Nepal: Hillary Dawa Sherpa found alive on Everest six days after going missing

Kathmandu – June 4, 2026: Hillary Dawa Sherpa, a mountain guide from Nepal, was found alive after being missing for six days on Everest. He disappeared while descending from the summit on May 29 and was found near the base camp on June 4.

The 52-year-old Sherpa, who is affiliated with the Himalayan Traverse company, had reached the summit with Polish climbers. During the descent, he was last seen at the ‘Yellow Band’ section, approximately 7,200 meters high, which is a steep rock face area. His companions arrived safely at base camp, but Sherpa’s whereabouts were initially unknown.

Searching for the experienced mountain guide was very challenging. Despite support from helicopters and search teams, especially from the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC), responsible for Everest’s cleanliness and safety, Sherpa was not found for some time. On June 4, the SPCC team discovered Sherpa exhausted and struggling to reach the base camp. After immediate medical assistance, he was airlifted by helicopter to HAMS Hospital in Kathmandu.

The news of his survival brought great relief to the family, who had already been preparing customary mourning procedures. His wife, Damu Sherpa, expressed gratitude, saying, “We are endlessly thankful that he was found. We had almost given up hope.”

The Nepalese mountaineering community regards Hillary Dawa Sherpa’s survival as a dramatic miracle. Ang Chiring Sherpa, a well-known figure in this community, stated, “Surviving several days under extreme conditions is exceptionally rare.”

Hillary Dawa Sherpa is currently receiving treatment and is reported to be in stable condition. This incident highlights once again the serious dangers mountain guides and climbers face on the world’s highest peak, despite the latest equipment and rescue technologies.

The incident is likely to spark renewed discussions on Everest safety measures and rescue strategies. Particular focus is on the search teams’ response times and the difficulties of conducting rescue operations at high altitude. Authorities and rescue organizations are expected to review measures to improve the safety of all climbers in the future.

The Hillary Dawa Sherpa case clearly demonstrates how preparation, experience, and luck are crucial to overcoming Everest’s dangers. At the same time, it is a beacon of hope for rescuing missing mountaineers and a reminder of the Nepalese rescue teams’ relentless efforts to save lives under difficult conditions.