KATHMANDU: At least nine rope-fixing climbers successfully stood atop Mt Manaslu on Thursday evening, becoming the first team to climb the world's eighth-highest peak in the autumn season, according to the expedition organizer.

Rishi Ram Bhandari, General Secretary of the Expedition Operators Association Nepal (EOA), informed that a team of rope-fixing climbers under the management of the EOA stood atop the 8,163-meter mountain at around 9:25 p.m.

Lakpa Sherpa, expedition leader of 8K Expeditions, also confirmed from the base camp that the dedicated rope-fixing team, including two experienced guides from 8K Expeditions, successfully reached the summit under the management of the EOA.

The EOA rope-fixing climbers who scaled Manaslu include Chhiring Bhote, Lopsang Bhote, Ngima Sherpa, Pam Dorjee Sherpa, Furi Sherpa, Pasang Gyaljen Sherpa, and Karma Sarki Sherpa, as well as Tashi Sherpa and Karma Gyalzen Sherpa from 8K Expeditions.

Today’s achievement came despite challenging conditions. Yesterday, an avalanche above Camp III swept away approximately 1,200 meters of fixed rope and essential climbing equipment. "In response, three Sherpas from 8K and one Sherpa from 14 Peaks immediately carried nearly 1,300 meters of replacement rope, along with snow bars, ice screws, carabiners, ice tools and other necessary equipment back to Camp III, helping the fixing operation continue without delay," Lakpa shared.

This season, the EOA selected and appointed a dedicated team, arranged all necessary gear and equipment, and secured payment for the expedition. "The team made it to the main summit after the mountain witnessed fair weather," Bhandari said.

At least 480 foreign climbers representing 40 teams, along with over 500 climbing guides, will be attempting to climb the mountain after the team opened the route this season. "Nearly 1,000 climbers, including foreigners and Sherpas, are all set to make their final summit pushes if weather allows," Bhandari added.

According to the Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, at least 126 female mountaineers headed to Mt Manaslu for acclimatisation this season.