In a landmark move, Nepal has inaugurated its first permanent high-altitude medical center at Pheriche (4,371 m) – a critical stop for Everest trekkers and expedition teams.

The center will provide oxygen therapy, telemedicine consultations, and emergency air evacuation coordination for injured climbers. It was built in partnership with the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) and supported by international aid from UKAid and the World Health Organization.

Doctors say this facility will significantly reduce fatalities from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and frostbite. Every year, hundreds of climbers require medical attention due to oxygen shortages and hypothermia between Lobuche and Base Camp.

“Medical support should not end where the road ends,” said Dr. Nima Sherpa of HRA. “This center will save lives and set a global example for mountain medicine.”World Health Organization Nepal