Two Japanese climbers die on remote Himalayan peak in Nepal

Kathmandu, Nepal – Rescuers recovered the bodies on Friday of two Japanese climbers missing for over a week on a remote Himalayan mountain, an expedition organizer said.

The climbers were attempting the first summit of the 7,140-meter (23,425-foot) Gangapurna West in alpine style, but lost contact after Oct. 15.

Kumar Chhetri of Cosmo Adventure, which offered the climbers logistical support, said the search began after they failed to return to basecamp on Oct. 18 as planned.

“The rescue team this morning spotted the bodies at an altitude of around 6,300 meters,” Chhetri said.

He said the search team first spotted their camping spots and then a rucksack along with ropes a few days later.

“The bodies have been recovered and brought to Kathmandu. We are waiting for their family’s decision for further action,” he said.

Nepal sits in the Himalayas, and its mountains — which include Everest, the world’s tallest — have long drawn climbers from across the world.

A growing community of mountaineers is exploring hidden summits promising solitude and the chance to be first to the top.

The country has 462 peaks open for climbing, and around 100 have never been summited.