Missing Sherpa guide found alive on Mount Everest after 'miracle' self-rescue

A Nepali Sherpa guide, Dawa Sherpa, also known as Hillary Dawa Sherpa, was found alive on Mount Everest after being missing for six days. He was discovered on June 4, 2026, by a cleaning crew from the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, reportedly crawling out of the treacherous Khumbu Icefall towards Base Camp. Sherpa had vanished on May 29 while descending from the higher reaches of the mountain, sparking fears for his life.

This remarkable self-rescue is being widely hailed as a miracle, especially as aerial searches had previously failed to locate him. Dawa Sherpa is currently suffering from frostbite, particularly on his fingers, and has been airlifted to Kathmandu for urgent medical treatment.

The discovery brought immense relief to his family, who had tragically begun to perform funeral rites, having lost all hope of his survival in the harsh Everest conditions. His ability to descend largely on his own power after nearly a week in the extreme environment highlights an extraordinary tale of resilience.