KATHMANDU: The body of a Chinese tourist who went missing while returning from the Gokyo region has been recovered from a deep ravine in the Phortse area of the Everest region.

The deceased was identified as Chen Qian, according to local authorities.

A joint team of the Nepali Army, Nepal Police and local residents located and recovered the body on October 6 following a search operation.

Authorities said Chen had fallen about 500 metres below Thange Bhir into a steep rocky gorge and was found dead at the scene.

The recovery operation was complicated by the rugged terrain and the depth of the ravine, where access was difficult and rescue personnel faced significant challenges.

With assistance from local climbers, security personnel retrieved the body from the gorge and transported it to a safer location.

According to the Solukhumbu District Administration Office (DAO), the recovery process has been completed, but legal formalities and arrangements to transport the body to Kathmandu for a post-mortem examination are still pending.

Authorities said additional procedures will be required before the body can be repatriated to China.

The DAO expressed gratitude to personnel from the Nepali Army and Nepal Police involved in the operation, acknowledging their efforts in recovering the body from the difficult mountain terrain.

The incident underscores the risks associated with high-altitude trekking routes in the Everest region, where steep trails and challenging terrain can complicate both rescue and recovery operations.