Kami Rita, 55, achieved this remarkable feat while guiding a group of Indian army officials, reaching the summit at 4:00 AM local time. The accomplishment highlights both his exceptional climbing skills and the growing prominence of Nepal as a mountaineering destination.
This latest ascent surpasses his own previous record and reinforces his title as a global symbol of Everest. He first summited the mountain in 1994 and has climbed it nearly every year since, sometimes completing two ascents in a single year.
His closest competitor, Pasang Dawa, has summited Everest 29 times, representing the fierce rivalry among climbers. Despite setting records, Kami Rita remains grounded, suggesting that his accomplishments primarily serve to elevate Nepal's profile internationally.
His recent climbs are shared on social media, including moments from the traditional Puja ceremony, which is held before expeditions as a prayer for safety.
The climbing season has been notably busy, with over 500 successful summits this year. Nepal's tourism department has issued more than 1,000 climbing permits for various peaks, reflecting a surge in climbing attempts despite concerns regarding overcrowding and its environmental implications. In response to these issues, Nepalese authorities have mandated that climbers manage their waste responsibly.
As climbing seasons continue, the record-setting ascents of figures like Kami Rita Sherpa raise essential conversations about sustainability and safety in these high-stakes environments.
This latest ascent surpasses his own previous record and reinforces his title as a global symbol of Everest. He first summited the mountain in 1994 and has climbed it nearly every year since, sometimes completing two ascents in a single year.
His closest competitor, Pasang Dawa, has summited Everest 29 times, representing the fierce rivalry among climbers. Despite setting records, Kami Rita remains grounded, suggesting that his accomplishments primarily serve to elevate Nepal's profile internationally.
His recent climbs are shared on social media, including moments from the traditional Puja ceremony, which is held before expeditions as a prayer for safety.
The climbing season has been notably busy, with over 500 successful summits this year. Nepal's tourism department has issued more than 1,000 climbing permits for various peaks, reflecting a surge in climbing attempts despite concerns regarding overcrowding and its environmental implications. In response to these issues, Nepalese authorities have mandated that climbers manage their waste responsibly.
As climbing seasons continue, the record-setting ascents of figures like Kami Rita Sherpa raise essential conversations about sustainability and safety in these high-stakes environments.
