KATHMANDU: A damaged section of the trail leading to the David Lama Bivouac shelter at Upper Jabo, on the Tashi Lapcha Pass route connecting the Rolwaling and Khumbu regions, has raised concerns about the safety of trekkers and climbers using the high-altitude route.

Tashi Lapcha Pass forms part of the Upper Great Himalaya Trail (GHT) and is an important route linking the Rolwaling Valley with the Khumbu region. The trail is also used by climbers travelling towards Phabchermo Peak.

A photograph taken on October 8, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. by Lakpa Rinji Sherpa of IAM Trekking & Expeditions, who was leading two Swiss clients, shows a steep rocky section with fixed ropes and damaged footholds. The photograph indicates that part of the rocky passage has deteriorated, making the section challenging to negotiate safely.

According to information from the team, two groups attempting to cross Tashi Lapcha Pass before the IAM Trekking team were also unable to complete the crossing and turned back after encountering difficulties along the route.

The IAM Trekking guides subsequently assessed the rocky section while prioritizing the safety of their clients. Their inspection found that although fixed ropes remained in place on the rock face, a section of the footholds had collapsed following a landslide, making the passage more difficult and potentially hazardous.

The damaged section lies along the approach to the David Lama Bivouac shelter at Upper Jabo. Trekkers and climbers must use the fixed ropes and carefully scramble across the rocky terrain to proceed. The loss of footholds in such a steep section can increase the risk of a fall, particularly for groups carrying trekking or climbing equipment.

Following the assessment, the IAM Trekking team returned to Kathmandu with its two Swiss clients.

Questions over trail monitoring and safety information

The incident has highlighted broader questions about trail monitoring, the availability of updated route information and the responsibilities of relevant mountaineering and tourism authorities.

The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) issues climbing permits for several trekking peaks in Nepal, including Phabchermo Peak. While permits authorize climbing activities under the applicable regulations, changing trail conditions can create additional risks for climbers and trekking groups approaching the mountain.

In high-altitude regions, landslides, rockfall, snow and changing weather can affect established routes. Regular assessments and timely communication about damaged or difficult sections are therefore important for expedition operators, guides and visitors planning to cross mountain passes.

The condition documented at Upper Jabo highlights the importance of accurate, up-to-date information about the Tashi Lapcha Pass route, particularly for teams travelling along the Upper Great Himalaya Trail between Rolwaling and Khumbu.

The extent of the damage, the current condition of the crossing and whether any repair or route-maintenance work has been undertaken have not been independently confirmed.