New Route Opened on Nanga Parbat by Urubko & Cardell

Legendary climbers Denis Urubko (52) and Maria “Pipi” Cardell (50) have successfully opened a bold new route up the Diamir Face of Nanga Parbat – Pakistan’s “Killer Mountain” – reaching the summit yesterday in true alpine style

This marks the first new alpine route on an 8,000-meter peak since Urubko’s 2019 solo ‘Honeymoon’ line on Gasherbrum II. What makes this ascent even more impressive is Urubko’s return from a severe frostbite incident during his 2022 winter attempt on Gasherbrum I – this climb is nothing short of a triumphant comeback.

The pair acclimatized on sub‑6,000 m peaks around Skardu, then embarked last Saturday on their summit push, undertaking 4–5 nights on the steep Diamir Face entirely without fixed ropes or Sherpa support

Urubko’s climbing résumé is staggering: all 14 eight‑thousanders climbed without supplemental oxygen; winter first ascents on Makalu and Gasherbrum II; and multiple route‑opening feats on Manaslu, Broad Peak, Cho Oyu and more. Add to that his 2018 rescue of Elisabeth Revol on Nanga Parbat, which earned him France’s Legion of Honor.

As news spreads across the mountaineering world, this achievement serves as a powerful reminder: even the most daunting peaks still yield to vision, resilience and pure alpine grit. Cheers to Urubko and Cardell – may their route inspire the next generation of summiters!

Stay tuned for full route details, imagery, and Urubko’s first-person reflections coming soon.