Mountaineer Asma Mushtaq Dies After Summiting Spantik Peak

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani travel vlogger and mountaineer Asma Mushtaq has died after successfully summiting Spantik Peak, a 7,027-metre mountain located in the Karakoram range.

Asma Mushtaq, who was born on February 7, 1992, was known for her passion for mountaineering, travelling and adventure. She had built a following through travel vlogging and regularly shared her experiences from different parts of Pakistan and other destinations.

According to sources, Asma reached the summit of Spantik alongside her guide Ali Akbar during a recent climbing expedition. She reportedly appeared to be in good health after reaching the summit but began experiencing symptoms believed to be associated with high-altitude sickness while descending.

Her guide attempted to revive her after she became unwell, but unfortunately, she could not be saved.

The incident has cast a shadow over the mountaineering community, as Spantik is among Pakistan’s prominent high-altitude climbing destinations and attracts climbers from around the world.

The expedition agency Karakoram Calling Treks is assisting the relevant authorities in the recovery of Asma Mushtaq’s body and arrangements for its return to her family.

News of her death has prompted an outpouring of grief on social media, with friends, fellow travellers, mountaineers and admirers expressing condolences and offering prayers for her.

Asma was widely admired for her love of nature, mountains and exploration. Her travel content reflected her enthusiasm for discovering new places and experiencing different landscapes, including mountains and beaches.

Her death also highlights the serious risks faced by climbers at extreme elevations. High-altitude environments can cause sudden and potentially fatal medical complications, even when climbers appear healthy after reaching a summit.

Spantik, also known as Golden Peak, rises to approximately 7,027 metres and is situated in Gilgit-Baltistan. The mountain is regarded as a challenging but popular destination for mountaineering expeditions.

The recovery operation is currently being facilitated with the relevant authorities and expedition team, while further details regarding the transportation of her remains are expected to emerge.

Asma Mushtaq’s journey and passion for adventure have left a lasting impression on Pakistan’s travel and mountaineering community.