'Traffic jam on Mount Everest': Think Manali is crowded? World’s highest peak just saw record 274 climbers reaching summit in one single day

A record 274 climbers reached the summit of Mount Everest from the Nepali side on Wednesday, marking the highest number of single-day ascents ever recorded from Nepal. The surge came as Chinese authorities reportedly did not issue climbing permits for the Tibetan side this season. Despite ongoing concerns about overcrowding and safety risks on the mountain, some expedition operators say large numbers of climbers can still be managed safely with proper planning, oxygen supplies and experienced support teams.