KATHMANDU: 8K Expeditions has logged a strong push on Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), with more than 30 of its climbers reaching the summit during a favorable autumn weather window—and four of them accomplishing the feat without supplemental oxygen.

Expedition leader and Managing Director Lakpa Sherpa reported from base camp that “at least 26 climbers, including 13 Sherpa guides, stood atop Manaslu this morning,” adding that more team members are preparing for summit bids in the coming days.

Among the standout achievements:

• Vladislav Chernyshov summited without oxygen on September 24.
• Ilia Chvakaev made his oxygen-free ascent on September 22.
• David Hugo Ayaviri Quispe, a UIAGM-certified guide from Bolivia, and Pierre Serge Marie of NAMAS Adventure both topped out without oxygen on September 23.

David Hugo already holds oxygen-free ascents of K2 and Lhotse, while Chvakaev completed his climb independently—underscoring the technical skill of this season’s Manaslu teams.

With over 45 international climbers attempting the mountain under the 8K banner this autumn, activity on Nepal’s eighth-highest peak remains intense. Lakpa Sherpa emphasized that “our main focus on Manaslu is the safety and success of every climber.”

The success highlights a strong start to Nepal’s busy autumn expedition season, when Manaslu traditionally draws the highest number of 8,000-metre permits and generates the lion’s share of mountaineering royalties.