274 Climbers Summit Everest in Single Day

A record-breaking 274 climbers successfully summited Mount Everest from Nepal's side in a single day on Wednesday, setting a new milestone for the world's tallest peak. This unprecedented number of ascents took advantage of clear weather conditions and follows China’s decision to close its Tibetan route this year.

The previous record was set on May 22, 2019, with 223 climbers reaching the summit from Nepal's side and an additional 113 from China's Tibet region. According to multiple reports, around 494 climbers have been issued permits for this season in Nepal.

The record was achieved despite concerns from mountaineering experts who criticize Nepal for allowing large numbers of climbers on the mountain, which can lead to risky congestion in the 'death zone' area below the summit. To address these safety issues, Nepal has introduced tighter controls and higher fees, with permits costing $15,000 each this year.

Photographs circulating on social media show a long line of mountaineers winding across the snowy slopes in what's known as the 'death zone,' the section of the mountain that sits at least 8,000 meters above sea level. Most climbers rely on supplemental oxygen at this altitude.

This climbing season has also seen several deaths, including Bijay Ghimire, who suffered from altitude sickness; Phura Gyaljen Sherpa, who died after slipping into a crevasse; and Lakpa Dendi Sherpa, who died on his way to Base Camp. Despite these risks, the number of climbers continues to surge.

Among the successful summiters was British mountain guide Kenton Cool, who reached the peak for the 20th time, breaking his own record for the most ascents by a non-Sherpa guide. The 52-year-old from southwest England told reporters that he might attempt the climb two or three more times before switching to other smaller peaks.

Cool's ascent came despite delays caused by a serac hanging dangerously over the route, which forced climbers to make their attempts during a short window of good weather. He reported having no issues with crowds during his summit on Friday.