The Bahraini expedition reached the summit of Manaslu at 6:30am today in excellent weather, almost a week ahead of schedule. No details are available about number and names of all the summiters or pictures of the highest point reached: As we’ve previously reported, most Manaslu “summits” actually stop at a subpeak. However, the outfitter, Seven Summit Treks, lists Mingma Sherpa, Chhang Dawa Sherpa, Sanu Sherpa, Tashi Lakpa Sherpa and Kami Rita Sherpa — all powerhouse climbers with long 8,000m resumés — as part of the summit team.
The rope-fixing Sherpas that opened the route to the summit included Temba Bhote, Pechhumbe Sherpa, Pasang Nurbu Sherpa, Phurtenzi Sherpa and Namja Bhote.
The 15-member climbing team of Bahrain’s Royal Guard includes Royal Prince Nasser Bin Hamad. There are also an additional three European climbers, including Arnold Coster.
This makes Manaslu the first — and likely the last — 8,000m peak summited in Nepal this year. Chinese teams summited Cho Oyu two weeks ago and Everest in spring, but both these expeditions climbed from Tibet.
The Bahraini team had previously acclimatized by summiting Lobuche on October 3. Manaslu was to be a preparatory expedition before they attempt Everest next spring.
