Kathmandu | May 27, 2025 — In the land of soaring peaks and deep spiritual resilience, history was made once again. Kami Rita Sherpa, fondly known as the ‘Everest Man’, has broken his own world record by successfully reaching the summit of Mount Everest for the 31st time.
As the sun rose over the Himalayas on May 27th, the 54-year-old mountaineer stood atop the world for a record-breaking 31st time, reminding the globe of the sheer power of human will, dedication, and connection to the mountains.
Who Is Kami Rita Sherpa?
Born in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal, Kami Rita was practically raised in the shadow of Mount Everest. Son of a pioneering Sherpa guide, his relationship with the mountain is generational. His first ascent came in 1994, and since then, he has defied limits, one climb at a time.
“I was born to climb Everest. This mountain is my home,” Kami Rita said in a previous interview.
“Every ascent is different. Every time, Everest teaches me something new.”
He has not only redefined physical endurance but also emerged as a symbol of Sherpa legacy, mountain spirituality, and Nepalese pride.
Breaking His Own Record – Again
This 31st ascent is not just another number on his résumé — it’s a feat unmatched in human history. Kami Rita has now summited Everest more times than any other person on Earth.
According to Seven Summit Treks, the expedition company overseeing his climb, the summit was achieved via the traditional southeast ridge route from Nepal’s side.
The team confirmed:
“Kami Rita reached the top of Everest at 7:45 AM (local time), leading a group of international climbers. His strength and experience continue to inspire every mountaineer.”
More Than a Climb: A Cultural and Spiritual Mission
For Kami Rita, Everest is not just about adrenaline or records. It’s a sacred journey — an act of reverence.
In Sherpa culture, the Himalayas are home to gods and spiritual guardians. Each climb begins with prayer. Every step is one of devotion.
“We ask permission from the mountain before we climb,” Kami Rita shared in an earlier documentary.
“It is not a conquest. It is a conversation between us and Chomolungma (Everest).”
The Unsung Heroes of Mount Everest
While the world often celebrates foreign climbers and summiteers, it’s the Sherpas who carry the burden — literally and metaphorically. They fix the ropes, break the trail, and ensure the safety of expeditions.
Kami Rita has spent decades guiding, rescuing, and mentoring, while often putting others’ safety above his own. His record is not just a personal triumph but a collective voice for the Sherpa community.
“He represents the heart of Nepal’s mountaineering industry,” says Mingma Gyalje Sherpa, another renowned climber.
“His legacy goes far beyond numbers.”
Climbing in a Changing Climate
This year’s Everest season has seen fluctuating weather patterns and unexpected snowstorms — part of a broader shift tied to climate change.
Despite these challenges, Kami Rita’s team managed to time their summit during a narrow weather window, using his decades of experience to navigate the high-risk zones.
“You can train your body, but it’s your instinct and respect for the mountain that keeps you alive,” Kami Rita once said.
A National Hero and Global Symbol
Kami Rita Sherpa has received multiple honors in Nepal, including national medals and recognition from mountaineering federations worldwide. He remains a humble figure, still preferring to stay connected to his roots in the Solukhumbu valley.
Even at 54, he shows no signs of retiring.
“If my legs support me, I will keep climbing. Not for records — for the Sherpas, for my family, for Nepal.”
Social media in Nepal has exploded in celebration since the news broke, with hashtags like #EverestMan, #KamiRita31, and #NepalPride trending on platforms like X and Instagram.
What’s Next for the Everest Man?
Although Kami Rita has now climbed Everest more times than some people have flown internationally, his ambitions remain grounded.
He’s currently mentoring young Sherpas, working with training centers to equip the next generation of climbers with technical and safety knowledge.
“Experience is meant to be shared. If I can help even one young Sherpa become safer and stronger on the mountain, that is success.”
There is also talk of a biographical documentary and book deal that would chronicle his extraordinary journey.
A Climb That Inspires the World
At a time when global headlines are filled with political conflict, economic stress, and environmental decay, Kami Rita Sherpa’s record is a reminder of human resilience — and the quiet heroes who move mountains.
From the freezing winds of Everest’s death zone to the prayers whispered at Base Camp, his story resonates far beyond the Himalayas. It echoes in every soul that dreams of doing the impossible — one step at a time.
If You Didn’t Know
- Mount Everest stands at 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet) above sea level.
- The climbing season typically runs from late April to early June.
- The previous record was also held by Kami Rita himself, with 30 summits before today.
- He has also climbed other 8,000-meter peaks including K2, Lhotse, and Manaslu.
Conclusion
In the icy winds of Everest, where oxygen thins and time slows, Kami Rita Sherpa continues to write history — not with grandeur, but with grace. His 31st summit is not just a mountaineering record, but a testament to loyalty, heritage, and quiet greatness.
As he descends back to base camp, the world watches — not just to count the number of times he’s reached the top, but to salute the depth of a man who never stopped climbing.
