Renowned Sherpa mountain guide Kami Rita has completed his 30th ascent of Mount Everest, breaking his own record for the most successful climbs of the world’s highest peak. The 54-year-old guide reached the 8,849-meter summit earlier this week, marking his second successful ascent this month. Kami Rita expressed his determination to continue climbing, stating that he plans to return to the mountain next year and for at least one or two more years. He also mentioned that after retiring from guiding, he would like to work on the mountain as a team leader or base camp manager.
Kami Rita first climbed Mount Everest in 1994 and has been making the trip almost every year since then. He comes from a family of Sherpa mountain guides, with his father also being among the first Sherpas to guide climbers on Everest. In addition to his Everest climbs, Kami Rita has also scaled other high peaks such as K2, Cho Oyu, Manaslu, and Lhotse. His expertise and skills, along with those of other Sherpa guides, are crucial for the safety and success of foreign climbers who attempt to summit Mount Everest each year.
The closest competitor to Kami Rita’s record is fellow Sherpa guide Pasang Dawa, who has 27 successful ascents of Mount Everest. This climbing season, more than 500 climbers have already scaled the peak from the Nepali side in the south. The season is coming to an end in a few days, as most climbing on Everest and neighboring Himalayan peaks takes place in April and May when weather conditions are most favorable. Mount Everest was first climbed in 1953 by New Zealander Edmund Hillary and Nepali Sherpa Tenzing Norgay.
Kami Rita’s achievements highlight the incredible skill and dedication of Sherpa guides, who play a crucial role in the success of climbers attempting to reach the summit of Mount Everest. His record-breaking ascents showcase his exceptional mountaineering abilities and experience in navigating the world’s highest peaks. As he looks ahead to future climbs, Kami Rita remains committed to the challenging but rewarding task of guiding climbers on their quests to conquer Everest. His contributions to the mountaineering community serve as an inspiration to aspiring climbers and adventurers worldwide.
Returning to Kathmandu after his latest ascent, Kami Rita expressed his gratitude for the support and encouragement he has received from the climbing community and his fellow Sherpas. Despite his many achievements, he remains humble and focused on his passion for guiding and climbing. As he reflects on his remarkable journey on Everest and other mountains, Kami Rita’s dedication to the sport and his commitment to ensuring the safety of climbers shine through. With plans to continue climbing in the coming years, his impact on the world of mountaineering is sure to endure for generations to come.
