Hiker dies after slipping while taking photos on China’s Nama Peak
A 31-year-old hiker fell to his death on Nama Peak in Sichuan, China, after untying his safety rope to take photos. The incident, captured on video, has sparked investigations.
- A 31-year-old hiker died on 3 September after slipping over 200 metres on the icy slopes of Nama Peak in Sichuan. He had reportedly untied his safety rope to take photos near a crevasse.
- The fall, filmed by his companions, spread widely online. Witnesses said he lacked an ice axe, making self-arrest impossible before he disappeared from view.
- Authorities confirmed the area was off-limits and have launched an investigation into the incident.
- Experts stress that Nama Peak, despite being called a beginner technical climb, demands months of preparation, acclimatisation and proper mountaineering gear.
SICHUAN, China – A hiker has died after falling on Nama Peak in Sichuan province on 3 September while attempting to take photographs near a crevasse.
Authorities said the 31-year-old man untied his safety rope before slipping on the icy slope.
The fall was captured on video by companions and widely shared online.
Witnesses in shock
Witnesses reported that the man’s group could only watch helplessly as he slid more than 200 metres down the mountain.
He was not carrying an ice axe, leaving him unable to self-arrest the fall before vanishing from sight.
Local authorities confirmed the site of the fall was off-limits and announced an investigation into the incident.
Risky conditions on Nama Peak
Nama Peak, which rises to 5,588 metres, is classified as a technical sub-peak of Mount Gongga.
The mountain is located within the Gongga protection zone, requiring long treks to reach base camp.
Climbers attempting the ascent must first acclimatise to the altitude and undergo significant physical preparation.
The route includes steep, icy terrain and technical sections that demand proper equipment and training.
Experts caution against underestimating climb
Although sometimes described as an entry-level technical climb, mountaineering experts stress that Nama Peak requires months of preparation, strong physical fitness, and essential gear.
Officials have reiterated warnings about venturing into restricted areas or bypassing safety measures such as ropes and ice tools.
