KATHMANDU: Prince William has paid tribute to renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja following his death in the Broad Peak avalanche in Pakistan, describing him as "one of the world's greatest mountaineers" whose achievements brought global recognition to Nepali climbers.

In a post on X, the Prince of Wales said he was "truly saddened" by the deaths of Purja and others who lost their lives in the avalanche.

"Nims served with distinction in the British Armed Forces before becoming one of the world's greatest mountaineers, putting Nepalese climbers on the map," Prince William wrote.

He praised Purja's determination and character, saying his "relentless pursuit of what seemed impossible, combined with his humility and selflessness, made him truly unique."

The prince also extended his condolences to the bereaved families, saying his thoughts were with Purja's family and the families of all those who died in the tragedy.

The British Embassy in Nepal also expressed sorrow over Purja's passing, describing the Nepali-British climber, widely known as "Nimsdai", as a mountaineer whose remarkable achievements reshaped the world of high-altitude climbing and inspired countless people across the globe.

The embassy noted that Purja had served for 16 years in the British Armed Forces, including six years as a British Gurkha and 10 years with the UK Special Boat Service (SBS), before rising to international prominence in mountaineering.

"Our thoughts are with the families, friends and loved ones of all those who tragically lost their lives during the Broad Peak expedition. May they rest in peace," the embassy said in a statement.

Purja, a former British Army Gurkha and one of Nepal's most celebrated climbers, was among the mountaineers who lost their lives after an avalanche struck an international expedition on Pakistan's 8,047-metre Broad Peak. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from governments, mountaineering organisations and prominent figures around the world.