Meet Kami Rita Sherpa, the “Everest Man,” who just smashed his own record by summiting Mount Everest for the 31st time. Yes, 31 times!
At 55, Kami Rita reached the 8,894-meter summit early Tuesday, guiding a team of Indian army officials.
“He’s not just a national hero,” said Seven Summit Treks, “he’s Everest’s global symbol.”
Since his first climb in 1994, Kami Rita has been back almost every year—sometimes twice—like in 2023 and 2024.
Who Is His Closest Rival?
Fellow Nepali Pasang Dawa, who’s conquered Everest 29 times, most recently last week.
But for Kami Rita, it’s all business.
“Records are eventually broken,” he told AFP last year.
“I’m happier that my climbs help Nepal gain recognition worldwide.”
Everest is more than a mountain for these sherpas—it’s a way of life.
It’s steeped in tradition like the Puja ceremony they perform before every expedition, asking for safe passage.
This record-breaking ascent follows British climber Kenton Cool’s 19th summit, a record for non-sherpas.
With over 500 climbers this season alone, Everest’s popularity raises serious questions about overcrowding and environmental impact.
In fact, Nepal now requires climbers to pack out their waste—a small but vital step to protect this majestic giant.
