Nepalese Climbers Shatter Mount Everest Records with Historic 32nd and 11th Summits

Lhakpa Sherpa, celebrated as the "Queen of the Mountains" in Nepal, marked her 11th successful summit, surpassing her own 2022 record of 10 ascents. She first reached Everest’s peak 26 years ago and became the first Nepalese woman to both summit and descend the mountain safely. Beginning her career as a porter and kitchen helper, she later transitioned into guiding commercial expeditions.

A Legacy of Leadership

Both climbers were leading independent commercial expeditions when they achieved their latest milestones. Kami Rita Sherpa comes from a family of mountain guides, continuing a tradition of high-altitude expertise. Lhakpa Sherpa’s journey from porter to record-holding guide highlights her perseverance in a field historically dominated by men.

Nepal issued a record 492 climbing permits for Everest this season, reflecting the mountain’s enduring appeal. The achievements of Kami Rita and Lhakpa Sherpa underscore the critical role Sherpa climbers play in facilitating safe and successful expeditions for international climbers.

Official Reactions

A spokesperson for the Nepalese Ministry of Tourism hailed the climbers’ accomplishments as historic. "Das ist ein weiterer Meilenstein in der Bergsteiger-Geschichte Nepals," the official stated, emphasizing the significance of their feats for Nepal’s mountaineering legacy.

The spokesperson added, "Indem sie durch einen gesunden Wettbewerb am Everest Rekorde brechen, helfen sie, das Bergsteigen sicherer, würdevoller und besser gemanagt zu machen," noting that their record-breaking efforts contribute to safer and more dignified mountaineering practices.

Both climbers descended safely with their teams after their successful summits, continuing their work as guides and inspirations for future generations of mountaineers.