purja’s record of completing all fourteen eight‑thousanders in 189 days showcases the blend of courage and meticulous planning that defines extreme climbing.
