A total of 135 climbers successfully reached the summit of Mt Everest in a single day on Sunday, as favorable weather conditions opened a window for ascents in the ongoing spring climbing season.

According to the Department of Tourism, Sunday saw one of the highest single-day summit counts this year. The department's temporary field office at Everest Base Camp reported that clear skies and stable weather enabled many climbers to make their final push to the 8,848.86-meter peak.

"A 'maximum summit plan' was scheduled for May 18, which is why such a large number of climbers reached the top," said Himal Gautam, Director at the Department of Tourism. "Although the early days of the season were disrupted by bad weather, the last three days have seen a surge in successful ascents."

Gautam added that more than 200 climbers have scaled Everest so far this spring, with many others currently making their summit attempts.

Photojournalist Shrestha Reaches Summit for Fifth Time

Among those who reached the summit on Sunday was photojournalist Purnima Shrestha, who climbed Everest for the fifth time. Shrestha, representing Satori Adventure Pvt. Ltd., reached the top early Sunday morning.

Originally from Arughat Rural Municipality-10 in Gorkha, Shrestha first summited Everest in 2018. She made headlines last year by climbing the mountain three times in a single season, setting a world record.

As of now, the Department of Tourism has issued permits to 468 individuals—382 men and 86 women—from 47 expedition teams for climbing Everest during the ongoing spring season. -- RSS