A Nepalese teenager, Nima Rinji Sherpa, has become the youngest person to conquer the world’s 14 highest peaks, known as the “eight-thousanders,” a prestigious achievement in mountaineering. All these towering mountains are located in Asia, within the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges.
On Wednesday, the 18-year-old stood at the summit of Mount Shishapangma, marking the completion of a journey that has claimed the lives of many experienced climbers. The “eight-thousanders” refer to the 14 peaks that rise above 8,000 meters.
Nima Rinji’s feat is further distinguished by the speed with which he accomplished it—summiting all 14 peaks in just 740 days, according to BBC reports. Throughout this record-breaking endeavor, he was accompanied by fellow climber Pasang Nurbu Sherpa, who shared in each ascent.
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In addition to his latest triumph, Nima Rinji holds the title of the youngest climber to scale the Himalayan giants Gasherbrum I and II, as well as Nanga Parbat. His passion for mountaineering was showcased earlier when he summited both Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, and its neighbor, Lhotse, within a mere 10 hours.
“This summit is not just the culmination of my personal journey, but a tribute to every Sherpa who has ever dared to dream beyond the traditional boundaries set for us,” Nima Rinji said after his final ascent, as quoted by the BBC.
The term “Sherpa” is often associated with mountain guides and porters around Everest, but it is in fact the name of an ethnic group native to the mountainous regions of Nepal.
“Mountaineering is more than just labor; it is a testament to our strength, resilience, and passion,” the young climber added, emphasizing that Sherpas are more than guides. He expressed a desire for younger Sherpas to recognize their potential beyond the stereotypes. “Let this be a call to every Sherpa to see the dignity in our work, the power in our heritage, and the limitless possibilities in our future.”
The previous record-holder was Mingma Gyabu “David” Sherpa, another Nepalese mountaineer, who completed the challenge at the age of 30 in 2019.
Rakesh Gurung, Director of the Adventure Tourism and Mountaineering Branch at Nepal’s Department of Tourism, commented on the new record, saying it will now be “difficult” to surpass.
