Mountaineering World Mourns Nirmal ‘Nimsdai’ Purja After Broad Peak Avalanche

New Delhi, August 01, 2026 The mountaineering community is mourning the loss of legendary climber Nirmal ‘Nimsdai’ Purja, who was killed in an avalanche on Broad Peak, the world’s 12th-highest mountain. Purja and five other climbers had been missing since Friday after the avalanche struck the group on the mountain’s standard West Ridge route, at an estimated altitude of 21,600 to 21,850 feet. Purja’s adventure company, Elite Exped, confirmed his death in an Instagram post, also stating that other expedition members did not survive. The company said, **"Today, it is with profound sadness and immense heartbreak that we confirm that Nirmal 'Nimsdai' Purja, tragically lost his life following the avalanche on Broad Peak. We have also received confirmation that other members of the expedition sadly did not survive."** It also mourned climbing partners and guides Pur Bahadur Gurung (Yukta) and Nima Sherpa, while extending condolences to their families and loved ones. A former member of Britain’s Brigade of Gurkhas and the Royal Marines’ elite Special Boat Service (SBS), Purja became one of the most accomplished mountaineers of his generation. In 2019, he completed all 14 peaks above 8,000 metres in six months and six days under his ‘Project Possible’ expedition. In 2021, he was part of the 10-member Nepali team that achieved the first successful winter ascent of K2. Elite Exped said, **"The world has lost one of mountaineering's greatest climbers; a leader who inspired millions through his courage, humility and unwavering belief that human potential is far greater than we often imagine."** His work through Elite Exped, Nimsdai Foundation, Skydive Nimsdai and Nimsdai Store leaves behind a lasting legacy, with his achievements and determination continuing to inspire people around the world.