Kami Rita Sherpa, a 55-year-old Nepali climber, successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest for an unprecedented 31st time on Tuesday, breaking his own record and reinforcing his title as the 'Everest Man'. Leading a group of Indian army personnel, he achieved the feat at 04:00 local time. The expedition was organized by Seven Summit Treks, who hailed him as a symbol of Everest itself.
Rita, who first conquered Everest back in 1994, has consistently returned to the legendary peak almost every year since, scaling it multiple times in certain years, including in the current season of 2023. His closest rival, Pasang Dawa, has reached the summit 29 times. Although he appreciates the recognition that comes with his accomplishments, Rita has often stated that his climbs serve a greater purpose in helping elevate Nepal's global presence.
Recently, Rita shared elements of his life and experiences on Everest through social media, including traditional Tibetan Buddhist rituals performed before climbs to ensure safety and success. His milestone follows an impressive season for Everest climbers, with over 500 individuals summiting the peak amid rising concerns about environmental impacts and crowding on the mountain. In response, Nepal's authorities have implemented new rules for climbers, including mandatory clean-up of human waste collected during expeditions.
With over 1,000 climbing permits issued this season, the ascent numbers continue to climb, prompting discussions around sustainability and safe practices in the Himalayan region.
Rita, who first conquered Everest back in 1994, has consistently returned to the legendary peak almost every year since, scaling it multiple times in certain years, including in the current season of 2023. His closest rival, Pasang Dawa, has reached the summit 29 times. Although he appreciates the recognition that comes with his accomplishments, Rita has often stated that his climbs serve a greater purpose in helping elevate Nepal's global presence.
Recently, Rita shared elements of his life and experiences on Everest through social media, including traditional Tibetan Buddhist rituals performed before climbs to ensure safety and success. His milestone follows an impressive season for Everest climbers, with over 500 individuals summiting the peak amid rising concerns about environmental impacts and crowding on the mountain. In response, Nepal's authorities have implemented new rules for climbers, including mandatory clean-up of human waste collected during expeditions.
With over 1,000 climbing permits issued this season, the ascent numbers continue to climb, prompting discussions around sustainability and safe practices in the Himalayan region.
