KATHMANDU: Three Austrian climbers have successfully scaled Kongde Ri peak from the north face route in alpine style, having spent over 45 days in the Everest region.

Pemba Jangbu Sherpa, Managing Director at I AM Trekking & Expedition, said that the three-member team led by Maximilian Muck from Austria stood atop the 6,011-metre peak via the north face without using guide support on May 16.

“Bad weather and technical terrain compelled the climbers to complete their mission in 46 days, and they were issued two climbing permits from the Nepal Mountaineering Association,” Sherpa informed.

“All three climbing members successfully reached the summit, and now the whole team has safely returned and is staying in Thame. It is a strong achievement with true alpine spirit, teamwork, and determination. Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable journey back,” Sherpa commented.

According to NMA records, a few climbers have climbed Kongde Ri from its north face in the past. “The route is highly technical and steep,” it said.

Kongde Ri, which is located four km west of Namche Bazaar, was first summited in 1975. The multi-summit peak is steep and difficult. But the summit panorama extends across the Khumbu, from Ama Dablam and Makalu in the east to Everest and Cho Oyu, and includes the spectacular Rolwaling peaks to the northwest.