Nirmal Purja killed in Broad Peak avalanche in Pakistan

Renowned Nepalese mountaineer Nirmal Purja, widely known as Nims, and Kili Pemba Sherpa were killed in a massive avalanche on Broad Peak in Pakistan’s Karakoram range on July 30. The disaster occurred while the group was ascending toward the summit under initially favorable conditions. Witnesses reported hearing a loud crack before the avalanche swept down both sides of the peak.

Drone footage later confirmed the presence of bodies on the mountain with no apparent survivors. Following the incident, elite mountaineer and longtime friend Mingma Gyalje Sherpa abandoned his own K2 expedition to lead a high-risk recovery mission.

The recovery process was exceptionally hazardous due to logistical constraints, severe weather, and the inability to use helicopters. Rescuers were forced to carry the bodies down on foot, facing additional danger when a second avalanche struck during the operation.