Renowned Sherpa mountain guide Kami Rita Sherpa, who recently completed his record 32nd successful ascent of Mount Everest, is urging authorities to impose limits on the number of climbers allowed on the peak each season. Speaking after his return to Kathmandu on Friday, May 22, 2026, Kami Rita expressed concerns about the growing crowds on Everest, which he says pose significant safety risks.
Record-Breaking Ascent Amid Growing Concerns
Kami Rita, 56, reached the summit of Everest for the 32nd time earlier this week, breaking his own record for the most ascents of the world's highest mountain. He was greeted with shawls and flowers at Tribhuvan International Airport as he returned to Nepal.
Despite his achievement, Kami Rita emphasized that the increasing number of climbers is creating dangerous bottlenecks, particularly in the "death zone" above 8,000 meters. He called on the Nepalese government and expedition operators to enforce stricter limits to ensure the safety of both climbers and guides.
Overcrowding on Everest
The 2026 spring climbing season saw a record number of permits issued, with over 500 climbers attempting the summit from the Nepalese side alone. This has led to long queues near the summit, increasing the risk of exhaustion, frostbite, and altitude sickness.
Kami Rita stated, "The mountain is becoming too crowded. It is not only dangerous for climbers but also for the Sherpas who support them. We need to think about sustainability and safety."
Call for Action
Kami Rita urged the government to consider measures such as limiting the number of permits, implementing a lottery system, or requiring climbers to have prior high-altitude experience. He also suggested that expedition companies should prioritize safety over profit.
His comments come amid growing international scrutiny of Everest expeditions, with critics arguing that commercialization has led to increased accidents and environmental degradation on the mountain.
