Association takes direct charge of 2026 route-setting above Camp II
KATHMANDU, MARCH 25
As Nepal's spring climbing season gets underway, the Expedition Operators Association of Nepal (EOA Nepal) has dispatched a 10-member team to fix ropes on the summit routes of Mt Everest and Mt Lhotse, marking a significant shift in how the critical operation is being managed this year.
In a formal flag-off ceremony in Kathmandu on Tuesday, EOA Nepal President Damber Parajuli handed the team flags of both EOA Nepal and the Department of Tourism - to be planted atop the two peaks upon successful summit.
This year's operation represents a notable departure from previous practice. In past seasons, EOAN awarded the rope-fixing contract through an open application process open to all expedition agencies. For 2026, the association has taken direct institutional responsibility - selecting and appointing the team itself, arranging all necessary gear and equipment, and securing payment for the expedition.
The team will fix the route above Camp II. The Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee has already deployed a team of icefall doctors to establish the route from Base Camp to Camp II.
The team is led by experienced climber Mingma Tenje Sherpa. Members include Pam Dorjee Sherpa, Chhomba Tenji Sherpa, Pasang Tashi Sherpa, Mingma Nurbu Sherpa, Lopsang Bhote, Furtenzi Sherpa, Guru Bhote, Mingma Dorchi Sherpa, and Pasang Tenjing Sherpa.
Coordination Subcommittee for 2026 has been entrusted to Executive Committee Member Pemba Sherpa. Executive Committee Member Babu Sherpa has been designated Base Camp Coordinator and liaison to ensure smooth communication between Base Camp and Kathmandu. Dorjee Ongdak Sherpa, Base Camp Manager and Sirdar of Seven Summit Treks and Expedition, has been appointed as an additional coordinator.
EOA Nepal General Secretary Rishi Bhandari also acknowledged the contribution of Chhang Dawa Sherpa, Executive Committee Member of EOA Nepal and Director of Seven Summit Treks and Expedition, for supplying the team with essential equipment including down suits and climbing boots.
Speaking at the ceremony, EOAN President Parajuli paid tribute to the Sherpa community, saying Nepal's mountaineering sector had been built on their dedication, professionalism, and integrity, and that their role remains fundamental to its continued success.
Nepal Mountaineering Association President Phur Gelje Sherpa, who attended the event, stressed the importance of carrying out route opening and rope fixing in a safe, reliable, and professional manner.
TAAN President Sagar Pandey underscored the global significance of Everest and called for safety and responsibility across all expedition activities. He also highlighted Nepal's immense tourism potential and called for appropriate recognition and state support for climbing Sherpas as representatives of the nation.
Senior Vice President Iswari Paudel, Second Vice President Shivraj Thapa, and members Pemba Sherpa, Ang Babu Sherpa, Krishna Aryal, Navin Trital, and Murari Sharma were among others present at the ceremony to wish the team success for the season.