Crowds of cheering supporters celebrated 18-year-old Nima Sherpa’s triumphant return to Kathmandu on October 14, 2024, after he made history as the youngest person to summit all 14 of the world’s 8,000-meter peaks. His final ascent was Shisha Pangma in Tibet, which he reached on October 9, completing a remarkable two-year journey.
Upon arrival, Nima was greeted with thunderous applause and traditional garlands. “I am very happy,” he told the crowd, thanking them for their support as he proudly waved the national flag from a car sunroof. His family and fellow climbers were there to welcome him, underscoring the significance of his accomplishment not just for himself, but for the entire Sherpa community.
Nima Sherpa’s Record-Breaking Achievement:
Nima’s mountaineering journey began at age 16 with his ascent of Mount Manaslu in August 2022. Over the next two years, he successfully summited all 14 of the “eight-thousanders,” including legendary peaks like Mount Everest and K2. His journey was fraught with challenges, including navigating “death zones” where oxygen levels are dangerously low.
This achievement broke the previous record set by Mingma Gyabu “David” Sherpa, who accomplished the feat at 30 years old in 2019. Nima’s grit and skill have earned him a place among an elite group of fewer than 50 climbers who have completed this monumental task since Reinhold Messner first achieved it in 1986.
Inspiration and Legacy:
Nima hopes to inspire future generations of Sherpas to move beyond the stereotype of being solely support climbers on expeditions. “We are not just guides; we are trailblazers,” he said, emphasizing the potential for Sherpas to be recognized as elite athletes and adventurers in their own right. His journey reflects a broader push within the Sherpa community to gain recognition for their contributions to mountaineering beyond their traditional roles.
Nima Sherpa’s message extends beyond the world of climbing. He advocates for global unity, mutual respect, and environmental preservation, calling for sustainable practices to address the planet’s pressing challenges. As he looks to future adventures, Nima’s achievements will continue to inspire climbers around the world.
Nima Sherpa hails from a family of renowned climbers who operate Nepal’s largest mountaineering expedition company. He aims to inspire younger generations of Sherpas to break free from stereotypes as mere support climbers and to recognize their potential as elite athletes and adventurers