Before dawn on 23 September 2012, a large serac broke away high on Manaslu (8,163 m) and triggered an avalanche that swept through Camp 3, at about 6,800–7,000 m, where climbers were sleeping before their summit push. At least 11 climbers were killed, from Nepal, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, and many more were injured. Helicopters flew repeatedly to evacuate survivors.
In short: an avalanche struck Camp 3 on Manaslu on 23 September 2012, killing at least 11 climbers in one of the worst autumn climbing disasters in Nepal.
Manaslu today
Manaslu is now the busiest 8,000 m peak in Nepal in autumn, and seasons are still affected by heavy snow and avalanches, as in 2026. See our 2026 Manaslu report. Trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit do not climb the mountain but enjoy close views from Samagaon.