Nepal proposes recognition for six more peaks above 8,000 meters

Nepal has submitted a formal proposal for international recognition of six more summits above 8,000 meters as separate peaks.

The proposal was presented through the Nepal Mountaineering Association at the General Assembly of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), which began in Kathmandu on Friday. The two-day general assembly will conclude on Saturday.

Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadga Raj Paudel "Ganesh" has led this initiative.

The highest peak on the proposed list is Yalung Kang, at 8,505 meters. Kangchenjunga South stands at 8,476 meters, Kangchenjunga Middle at 8,473 meters, and Lhotse Middle at 8,410 meters. Lhotse Shar is 8,400 meters and Yalung Kang West is 8,077 meters.

Of the 14 currently recognized 8,000-meter peaks in the world, eight — Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Dhaulagiri I, Manaslu and Annapurna I — lie in Nepal or on its border. If the proposal is accepted, the number of recognized 8,000-meter peaks worldwide would rise from 14 to 20, and those in Nepal from eight to 14.

Nepal Mountaineering Association President Phur Gyalzen Sherpa presented a study report, with supporting grounds, for recognizing each summit as a separate peak at the general assembly. He urged a formal assessment of these summits based on geographical, scientific and mountaineering criteria.

Nepal has previously hosted the UIAA general assembly in 1982 and 2011.