Kami Rita Sherpa Sets Everest Climbing Record with 30th Ascent
Nepalese mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa has made history yet again by reaching the summit of Mount Everest for the 30th time. On Wednesday, he broke his own record for ascents of the world's highest peak, standing at an impressive altitude of 8,849 meters. This milestone not only reaffirms his climbing prowess but also highlights the dedication and expertise that come with a career spanning over two decades.
Kami Rita first scaled Everest in 1994 at the age of 24 during a commercial expedition. His initial encounter with the formidable Himalayan peak, however, dates back to 1992 when he worked as a base camp cook. Over the years, he has driven clients through their ascents and consistently led the first rope team to open the access routes. His 29th ascent was just a precursor to this record-breaking 30th climb, expressing that while records are meant to be broken, the acknowledgment of Nepal's prominence in world mountaineering brings him the most joy.
The mountaineering lineage runs deep in his family. His father was among the first professional Sherpa guides to navigate international climbers after Everest became accessible from the southern flank in 1950. His brother, Lakpa Rita, has also made his mark with 17 ascents of Everest. Kami Rita's remarkable achievements continue to bring fame to Nepal, a country that boasts eight of the world’s ten highest mountains and draws hundreds of adventurers every spring when climbing conditions are most favorable.
Kami Rita's ascent records aren't solely driven by personal ambition but stem from his professional commitments and love for the mountains. In addition to Everest, he has also conquered other peaks over 8,000 meters, including K2 in Pakistan, the world’s second-highest mountain.
The spring climbing season is currently in full swing in Nepal, with the government having issued 419 permits to climb Everest this year. More than 800 climbers are expected to make the ascent, navigating milder temperatures and calmer winds from April to early June. While 2023 saw a record number of 18 deaths, the allure of Everest continues to pull in climbers from all around the globe.
- In 2023, Kami Rita Sherpa accomplished double ascents of Everest, each time setting a new record and briefly sharing the record with fellow guide, Pasang Dawa Sherpa. His profound experience makes him an invaluable asset to the climbing community, consistently ensuring the safety and success of his clients.
