274 climbers set world record by conquering Mount Everest in a single day

A historic day unfolded on Mount Everest as a record-breaking 274 climbers successfully reached the summit of the world’s tallest mountain in just 24 hours, creating a new global milestone in high-altitude mountaineering.

The remarkable achievement came on May 21 after favorable weather conditions opened a rare climbing window, triggering a massive rush of expeditions toward Everest’s dangerous summit.

According to reports from Nepal’s mountaineering authorities, the previous one-day summit record stood at 223 climbers, set back in 2019. This year’s dramatic surge shattered that figure and highlighted the growing popularity — and growing pressure — surrounding Everest expeditions.

Images emerging from the mountain showed long queues of climbers waiting in the infamous “death zone,” the area above 8,000 meters where oxygen levels are critically low and survival becomes increasingly difficult.

Nepal reportedly issued nearly 500 climbing permits for the current Everest season, contributing to unusually crowded conditions near the summit. Despite concerns about congestion and safety, hundreds of mountaineers seized the opportunity as calm weather briefly reduced the mountain’s extreme risks.

Among the climbers making headlines once again was legendary Nepali mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa, who extended his own world record by summiting Everest for an astonishing 32nd time.

The 56-year-old climbing icon is widely regarded as one of the greatest high-altitude climbers in history and continues to push the limits of human endurance on the Himalayan giant.

Another historic moment came from Lhakpa Sherpa, who successfully reached Everest’s summit for the 11th time, setting a new women’s record and further cementing her place among the mountain’s legends.

Meanwhile, Russian climber Rustam Nabiev inspired millions around the world after completing one of the most extraordinary ascents ever seen on Everest.

Having lost both legs years ago, Nabiev climbed the world’s tallest peak using only the strength of his arms, overcoming brutal conditions, freezing temperatures and steep terrain to achieve what many believed impossible.

His emotional summit journey quickly captured global attention on social media, with thousands praising his determination and courage.

While Everest continues to symbolize adventure and human ambition, the scenes of overcrowding have once again sparked debate about whether the mountain is becoming dangerously congested due to the increasing number of permits issued each year.

Still, for hundreds of climbers, May 21, 2026, will forever remain a historic day on the roof of the world.