BURSTThe spring climbing season on Mount Everest has begun, with the Icefall Doctors now making their way to base camp. In 2025, nearly 800 people reached the summit of Everest, a total that includes both guides and clients.
Over the coming months, the Icefall Doctors will fix ropes and install ladders through the Khumbu Icefall, establishing the route that climbers will use during the season. Once the route is set, they will continue to maintain it until the final climbers have descended from Everest.
This year’s Icefall Doctors are Ang Sarki Sherpa, Dawa Jangbu Sherpa, Tendu Sherpa, Ngima Tenji Sherpa, Phura Chheten Sherpa, Dawa Chhirri Sherpa, Sonam Geljen Sherpa, and Mingma Gyaljen Sherpa. They are supported by a small base camp team.
The Tibetan side of Everest will remain closed to climbers this year. The China-Tibet Mountaineering Association (CTMA) has confirmed that the north side of Everest, along with Cho Oyu and Shishapangma, will be off-limits to international teams. For ongoing updates on Everest this season, follow Alan Arnette here.
Icefall Doctors: The Fearless Warriors of Everest’s Frozen Battlefield
Legendary Icefall Doctor Ang Nima Sherpa explains how and why the title “Icefall Doctor” was given. He has spent over 40 years working in the Khumbu Icefall, earning a flawless safety record and demonstrating exceptional skill and judgment in leading his team through the challenging and dangerous work.
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